When it comes to a fast lap, Maddi Elliott knows no other way – she’s been doing them for years.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
But this is a fast lap with a difference when she partners a Supercars driver around the streets of Newcastle for the city’s second time playing host later this month.
The self-confessed motor racing fan and Paralympian, 20, was randomly selected for the prize.
Drivers Scott McLaughlin and Fabian Coulthard knew they were meeting a Newcastle 500 competition winner at Fort Scratchley on Tuesday, but they didn’t expect the Paralympic medals.
Title hopeful McLaughlin and teammate Coulthard were quite impressed with the golden haul they were shown by Maitland’s Maddi, who will be taken on a “hot lap” of the track Friday week.
“I think I made their day,” Elliott said.
But it wasn’t Elliott’s achievements in the swimming pool that has put the two-time Paralympian in the V8 passenger seat.
No, it was simply a bit of luck.
The self-confessed Supercars fan, who turned 20 earlier this month, had entered multiple online competitions before being randomly selected for this prize.
“I’ve actually been a Supercars fan for at least four years, if not more, and I’ve entered that many competitions since 2013, 2014 that it’s not funny.
“I don’t even know which competition I won, but it was obviously a good one. I’m really excited for it next week.”
Elliott, who as a teenager claimed nine Paralympic medals across London 2012 and Rio 2016, said she was “an adrenaline junkie” and looking forward to “a completely different thrill”.
No driver has yet to be assigned for the “hot lap”, but Elliott’s favourite is Chaz Mostert.
The second edition of the season-ending Newcastle 500 will take place from November 23 to 25.