July 2004.

SunRace Expressions Of Interest

In November of 2003 John Hoerner, Founder and Director of SunRace, suffered a number of severe strokes that impaired his eyesight and short term memory.    Due to this, SunRace was deferred for 2004.

Since that time John has made significant recovery from this illness, however, there is residual damage resulting from these strokes that has caused permanent blindness and impacted on his spatial abilities.   Subsequently he has undergone neurological testing which indicates that he is unlikely to be able to continue his SunRace activities.

John's commitment to the development of sustainable energy and transport technology is deeply entrenched and he feels a great sense of loss at being unable to continue with his SunRace aspirations.  Indeed, he is hopeful that the work started through SunRace will be continued amongst the many teams  and universities that have made solar car racing the wonderful Brain Sport that it is today.

During the many years that SunRace has been staged, the management, fundraising and development of  SunRace has been singularly carried out by John.

Prior to this incident, the majority of the work required for SunRace 2004 had been put in place including the development of an exciting, new SunRace route.  

Negotiations had been undertaken with the management of Federation Square, Museum Victoria, Sydney Opera House, Sydney Olympic Park and the many venues and planning authorities along the new SunRace route.  The SunRace regulations and classes had been further developed including the SunRace Awards program.

As you can imagine, John’s present inability to deal with these matters has created very real difficulties in liaising with the SunRace teams, sponsors and supporters.

Importantly, for these reasons it will be necessary to find a new owner or owners for SunRace in order for future SunRaces to be able to go ahead.

Expressions of interest would be welcome from any parties that wish to take up the challenge that this opportunity presents.

Contact Alison Waters on (03) 9820 1723