THE lure of driving on brilliant roads in a competition vehicle is a common theme among Targa Tasmania competitors, whether they be motor mechanics, plumbers, business owners or, in the case of Glenn Ridge, a television and radio personality.

Ridge, who many will remember as host of the game show Sale of the Century, is a veteran of the annual tarmac rally and is showing no signs of giving up just yet.

‘‘One could suggest that I need to do it until I get it right ... however, with 2015 being my 23rd Targa Tasmania, I guess if I haven’t got it right by now, I never will,’’ he said.

‘‘Targa Tasmania is a very special time for me, not only because it’s an amazing motor racing experience and one I look forward to each year, but also it’s a great time to spend with my mates and, in particular, my family.’’

This year will be Ridge’s fourth Targa with his son, Oliver, navigating, which makes the event extra special.

‘‘Although we give it a good go, my desire has always been to finish the event, as the thrill of crossing the finishing line after five solid days and battling some of the most amazing roads in a competition format is second to none, no matter what position you finish in the field.’’

This will be Ridge’s 17th Targa in his Mazda RX7 SP, a car he holds a real soft spot for.

‘‘It’s one of only a very few fully genuine SPs in existence today, and we got it when the Mazda RX7 was at the forefront of Australian production car racing. It had won the 1992, 1993 and 1994 Bathurst 12-hour endurance races, however as its dominance was starting to be threatened, Mazda released the RX7 SP with various unique modifications.

‘‘Only 28 road-going RX7 SPs were manufactured to enable the car to be eligible to qualify for production car racing, which went on to win the 1995 12-hour event at Eastern Creek, and become one of Australia’s most sought-after heritage race cars.’’

As well as Targa Tasmania, the car has competed in numerous other tarmac rallies around Australia, including Targa High Country, Targa West, Mt Buller Sprint, Targa Wrest Point, Rally Tasmania, Dutton Rallies and Classic Adelaide.

‘‘It has every right to be old and cranky like its driver, but thankfully it just keeps giving. We love it!’’ Ridge said.

‘‘The event itself is always a highlight. It’s the challenge of the competition that really gets the blood flowing, however, camaraderie is obviously a big part of the fun.

‘‘I enjoy catching up with mates who have also competed for many years now, seeing how badly they’ve aged ...and with whom we recount the same old stories, which we all still politely laugh at.

‘‘Through competing in Targa, I’ve also developed a real love of Tasmania and regularly return there with friends and family.’’