The Albury Local Court heard that his clients included Virgin Blue and Rex.

But a few moments of madness racing another vehicle on Racecourse Road have left him without a licence for 12 months and forced the closure of his business.

Solicitor Ross Kearney told the court the closure of Clarke’s business in Albury meant four people were out of work.

Clarke, 23, pleaded guilty to organising, promoting or taking part in a race between vehicles.

“There is absolutely no sensible explanation for the driving,” Mr Kearney said.

“He realises it was completely

stupid.”

Magistrate Gordon Lerve said Clarke was fortunate he had not been charged with dangerous driving.

Police saw the two vehicles racing about 10.30pm on September 6.

A police vehicle was about 200m behind and Clarke’s vehicle travelled side by side with another for about 500m.

Police estimated the vehicles were travelling more than 100kmh in a 60kmh zone.

The police vehicle activated its lights and sirens and both vehicles pulled up.

When police asked Clarke what he was doing, he replied: “Just a bit of fun”.

Mr Kearney said Clarke had taken over the aircraft repair business from his father and often works in Darwin, Melbourne and Cairns.

He goes where the planes are located, at times driving with his tools.

But Mr Kearney said a loss of ­licence would force Clarke to move to Melbourne.

Since this incident Clarke has had his vehicle fitted with cruise control.

Mr Kearney said Clarke did not have a good driving record and there is a mandatory 12-month disqualification for the offence.

Mr Lerve said the circumstances of what happened were a serious

example of street racing.

There are several speeding offences on Clarke’s driving record.

Mr Lerve imposed an $800 fine on Clarke and banned him from driving for 12 months.