Speedy Start To New Year For V8 Supercar Young Gun
12/1/2004 23:20 (Press Release) -
Newly recruited Orrcon Racing car driver Mark Winterbottom can only hope to emulate the speeds he reached during a test drive with Pro Stock drag racer Tony Wedlock during a test session at Willowbank Raceway last Saturday night.
The reigning Konica V8 Supercar Series championship titleholder suited up for the first time in his new colours, but was relegated to the passenger seat as Wedlock reached a top speed of close to 180mph over the quarter mile.
"That was a huge buzz, I'd seen Tony go through an earlier test session in between the elimination phase of the National Open program and just couldn't wait to get in the car," said a breathless Winterbottom on the completion of the sub eight-second journey.
"I'd rather be in the driver's seat during a race but after experiencing this you really grow to appreciate the driving skill of these blokes.
"Hats off to Tony he did a remarkable job and I wish him all the best as he looks to continue his winning form after securing the iTEL Nationals title late last year.
It's a whole new ball game for Winterbottom moving into his first full season in the V8 Supercar Championship Series after totally dominating the Konica feeder competition last season.
The 22 year-old thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to drive in the endurance rounds at Sandown and Bathurst with the formidable Stone Brothers Racing outfit.
But now it's time to write a whole new chapter in what has already been a highly successful start to his V8 Supercar career.
"This is an exciting time for me and the entire team at Orrcon racing.
"I can't wait to get out on the track during the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 4-7.
"The transition has been quite smooth and I can't thank Mark Larkham enough for giving me this opportunity.
The action hots up at Willowbank Raceway over coming months in the lead up to Australia's biggest drag racing showdown, the annual Winternationals on June 11-13, 2004.
Drag Combat will be staged on February 21 before a huge International program when the American jet dragsters of Chuck Haynes and Gary Miocevich are featured during another National Open on March 6 and then the annual Tin Top Titles are coordinated over the weekend of April 24 and 25.
Release Date: 05/01/2004
Orrcon Racing/Queensland Raceway
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