Howard Group V8 Supercars set for strongest tilt at title
7/4/2005 15:18 (Press Release) -
Howard Racing Team is set for its strongest tilt at a V8 Supercar Development Series title with a new driver, two new cars and a new major sponsor. The Team hosted an official launch party Tuesday 1st March on the Gold Coast to unveil the new look 2005 car to sponsors and VIP’s.
Armed with the rapidly emerging talents of enduro – proven Adam Macrow, two well-rested and muscled up former Triple Eight BA Falcons and new sponsor funding, Howard Group is taking the challenge right up to its fancied rivals in the Development Series.
Group boss and co-driver Mark Howard says his game plan – to build gradually with the best available driving and horsepower resources, is coming together fast.
“ We are now in a position to be competitive, with Adam on board, exciting new cars, and great sponsors,” said Howard.
“ Our reliability was proven last year with a 98 per cent start to finish ratio, the highest in the series, and this year we’ll be a lot faster as well.”
Both former and new sponsors share Howard’s optimism.
BreakFree Resort Apartments has maintained its association and has been joined by Betta Electrical as the cars’ major sponsors.
The 2005 team will remain in the experienced management hands of Warren Davis – another plus for Howard.
Davis says acquisition of Macrow and the new BA Falcons has his team buzzing with anticipation.
“The BAs were run in Championship Supercar series by Triple Eight in 2003 and have undergone rebuilds since,” said Davis.
“Mark has invested a lot in their development and we are wrapped in their test performances.
“Clearly our goal is not be an ‘also ran’ this year – we want the trophy but we also understand that there is no easy road to the top.”
Davis says it is planned to run both cars in all events and that the friendly rivalry between Mark Howard and Adam Macrow is adding to the team’s enjoyment of their task.
“Mark and Adam are great to work with, each with different talents and while the youngster is a bit quicker at the moment, the older bloke certainly has focus and staying ability,” said Davis.
The 26-year-old Macrow says his appointment is the biggest break in his career to date.
“ Mark Howard has given me a once in a lifetime opportunity and I will be grabbing it by the scruff on the neck,” said Macrow.
Macrow comes well credentialed for a rise through the V8 Supercar ranks.
After a successful driving apprenticeship in carts he won the Australian Formula Ford championships in 1998.
He has since won respect in the Supercar Enduro series over a period of eight years, backing up Alan Jones, Larry Perkins and Tony Longhurst.
Macrow will be maintaining his involvement with the long haul events and is driving for Triple Eight at Sandown and Bathurst this year.
“In the past I have not had the opportunity to advance my career and I am also over the moon with the way the new cars are performing – they are quick and capable of running hard all day,” said Macrow.
The Howard Group cars have been given a graphic facelift as well – bold new colours, for a bold new title bid.
Release Date: 07/03/2005
Howard Racing
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