Exclusive pics! Determined Ellery sharpens image for 2001
24/1/2001 13:30 (V8 Wire - Jason Whittaker) - Designed to reflect his more determined stance, Steven Ellery and the Super Cheap operation have sharpened the image of their AU Falcon for the new season.
SuperQuick Auto: Ellery's team showed it's potential in late 2000; 2001 could be the year they come of age.
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Entering their third year as a unit, the second under the Super Cheap Auto banner, a quietly confident Ellery and friends are set to continue their giant-killing ways in 2001.
While 26-year-old Ellery is coy about his chances, its clear optimism is high. It suggests the Queenslander’s breakthrough win at Sandown late last year is a sign of things to come.
"Last year was a bit of a revelation and even though we all knew the team was capable of delivering a good performance, it didn't really hit home until we got to Sandown and blew some of the top guys away," Ellery said.
“At this stage I don't want to say too much about my goals for 2001, but needless to say we're not planning to be there as an also-ran," he said.
The sleek new look incorporates the red, yellow and purple of the discount auto retailer in a striking new design.
Super Cheap Auto has renewed their strong commitment to the Queensland-based outfit, as has Konica, who feature on the car’s windscreen.
The team also has a new home on the Gold Coast – modestly sized, but befitting of the small, tight-knit operation.
Explains team boss Bruce Ellery, "Our team is bit unique compared to some in the championship. We're a small operation and because we have such a top team of fellas to build the car for us, we make important decisions as a group.”
"It may be one of the reasons why we've been able to get a break on our rivals in the past. As we know, the knowledge from seven heads has got to be better than one," Ellery Snr. said.
Fitness won’t be an obstacle this year, Steven insists, (he fought gallantly against glandular fever for the better part of 2000) after an energising summer break.
"I took it pretty easy over the break. I did all the things family men like to do. I spent some time with the kids and Kerry, my wife, had a hit of golf and went water skiing,” a recharged Ellery said.
“Even though I've had to slow down again over Christmas, I am sure I'll be fighting fit when it comes to March," he said.
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