Radisich: New DJR stripes more than decoration
14/2/2001 19:41 (V8 Wire - Jason Whittaker) -
Dick Johnson Racing charger Paul Radisich likes the look of his refreshed Falcon, but insists the new stripes are about more than just decoration.
The new DJR livery retains the same colours, but the design has changed
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"New colours and a fresh look for a new season – it's more than
just window dressing, it's time to do the business!" ‘the Rat’ declared.
It was the Shell Helix Racing stable’s turn to reveal their new-millennium look today, at the same time launching an aggressive campaign to win-back the Shell Championship Series crown.
The sleek new-look Falcons offer a bold makeover for the new season. The striking new design incorporates the latest Shell Helix worldwide branding, featuring strong, full-body stripes in dynamic red, yellow and blue.
Entering his third year as DJR spearhead, 38-year-old Radisich has, by his own admission, failed to perform to potential.
After defeating the best of Britain a few years ago, Radisich won’t rest until he wins arguably the most competitive Touring Car title in the world. According to the laconic Kiwi, 2001 is his year.
"I've had two years now learning the Australian tracks and getting the car working right, there can be no more excuses, and I won't accept anything but victory,” Radisich said.
"Last year we proved we had the best Ford package and that's the position we have to start from this season. I know we have the car and the team to do it, and this is our chance," he said.
The newly-slimlined Steven Johnson (he lost over 30kg over the summer after his weight ballooned to 120kg last year) has also set some lofty expectations for himself. After a lacklustre freshman outing in 2000, Johnson is out to prove the faith his father continues to have in him is justified.
"Our cars have been further developed, freshened up and refined since Bathurst in readiness for this year, and now I just can't wait to get out there," Johnson Jnr. said.
"I've had a year to find my feet, so 2001 is the time for me to prove myself as a driver in my own right. I believe I've got what it takes and by the time the season is over, I think the results will speak for themselves," he said.
Radisich and Johnson will compete under the guidance of a restructured team, led by Principal Dick Johnson. Business Manager Stephen Horton will again lead the off-track squad, while the technical expertise of Brett Bull and administrative experience of Brian Lawrence will be valuable.
Shell continue their enduring support of DJR in 2001, as do Ford Australia, Victoria Bitter and Cabcharge.
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