Ellery scores Brabham coup for enduros
25/3/2001 0:07 (V8 Wire - Jason Whittaker) -
Steven Ellery is already in preparations for an elusive Bathurst crown, signing one of Australia’s legendary Brabhams as co-pilot.
Accomplished international all-rounder Geoff Brabham will join the Super Cheap Auto Racing team for this year’s endurance events – the Queensland 500 and Bathurst 1000.
“Geoff’s a supremo on track, he has a heap of experience behind him and is a true professional in the car,” Ellery said.
The former Le Mans 24-hour winner is a proven performer in any car, and his vast experience will be a valuable asset to the modest Queensland-based outfit.
Brabham made a low-key appearance at Queensland Raceway recently, getting behind the wheel of the Super Cheap Falcon five months ahead of his call to duty at the Queensland 500. Brabham was consistently matching Ellery’s times throughout the day.
“The advantage of having a driver who can match times around Bathurst can’t be underestimated,” Ellery said. “We had a list of potential co-drivers for Bathurst but there were only a few guys on the list we knew could cut the mustard and Brabham was at the top of that list.”
Brabham was equally as enthusiastic. “It’s a great opportunity for me,” he said.
“Sometimes when you come in just for the long races you don’t have the opportunity for a lot of track time prior to the event and then it’s a tough call to go to a specialist circuit like Bathurst and be as quick as your team-mate. I’ve already been testing with the team and believe the combination holds a lot of promise,” Brabham said.
The relationship is already a strong one, with both men having worked together at various driver training days.
Brabham will work with Ellery’s personal trainer to get up to speed both physically and mentally for the two epic endurance events.
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