Drunken doughnuts cost HRT dearly
12/5/2001 15:05 (V8 Wire - Jason Whittaker) -
The championship-leading Holden Racing Team is $10,000 and 60-points lighter this afternoon following extraordinary repercussions resulting from a post-race incident at Eastern Creek Raceway.
HRT pilots Jason Bright and Mark Skaife have each had 30 points revoked from their championship tally after unnamed members of the team brought the sport into disrepute in the aftermath of the team's one-two victory a fortnight ago.
The matter was referred to AVESCO by Eastern Creek Raceway, which alleged a member of HRT performed ‘doughnuts’ in a team promotional vehicle within the paddock area, close to garages and corporate suites. It was believed alcohol played a part.
CAMS were informed of the incident, convening with Team Manager Jeff Grech at Hidden Valley yesterday to investigate. That inquiry concluded this morning, at which time the unprecedented penalty was handed down.
It is understood that recent events at the circuit – a drag racer was killed at Eastern Creek in February – were taken into account due to censure over recent months.
A CAMS statement released this morning said, “In the circumstances, it was alleged that the conduct of team members was such as to bring the sport into disrepute, having regard to the incident being observed by officials and police personnel.”
HRT have not officially commented on the matter, although Grech has said the individual/s responsible will face an internal inquiry. The team won’t appeal the decision.
Skaife and Bright retain their positions atop the Shell Championship Series despite the penalty.
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