The Yokohama V8 Ute Racing Series – protected by Armor All will return to Phillip Island after a 3 year absence for Round 5 of the 2010 Series, 10 – 12 September.
Currently leading the Series is Western Australian Grant “Grunta” Johnson who has a good track record at the event claiming the Round win in 2007, which also saw him take out the Championship against rival Jack “The Hustler” Elsegood in what was a gripping Grand Finale Race.
Elsegood is currently trailing Johnson by 21 points in the Coopers Clear Ute but was in a reverse situation in Phillip Island in 2007. He was ahead by 25 points and had the title in the bag until half-way through the final race the front tyre let go which saw him lose his title chance and Johnson was able to secure his first V8 Ute title.
Currently in third position is Jesus Racing’s Andrew Fisher who claimed the V8 Ute Rookie of the Year Award last time he raced at Phillip Island and with a lot more experience behind him now, including a ride in a V8 Supercar last year, will be a hot driver to watch.
Local driver, Kim Jane will be another driver on the pace claiming 2nd in 2007 and along with the other 31 drivers will be chasing the current lap record of 1:51.97, which was set by Marcus Zukanovic in 2006 in his Falcon BF XR8.
“We will all be trying to catch Grant and Jack. Hopefully our car suits the faster track that’s why Phillip Island is one of my favourite tracks. Our aim it to be in the top five for the whole weekend,” said Jane.
There have been a few changes to the field this time round with Paul Williams stepping out for this round and possibly the season, he will be replaced by V8 Ute debutant and local Lauren Gray in the Brock Race Engineering Holden VE.
Wicked Energy drink driver, Brad Patton is taking a round off with 2008 driver, Kurt Wimmer returning to the field in his place. Wimmer drove a Holden VE in 2008 and will make the move to the Ford for the weekend.
Also re-joining the field will be Western Australian Car Club President, Rick Gill who will be trialling the Utes again for the upcoming V8 Supercar round at Barbagallo.
After 8 years with BVC Racing, “Captain” Robert Jarvis will sport a new livery from now on having made the move to iseek racing along with Jason Gomersall.
The V8 Utes will launch into Round 5 with two practice sessions (9am and 11am) on Friday, 10th September followed by Qualifying at 1:40pm. Race 1 will take place on Saturday 11th September at 1:05pm and Race 2 and 3 on Sunday, 12th September at 10am and 12:40pm.
Race 1 and Race 2 will be televised as LIVE as on Network Seven. Race 1 at 2pm on Saturday, 11th September and Race 2 at 11:30am on Sunday, 12th September.
Make-A-Wish® Australia is the official charity of Australian V8 Ute Racing who will endeavour to assist the foundation with their mission, which is to “To grant the Wishes of Children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope strength and joy.”
