TeamVodafone’s Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup will head to Sydney’s Oran Park this weekend with vivid memories of the championship’s previous visit to the circuit in 2006.
Both drivers went on to top sessions across the weekend, with Whincup kicking things off, taking P1 in free practice. Lowndes bookended his younger teammate’s performance, rounding out the weekend with a win in the final race, and snaring the overall round win.
They will be out to capitalise on the team’s knowledge of the 2.7km circuit to ensure the fantastic run of podium results is kept alive this weekend, following an encouraging Queensland Raceway outing where Whincup took his first ever pole position, and both drivers were continually on the pace, taking second and third overall for the round.
Oran Park has always been a favourite of Lowndes, who would also have won the 2005 event, had an unfortunate pit lane speeding penalty not held him back.
The Ford favourite, recently voted by his racing peers in Auto Action magazine as the series’ fairest and most respected driver, heads into round 8 in 4th place in the title chase.
“Oran Park is without a doubt one of the top three or four circuits that we race on, it is a fantastic drivers track, has a great layout, a good variety of corners and the unique under and over bridge makes for a very challenging drive,” explained Lowndes.
“It is track that throws up quite a few challenges,” he continued. “It is a bumpy track which can make it difficult to set the car up and the pit lane is on a decline which can make it tricky to keep under the pitlane speed limit and stop on the markers. “
“As a team we feel like we are on a bit of a roll now, and Oran Park has always been kind to us so we are looking forward to continuing our present form and hopefully coming away with another dual podium.”
“This is a very important race meeting as it is our last hitout before the endurance events,” Lowndes continued.
Whincup is eager to carry over his good qualifying form to the weekend, and is confident that his TeamVodafone Falcon can match it with the best in race trim as well.
“I led Oran Park last year before my engine let go so you could say I am looking for retribution this year,” said Whincup.
“Oran Park is a great driver’s circuit that may not be around much longer, so I am looking to make the most of it and enjoying our time there.”
“The track offers some of the better sections of road that we drive on and although we dominated there last year I know the Toll guys will be much more competitive and I think the fans are in for a real battle between the two teams,” he added.
Whincup sits a place higher than his teammate in 3rd, and both drivers know the greatest opposition to back-to-back round wins at Oran Park will come from the drivers immediately ahead of them in the title chase.
This weekend's race format will consist of a 46 lap opener on Saturday, with two 46 lap races to follow on Sunday. With speculation rife that this could be Oran Park's last year in operation as a motorsport venue, the Team will do everything it can to ensure its drivers are in with a shot at taking home the circuit’s last V8 Supercar trophy.
Prior to making the day-long journey south, TeamVodafone stopped in at Queensland Raceway yesterday to facilitate a fully-sanctioned Driver Evaluation day, featuring some iconic names in Aussie motorsport.
As well as welcoming international Supercross export Chad Reed for his first competitive stint aboard a V8 Supercar, the team was thrilled to offer opportunities to Formula Ford team-mates James Moffat and Tim Blanchard.
Team Principal Roland Dane was exceptionally impressed by the performance of all three drivers, citing their willingness to learn and take in as much information as possible as a very valuable quality.
In preparation for their return role as TeamVodafone endurance drivers, Richard Lyons and Allan Simonsen were also present, taking the opportunity to practice all-important driver changes and re-introduce themselves to the cars.
Fans can catch Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup at the following public appearances this week:
A palpable air of anticipation hung over the pitlane at Queensland Raceway this morning as leading Ford V8 Supercar outfit TeamVodafone prepared to strap three fresh faces into the driver’s seat.
Former World and AMA Supercross champion Chad Reed shared driving duties with Formula Ford frontrunners James Moffat and Tim Blanchard in an official Driver Evaluation Day, a fully-fledged introduction to the competitive ranks of the rapidly-expanding touring car category.
V8 Supercars has always been a passionate interest of Aussie born and bred Reed, and he jumped at the opportunity to join the leading Brisbane team, jetting back from his Florida home solely for today’s test.
Many internationals have climbed boldly aboard a V8 Supercar, only to emerge red-faced – the skill and strength required to lap competitively and consistently is hugely underestimated, a fact that has never escaped the personable 24-year-old.
“I knew it would be tough but to be honest I was disappointed with my first session, I really struggled to make any progress and found it tough to reach the accelerator and brakes at the same time,” said Reed.
“The team was fantastic though, and made changes which improved my performance straight away. I felt much better and was able to concentrate on going that little bit quicker each lap, getting good gear changes and making apexes.”
Reed completed a number of stints aboard the #888 Falcon, working on specific areas after briefings with the team. The technical nature of Queensland Raceway, as well as its infamous bumps, made the task an even greater one.
“I feel as though I got better and better each lap, its just a matter of being receptive and getting the basics right,” he explained.
“The learning curve is incredible, there is so much going on and you need one hundred percent focus for one hundred percent of the time!”
He will climb back aboard the TeamVodafone Falcon later this afternoon, but was quick to praise the crew, who are in the midst of preparing for this weekend’s round at Oran Park, for their patience and their insight.
“The opportunity has been fantastic, and to be able to spend a day with one of the best teams in the championship has just been amazing – thanks to Roland and all involved for their assistance.”
Team Principal Roland Dane was instrumental in organising Reed’s participation and said that he had done a fantastic job so far.
“Chad has done everything we asked of him and is rapidly improving lap after lap, to his credit he is taking on board all of the advice the team are offering and his times are getting better and better,” said Dane.
“The purpose of the evaluation is to introduce him to the nature of the car and what it requires of him, it was never about going out and chasing a time.”
“He’s got an incredible gift and for someone with absolutely no car racing experience he is doing a great job, we look forward to what he can do this afternoon as well.”
Dane was also proud of the efforts of the Formula Ford teammates James Moffat and Tim Blanchard, who were adapting well to the distinct style.
“The growth and development of Australia’s Formula Ford drivers is a passion of mine and I’m happy to have provided this opportunity to both James and Tim,” he said.
“Both boys have handled the task very professionally, and like Chad, have been open to all of our suggestions. This quality alone will ensure they go a long way in this sport.”
Moffat, son of touring car great Alan, was equally enthused with the opportunity and was looking forward to further time aboard the car this afternoon.
“This car is completely different to the open wheeler that Tim and I drive, it requires a vastly different style of driving in order to produce a clean lap,” he explained.
“We are having a great time learning from the team, and are sucking in every bit of information possible in order to do that little bit better each time we get out there.”
“I feel very priveliged to be a part of such a professional and top-notch outfit, thanks to everyone who has made this possible.”
TeamVodafone endurance pairing Richard Lyons and Allan Simonsen are among the onlookers at Queensland Raceway today, and will head out this afternoon to complete a series of laps in preparation for the upcoming dual-driver events, Sandown and Bathurst, which begin in September.
Footage of all the action from Chad Reed’s day with TeamVodafone, both on and off the track, will soon be available to download free on Vodafone live!
TeamVodafone is pleased to announce three fresh faces to pilot its Ford Falcon V8 Supercars at an official Driver Evaluation session on August 13, at Queensland Raceway.
In a major coup for the Team, and the sport as a whole, international Supercross superstar Chad Reed will suit up for a highly-anticipated stint behind the wheel of the leading Ford outfit’s V8 weapon.
The Aussie, who has dropped a number of hints about trying his hand at four wheels instead of two, is a long-time fan of the series and will return to Australia from his Florida base especially for the evaluation.
“I am extremely grateful to both Roland Dane and TeamVodafone for giving me the opportunity to participate in a fully sanctioned driver evaluation day,” said Reed. “It has been almost twelve months since we first spoke to Roland about a test and this is sure to be the highlight of my year.”
“After spending time with Jamie, Craig and the team at Eastern Creek I can see the team is truly a world class operation and I will be taking this test just as seriously as they are.”
Joining Reed on the day will be rising Formula Ford stars Tim Blanchard and James Moffat, two drivers making all the right moves in the popular open wheeler series.
Blanchard is the series leader, and Moffat is currently third, with both drivers eyeing a future in V8 Supercars in the near future.
The evaluation day is separate from the official test days in that the Team’s regular drivers, Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup, are only permitted to drive a maximum of 10 laps, ensuring the focus is firmly on the efforts of Reed, Blanchard and Moffat.
Richard Lyons, who returns to take an endurance seat with the Brisbane-based team, will also participate in the session in preparation for the V8 Supercar endurance races Sandown and Bathurst.
Team Principal Roland Dane said he was excited at the prospect of seeing what Chad Reed is able to do aboard the TeamVodafone Falcon, and expected the naturally-gifted racer to adapt very quickly.
“The entire Team, many of which are motorcycle enthusiasts, are looking forward to see how Chad will perform in the evaluation session,” said Dane.
“He is exceptional on two wheels and has a racer’s mentality, so it will be interesting to see how he handles the challenge of four wheels.”
“It won’t be an easy task, the intricacies of V8 Supercar racing can only really be learnt through experience, but we are certain that once he develops some confidence behind the wheel he will lay down some very quick times.”
Dane said that he was also looking forward to how Blanchard and Moffat would adapt to the challenge.
“I believe it’s important to identify and provide the opportunity for talent in the Formula Ford series to shine through.”
“A number of current V8 Supercar drivers, including both Craig and Jamie, cut their teeth in the series.”
“It promotes strong fundamental skills and allows racers to learn the majority of the top circuits in the country.”
“We want to make sure that drivers such as Tim and James are in everyone’s peripheral vision and their talent is recognised and nurtured.”
“It will also be good to have Richard along for the day, this will give him a chance to reacquaint himself with the car that he will share with Alan Simonsen at the endurance races and get in some valuable track time.”
Lyons is permitted to participate in the evaluation session as he has not competed in any V8 Supercar sprint events.
Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup will be on hand to provide expert advice to the drivers as they learn the ins and outs of the cars and how best to tackle the technical circuit.
The TeamVodafone duo both finished on the podium at last weekend’s Round 7 of the V8 Supercar Championship Series at this track, and are well versed in what the 3.12km layout demands.
TeamVodafone drivers Jamie Whincup and Craig Lowndes have shared the podium for the first time this year, finishing second and third overall at Round 7 of the V8 Supercar Championship Series at Queensland Raceway today.
Both drivers finished in the top three of both 38-lap races today with alternating second and third placing’s in the two races.
Today’s results elevate both drivers in the championship standings, with Whincup moving to third and Lowndes leapfrogging to fourth position.
“All-in-all I think everyone at TeamVodafone should be proud of their efforts this weekend,” said Whincup.
“While we were unable to completely match the pace of Round winner Garth Tander who won all three races this weekend, the guys made a number of changes to both of our cars that gave us better balance particularly towards the end of each race.”
“We didn’t win the round but we put in a strong, consistent performance which moved us both up in the championship order,” Whincup commented.
Craig Lowndes who moved from sixth to fourth in the championship is now only 22 points behind team-mate Jamie Whincup.
“Race three was probably my best race given that I kept my best tyres until last,” said Lowndes. “But in saying that in both races today the car was working well right through the entire races.”
“It is also great to have a team-mate that has the speed, the brains and can also match racecraft with the best of us.”
“We are both quite proud of the TeamVodafone results this weekend with pole and two podiums. It certainly shows that the team has got some depth,” Lowndes added.
With three weeks until the Oran Park, which will be the final sprint round before the two endurance races TeamVodafone will continue to focus on parts and team performance in the lead up to the two most important races of the season.
TeamVodafone’s Craig Lowndes has recorded his first round victory of the season after dominating today’s two V8 Supercar races at Round 6 of the V8 Supercar Championship Series at Darwin’s Hidden Valley Raceway.
Lowndes won both 42-Lap races convincingly ahead of Holden driver Rick Kelly and was aided by two perfect pitstops from his TeamVodafone pit crew.
After finishing third in yesterday’s opening race, Lowndes got a sensational start in today’s first race and was comfortably placed second before his compulsory pitstop. A sensational stop saw the multiple Champion come out of the pits ahead of Rick Kelly and he was dominant right to the very finish.
In what Lowndes himself described as his best ever start, Race 3 saw him lead from start to finish and sealed the round win.
“It is so good to be back on the podium and record my first win for TeamVodafone,” said Lowndes.
“This afternoon’s Race 3 start was absolutely sensational and the car just felt perfect as it took off from the line.”
“Basically it was faultless and did everything I needed it to do today. Even our tyre degradation was less than expected.”
“I am looking forward to racing at Queensland Raceway which is our home and test track and the four week break will also be most welcome.” Lowndes added.
Lowndes’ team-mate Jamie Whincup did not have the final race that he hoped for with an oil seal failure on Lap 7 which forced him into the pit garage, losing him five laps and any possibility of a podium finish.
“I am very disappointed that I didn’t deliver what I was hoping for. A third place in the final race could possibly have placed me third overall for the weekend.
“We had a fantastic car all weekend and unfortunately I have no reward to show for it.”
“On a positive note I am still fourth in the Championship and I remain confident that the Championship is still within TeamVodafone’s grasp,” Whincup commented.
TeamVodafone will continue to work on improving their two Ford Falcon BF race cars, with a test day scheduled early next month.
A consistent day for TeamVodafone saw steady improvements to the Ford Falcons of Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup, with both cars finishing inside the top five for Race 1 at Darwin’s Hidden Valley Raceway.
The morning qualifying saw Whincup record the fifth fastest time whilst Lowndes clawed his way back from 17th in the opening leg to eighth at the end of the third and final leg.
Starting off the fourth row of the grid, Lowndes got a good start which catapulted the TeamVodafone driver into fifth while Whincup struggled for grip and slipped two spots. The race then entered a safety car period immediately after the start, following a multi car incident at Turn 4.
TeamVodafone elected to pit both cars early and a good stop for Lowndes elevated him to fourth.
He remained in this position until Lap 40, and with two laps remaining, overtook Todd Kelly in a classic switchback overtaking maneuver to finish third behind race winner Mark Skaife and second placed Rick Kelly.
‘I was pretty stoked with the pitstop result given that I had traffic all around me,” said Lowndes.
“It was also good to have a very competitive car right to the end of the race. I didn’t have to use up my tyres to pass Todd (Kelly).”
“With a look at the data tonight we are confident we can still find some more for tomorrow’s two races,” Lowndes added.
Whincup who eventually finished where he started in fifth place, also showed good race pace overtaking a number of drivers including Garth Tander with only four laps remaining.
“I had a disappointing start losing two spots and was more than happy to get through the carnage that resulted at Turn 4,” said Whincup.
“The car handled well throughout the race and it really came on strong in the second half allowing me to overtake Will (Davison), Steve (Richards) and then Garth (Tander).”
“I am starting again on the third row of the grid and after today’s practice run I am confident I can get the start right tomorrow,” Whincup commented.
Tomorrows two remaining 42-Lap races will be held at 11.30am (CST) and 3.15pm (CST).
As a result of a post race Stewards enquiry Triple Eight Race Engineering has accepted the Stewards findings of a breech of technical specifications concerning the rear brake discs of car #88 in the final V8 Supercar race at Eastern Creek Raceway today.
Triple Eight accepts responsibility for the disqualification of Jamie Whincup’s result from Race 3, a consequence of mistakenly using 2006 specification discs.
The error occurred due to the Team including a number of 2006 specification discs sets in the truck spares for Eastern Creek which were to be used on the spare car for the Team’s ride days planned for Tuesday and Wednesday this week. It is normal practice to use up redundant stocks of parts on the ride car in this way. Alcon, the suppliers of the control discs for the Category in 2007, were happy to confirm to the Stewards that there was no performance advantage to be gained from using the older, heavier, 2006 specification discs.
A simple mistake was made and, whilst there was no performance gain or advantage in running the old spec discs, Triple Eight Race Engineering acknowledge there was a breach of the technical rules and accepts the penalty imposed.
Whincup’s revised meeting points put him in back to fifth place and his new Championship total sees him tied on 205-points with Holden driver Todd Kelly.
TeamVodafone’s Jamie Whincup has continued his consistent run in the 2007 V8 Supercar Championship, finishing third overall at Round 5 of the Series at Eastern Creek Raceway today.
The third placing gives him and TeamVodafone their third consecutive podium finish and places Jamie in a strong third overall position. After finishing fifth overall team-mate Craig Lowndes also moves up the order to sixth in the championship.
Finishing second in yesterday’s race, Whincup consolidated his podium placing by finishing third in Race two and fourth in Race three.
He drove mature and consistent races, leaving little to chance but also demonstrating to his fellow competitors that the Triple Eight Falcons are competitive and can match the Commodores.
“This weekend consistency was the key,” Whincup said. “I am very comfortable that we are on track in terms of progress which is obvious by our results over the past three rounds.”
“I am very happy to just be out there doing the job that I am expected to do.”
“With the tracks that are coming up on the calendar I am looking forward to proving that our progress is ongoing.” He continued.
After finishing ninth in yesterday’s race, Craig Lowndes again drove a scorching second race finishing fourth behind his teammate.
A combination of a great start and a fearless overtaking move on Todd Kelly ensured Lowndes started the final race from the second row of the grid.
Another great start saw Lowndes position himself immediately behind the leader, a position which he consolidated after his pitstop and led to an exciting finish with him constantly challenging for the lead in the dying stages.
“I got two great starts today which really helped me make up positions,” Lowndes said. “We made some minor adjustments between Races 2 and 3 and they certainly paid off, our car had great cold tyre speed in the tricky Race 3 conditions.”
“I had a great battle in the final race but Todd made no mistakes and I wasn’t able to force the issue.”
“Personally I am delighted with the car speed, the Team has been working hard to make up the deficit to the Holden’s and we believe we have been able to achieve that.” Lowndes added
Round six of the V8 Supercar Championship Series will be held June 22-24 at Darwin’s Hidden Valley Raceway.
Two years ago, Triple Eight Race Engineering entered the prestigious winner’s circle in Australian V8 Supercar competition, recording its first ever round victory at Sydney’s Eastern Creek Raceway.
As Craig Lowndes crossed the line, an elated crew celebrated the hard-earned victory, one which would ignite immense success in the months and years to come, a fond and fitting memory as the Team gears up to return to the renowned circuit.
With Jamie Whincup recording TeamVodafone’s breakthrough 2007 victory at Winton just a few weeks ago, the leading Ford outfit is eager to maintain the momentum and return to the top step of the podium once again this weekend.
The series takes a different approach to this weekend’s racing, with the Queen’s Birthday shuffling proceedings back a day to co-incide with the public holiday. There will be no time to relax for Lowndes and Whincup however, charged with the task of making up further ground in both the Driver’s and Team’s championships.
Whincup’s win was a significant step forward in TeamVodafone’s progress, and a sure sign of things to come.
He is looking forward to another competitive weekend, and is confident that the car is capable of taking the fight to Holden’s pacesetters once again.
“Eastern Creek is a special place for Triple Eight, it’s where Craig won the first round for the team in 2005 so they have a good handle on the track,” said Whincup.
“I really enjoy the challenges it offers a driver – being on the rev limiter in top gear in the run into Turn 1 really gets your attention.”
“Personally, another consistent result to keep the momentum rolling is my focus. We are coming off our first round win of the year and are going through an exciting time, but it’s important for us to keep our cool and stay focused on the big picture.”
After four rounds of completed competition, Whincup is the leading Ford driver positioned in third place, on 168 points.
With luck deserting Craig Lowndes on a number of occasions to this point in the season, the multiple series Champion is fired up to recapture his famous winning form.
In spite of this lean start by his own standards, Lowndes is still holding down 7th in the championship, with 104 points to his name.
Eastern Creek will spark elements of nostalgia for Lowndes, who is V8 Supercars’ most recent victor here following his 2005 win.
With considerable experience under his belt at the fast 3.93km circuit, he will be a podium threat from the outset of the weekend.
“It is always nice to go back to a circuit where you have had a breakthrough victory, I love the track - it has great character and at our last outing at Eastern Creek we had a fantastic result,” said Lowndes.
“It will be a unique experience to race on Sunday and Monday instead of Saturday and Sunday, and we will be aiming to back up Jamie’s result from Winton with another strong podium finish.”
In team points terms, the Brisbane-based outfit is comfortably holding down second in the standings, with 272 points to its credit.
While the days differ, the format for Round 4 remains the same, with three 31-lap races to be contested; the opening race will be held on Sunday with the remaining two races to be held for the first time on Monday.
Eastern Creek’s profile is perfect for V8 Supercar competition, with the fast sweeping turn one giving way to a series of rises and falls through its 12-corner layout.
TeamVodafone fans can catch up with Craig and Jamie prior to the event, with the duo making their only pre-round appearance this Thursday evening at the Vodafone Store at Westfield Parramatta.
From 5.30-7.00pm they will be on hand to take on challengers in the TeamVodafone Simulator Experience, as well as signing autographs and presenting the latest suite of exciting content for Vodafone live! subscribers.
Jamie Whincup has continued the Triple Eight flourish at Winton Motor Raceway, taking his and TeamVodafone’s first round victory for the year after finishing second in both 40-lap races today.
Whincup took the round win by just one point from Garth Tander and Rick Kelly. Teammate Craig Lowndes finished fifth overall after resurrecting his weekend with two top ten race results.
After winning yesterday’s opening race Jamie Whincup started from pole position for what was another rain affected race. The TeamVodafone pit strategy and wet weather calls again proved the difference with Whincup and Lowndes both benefiting from a decisionl to remain on slick tyres despite the presence of rain.
The track dried for Race 3 and unsure of dry car setup for the Winton circuit, the Team took a gamble with a known setup which worked effectively on this tight and twisty track.
Now third in the Championship behind Rick Kelly and Garth Tander, Whincup said he would be taking one race at a time.
“We had a slow start to the weekend but once the rain came we were very quick in the wet,” said Whincup.
“The gamble with setup in Race 3 worked well and we had good balance throughout the race. In fact the car was as fast at the end as it was at the start.”
“It is great to have the first Ford win for 2007. It must be that Chassis 10 really feels at home here after Craig winning with it last year,” Whincup added.
While Lowndes didn’t have the ideal weekend he maintained seventh place in the championship still remains in viable contention for the title.
“Race 2 was disappointing in that our pit strategy was effective in leap frogging a number of positions but being turned around and losing those was disheartening,” said Lowndes.
“All credit to both car engineers on producing a dry track setup after we had poor form during practice and qualifying.”
“I am always happy to see the team do well but I must say I am really looking forward to Eastern Creek where I have had some good results,” Lowndes commented
Round five of the V8 Supercar Championship Series will be held June 9-11 (over the long weekend) at Sydney’s Eastern Creek Raceway.
Test track advantage proved to be a key factor in today’s rain affected extended practice session at Victoria’s Winton Motor Raceway, with the first nine places all filled by local teams.
TeamVodafone’s Jamie Whincup was the quickest of the northerners after a late tyre change moved him to within .8 of second of the fastest time.
Team mate Craig Lowndes never really got on top of the session, a number of setup and tyre changes never really giving the desired result.
With a session that started on slicks, went to wets then finished on slicks, TeamVodafone drivers and engineers were challenged with the changing conditions.
Predicting some serious data analysis this evening, Jamie Whincup acknowledged the team’s disappointment.
“We were slightly caught out by the track conditions and failed to come to a good balance setup,” said Whincup
“It looks like it will be a long night studying the data to come up with a good setup for qualifying.”
“If there is a positive to come out of the session we were quite fast in the wet conditions,” Whincup commented.
After circulating around the top ten for most of the second half of practice, Lowndes eventually finished 20th when others went out on fresher tyres.
“Our final result was a bit disappointing we were definitely hoping to finish the session further up the order,” said Lowndes.
“We didn’t have car balance to start with so we worked on that during the first session and the car was definitely at its best straight after the break.”
“We decided to make more changes which resulted in a further imbalance that we never solved.”
“I am confident that the engineers will find significant improvements for tomorrow’s qualifying,” he added.
The V8 Supercars will qualify at 12.00pm with the first of three 40-Lap races to start at 3.50pm.
With hundreds of man hours dedicated to the preparation and setup of their racecars, TeamVodafone drivers Jamie Whincup and Craig Lowndes are eager to repay their crew for their exhaustive efforts with a podium result as the V8 Supercar Championship Series heads to Winton this weekend.
While Whincup’s pace was encouraging at Pukekohe, it was clear that there was potential improvement to be found for both Falcons, and at last week’s test session it was evident that the leading Ford team had raised the bar.
Both drivers made smooth progress through the session, and with a good base setup they were able to target specific areas in order to improve handling and extract pace.
The TeamVodafone pairing is the only driver combination to have made the final stage of the new elimination-style qualifying at each 2007 round, and is sure to maintain this consistency at Winton.
Winton is a deceptively difficult track to put together a quick, complete lap on, but the Team is confident of finding the form it did at the Victorian circuit last year, where it took the overall round win thanks to a brilliant performance by Craig Lowndes.
While the opening three rounds were certainly an unexpected test for 2005 and 2006 Championship Runner-Up Lowndes, he is confident that the gap to the frontrunners has been bridged significantly.
"Heading into the weekend it looks as though rain may pay a major part in the racing, and to be honest I won't really mind, I'm pretty confident on a wet track," said Lowndes.
"This is one of the most important rounds in terms of qualifying at the front, given that there are so few places to pass."
"The Team has a good handle on what's required to do well here, and I'm looking forward to getting underway after we won here last year."
"Last week's test proved very successful, and while the tyres we ran on weren't that great we still made some really good progress in terms of setup."
Lowndes is in 7th place, with 79 points to his name heading into round 4.
Never one to shy away from a challenge, Jamie Whincup has stepped forward and taken up the Ford charge at the front of the field, comfortably placed in 4th after three rounds of competition.
Whincup gave his team a glowing review following weeks of hard work at their Brisbane base and the subsequent test session, and said he was very happy with the way his car was performing.
“We had a very good and productive test last Friday where we tested a number of new components ahead of the race weekend at Winton, which will be a significant round in terms of the championship,” said Whincup.
“The Team are just phenomenal - they are working really hard to make up the deficit and trying a whole range of new things,” he said.
“To see them putting in the hard yards gives me great confidence and inspires me to work even harder on my own preparation.”
“Both Craig and I were quick at Winton last year and I am confident we will have quick cars again this year, my focus is to keep the momentum that I’ve built up from the start of the season going.”
The drivers will contest 3 x 32 lap races of the 3-kilometre circuit this weekend, with the opening race to be held on Saturday, and the following races to feature on Sunday morning and Sunday afternoon.
The racetrack, which is located around 10 minutes from the township of Benalla, is set to be a hive of activity as the event approaches, with a number of quality support classes, including the Fujitsu V8 Supercar Series on show.
22 April 2007
TeamVodafone back on the podium at Pukekohe
TeamVodafone’s Jamie Whincup is celebrating his best result in a sprint round after finishing third overall at Round 3 of the V8 Supercar Championship Series at Pukekohe Park Raceway.
Whincup’s podium came after he finished second in the opening race of the day and fifth in the controversial final race which was cut short by seven laps due to time constraints.
His third placing sees him leap from seventh to fourth in the Championship standings where he is also the best placed Ford driver.
Speaking after the race Whincup said his Team had moved forward since Perth and were well on track with their four round plan to reduce the power deficit to the front running Holden teams.
“It is great to be back on the podium, it shows we are well on track with our plan to get back to the front,” said Whincup.
“I had a great first race today where I finished second but we did use up our best tyres so I just had to do the best I could in Race 3.
“My start in the final race was not great I got a little bit too many revs and dropped back which cost us some positions early on. I had a good pitstop and hung on to finish fifth and it was enough to get us back onto the podium,” Whincup explained.
After spearing off mid race yesterday teammate Craig Lowndes redeemed himself today with two top ten race finishes and a top ten round result which elevated him to seventh in the Championship.
Lowndes started Race 2 from 14th on the grid and climbed his way back to seventh. In the final race he got a sensational start which saw him move through the pack and a good pitstop further advanced the TeamVodafone driver to sit comfortably in fifth behind teammate Jamie Whincup.
With a better set of Race 3 tyres Lowndes was able to out brake Whincup at Turn 5 and move into fourth place.
“We made some good progress today after my mistake yesterday put us on the back foot,” said Lowndes
“I got a great start in the final race today and was able to make up a position. We also decided to stay out a bit longer than normal and made up more positions in the pitstop.”
“We saved our best tyres for the last race which is why I was able to pass Jamie. If the race had run full distance I am sure I could have caught James (Courtney) as well.”
“The car balance was definitely the best it has been all weekend in the last race” Lowndes added.
After winning the final race Rick Kelly was declared the round winner despite tying for points with teammate Garth Tander who was second, Jamie Whincup was third.
Round 4 of the 2007 V8 Supercar Championship Series will be held at Victoria’s Winton Raceway May 18-20.
22 April 2007
Bittersweet day for TeamVodafone
While TeamVodafone’s Jamie Whincup is celebrating a top five finish in today’s opening 43 Lap race at Pukekohe Park Raceway, his teammate Craig Lowndes has been left wondering if a black cat has somehow crossed his path.
The multiple Champion who looked promising yesterday qualified eighth and after making up ground through a swift pitstop by the TeamVodafone crew, speared off at the notorious hairpin and was relegated to 15th with 15 laps to go.
Jamie Whincup who started off grid position five maintained his position throughout the race. The TeamVodafone driver capitalized on a battle between fellow Ford driver Steven Richards and reigning Champion Rick Kelly, moving into fourth place on Lap 37.
After setting himself the goal of finishing inside the top six Whincup said he was delighted with his result.
“Today’s race went better than we had planned,” said Whincup. “We had originally set ourselves a goal of finishing in the top six so to come away with fourth is fantastic.”
“We had good overall car speed especially towards the end of the race which allowed me to pass Steven Richards with eight laps to go.”
“Tonight we will work on finding a bit more front grip to give me some assistance in exiting the hairpin.”
“We have a good starting position for tomorrow and if I can maintain top five finishes in both races I have a good chance of making up some championship places,” he continued.
For Lowndes the day turned sour on Lap 28, the TeamVodafone driver commenting that while he thought he braked normally coming into the hairpin the pedal stayed down longer than anticipated locking his front brakes.
“We struggled early in the race with rear grip,” said Lowndes. “I altered the rear bar but went the wrong way and it didn’t give me what I was looking for.”
“The boys did a fantastic pitstop and we gained two positions but unfortunately we couldn’t capitalise on these gains as I went off at the hairpin and back to 15th. From there I was only able to gain one position.”
“The car definitely felt better towards the end of the race through a combination of bar and brake adjustments but we will need to improve it a bit more for tomorrow’s two races,” Lowndes commented.
Today’s race was won by Holden driver Garth Tander from Mark Winterbottom and Rick Kelly.
Tomorrow the V8 Supercars will contest two 43 lap races with Race 2 commencing at 11.30am (local time) and Race 3 at 2.55pm (local time).
21 April 2007
TeamVodafone promising in Pukekohe practice
Rejoicing the results of their recent test day, TeamVodafone’s Ford Falcon BF machines were back on the pace in today’s extended practice session at Pukekohe Park Raceway with both racecars lapping consistently inside the top ten.
From the moment the cars hit the track, TeamVodafone drivers Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup were inside the top ten. Whincup featuring dominantly in the top three for most of the session.
Lowndes had a small off during the first part of the limited laps 2 ½ hour session but despite the nature of the fast flowing track the session was only interrupted by two red flags.
Posting the fifth fastest time of .56.2738 Lowndes said he very pleased with the way the car responded to setup changes today.
“The car was reasonably good straight up but we lacked a little bit of drive which we worked on throughout the session,” said Lowndes.
“Ninety percent the changes we made today were good, however there were a couple that sent us momentarily in the wrong direction.”
“When we put the second set of new tyres on the car it responded like we had hoped but I made a small mistake and locked up coming out of Turn 5 which cost us a better time.
“There is definitely more time left in both me and the car,” he said.
Ninth quickest today and only a tenth of a second slower than his teammate, Jamie Whincup was delighted with his #88 Falcon and commented the team’s recent test day had been crucial in getting the car setup back on track.
“The car is exceptionally good,” said Whincup. “We have definitely got the car back on track.”
“The timesheet really doesn’t show the cars true performance as we were continually held up during the final laps of that session.”
“We are still looking for a little bit more high speed stability but pay day is tomorrow,” Whincup added.
The V8 Supercars will qualify at 12.00pm (local time) tomorrow with Race 1 to get underway at 4.20pm (local time).
12 April 2007
TeamVodafone determined not to miss the call at final Pukekohe showdown
Since its establishment in 2003, Triple Eight Race Engineering has savoured V8 Supercar victory at 9 of the 14 current season’s circuits, but their annual voyage to New Zealand has so far yielded no similar spoils.
In their final fling at the Pukekohe Park circuit, which surrenders the V8 Supercars to Hamilton next year, TeamVodafone’s Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup are eager to convert a productive recent test session into top placings and points.
The trans-Tasman foray is a major logistics operation for the Team, with its transporter trading places with two specially built air transport containers which will jet out, along with the two TeamVodafone Ford Falcon BF race cars from Brisbane next Tuesday.
Lowndes, who sits in 10th in the points standings (50 points), is confident that Tuesday’s rigorous shakedown at Queensland Raceway has seen his TeamVodafone Falcon make positive progress in the areas of handling and traction.
The nature of Pukekohe Park, with just 7 corners and an average lap time of 56 seconds, means it is vital for the cars to achieve balance and good power down.
“We ran a variety of setups trying new suspension components and combinations,” explained Lowndes.
“We covered as much ground as we could with both cars, going as far as Jamie and I swapping and comparing the cars throughout the day.”
“We had a good car at Pukekohe last year but it was the drive through penalty that cost us a podium spot, I must admit it would be nice to finish on the podium before we say goodbye to one of the last of the bumpy tracks,” he added.
Similarly, Whincup’s time aboard his TeamVodafone Falcon also answered a number of questions that were raised in Perth a few weeks ago.
He is looking to make up ground in the championship and improve on a solid 7th placing (56 points).
“We had a very good productive day and found a nice balance in the car, understanding the setup issues we had in Perth and working towards a solution,” said Whincup.
“I think you will see a big improvement in our performance in New Zealand, we changed a lot of things across the course of yesterday and now understand the car a lot better.”
“Like Perth, it will be extremely tough to get into the qualifying top ten at Pukekohe due to the very close times, my focus will be on qualifying well and if the test day is any indication we should have excellent car balance.”
“We are quietly confident but like always we won’t know until we get there.”
This year’s event will feature 3 races of equal length and point’s value, placing emphasis on quick and consistent performances.
The pressure will be on during qualifying as drivers vie for a spot in the final 10, and then battle it out to be one of the top 15 finishers to collect points during the races.
23 February 2007
Defending Clipsal 500 Champion eyes off prize in 2007
In March last year, Jamie Whincup lived every young racers dream, winning the gruelling Clipsal 500 on his debut with leading V8 Supercar team, Triple Eight Race Engineering.
This year, with an additional twelve months experience under his belt and the added excitement of rolling the Vodafone liveried Falcon onto the track for the first time, Whincup believes he is in a good position to yield a podium result at the opening round of the 2007 V8 Supercar Championship in less than two weeks time.
“I just can’t wait to get Adelaide as it is one of my favourite tracks and a fantastic event full stop,” Whincup said following an intensive training session from his base on the Gold Coast.
“Personally I am a lot better prepared than I have ever been at the start of a V8 Supercar season and I believe this will transfer through to my results next weekend.”
“Overall, my whole situation is a lot more positive, I am one year wiser and will return to the car that won four rounds of the 2006 V8 Supercar Championship. Barring any problems we should be able to come away with a good result.”
Despite the long list of positives, the TeamVodafone driver shows more maturity than his 24 years and said that while there is pressure on him to perform it is something he believes he can deal with.
“There is definitely a lot more pressure on me to perform at Adelaide this year, but I am not in a position where I feel over pressured and will be so nervous that I make mistakes,” Whincup outlined.
“The pressure this year is a lot different to 2006 when I arrived at Adelaide not really knowing the car or team that well. I think with another full year of competition under my belt I am a lot better prepared.”
For Whincup’s team-mate, Craig Lowndes there is a certain air of anticipation in the lead up to the Clipsal 500.
“I am really looking forward to Adelaide and what I regard as being the toughest race of the year,” Lowndes stated.
“I love the whole build up the Clipsal 500 – the atmosphere is just fantastic and you go through some varied emotions while completing the 500 kilometres which make up the event.”
Lowndes is quick to point out that while there is a fun side to the start of the 2007 V8 Supercar Championship at the end of the day TeamVodafone will be focused on the business side of the event and achieving the best possible result.
“Adelaide is a critical race in terms of the V8 Supercar Championship, if you can have a great weekend in Adelaide it generally sets you up for the rest of the year,” Lowndes added.
“Our performance last year was fantastic and the new car specification is very similar to what we competed with throughout 2006 which is extremely positive.
“Aerodynamics will play a big part through the notorious Turn Eight but there is not a huge amount of difference with the new aero package so we should be able to get on top of car balance pretty quickly,” Lowndes concluded.
The 2007 V8 Supercar Championship Series commences at the Adelaide Parklands circuit on Thursday 1 March with the V8 Supercars first appearing on track at 9.45am on Friday 2 March.
20 January 2007
Lowndes and Whincup dial in their TeamVodafone Falcons
They may be sporting a totally new look but Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup yesterday demonstrated that they have retained the same competitive package which brought them success in 2006 with an advantageous test day at Queensland Raceway preparing the two TeamVodafone pilots for the opening round of the 2007 V8 Supercar Championship.
Lowndes’ #888 Falcon performed seamlessly for the 160 laps completed at the Ipswich circuit, with Whincup’s #88 machine on the road to becoming a fast race car for the upcoming Clipsal 500 next month.
With all tyres used throughout the test already more than 150 kilometres old, the team’s focus was on used tyre balance and completing 29 specific tests which included both Lowndes and Whincup completing two, ten lap simulated race runs.
TeamVodafone deemed this type of testing as being essential in their preparation for the 2007 V8 Supercar Championship with this years sprint races shorter in length with a smaller pit window. In turn, new challenges will be placed on the cars as tyres will be forced to work faster and car setup must be optimized get the best out of the cars during the two shorter sections within each race.
New control brakes, fuel and the new BF aerodynamics package were also trialed throughout the day, along with ways to minimize the impact of the Adelaide street circuit’s notorious kerbs.
According to Lowndes the test day was encouraging with his TeamVodafone crew making inroads to ensure his car is fully prepared for the opening of the 2007 V8 Supercar Championship next month.
“It was certainly a great test day and the car ran very strong,” Lowndes said, “For me the day was not about setting times, but rather getting ready for the longer race distances which will be seen at Clipsal in a few weeks time.”
“Basically the car is same car as last year mechanically – so things haven’t really changed for us, however, we learnt a lot and got on top of the new aero package and played around with suspension setups which have provided us with some new directions.”
“We also completed a number of pit stops throughout the day to integrate new crew members and ensure the old ones are no longer rusty from the break conducted over Christmas,” Lowndes added.
For Lowndes’ team-mate, Jamie Whincup the test day also provided numerous advantages with the 24-year-old completing 114 laps in Chassis Ten which was virtually destroyed following a significant incident at Symmons Plains last November.
“The test day was extremely productive and has provided myself and the team with a great start to the 2007 season. The cars look awesome on track and I can’t wait until the start of the 2007 V8 Supercar Championship in less than two weeks time,” Whincup outlined.
“As it was my first day back in the car after three months, I couldn’t help but feel like I was a kid again and it was the first day back at school with my new boots, new gloves, new suit and new car livery. It took me a good hour to get back into the swing of things.”
“It was great to be back behind the wheel of Chassis Ten, which is now fixed following the major damage sustained in Tasmania. Over the 114 laps of Queensland Raceway which I completed in the car, I managed to ease into it and establish a good rhythm to become familiar with the car again. By the end of the day, I felt extremely comfortable and it provides me with a lot of confidence on the eve of the Clipsal 500.”
The public will be able to view the Team Vodafone Falcons on track for the first time ever at Round 1 of the 2007 V8 Supercar Championship which kicks off at the Clispal 500 in Adelaide on March 1.
