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V8: McNally to make Supercar debut
Mark McNally will make his V8 Supercar debut in Townsville next month.
The 27-year-old Aussie is currently competing in the Fujitsu V8 development series with West Coast Racing, but will step up to the main series to drive the #16 Hi-Tec Oils Holden Commodore run by Kelly Racing.
McNally has already been signed by the team to compete in the Bathurst and Philip Island enduros later in the season, but will get to sample the Commodore early as he replaces Dale Wood, who has raced at the first five events of the season, in the #16 car. It is understood Wood remains in contention for a place in the Kelly Racing line-up at the enduros.
“Right from the start of my motorsport career, it has been my goal to get a seat in the main game,” said McNally
“Driving the Hi-Tec Oils Commodore from Townsville is a realisation of that dream, and importantly, will mean that I am a lot better prepared for Phillip Island and Bathurst.
“The Townsville event is brand new and it promises to be a big weekend. For me it will be extra special as I will be making my main game debut in what is a sensational opportunity for me.
“It will be an incredibly tough event given how long the races are and the demands of a street circuit are always huge.
“The step up from the Fujitsu Series to the main game is a massive one and I’m well aware of the challenge that lies ahead.
“I know that I have a lot to learn but working with Todd and Rick Kelly, Jack Perkins and all the guys at Kelly Racing is a fantastic opportunity for any guy making the step up to the top level of the sport.”
Kelly Racing Operations Manager Patrick Ricci explained that the decision to give McNally an early debut has been taken with an eye on the important enduro races later in the year.
“Mark will be an important part of our endurance line-up in 2009 and this decision allows him to begin learning our cars and team,” said Ricci.
“We are pleased to give him the opportunity to make his V8 Supercar debut up in Townsville, at what we are certain will be a sensational inaugural event.
“Allowing Mark the chance to race at the top level of V8 Supercars in one of our cars prior to the endurance races gives him the best possible preparation for Phillip Island and Bathurst.
“We look forward to working with Mark and also thank Dale for his commitment and dedication to our team during our first five events.
“Dale will remain an important part of the team for the remainder of the season.”
With his promotion to the main series confirmed, McNally will withdraw his Holden Commodore VF, coincidentally the same car which brothers Todd and Rick Kelly won Bathurst in 2005, from round 3 of the Fujistu Series which takes place the same weekend at Townsville.
Watch full-length race action from every round of the V8 Supercars Championship on Motors TV (Sky Channel 413, Virgin Media 545) this season.
Andy Wilkinson
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