Whincup brings up ton to join old mate

JAMIE Whincup has become Supercars’ second century winner by claiming the 100th race win of his storied career at Sydney Motorsport Park yesterday.

Whincup joined Craig Lowndes as the only drivers with a ton of race wins by defeating the Holden veteran in the 200km finale to the Sydney Supersprint event.

In his 398th career start, the Red Bull Racing ace jumped Lowndes at a pitstop on the 28th lap and held off the 42-year-old for the win.

Lowndes, making his 600th career start, led home Ford’s Chaz Mostert.

The win continues Whincup’s record of a victory every four races, including a decade of dominance which has brought him six drivers’ championships and four Bathurst 1000 wins.

“I’d be lying if I said there wasn’t a little bit of relief there,” he said.

“Three tough seconds and to finally get there, I’m very, very proud.”

His milestone win extends his championship lead to 137 points after teammate and nearest rival Shane Van Gisbergen finished fifth.

Lowndes is up to third, 198 points behind, after defending champion Mark Winterbottom finished a forgettable weekend with a 14th place.

The Ford star is now fourth on the championship ladder, 273 points behind Whincup.

Lowndes praised Whincup on joining him in the hundred club, saying his long-time teammate has simply been the best driver on the grid in the past 10 years.

“He’s maintained his focus . . . it’s quite easy to get a couple of championships and then stray off,” he said. “Jamie hasn’t done that. “Jamie quoted I was a GOAT (greatest of all time), I don’t think he’s far off that.”