Top debut for driver
Whitley enjoys the challenges of racing in V8 ute series
Toowoomba’s Alexandra Whitley finished just off the podium in her V8 racing debut.
Whitley battled an experienced field of drivers to finish sixth in the latest round of New Zealand’s PORTERGROUP V8 ute series.
It was a challenging weekend for Whitley who had to combine her V8 drive with her regular SsangYong ute racing series duties.
“It was a tricky weekend jumping from ute to ute,” she said.
“Although very similar in weight they have completely different power ranges, grip levels, braking levels and swapping from a sequential gearbox to a H-pattern.”
Despite the challenges Whitley was consistent in qualifying securing fifth spot on both grids.
Whitley’s race day began in her SsangYong before she got behind the wheel of her Holden VE ute and her first ever standing start.
“I was nervous but didn’t let it get the better of me,” Whitley said.
“The lights staged and went out, I dropped the clutch balanced the wheel spin and was third by turn two.”
Whitley completed three V8 races finishing fifth, seventh and sixth.
Unfortunately mechanical failure bought Whitley’s SSsangYong campaign unstuck.
After a promising fifth in race one, Whitley was bought to a grinding halt when her ute blew a tail-shaft in the race two roll-up lap. She finished 11th in race three and 11th overall in the round.
Whitley was positive despite the less than favourable results.
“I am disappointed with my SsangYong result, but we could not have known we were going to be mechanically let down,” she said.
“But I will be in great shape for our endurance round next year.
“I cannot thank Jake Stoneman from Stoneman Race Tech and his team enough.
“The V8 was faultless and I am excited to see what the future will bring.”