Whincup’s wide awake for big breakthrough
SUPERCARS sleeping giant Jamie Whincup’s waking thought on an idle Sunday morning is enough to give his rival drivers nightmares.
“I woke up on Sunday morning and decided it was time to start winning races,’’ the six-time champion said.
“I just got out of bed and decided I was going to do this.’’
Whincup is hoping his declaration proves prophetic in Darwin this weekend at Crown Bet Triple Crown, beginning with practice on Friday.
He will look to awaken from his season slumber and steal the championship lead. Whincup is the surprise championship challenger just 10 points off ladder leader Fabian Coulthard (DJR Team Penske) despite failing to win a race.
According to Whincup, the drought will soon end with a win that will make him the equal greatest winning driver in history and the new championship favourite.
“Part of me is grateful that I am in championship contention,’’ Whincup said.
“I am only 10 points off the lead. But the other part of me is very frustrated because I have not won a race yet.
“This part of the year is about going fast and winning races and that is what I am out to do. Sitting here without wins is very frustrating.’’
Stranded on 104 race wins since last December, Whincup claimed being in contention was merely a consolation prize.
“It is not about consolidating points for me,’’ he said. “It is about winning races.” Red Bull Racing Australia is coming off a test day and heading to a track that has been a happy hunting ground.