HOLDSWORTH IN THE DRIVING SEAT
TEAM TIPS STELLAR SUPERCARS SEASON
“IT’S his year to shine.”
That’s Gold Coast businessman Charlie Schwerkolt’s assessment of his gun driver Lee Holdsworth as their Preston Hire Racing team enters its third Supercars season.
Schwerkolt’s squad made a huge step forward last year, scoring 350 more points – equivalent to 27 per cent – than they managed in a nightmare 2016 campaign. Holdsworth finished 16th in the overall standings, including an impressive run to fourth and eighth places in the two races at Newcastle in November.
With relatively low crew turnover, Schwerkolt believes the stage is set for three-time race winner Holdsworth to show off his talent.
“We have got all the right gear for him now: A new shell, some new development parts in the car as well and obviously our performance in Newcastle was strong so we want to continue that momentum on,” he said.
“Hopefully Lee is going to be right in the mix now. We’re really excited.”
Holdsworth is off-contract at the end of the year – and while discussions about an extension are yet to begin, the high opinions held of the 34-year-old indicate a longer partnership could be on the cards.
“He’s a great all-rounder,” Schwerkolt said.
“He’s amazing with sponsors and people, he’s just a great people person. He’s not bashing up gear, he’s got the reliability … he keeps it straight, he knows how to set a car up.
“He’s got so many strengths and once he has got the right gear I think he should be right up there.”
Holdsworth will get his first chance to drive the updated ZB Commodore at a test day in Sydney on February 16.