WHITLEY GEARS FOR UTE SEASON
Toowoomba driver in NZ challenge
MOTOR RACING: Toowoomba’s Alexandra Whitley has burst through the door and will now aim at grabbing some spoils in the New Zealand V8 Ute season beginning this weekend at Pukekohe Park.
The 25-year-old Aucklandbased driver last season was the first woman to race a V8 ute in New Zealand after establishing herself as one of the country’s most talented women racing drivers.
This weekend Whitley launches into the four-round series behind the wheel of her recently purchased Holden Commodore VE racing ute.
Whitley views her second year in the series as another career learning curve but will be leaving nothing in the tank in her bid for top finishes.
“I have teamed up with Paul Manuel and Brett Rudd this season along with the guidance of Kerry Holland to form Team RAM Racing,” Whitley told The Chronicle.
“Along with the help of my fiancé (Peter) and dad (Neil), I’m looking forward to learning from the best in the business about every aspect of racing. My expectations are to keep consistent throughout the whole season, which means finishing top five every race.
“I certainly count myself as a championship contender.
“Last year was about learning. This year I’m giving it a red hot go.
“I am excited about the whole championship and can’t wait to get back behind the wheel. However Highlands is going to be a fantastic round.
“I have never been there before, so I’m looking forward to the challenge of a new track.
“The facilities are world class and the track quite tricky.
“It will certainly reward the brave.”
Whitley is excited about tapping into the experience of her team-mates.
“The experience that Paul, Brett and Kerry have is more than I am old,” Whitley said.
“I have so much to learn from everyone in the team, from driving, to sponsorship and race prep.
“It’s going to be challenging but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
“I am extremely fortunate to have them all take me under their wing and show me the ropes.
“I have been training both physically and mentally for the season, but also the future, for me to become a better driver and person.”