The Coffee Club V8 Supercar Challenge

Race results

Surfers Paradise, Queensland

23-26 October 2008

  • Qual 4th
  • Race 1 3rd
  • Race 2 3rd
  • Race 3 3rd
Championship 2nd

This 4.5km circuit follows the world famous Surfers Paradise shoreline and is one of the most colourful events of the year in terms of atmosphere. It is a difficult street circuit layout that combines the need for good straightline speed with being able to get in and out of the slowest and narrowest of corners. Panel rubbing and major accidents are par for the course at this major event. Having stated this, I enjoy having a real go at this circuit as the rewards are great, but the price to pay for a mistake, just like any street circuit, can be major.

Pre-race report

30 November -0001

Our qualifying speed at Indy last year was unbelievable, so I hope we can replicate that speed this weekend. Qualifying up the front at Indy is half the battle won, because the track is very difficult to pass on and everything overheats on the car, particularly brakes and engine when following other cars. There is a high risk of damage at this track, so staying out of trouble is also important. This is the business end of the championship so points are more vital than ever. I'm looking forward to getting back in to the familiar no. 5 Orrcon Ford Credit FPR Falcon and seeing what we can do.

Post-race report

30 November -0001

Qualifying was the key to this weekend, when we qualified 4th I knew it was going to be tough as the only opportunities to pass are off the start line, in the pits or if the driver in front of you makes a mistake. We had a fast car in the races, there just weren't any opportunities. Finishing on the podium at Indy is a good result, the team have got a surf board to take back to the workshop and we are still in the fight for the championship with 3 rounds to go, we will press on and go hard.

Track summary

Race map of Surfers Paradise
  • Track Length 4.498km
  • Best Position 1st (2011)