Gomersall on Fire in V8 Utes

Training Session V8 Ute rookie Jason Gomersall and veteran Gary “Chuckie” Baxter headed to Morgan Park in Queensland on Tuesday, 24th February, for a training session in preparation for Round One of the Yokohama V8 Ute Racing Series at the Clipsal 500 in three weeks time.

Baxter, a professional stunt driver and driver trainer flew from his hometown in Adelaide to mentor Gomersall.

Gomersall, who heads up iseek Communications, an IT Service Provider improved dramatically throughout the day and was able to match Baxters’ time by the end of the session, however not before spinning out and setting the grass on fire due to heat from the exhaust.

Baxter ran to Gomersalls’ aid in an effort to stop the fire spreading.

“We were the only ones at the track so it was a little scary when it happened - I just ran over with a fire extinguisher and we both had a go at putting it out,” said Baxter.

Despite the slight fire hiccup, the Rookie was pleased with his training result.

“It was a definite confidence builder and I think it put me ahead by at least six months maybe more,” said Gomersall.

“Being realistic though I can’t expect that it will translate into a similar result at Clipsal. It is a new track and will be very challenging,” explained Gomersall.

Baxter, who placed fourth in the 2008 Yokohama V8 Ute Racing Series in the SAGE Holden Commodore has been training every week and whilst he has been enjoying his break he will be happy to jump behind the wheel on his home track on the streets of Adelaide.

“I have really enjoyed having a break but it’s always good to race in front of a local crowd,” said Baxter.

“I have been practicing every week so I hope to have a good result from the first round,” said Baxter.

V8 Ute fans can meet Gary Baxter in person at Westfield Shopping Centre, Marrion, Adelaide along with other local driver and new dad Craig Dontas on Thursday, 5th  – Saturday, 7th March leading up to Clipsal.

The drivers will be there every day for signing sessions from 2pm – 4pm next to the Westfield V8 Simulator Challenge.

Round One of the Yokohama V8 Ute Racing Series March 19 – 22 at Clipsal 500 in Adelaide will feature three sprint races and the traditional Top 16 Reverse grid for Race Two.

Races Two and Three will be televised live on the SEVEN Network.


Related Motorsport Articles

84,520 articles