Although West Aussie, Rhys McNally, missed out on standing on the V8 Utes 2013 podium, he has earned himself the Most Improved Driver Award in the Series, improving two positions from his 2012 result to end the year in fourth overall just shy of the podium.

McNally was running second in the ENZED Drivers Championship coming into the final round of the 2013 Auto One V8 Ute Racing Series – protected by ARMOR ALL; however a stout drive to win Race 2 was clouded by a minor technical infringement that cost him a podium finish overall.

“I’m really proud of the way the team handled most of year. From last year to this year it’s been pretty good. To finally be up the front is fantastic, and to end up with the Most Improved Award is nice. I’m pretty disappointed with how the season finished, but obviously we’re heading in the right direction and I’ll make sure we’re standing on the podium next year,” said McNally.

The McNally Group Director posted some great results this year; he has stood on podium four times (Round 1 Clipsal 500, Round 2 Perth, Round 5 Sandown Raceway and Round 7 Gold Coast), including his home round at Barbagallo Raceway. He posted his best qualifying result at the Gold Coast, claiming second fastest. He has also had one race win (Sandown Raceway) and 2 podium race results (2nd Race 2 Perth, 3rd Race 1 Gold Coast).

The 23 year old will return in 2014 with continued backing from Stratco Racing who has supported him over the past three years.

“Yes Stratco are back, they have been so great over the past few years and I can’t wait to bring it home for them next year,” said the West Aussie.