Still buzzing from racing at the opening round of the Australian Production Car Series at Bathurst, Ric Shaw is beyond excited heading into this weekend’s round at Winton.
Shaw is confident of striving for strong results in Class C this season in his Mazda RX8, especially in the growing competition the series is constantly producing.
“The APCS has a trump card in regards to all of the rounds being endurance based competition, this makes the racing so much more rewarding,” Shaw said.
“Bathurst was a great start to the 2017 season, it was brilliant … with a huge field, this made the whole race an exciting task with lots of traffic and battles going on from start to finish.
“From a driver’s point of view, there was never a dull moment other than too many Safety cars and I think all of the sponsors that are a part of the Bathurst event would have to be happy with how the race is developing each year – I hope it becomes another 12 hour race!”
Shaw says his car has not turned a wheel since Bathurst.
“It even still has some of the buys on the windscreen!” Shaw said.
“I will make sure it gets washed by the crew before we hit the track at Winton!
“My co-driver Andrew Bollom and I will be supported by a ‘skeleton’ team this weekend with only the few guys we need to do the job, so hopefully it all goes well!
“Andrew is a very cool, smooth and consistent operator and I feel that we can do very well. In the past we have driven together many times and have enjoyed some great results along the way – we both understand what is required to enjoy sharing a car and also how to look after it to make it home. It should be a good combination for this weekend.”
The team has strong goals for the weekend, and says the weather will make the event easier for the team.
“Our aim is to finish strong in Class C, and push for the RX8s first win!” Shaw said.
“The cooler conditions expected at Winton will make it easier on the car and the crew … we will be looking to circulate and stay out of trouble with the faster cars who will demand all of the attention of the slower cars to help let them passed.
“The turbo cars will relish the cooler weather that I think we can expect from Winton – but with the constant changing of direction this track will test the front wheel drives’ tyre wear.
“Winton really requires a car that is well-balanced overall that is user friendly to all of its consumables. Because of this, I am more wary of the BMWs than the Renaults this weekend and I think our little RX8 even with its lack of power and torque will really shine – it is a very well-balanced package that handles very well and is kind to its tyres.”
Shaw and Bollom are entered for two 300km races this weekend, as part of the third round of the Shannons Nationals at Winton.
