Tony Ricciardello's iconic Alfa GTV Sports Sedan has suffered significant damage after catching fire during practice for the opening round of the 2012 Kerrick Series at Mallala.
While the cause of the fire has yet to be determined, the resulting damage is likely to rule the seven-time and reigning Sports Sedan Series winner out of this weekend's event.
“It was a small fire that got big quickly,” explained Ricciardello, who escaped the blaze without injury.
“We don't know what caused it but there are plenty of things in the rear of a car that can burn – oil lines, oil coolers, and stuff like that. I'm fine. Fortunately you can rebuild cars.”
Kerry Baily's brand-new Aston Martin DBR9 was quickest in the abbreviated session, with Darren Hossack (Audi A4), Des Wall (Chev Corvette), Ricciardello and Dean Camm (Chev Corvette) rounding out the top five.
The Mallala Shannons Nationals presented by Hi-Tec Oils meeting also features the Kumho Tyres V8 Touring Car Series, Porsche Staff Solutions International GT3 Cup Challenge Australia, Commodore Cup National Series, Hi-Tec Oils Swift Racing Series and Dial Before You Dig Australian Saloon Car Series.
CLICK HERE for the full entry lists from each category