South Australian racer George Gutierrez continued his progress in Townsville as he builds up his national level campaign onboard the Bright Earth Electrical backed Toyota 86 Racing Series car.
Learning a brand new circuit Gutierrez slowly built up confidence on the unforgiving street circuit in North Queensland to finish the weekends three races just outside the top ten in a highly competitive 33 car field.
On a circuit that is notoriously difficult to pass on, the Adelaide based racer made things tough for himself initially qualifying 21st. However, that didn’t hamper the Gutierrez as he worked his way forward to 14th in the opening race on Saturday before two 12th place finishes in Sunday’s two races.
“I’m really happy with how our the weekend turned out,” said Gutierrez after the races.
“Townsville is a really hard track to pass on its own, let alone with how competitive the category is.”
“I learnt plenty throughout the race meeting, from qualifying 21st to running inside the top 12 by the end of the weekend, with lap times quick enough to be inside the top five.”
“A big thank you to all involved that made this possible. It was a huge financial effort to get this far north.”
Gutierrez will now look to take his home track advantage at The Bend Motorsport Park, being one of very few drivers in the Toyota 86 field to have experience at the brand new facility at Tailem Bend.
“I’m looking forward to rewarding those local businesses who have supported me when we get to my home race at The Bend Motorsport Park!” Gutierrez continued.
“It’s been an awesome experience to tick off another street circuit, I’m very grateful for these opportunities.”
“We will regroup with the team back in Adelaide and make sure we are on top of things when we get to Round 3 in August”
The Toyota 86 Racing Series will head to The Bend Motorsport Park at Tailem Bend, South Australia for the next round on August 24-26, alongside the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship.
George would like once again to thank all his sponsors for their continued support:
Bright Earth Electrical
MM Electrical Salisbury
Iannace Refrigerated Transport
Aisin/Bremtec
Greenbuild
Coffee Amigo
AutoLinc
Digital Marketing Trible
GP Racegear
Toyota 86 Racing Series 2018 Schedule:
Races 1, 2 & 3 WD-40 Phillip Island 500 April 20-22
Races 4, 5 & 6 Watpac Townsville 400 July 6-8
Races 7, 8 & 9 The Bend SuperSprint August 24-26
Races 10, 11 & 12 Sandown September 14-16
Races 13, 14 & 15 Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 October 4-7
Races 16, 17 & 18 Coates Hire Newcastle 500 November 23-25
