Experienced racer Craig Baird will expand his Driving Standards Observer duties into the Kumho V8 Touring Car Series this season.
Baird adds the third-tier V8 Supercar class to his existing role of GT3 Cup Challenge DSO at the Shannons Nationals events.
The 43-year-old replaces Cameron McConville in the Kumho DSO seat ahead of the season kick-off at Mallala on April 25-27.
“I was going to be at the Shannons Nationals events to do the GT3 Cup Challenge so it makes good sense for me to do both categories and helps split the costs for both as well,” said Baird.
“Cameron has been in the same role before so he has an open mind to that sort of thing, which is a win-win for both categories.
“At the end of the day, these categories are about the competitors enjoying their racing. The Shannons Nationals categories are about enjoyment and developing some skills.
“There are certainly different skill sets in among the different drivers in the Kumho Series but the only way they will all enjoy it is if they can pack their car away on the Sunday night with no damage.
“Some guys are at the end of their career floating through having fun; others are trying to learn some skills and progress up the ladder.
“It’s always a balance but it’s all about keeping damage to a minimum and enjoyment to a maximum.”
Baird has raced V8 Supercars for the last 15 years, largely as an endurance co-driver.
He is again expected to line-up at Erebus Motorsport alongside Lee Holdsworth for this season’s Pirtek Enduro Cup.
