Dunlop Series front-runner Dale Wood is set to drive with Dick Johnson Racing in this year’s V8 Supercars Championship endurance races.
The 29-year-old took the second race win of his career in the second-tier series at Barbagallo last weekend, driving MW Motorsport’s #26 GB Galvanizing Ford.
Wood’s Ford Performance Racing-built Dunlop Series entry is co-sponsored by Wilson Security, which is also the primary backer of DJR.
Although neither DJR nor Wood would comment on the signing when approached by Speedcafe.com, a team spokesman said that its two endurance pairings are likely to be announced within the coming days.
DJR general manager Steven Johnson is also expected to be part of the four-man line-up, in addition to primary drivers Tim Blanchard and recent MW Motorsport graduate, Chaz Mostert.
Wood has enjoyed starts in the 500km and 1000km V8 Supercars enduros in each of the last five years, making his debut with Tasman Motorsport before undertaking two-year stints with Kelly Racing and most recently Tony D’Alberto Racing.
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This year will mark his second start in the Gold Coast 600 after competing in the 2010 event under that year’s one international co-driver per team regulations.
Wood currently trails Dunlop Series leader Ash Walsh by just 18 points after two rounds, and is relishing the task of leading MW Motorsport’s campaign.
“Barbagallo was a good weekend, but there are a few areas I can still improve on,” he told Speedcafe.com.
“I need to put things together a bit better in qualifying, as well as being a bit more committed in the opening couple of laps.
“That has been one of Ash’s real strengths lately. He’s doing a really good job and is going to be up there every weekend.
“I certainly think I can beat him, but I’m sure he feels the same, so it’s going to be a very competitive year.”
The Dunlop Series is now in a two-month hiatus prior to the third round at Townsville in July.
