Racer and media personality Grant Denyer will dedicate his start in this weekend’s Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour to his long-time sponsor and friend Steve Brabeck.
Denyer described Brabeck as a “calming influence in a hectic game” and will carry a tribute on his MARC Car which he will share with Garry Jacobson and Formula 4 driver Tyler Everingham.
Brabeck, who was a co-owner at DJR Team Penske, passed away through the night after a two-decade long battle with cancer.
Denyer raced a Super2 entry at Dick Johnson Racing with support from Brabeck and his Crimsafe business in 2009.
He also competed at the Supercheap Auto 1000 three times and carried the branding at the Bathurst 12 Hour in a MARC Car in 2014.
“Steve’s passing is a tragic loss on so many levels,” Denyer told Speedcafe.com on hearing of Brabeck’s passing this morning.
“He put so much love and support into the industry.
“There is no doubt that he helped me live and achieve my dreams and I will be forever grateful for that.
“Without him I would not have had the chance to drive in a Bathurst 1000 or with Dick Johnson Racing, an organisation we both had a passion for.
“I was so fortunate to carry the Crimsafe brand through that time and at places like the Bathurst 12 Hour.
“He was such a calming influence in such a hectic game.”
Denyer said he had nothing but admiration for Brabeck and the personal commitment he made to keep DJR alive.
“What he did for Dick Johnson Racing was nothing short of incredible,” said Denyer.
“He made it his personal goal to bring the team back from the brink of ruin to be a championship contender.
“He stepped up when no one else was prepared to, but that was just the nature of the bloke.
“He was one of the nicest blokes you would want to meet.”
Denyer was originally set to drive a GT3 car this weekend, but the deal fell over and he picked up the drive in the MARC Mazda.
“It will just be good to be out there and we will obviously run a tribute to Steve (Brabeck) on the car,” said Denyer.
“It would be nice to have a strong result for him.”
The Bathurst 12 Hour starts with opening practice on Friday.
Memorial service details
Public service:
Church of Christ,
Olsen Ave and Griffith Way,
Southport QLD 4215
Friday February 9 at 1300
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