Drift sensation Mike Whiddett is keen to explore further GT racing opportunities next year following his two-event sojourn into the Australian Endurance Championship.
Whiddett made a switch to circuit racing at the Hampton Downs 101 last month and is preparing for another outing at this weekend’s Australian GT finale at New Zealand’s Highlands Park.
Racing alongside Klark Quinn in the Darrell Lea McLaren 650S, the 35-year-old New Zealander impressed throughout his GT racing debut as the pair finished eighth at the Hampton Downs 101.
More accustomed to driving sideways in his bespoke Mazda MX5 drift car, Whiddett felt he exceeded his expectations competing against Australia’s top GT drivers.
His only blemish came when he suffered a spin during the Top 10 Shootout.
“As a driver I like to push the boundaries and now that I have had a little taste of this we will see what evolves from it,” Whiddett told Speeedcafe.com.
“I don’t know what anyone was expecting but Klark (Quinn) has been really impressed and I’m picking it up really fast.
“I didn’t think I would be within tenths of the fastest guys out there.
“I hope to be in the driving seat a little more.
“It is a breath of fresh air for me as this is racing to the flag, while drifting is a subjective sport.
“This is a good way to let off a bit of steam and prove myself as a driver.
“You have to be very delicate and the inputs need to be smooth whereas the drifting you drive more like a maniac.”
Whiddett has also paid tribute to the coaching he received from Supercars star and Blancpain Endurance Series champion Shane van Gisbergen prior to his debut.
“Shane’s coaching has definitely paid off,” he added.
“I was on maximum attack when I first got in the car and he told me to slow down to go fast.
“I’ve taken on the advice for sure.”
Whiddett will jump behind the wheel of the McLaren 650S for Australian GT practice and qualifying tomorrow.
Discussion about this post