Experienced driver Craig Innes has signed up to co-drive with Simon McLennan for the Father’s Day 400 at Taupo from September 1-2.
Innes, who has a wide range of experience in New Zealand and Australian categories, was in high demand for the inaugural V8ST long distance races revealing that the M2 Motorsport team was one of three squad’s that was vying for his services.
He has considerable experience stretching more than 10 years including Porsche endurance racing, New Zealand, Australian domestic Mini championship, New Zealand Formula Ford, Ferrari F430 Challenge endurance racing and the Bridgestone Porsche Championship.
Despite being in heavy demand as a gun-for-hire, the 34-year-old decided to stay with a team and crew he has become familiar with over the years.
“I was actually approached by three different V8ST teams with regard to driving in the endurance rounds of the championship,” Innes explained.
“The fact is, I get on very well with the whole M2 Motorsport team.”
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“And (I) have shared success in endurance racing with Simon before in the Porsche so the decision to go with them was not a hard one as we do all work very well together.”
Among those in the team who have worked with McLennan from the Porsche days are Alan Dunn, Cameron McCormack and Wayne Hilliam.
The team faces a massive task as being one of two new teams to join the series since its maiden four-round sprint Championship earlier this year.
“It’s going to be a big ask given that we are joining in the series over halfway through but it is still a great opportunity for us all,” said Innes.
“Everyone knows we do have experience in endurance racing so that side of it is not new and won’t be hard but there will need to be a focus on getting the car performing well as there is simply no substitute for a fast car.”
The entire team is currently focussed on getting the car ready for the Taupo event which will feature a 20-car grid.
“The field is huge … the talent of drivers is huge and we just want to be amongst it. We have a lot of hard work to do and our expectations for the event have to be realistic,” McLennan said.
