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Shane van Gisbergen says finishing the Daytona 24 Hours is the primary goal ahead of his maiden twice round the clock endurance race this weekend.
The 24-year-old Kiwi will drive the #22 Alex Job Racing GTD class Porsche 911 at the prestigious American classic alongside Cooper MacNeil, Leh Keen and LP Dumoulin.
The deal came as a result of his relationship with V8 Supercar co-driver and former Alex Job Racing pilot Jeroen Bleekemolen.
Daytona represents uncharted waters for the multiple V8 Supercars race winner having never competed at the circuit of in a 24 hour race before.
Despite his lack of experience, the Auckland driver has already impressed the team in the pre-race sessions.
“My goals are pretty simple, reach the finish and hopefully with a good result,” said van Gisbergen.
“I’ve never done a race for 24 hours before. My co-drivers are very experienced, so I will be getting as much advice as possible for the best way to approach the race to keep fresh and ready for each stint.
“I have watched the race the last two years from home and it’s such an awesome race, I can’t wait to be a part of it.
“It’s cool racing against cars with all different strengths and weaknesses, but ultimately achieving the same lap time. The race should be exciting.”
Van Gisbergen’s Alex Job Racing squad will start the race from 47th on the grid.
Meanwhile, experienced Le Mans 24 Hour competitor John Martin is feeling confident about his chances on his debut at the Rolex Daytona 24.
The Queenslander believes his Action Express Racing Corvette Daytona Prototype, which will start from fourth on the grid, is more than capable of winning the race.
“I think if we play our cards right the chances of us winning the race could be very good,” said Martin.
“You certainly don’t come here to come in second. We come here wanting to win and I certainly believe this team is capable of doing that. I am really looking forward to it. This race is one I have wanted to do for a number of years.
“I have done Le Mans twice and since I have been involved in the endurance side of things I’ve known about the Rolex 24 for a long time and I am so excited to be here and take part in the race.”
