FAN FAVOURITE TILLEY GETS A TCM FIRST
Cam Tilley took his first TCM win yesterday – Image: Insyde Media
Cam Tilley was emotional to say the least after his first victory in the Gulf Western Oils Touring Car Masters. Tilley led all the way in Trophy Race of the second round at Bathurst on Friday.
By Garry O’Brien
The quietly spoke 52-year-old in his fan favourite blue Valiant Pacer VF, had to fend off 100 category race winner John Bowe (Holden Torana A9X) through the first two corners, before leading for the remainder of the race.
“This has been such a long time coming and for a while there I wasn’t sure it would even happen,” Tilley said.
“It was a really good race. I pushed hard from the start to make a margin and held it from there. It is incredible to finally get that first win.
“So many people help and support me in doing this. Anglomoil Superior Lubricants, Tim Miller Electrical, and Karyn and Joe Glennan have been amazing in being with me, as have the fans who follow along and send messages.”
From the northern peninsula of Sydney, Tilley first raced in the category in 2008, and contested 70 rounds and 203 races, to finally make the break through.
His Valiant was six-cylinder powered before he opted for a V8 engine three seasons ago. That was a difficult decision as the Pacer had massive fan support and the combination performed well above its expectations.
There were also some soul searching after the setbacks of several accidents, some of which where he was an innocent victim. “This makes it all worthwhile,” Tilley added.
Tilley began his racing in a Valiant S Series in NSW Appendix J races alongside his brothers, Brad in a Ford Mustang, and Jason in a Valiant AP5.
Tilley had race wins in the early model Valiant including a victory at the last every Amaroo Park race meeting. He also guest drove several other cars before joining TCM in a 5.0-litre Mustang.
The win this weekend was Tilley’s second only on Mount Panorama. He previously had success in a Group N Valiant Pacer VG at a Festival of Sporting Cars meeting over Easter in 2010.
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