FAMILY TIES STRENGTHEN AT HARRIS RACING

New sponsors and a rookie driver will spearhead a renewed Harris Racing assault on the Turtle Wax Trans Am Series following a successful stint with long-time driver Aaron Seton.

Led by noted former racer and businessman Craig Harris, the Queensland based team will this year enhance its family orientated credentials as son John will take on the driving duties of the Ford Mustang starting at Race Tasmania on February 11-13.

John previously contested the Queensland Production Cars, racing a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X, but the new challenge of muscling a Trans Am Ford Mustang is a prospect.

“It’s super exciting,” said Harris.

“We planned this a couple of years ago and this was always the plan to move into Trans Am and it’s just worked out at a good time for us.

“The first shakedown was definitely interesting, being on the other side of the car, having all that grunt to only two tyres, it was a lot different to drive.

“There was a lot going on, let’s just say that.

“I can’t wait. I love those little battle packs that form and I’m just looking forward to racing drivers my age as well as the stature in the category.”

Studying Engineering at university, Harris is hopeful of emulating the impressive performances of rookies in 2021.

“I’m optimistic and I definitely know there are plenty of challenges this year, so if I could be like where the other rookies were in 2021, I’d be very happy,” he said.

Father Craig revealed long-time sponsor Castrol will continue to support the team continuing a relationship which began in 1983. Added support comes from three local Queensland companies Superior Jetties, Ahoy Club and Ownit Homes.

“We’re really happy with how the program is progressing,” summarised Craig.

“I think we’ve got a very good package. We won’t get ahead of ourselves, this year for John is a learning curve as it was for some of those young guys last season then we’ll see how it goes after it’s finished.”

AWC Race Tasmania will once again commence the national circuit racing season with opening rounds of the Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series, S5000 Australian Drivers’ Championship and the Turtle Wax Trans Am Series.

For more of the latest motorsport news pick up the current issue of Auto Action.