Wood joins Penrite Racing

Dale Wood has joined Penrite Racing to complete the team’s experienced crop of co-drivers for the 2024 Supercars enduros.

With Kevin Estre unavailable for a return, Wood has moved from Brad Jones Racing to partner Richie Stanaway in the #26 for the Sandown 500 and Bathurst 1000 enduros.

It also means veteran Garth Tander will jump from the #26 to the #19 to race alongside rising Kiwi talent Matt Payne for the first time.

Wood is a Great Race veteran, with 16 starts under his belt, having not missed a year since his debut in 2008 with Mark Noske and Tasman Motorsport.

The 40-year-old’s best result was a strong fourth in the sister Erebus Motorsport entry in 2017, while he also scored top 10s in 2011, 2016, 2019 and 2021.

“I feel extremely invigorated this year to be joining this team,” Wood said. 

Dale Wood in his new Penrite Racing colours. Image: Supplied

“I think there is a huge amount of excitement and positivity around this team at the moment, and to be a part of it is really motivating. 

“Partnering with Richie, who I’ve always thought was a naturally talented fast guy, is a fantastic opportunity for me and I am excited to play my role and support him on these race weekends.”

Stanaway has welcomed Wood as his sixth different co-driver.

“I’m excited to team up with Dale for the upcoming enduro rounds,” Stanaway said. 

“His experience and track record speaks for him, and I’m confident that together, we’ll make a solid team on the track.”

In addition to his co-driving duties, Wood has five full-time Supercars seasons next to his name, plus almost 500 Porsche Carrera Cup starts.

Penrite Racing CEO Brenton Grove said Wood will be a valuable addition to the team.

Richie Stanaway and Dale Wood will team up together at Sandown and Bathurst.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Dale to the team,” said Grove.

“His extensive experience in Supercars, particularly at iconic tracks like Bathurst and Sandown, coupled with his success in Porsche Carrera Cup, made him a standout choice for this year’s enduro campaign. 

“Dale’s race fitness and familiarity with high-pressure racing situations will undoubtedly strengthen our team.

“We’re excited to integrate him with Richie Stanaway and Garth Tander, bringing him in on all elements of the team. 

“Having another Victorian-based co-driver means we can utilise him for ride days, test sessions, and fully immerse him within the technical aspects of our operation.”

READ THE FULL SIX PAGE SPECIAL FEATURE ABOUT MORE UNTOLD AYRTON SENNA STORIES HERE

Don’t forget the latest issue of Auto Action will be available via subscription here or at selected outlets. For more of the latest motorsport news, subscribe to AUTO ACTION magazine.

Podcast: Stunning Taupo Shines Through the Gloom | Supercars back in New Zealand

We’re back from our weekend in Taupo (Tow Paw), and what an unbelievable first weekend for that venue. It was, we felt, the start of this season, too, despite it being the third round. Andrew and Bruce were there, and PG was on the couch.

Brodie Kostecki was back for Erebus, Andre Heimgartner won for Brad Jones Racing, and Will Brown battled his teammate Broc Feeney for the other win. Anton De Pasquale also won the Jason Richards Trophy for the best performer over the two races – is Dick Johnson Racing back?