EREBUS Motorsport is hunting an improvement on its Sandown 500 two-four result after capitalising on a pre-Bathurst test day.
Erebus’ excellent form at a wide range of circuits this year allowed it to buck the trend and abstain from running a mid-season test to instead use one specifically for Bathurst preparations.
That differed from other teams’ programs, with most testing during the winter before conducting their final allocated day prior to the first enduro, Sandown.
Erebus did not test again after February until the first week of September, just before Sandown.
As was the case then, yesterday’s visit to Winton centred around procedures as well as mileage for co-drivers David Russell and Jack Perkins.
“It was great to be back with the team ahead of Bathurst,” said Perkins, who is again partnering Will Brown.
“It was nice to get some more laps in these Gen3 cars with the soft tyre and Bathurst set-ups.
“The team has done a great job with pit stops and Bathurst specific preparation, so we are looking forward to getting up there to the Mountain next week.”
While Dunlop’s super soft tyre was in play at Sandown, it will be the soft compound at Mount Panorama.
Having finished third, fourth and second in his three prior races co-driving with Brodie Kostecki, Russell’s goal for Bathurst is clear.
“It was great to get more seat time before Bathurst,” said the 41-year-old.
“We were able to do long race runs before focusing on pitstops, and it was good to tick a lot of boxes and refine things.
“We have had such a good lead-up and are better prepared for Bathurst than we have ever been.
“After having strong results at Bathurst previously, plus with the team’s performance this year, our eyes are firmly focused on one thing, which is winning the race.”
Practice at the Repco Bathurst 1000 begins Thursday next week ahead of the 161-lap race on Sunday, October 8.
