THE V8 SuperUte Series has gained some significant star power with Olympic medallist John Steffensen joining the category.
The now 40-year-old took silver in the 4x400m relay at the 2004 Athens Games, before winning a pair of gold medals at the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games.
Steffensen stepped into the world of motorsport when he lined up in the 2017 Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge before entering Carrera Cup Australia the following year.
More recently, he has competed in Aussie Racing Cars with Western Sydney Motorsport, the team which he’ll now represent in V8 SuperUtes.
Steffensen will be behind the wheel of the #99 Toyota Hilux previously raced by Ben Walsh, as the 2023 season kicks off on home turf in Western Australia across April 28-30.
“I’m super pumped to take on the V8 SuperUte Series this year; it’s an insane race car to drive,” said Steffensen.
“I really was blown away with the SuperUte set-up when I had my first test a few weeks ago.
“It handles really well, it’s light in the rear which adds a bit of excitement and the calibre of racing drivers in the category means we’ll definitely be putting on a proper show.
“I actually grew up going to Wanneroo with my Dad to watch his friend race when I was younger, so to now make my debut there racing myself is surreal.
“I’m super excited to fly back home get into the season next week.”
Steffensen is setting his sights high in what should be a competitive field headlined by Ryal Harris and Adam Marjoram.
“I can’t thank Craig (Thompson) and Western Sydney Motorsport enough for this chance to be part of a fantastic team,” he added.
“They finished second and third outright last year and I’ll be doing my best to help them get the championship title in 2023.”
The six-round V8 SuperUte season will also take in rounds at Sydney Motorsport Park, The Bend, Sandown, Bathurst and Gold Coast – all in support of the Repco Supercars Championship.
