Former Toyota 86 Racing Series champion makes the move to TCR …
STORY: WILL DALE
IMAGES: SUPPLIED
GARRY Rogers Motorsport’s Alfa Romeo TCR Australia program has its first signed driver, with Jimmy Vernon set to race one of their two cars in 2019.
The 21-year-old, who won the 2017 Toyota 86 Racing Series and has competed in Australian Formula 4, production cars and the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge, as well as racing a Group A Ford Sierra RS500 in Heritage Touring Cars at Sandown late last year.
Last weekend, Vernon claimed a class podium finish at last weekend’s Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour.
“Garry and I have always been keen on giving young guys a go, and with the promise that Jimmy has shown over the past few years, we feel he is the perfect choice for our new Alfa Romeo TCR team,” GRM’s Barry Rogers said.
“We chanced on our first meeting with Jimmy at the TCR launch day at Sydney Motorsport Park, and he struck us as a really enthusiastic kid with lots of potential.
“Looking at his CV, he clearly knows how to drive, and we are confident that he will be competitive.
“Anyone who wins the Toyota 86 Racing Series obviously knows what they are doing.”
With the two Alfa Romeo TCR cars expected to arrive in Australia in coming months, Vernon can’t wait to get behind the wheel at the team’s pre-season test.
“To have been offered the opportunity to link with Garry Rogers Motorsport is a great honour,” Vernon said.
“Seeing the way GRM has nurtured some of the best Australian drivers over many years, it was an easy decision to make that this was the direction I needed to go.
“I have a very strong group of supporters helping my career take flight, although we still have some work to do to find more backing to ensure we have everything in place to have a serious crack at this inaugural championship.
“I can’t wait to cast my eyes over the brand new 2019 specification Alfa Romeo TCR car. I believe we will be bringing a really strong package to the category.
“I want to thank Garry and Barry for believing in me and giving me a chance to join their highly credentialed team.”
