Andre Heimgartner etched his name in Supercars history yesterday, conquering the elements and his rivals to claim a dramatic victory in the first-ever race at Taup? International Motorsport Park.
The Kiwi driver, who had previously stated winning at home would be akin to a Bathurst triumph, delivered on his promise in a thrilling encounter marked by wet and unpredictable conditions.
Heimgartner, piloting the #8 R&J Batteries Chevrolet Camaro, secured his second career victory, mirroring the number used by the legendary Jason Richards during his time with Brad Jones Racing. The win holds special significance, coming nearly two years since Supercars last raced in New Zealand.
The race unfolded in dramatic fashion. A major accident involving pole-sitter Cam Waters and Tim Slade on the opening lap threw the field into disarray. Heimgartner capitalized on the chaos during pit lane issues, emerging as the leader.
While all drivers grappled with the treacherous track, Heimgartner and Chaz Mostert established a commanding lead. However, Mostert’s dream of victory was dashed when a rear wheel became detached from his Ford Mustang, handing Heimgartner a golden opportunity.
The emotional Kiwi seized the moment, navigating the challenging conditions to claim his first win since 2021’s The Bend victory.
“I’m a bit speechless,” Heimgartner admitted afterwards, his voice thick with emotion. “I had Chaz pushing me hard, and I had to dig deep. It got slippery, especially on the new tyres – the rain really intensified. Huge thanks to Brad [Jones] for believing in me. This year’s been tough, but this makes it all worthwhile.”
Heimgartner’s triumph was a bright spot for Kiwi motorsport. The race saw four out of five Kiwi drivers finish within the top ten, with 20-year-old rookie Ryan Wood impressing with a career-best fourth place. Bathurst 1000 winner Richie Stanaway crossed the line in sixth, while another rookie, Jaxon Evans, secured his best Supercars finish of tenth.
The win also sees Brad Jones Racing enjoy a podium double, with Will Davison and Anton De Pasquale finishing second and third respectively, marking the first time in the Gen3 era that both Shell V-Power Racing cars have shared podium honors.
Defending champion Brodie Kostecki endured a challenging return to racing, collecting a 15-second penalty that relegated him to a 14th place finish.
Championship leader Will Brown maintained his lead despite a ninth-place finish, extending his advantage to 59 points over nearest rival Broc Feeney. The dramatic events at Taup? have shuffled the championship standings, with Chaz Mostert holding on to third for Ford, while Richie Stanaway now sits in fourth for Penrite Racing.
Supercars action continues today at Taup?. The day kicks off with Boost Mobile Qualifying at 10:45am local time, followed by a top ten shootout at 12:25pm. Race 8 of the 2024 Repco Supercars Championship promises another 60 laps of high-octane racing, with a 200-kilometer battle set to enthrall a sell-out crowd.
For Australian viewers, the race can be followed live on Foxtel and streamed via Kayo. Highlights will also be available on the Seven Network and 7plus. New Zealand viewers can catch the action live on Sky Sport.
