Get ready for an exciting announcement! Brad Jones Racing (BJR) is gearing up for a thrilling double shakedown with their Toyota Supra race cars. But here's where it gets controversial... While the team is thrilled to hit the track, some might question the timing of this shakedown, especially since it's just a week before the pre-season test in Sydney. Is this a strategic move or a rushed decision?
The Albury-based squad, led by team owner Jones, will showcase their #8 Andre Heimgartner and #14 Cam Hill Supras. Heimgartner's car will sport the new R&J Batteries colors, while Hill's will be in plain black. This marks an important moment as it's Hill's first drive of a Supra, and Heimgartner has already sampled Walkinshaw TWG Racing's test mule at Winton earlier this year.
"Running the cars is going to be a very proud moment," Jones shared with Speedcafe. "It's a significant milestone, especially with new cars and a new manufacturer. It's the beginning of an exciting journey."
The cars are set to hit the track in the afternoon, but BJR's double shakedown is a significant step after the long-awaited arrival of two Toyota V8 engines at the team last week. The team's truck driver couriered the engines from Supercars' engine shop in Brisbane, with one arriving on Wednesday and the second on Friday.
However, BJR's third car for Macauley Jones, a converted Chevrolet Camaro, won't be part of the shakedown due to Supercars rules. Meanwhile, Walkinshaw's first Supra was on track in September, completing 5000km of engine test mileage across various circuits. That car is set to be raced by Ryan Wood, while Chaz Mostert's new machine underwent a shakedown as part of parity testing at Queensland Raceway on Monday.
So, what do you think? Is BJR's timing strategic or rushed? Share your thoughts in the comments! And don't forget to tune in to witness the double shakedown. It's going to be a thrilling ride!
