In a major boost to the developing career of V8 Supercar driver Tony D’Alberto, a top-10 finish at Bathurst has delivered the 23-year old ace the result his Bottle-O team set as a pivotal goal this season.
In a race marred by changing weather and tricky conditions throughout the near seven-hour event, D’Alberto and his co-driver Andrew Thompson were one of only 13 cars to finish on the lead lap.
Won by Holden pair Will Davison and Garth Tander, Australia’s great race was action-packed throughout and though they had a few scary moments of their own, D’Alberto and his crew came to the fore.
Across eight pit stops, slippery conditions, competitive racing, some panel damage and a close finish that saw the Bottle-O team less than 11 seconds from first position, a delighted D’Alberto celebrated the result.
“We’re really happy with our result, the car was fantastic and the team did a great job,” said D’Alberto, adding, “The Bathurst 1000 is a race renowned throughout Australia, we feel very lucky to be able to say that we finished the race, and it was in the top ten.”
Back in town for barely a fortnight, the local racer and his team head for the Gold Coast next where the V8 Supercars will take centre stage on the streets of Surfers Paradise from October 22 to 25.
Last Modified on 12/10/2009 20:52