Dunston eyeing career-best in Townsville

The NTI Townsville 500 can’t come quick enough for local racer Madison Dunston.

Born and raised in Townsville, Dunston is relishing the chance to race on her home turf when Supercars returns to Reid Park across July 8-10.

Four of Supercars premier support categories will be in action across all three days; the Dunlop Super2 Series, Porsche Carrera Cup, Toyota Gazoo Racing 86 Series, and the Touring Car Masters Series.

It comes as track construction commenced in North Queensland, just 24 days out from the event.

Toyota 86 Series driver Dunston visited the site earlier today and is looking forward to having large crowds back at the circuit.

“It’s another year to have some excitement," Dunston said.

"All my sponsors are local, and I have all my friends and family come along so it's good to have their support.

"Because it is just down the road for me, I don’t have to travel anywhere, I just jump straight on the track.

"This year is going to be a bit different with the atmosphere and the crowd, and we have Hilltop Hoods here. It's going to be a great weekend."

Dunston made her Toyota 86 debut in 2018, following two seasons in the Aussie Race Car Championship.

The rising star, who was named as one of the top 30 most influential people under 30 in the region earlier this year, is eyeing success at her home circuit.

"This year we are definitely a bit more competitive," Dunston added.

"Last year we only got to do two rounds of the series, so it was a bit hard to get those points to be in the championship.

"In the last two rounds, I have made my way up to 24th in the championship so I’m hoping to get top 20 after the Townsville round, that would be exciting.

"I’d like to get top 10 in qualifying, or just something crazy."

The Repco Supercars Championship will return to North Queensland for the 2022 NTI Townsville 500 across July 8-20. Tickets are on sale now.