Ingall set to break V8 race start record
Anyone dubbed `The Enforcer' is always going to make his presence felt.
But wily veteran Russell Ingall will stand out from the crowd for very different reasons when he makes a record 226th race start in this weekend's V8 Supercars round in Townsville.
And it seems the 49-year-old will register a few more before he is done despite officially stepping down as a full-time driver at the end of the season.
Former V8 champion Ingall showed off his Holden's new "226" graphics that he will boast this weekend after being honoured with a Guinness World Record on Thursday for eclipsing John Bowe's mark for most Australian touring car starts.
However, the two-time Bathurst 1000 winner's trademark aggression looks set to be on show again next year in at least the endurance rounds despite agreeing to walk away from his Walkinshaw Racing deal in 2013 - his 18th year in the category.
"I'll go racing at the enduros. A few teams have contacted me already about endurance drives for next year," said Ingall who also did not dismiss the prospect of a full-time drive next year.
Ingall also welcomed the prospect of appearing in V8 support categories after 2013 - or overseas.
"It'll never be the last time. I may not be in a V8. But there are plenty of other things," he said.'
"We think the hub of the world is V8s in Australia but there's plenty around the world, categories overseas.
"I've raced over there and have picked up contacts along the way."
Ingall attempted launching a European open wheel career before becoming a full-time V8 driver in 1996 - a year after his incredible last-to-first Bathurst win with Larry Perkins.
However, Ingall said his highlight was winning his sole V8 title in 2005 after four runner-up finishes - a feat he infamously celebrated by hanging out of his Falcon while doing burnouts in front of an appreciative Phillip Island crowd.
"Bathursts are special, but the championship is a full year's dedication and hard slog - not too many people achieve it," he said.
Ingall may still be a force to be reckoned with however he will have no say in the 2013 title race after arriving in Townsville in 18th spot on the drivers' standings.
Fellow Holden driver Jamie Whincup is in sight of a record-equalling fifth championship after leading the standings since the second event.
However, he is not popping the champagne just yet thanks to teammate Craig Lowndes who trails by just 159 points.
The winner of both 200km races this weekend receives 150 points.
"Everyone can be caught and beaten," three-time V8 champion Lowndes said.
Practice will be held on Friday before 70-lap races are held on the street circuit on Saturday and Sunday.
