Re-stocked Russell Ready for 2014 Dunlop Series
Following his strongest season in the Dunlop V8 Supercar Series in 2013, Aaren Russell will spearhead Novocastrian Motorsport's 2014 campaign, aboard the team's upgraded, Triple Eight-built Falcon.
The 22-year old enjoyed a breakout 2013, finishing ninth in the standings and recording personal best round results, with sixth in Adelaide's season opener eclipsed mid-year by fifth in Townsville.
With older brother Drew stepping out of the category in 2014, Russell switches to the Triple Eight-built FG Falcon his brother took to seventh in the standings.
The car has received extensive upgrades through the multiple V8 Supercar Championship-winning team ahead of the seven-round series, which commences at the Clipsal 500 in Adelaide from February 27 to March 2.
"It's been a busy few months, but after deciding fairly early on that this was the direction we were going to head in, I think it's the best-prepared we've ever been for a new season," Russell said.
"We all know the pedigree of Triple Eight cars, and the team has been absolutely fantastic to work with, which was no surprise. I can't thank them enough for their input and help so far.
"After a long summer looking at and working on the car, I just can't wait to get out there. It feels like the world's longest Christmas Eve!"
Following a recommendation from Triple Eight, Russell will also work with New Zealand engineer Jim Hewlett, who has considerable V8 Supercar experience. With the off-season developments, Russell is keen to get behind the wheel of his new Go Karts Go Falcon and pick up where he left off in 2013.
"We took a lot of positives out of last year, but 2014 is an important year in my career, probably my most important yet in the series," Russell said.
"Hopefully it won't take me too long to adjust my driving style from the car I drove last year, but we've got plenty of data from Drew to help with the process. And I'm really looking forward to working with Jim, and learning from all of the experience he has with these cars.
"We know the ingredients are there, it's about getting the most out of the car as we look to take that next step and make it a year to remember."
The 2014 Dunlop Series kicks off with two races on the streets of Adelaide as part of the Clipsal 500. With revamped race formats, the calendar sees the series feature at the Winton 400, Perth 400, Townsville 500, Coates Hire Ipswich 400, Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 and Sydney 500.
