Walsh Renews with Matt Stone Racing
Dunlop Series 2013 runner up Ash Walsh has renewed links with the Matt Stone Racing Team for 2014.
It will be Walsh’s third full year in the V8 Supercars Development Series on top of a number of starts in 2011.
Capitalising on the continuity of 2013, Walsh was pleased national pharmaceutical company Infants’ Friend would continue the successful association launched last season.
The 26-year old Ipswich based driver will again run the #87 ex-Stone Brothers Racing FG Falcon for Matt Stone Racing. He believes the scenario gives him the best opportunity yet to win the Dunlop Series Championship.
“We are really happy that the Infants’ Friend team reviewed the results of 2013 and are coming with us again in 2014,” Walsh said.
“They worked the sponsorship very hard with retail and trade promotions and it has paid off.
“The Dunlop Series this year will be super competitive so to be able to stay put with Matt Stone Racing with increased sponsorship support is a great outcome.
“I can't wait to get to (season opener) Adelaide as it is a fantastic event.”
Infants’ Friend Managing Director Neil McPhillips outlined the primary objective of the sponsorship at the launch.
“We have an Australian range of very successful baby products that have been around for nearly 80 years.
“I said in 2013 that we had a great opportunity to connect with young families with V8 Supercars and we were proven right. On top of this it has given our brand exposure in markets we don’t normally access thorough our retail promotion.
“The feedback from our sales force in 2013 was very strong. I think there were a few people that were surprised with a product like ours partnering a motorsport team but we believe it is a very sound and successful marketing strategy.” McPhillips said.
MSR boss Matt Stone was delighted to re-sign Walsh for 2014.
“2013 saw MSR put two cars in the Top 10 in the Dunlop Series point score with Ash doing a great job to come second overall.
“There were some great highlights including the round win in Perth, race podiums and a Pole Position at the final in Sydney.
“MSR is firmly now one of the major teams in the Series and to sign Ash again is a great thing for us. There is no reason why we can’t challenge at every race for podiums and wins and ultimately the Championship.”
The first round of the 2014 Dunlop Series will be run at the Clipsal 500, alongside the main series V8 Supercars, from February 27 to March 2.
