A once-in a lifetime opportunity has been presented for rising star, Jackson Rice at the Repco Bathurst 1000. The regular Trans Am Series contender has been given the chance to debut in the Dunlop Super 2 Series at Mount Panorama this weekend, thanks to Matt Chahda Motorsport.
The 21-year old will pilot the Holden ZB Commodore last raced by Aron Shields at the Sandown 500.
“I’m super grateful for this opportunity,” said Rice.
“I was lucky enough to run a test day with the Chahda’s a couple of months ago and from there this opportunity has come about and so I’m very grateful to be stepping into the Dunlop Super2 this weekend – it really is a dream come true.”
Rice currently contends in the 2024 Trico Trans Am Series with Dream Racing Australia, where he currently holds ninth place. The Wodonga-born racer is therefore no stranger to The Mountain, having previously raced there in the Trans Am as well as in the production cars.
“It is a bit daunting. I’ve been to Bathurst in the Trans Am and a couple of times in production cars, but nothing as serious as this. It’s a pretty big thing for me,” said Rice.
“I’ve had limited time in the car obviously, so the biggest thing for me is going to be learning the car and making sure that I learn as much as I can.
“I’m lucky that I’ve at least been to Bathurst and can go in there with a little bit of experience at the track. But all in all, my goal is to just bring the car home straight and in one piece.”
Well-known oil wholesaler, Hi-Tec Oils will feature as the major sponsor for the weekend, with their logo adorning across the side panels.
“I’m super grateful to the team at Hi-Tec Oils for coming on board as the major sponsor. It is a dream come true,” said Rice.
“Hi-Tec Oils are one of Australia’s largest national independent oil manufactures and are such a reputable brand. I can’t thank them enough for their support.”
An additional new sponsor for Rice will be welcomed this weekend, Johnsons MME; a locally owned chartered accounting, business and financial advisory practice in the New South Wales’ Southern Riverina and North East Victorian regions.
Rice has also secured the support of a range of new sponsors including disability service provider Social Plus, as well as welcoming the ongoing support of regular sponsors Mudtamer, Pedders and Ruffnuts.
“I thank all our sponsors and of course the Albury community for backing me ahead of this weekend at Bathurst,” said Rice.
“It really does mean a lot and I hope that I can do you all proud.”
The Dunlop Super2 Series kicks off on Thursday 10th October for practice 1 at 10:05am AEDT.
The Repco Bathurst 1000 will broadcast on Kayo and Fox Sports from Thursday – Sunday, as well on Channel 7 and 7plus from Friday 11th October.