V8 Utes

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The V8 Ute Racing Series was conceived in 2000 and launched March 2001 at the Clipsal 500 in Adelaide. The series was a smash, literally, and the fans loved it. Now, 16 identical V8 powered Ford Falcon XR8 Utes and 16 Holden SS Utes make up the field.

The Utes are production based with limited modifications and extremely close lap times, making for some serious on track 'bump 'n grind.'

Holden driver Rod Wilson was the inaugural series winner, but Ford fought back in 2002 and 2003 with Sydney's Warren Luff, taking back to back victories. Holden again returned to form in 2004 with Damien White taking the series title, before defecting to Ford and taking the title again in 2005 by a narrow margin to Melbourne's Marcus Zukanovic.

The series has proved a real breeding ground for new talent with Luff and TV weatherman, Grant Denyer both moving into V8 Supercar after cutting the mustard at the front in the Ute series.

The series covers eight rounds at various tracks throughout Australia. The reverse grid racing format is extremely popular with the race fans, ensuring there's always loads of on track action. Drivers include former Australian NASCAR champion Kim Jane, actor George Elliot, country music singer Adam Brand, Adelaide's own Charlie "Handlebars" Kovacs, driving instructor Gary Baxter, former Waratahs & Australian Sevens Rugby Union player Ben Dunn and former NRL Roosters player Jack Elsegood.

[edit] Past Winners

V8 Ute Racing Series

Year	Winner	Vehicle
2001	Rod Wilson	Holden SS Ute
2002	Warren Luff	Ford Falcon XR8
2003	Warren Luff	Ford Falcon XR8
2004	Damien White	Holden SS Ute
2005	Damien White	Ford Falcon XR8
2006	Marcus Zukanovic	Ford Falcon XR8
2007	Grant Johnson	Holden SS Ute