SAE Signs Alex Yoong For Bathurst 24 Hour
Sydney, Australia – Tuesday, June 17, 2003 – David Searle, team owner of SAE Racing is excited to announce that 2002 Formula One and 2003 CART driver Alex Yoong has agreed to terms and will be driving the SAE BMW at this years Bathurst 24 Hour.
“When we decided to take on the Mountain this year we knew we needed two things, a reliable car and a top driving lineup. With this signing, combined with the rest of our team I am confident we now have both and will be a force to be reckoned with.”
The car, the 2002 Super Tourer Championship winner under Alan Gurr will undergo a complete mechanical and exterior refit for the event with renown BMW engine builder Ernst Schlaepfer also making the trip out to help preparation.
“The first goal is the class win, the second outright position and although we are some 5 litres down in engine size on some of the big boys, I am sure the legendary BMW reliability coupled with a great team will enable a possible podium place.”
Alex is also looking forward to his first ever crack at the Mountain.
“I have always wanted to race at Bathurst since I was a little boy an I believe it is one of the greatest circuits in the world. So when the chance came up to race there I was immediately interested.”
“When weighing up our options SAE seemed to be approaching the race with a professional attitude and BMW is always a good bet for an endurance event. I know we are not going to be the race favourites but I think we may well surprise a few people.”
“Thanks to David Searle and Tom Misner for giving me the opportunity and I hope Alan, Luke and I can repay the faith with a good result.”
Having seen the track only on television, Alex will be coming out to Australia for a test drive and will also take the opportunity to visit the mountain in July.
The team driver line up currently stands at Alex Yoong, Alan Gurr and Luke Searle with one further driver to be added.
The Bathurst 24 Hour will be running for the second time and is scheduled for the weekend of 21-23 November 2003.
