Bigmate Racing’s Todd Hazelwood has completed his debut event at New Zealand’s Pukekohe Park Raceway, as part of the Supercars ITM Auckland SuperSprint held over the weekend.
The 23-year-old endured a difficult weekend, however enjoyed racing at the circuit for the first time.
“A huge weekend done and dusted here in New Zealand, it was a great experience doing my first international race and taking in the challenge of Pukekohe Raceway,” Hazelwood said.
“I really enjoyed the circuit … there is no better feeling taking on the fast turns around this circuit—flowing the car over bumps and letting the car dance—it’s tough on the car and really rewarding when you get it right.”
This weekend was also the first time Bigmate Racing and Matt Stone Racing have competed at the circuit.
“For the team’s first time at the circuit and the event, I thought everyone involved did a great job … the chassis felt really good all weekend and I felt we maximised our package,” Hazelwood said.
“I made a few mistakes over the weekend that hurt our performance, but I look back at the event knowing I gave it my all in each and every session.
“Race one was frustrating for the team and I receiving a Pit Lane Penalty under Safety Car circumstances, which stopped any chance of a good result. But we all regrouped well on Sunday and arrived with a better package.
“I had a good start in race two and made a few spots, but slowly drifted away as the race progressed.”
Hazelwood and the team will now prepare for the final event of the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship on the streets of Newcastle.
“We have a couple of weeks to regroup before the final event of the year and we’ll be pushing hard to finish the year on a high,” Hazelwood added.
“A special thank you to everyone involved for all of their great work and support … it wouldn’t be possible without my amazing team around me.”
Bigmate Racing will end their season at the Coates Hire Newcastle 500 on 23-25 November.
