Speedworks deal for Newshamposted in BTCC20 | 12 | 2012
INVERNESS-BASED BTCC race winner Dave Newsham will drive a Speedworks Motorsport Toyota Avensis in 2013 after signing with the squad. And the Highlander is eyeing the Independents' Championship.
Newsham, who finished ninth in the British Touring Car Championship, won two races this season behind the wheel of his ES Racing S2000 Vauxhall Vectra.
And Newsham, who completed a test with his new squad last month at Donington, is eager to claim more race wins in 2013.
"It was a good test and it gave me the chance to see how the Speedworks engineers work," the 45-year-old said.
"I have every faith the team is going to deliver me a quick car and that we will work well together. There's no reason why we shouldn't be right at the sharp end.
"They have assembled a fantastic team of people, their workshops are what you would expect from a front running BTCC team, and they are in their third year of development of the NGTC car.
Fifer Gordon Shedden crowned BTCC champ
"With lots of winter testing planned, we should be able to tune the car to my liking reasonably quickly, then it will be a case of fine tuning for each circuit.
"This all adds up to a great opportunity for me, and I can't wait to get started. Our aim has to be winning the Independents title, nothing less will do!
"I have to say a massive thank you to 2011-2012 Speedworks driver Tony Hughes: without his help I don't think I would have been able to do this deal.
"Tony has donated the use of his car to me, and supported me financially too. The Hughes Safety Showers Logo will be loud and proud on the side of my car.”
And Newsham was welcomed by Speedworks team boss Christian Dick said.
"We have tried to do something with Dave for the last couple of years but it hasn't come off," Dick explained. "Finally pulling it off for 2013 is great and we are excited for the potential results.
"Dave has proved his pace this season, kept out of trouble and scored some good results. He will be one of the front-running drivers next year."
Dave Newsham wins at Knockhill
Keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us on twitter.com/scotcars
Jim McGill