Optima extend statement of appreciation to public.

By Matthew Agius

Fujitsu V8 Supercar Series competitors Optima Sport have extended their thanks to the public, for their support of hospitalised lead driver David Clark following his severe collision with the late Mark Porter at Bathurst in October this year.

A statement released from the team today noted that the car would not compete in any further competition at the V8 Supercar level or otherwise, and would soon begin development of a new car to compete with in the 2007 Fujitsu V8 Supercar Series.

The statement from the team read as follows:

?Optima Sport, an official team of the 2006 Fujitsu V8 Supercar Series, would like to thank those who have expressed their best wishes to the team and its driver David Clark, following the tragic racing accident at Bathurst on October 6. The team is pleased to report that Clark's outlook remains encouraging following his recent transfer to an Adelaide hospital by Wingaway Medical Flights where he will remain for the duration of his recovery.?

?The team at Optima Sport convey their deepest sympathy to the family of Mark Porter. Msport Racing, the team built by Mark was a shining light in the Fujitsu V8 category, and much admired in setting the benchmark for presentation and professionalism. It's a tribute to Mark that every time his team arrived in pit paddock, there was envy from competing teams. It is heart warming to know that despite on-track competitiveness, both the Optima and Msport crews were welcome into each others pits and workshops when assistance was required.?

?Optima Sport wishes to pay gratitude to the regulations and safety measures provided to the sport by V8 Supercars Australia, the Touring Car Entrants Group of Australia (TEGA), and the Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS). The team continues to provide open access to the regulatory bodies regarding chassis inspection and on-board data transcripts. It is the team's intention to assist in any measures keeping V8 Supercars at the leading edge of driver safety.?

?The magnitude of the accident has resulted in structural damage and deformation evident in many areas of the roll cage and floorpan. The car is considered ?not repairable? for future competition use.?

?Optima Sport will shortly begin a new build program to replace the written-off race car at its Surfers Paradise workshop. The team's thanks go out to the Ford Motor Company for their compassion in these difficult times, and the race teams and trade suppliers who have come forward to assist in getting the team back on its feet.?

?While Optima Sport will not contest the final round of the Fujitsu V8 Supercar Series at Phillip Island on 8-10 December, the team encourages all race fans to get trackside or tune in to watch the action. Optima Sport wishes all drivers a safe and successful final event for 2006.?

The final round of the 2007 Fujitsu V8 Supercar Series will take place alongside the top level V8 Supercars at the Caterpillar Grand Finale at Phillip Island in December.