Reynolds secures Walkinshaw slot

David Reynolds will move into the V8 Supercar Championship for the 2009 season after inking a deal to drive as part of the Walkinshaw Racing stable.

Reynolds will drive the #24 Walkinshaw Racing-prepared VE Commodore with backing from Bundaberg Rum, which will becomehe a major backer of a V8 Supercar team for the first time.

Having previously enjoyed success in Formula Ford and the Australian Carrera Cup, Reynolds moved into the Fujitsu V8 Series last season with Tony D'Alberto Racing - taking fourth in the standings.

"I am extremely excited to be driving for the Bundaberg Red Racing Team," he said. "It's a real dream come true to be able to compete in this year's V8 Supercar Championship - the pinnacle of Australian motor sport.

"Last year I was able to gain invaluable V8 Supercar experience competing in the Fujitsu series, with Walkinshaw Racing support, and in the enduros with the Autobarn Racing Team. I have been given an incredible opportunity to drive for the Walkinshaw Racing squad this year and I am going to give it my all.

"I am not expecting to go out there and be winning races straight up, but consistently finishing and improving my results as the season progresses is my main aim."

Reynolds will steer a Walkinshaw Racing prepared VE Commodore, run out of the same factory as sister teams, the Toll Holden Racing Team and Team Autobarn. It will feature the iconic Bear logo and distinctive Bundaberg Red Racing colours.

Walkinshaw Racing CEO, Craig Wilson, said Reynolds thoroughly deserved to be on the starting grid for the new season.

"We are looking forward to having a driver like Reynolds on board - he has an incredible amount of racing talent and will fit well into the Walkinshaw Racing garage," Walkinshaw Racing CEO Craig Wilson said. "We're delighted that Bundaberg Red has come onboard as the sponsor of the #24 car, along with the support of HSV, Toll, Mobil 1 and Bridgestone - all long-term investors in the success of our cars."

"Importantly two of David's long term personal sponsors, in Purple Pig and Harbour I.T. have continued their involvement with this exciting driver, as he makes a foray into the main game."