Griffith technician Justin McVicar went trackside in the pit lane at the Bathurst 1000, assisting the pit crew for Jamie Whincup.
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Mr McVicar was recently announced as New Holland Agriculture's Technician of the Year for 2021, and was selected for the Red Bull pit team as a result. The competition ranged across 94 separate dealerships, with Mr McVicar beating out hundreds to be awarded the prize.
"That was about six weeks ago, it was definitely a surprise. It's not something you ever expect," Mr McVicar said.
Over four days, Mr McVicar joined the Red Bull Ampol team as a member and enjoyed behind the scenes access as well as experience in the lanes.
He said that he was most impressed by the teamwork on display, and that being that close to the action was 'better than he imagined.'
"Although I've seen the V8 Supercars live at Bathurst in 1994, that does not compare to the experience of being in the pit lane with the Red Bull Ampol racing team," he said.
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His main role was in rotating tyres to prevent heat damage, as well as assisting on refueling and pulling the car into the pit on practice laps.
He said it was a great experience, and offered him more insight into the work that goes on behind the scenes of the races.
"It was definitely hard work, it was non-stop ... I'm definitely looking forward to going back to spectating," he said.
Mr McVicar has been a lifelong fan of V8s and supercars in general, and said he was thrilled to have the experience. He especially wanted to thank New Holland and Codemo, for giving him the opportunity to experience the event trackside.
Fortunately for Codemo, he's got no plans to leave.
"I've been doing this for 20 years, I'll stick to what I know. Years ago, I contemplated it but agriculture is a better fit for me. I couldn't do the travelling."
"It was definitely worth doing, it's good to know what goes into it all though."
Jamie Whincup ended the race in fourth place.
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