Checking in ..... finally!!!!!!
Hi Team, managed at last to get in here although have been a member for a few months now. First thread was in yards and yarns about Johnny Riley.
Well havent been involved in the motor industry to any great degree but have a passion for motorsport. Built a stock car when an apprentice fridgie (1967) and raced at Waikaraka Park. Joined NZIGP and became a flag marshall at Puke (it was cheaper to get in that way!!!!) Did that for many years then went to work for NZFP in Tokoroa. Still followed the motorsport back then. Crewed for Petch Motorsport for a number of years Volvo 240T, ex Oxton/Rouse Sierra, CBEEMME M3 BMW and Peanut Slab Sierra. Got to meet some of my idols, Robbie Francevic and Denny Hulme. Others who drove for the team were John Bowe, Armin Hahne, Johnny Cecotto, Gianfranco Brancitelli and Thomas Lindstrom. Unfortunately Leo Leonard didn't get to drive at Bathurst in the ex Oxton Sierra in 1986 due to mechanical issues.
Went to work for Ford wheel plant at Manukau which was purchased by ION Automotive from OZ. Went to Melbourne to head up procurement for engine block manufacturing plant. They part sponsored Brad Jones Racing in the OZEMAIL Falcon with John Bowe. Company went belly up in 2004 so came back to NZ and have followed the fortunes of a number of V8Supercar drivers - Mark Winterbottom - great guy, also JB of course and Marcose Ambrose. So basically thats me. Thoroughly enjoy reading the threads and continue to follow my motorsport.
Cheers
