Reigning Chinese Formula 4 champion Conrad Clark is the last driver confirmed for this year’s New Zealand Grand Prix and Castrol Toyota Racing Series.
His success in China had Clark rewarded with a scholarship drive in the Chinese F3 series, a precursor for the Asian F3 championship.
Close to securing a deal to race in US Formula Regional Americas championship this year, the Covid-19 pandemic then compelled the Taupo-based teenager to return to New Zealand.
His homecoming was greeted with a test in an FT50 car, fuelling his appetite for a full campaign in the domestic series. The opportunity to join this year’s TRS grid also means it will be Clark’s first chance to race in New Zealand in over three years.
“To race in New Zealand at the 66th New Zealand Grand Prix is a unique opportunity to be involved in as NZ motorsport celebrates a significant milestone with Kenny Smith running his 50th GP,” Clark said.
“It will be an honour to be on track with him and also alongside a host of other incredibly talented NZ drivers.
“I am looking forward to the experience of being part of New Zealand’s most prestigious single seater event. To be on the grid alongside Kiwi motorsport heroes is an incredible opportunity which I am grateful to our partners TradeZone, Aegis Oil, Advance Gaming and the Kiwi Driver Fund for making this happen.”
The 2021 Toyota Racing Series will run over a shortened three-weekend programme. Starting the season with the New Zealand Grand Prix at Hampton Downs is also a departure from the regular championship routine.
The second round of the championship will be on the shorter Hampton Downs National track before the year concludes at Manfeild, Circuit Chris Amon in February.
Images: TGRNZ