Experienced competitor John Penny is gearing up for another season in the Best Bars Toyota 86 Championship.
After winning the Master Class last season, Penny will compete as part of the four-car team run by Action Motorsport.
Penny has previously finished third in the championship in the 2015-’16 season when he also collected a race win and a number of podiums through the season.
With over 20 years of racing experience, Penny is one of the most experienced competitors in the country, having competed in a number of other categories across New Zealand and Australia including in the NZV8 and V8 ute series, Australian Toyota 86 series and the Australian Porsche Carrera Cup.
“Yes, I’m definitely looking forward to how competitive it’s going to be this season,” Penny said.
“I love that side of it and using the experience I have from all those years of racing to test myself against these youngsters.
“We’ve got a lot of talent in New Zealand and it’s great to be in amongst those current and future champions right now. A big grid of more than 22 cars is just going to be awesome.
“I just love my racing and that’s why I keep coming back. For parity and affordability there’s no series to match this currently in my opinion and the racing is always top notch.
“Every time I do a race I get out afterwards – wherever I’ve finished – and I have a big smile on my face. That’s what racing is all about for me.
“I know all the tracks and hope to be on the pace in every single session and to fight for the title. That’s the goal for sure. We really found the sweet spot with the car towards the end of last season, including getting fastest lap at Taupo. I’m really confident we can go out there and race with anyone.”
With at least 22 cars lined up to compete this season, Penny will join one of the biggest grids the series has seen, all competing for the biggest prize pool in the category’s history.