Zac Stichbury moves from single-seaters to tin-tops this summer, announcing his rookie Toyota 86 season plans.
A champion karter, Stichbury spent the past two years in a self-run Formula Ford team.
Stichbury finished fourth in both Formula Ford seasons. His late father Ashley was twice a national champion in the series.
Instead of pursuing a third year in Formula Ford, Stichbury was allured by the offerings of the Toyota 86 championship.
“It was a late decision to compete, but the coverage and quality of drivers really caught my attention, as well as the amazing prizes on offer,” Stichbury said.
“I want to race the best and have an equal car to compete with and I can do that in this championship.”
This summer’s Toyota 86 champion receives a test in a Triple Eight Engineering V8 Supercar, as well as a hefty cash prize.
But Stichbury will have to learn the ropes quickly.
He hasn’t driven an 86 for several seasons—his last test coming during a CareVets Scholarship Day.
Auckland’s current lockdown means the 20-year-old hasn’t been able to prepare as he would have liked. Still, he’s doing what he can from home.
“I have been able to focus on keeping myself fit and making sure my fitness levels are as good as they can be before I get my first go in the car,” he said.
“There’s not much else I can do being here in Auckland.
“I know it’s going to be competitive with a big learning curve. If all that goes to plan, I hope to be up the front.”
The 2021/22 Toyota 86 season is slated to begin at Hampton Downs on November 12-14.
2021/22 Toyota 86 calendar
| Rnd | Venue | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hampton Downs | Nov 12-14 |
| 2 | Pukekohe | Dec 3-5 |
| 3 | Highlands | Jan 14-16 |
| 4 | Ruapuna | Jan 21-23 |
| 5 | Hampton Downs | Feb 11-13 |
| 6 | Taupo | Mar 25-27 |