Young Achiever Josh Hunter steps up a gear in V8 Supercar Dunlop Development series

JOSH Hunter is leaving his studies on hold as he pursues his ambition of becoming a professional motor racing driver.

Racing

JOSH Hunter is leaving his studies on hold as he pursues his ambition of becoming a professional motor racing driver.

The newly-crowned Rouse Hill Times Young Achiever wants to make the most of his opportunities in his debut season in the V8 Supercar Dunlop Development series before following a more mundane career.

Last year, he became the first rookie to win the 2012 Kumho Tyres Australian V8 Touring Car Series, having been the youngest competitor in Formula Ford as a 14-year-old. He was also the youngest in the V8 touring event at 16.

Having finished outside the top 20 in the recent first round in Adelaide, the Finance Ezi team Ford driver said he is excited at competing against experienced hands like former world MotorGP champion Casey Stoner.

"Mentally and physically it is a huge challenge and there is also a lot of travelling around the country now," Josh, 17, of Pitt Town said.

"There is a lot of physical training throughout the week, including army-style fitness programs, running, cycling, squash so that I can be ready for anything on the track.

"My next race will be in Perth on May 3 and I hope to go better than my first round result.

"If I could finish in the top 15, I will be happy as I am racing against much more experienced drivers and teams."

* Josh, who is sponsored by Finance Ezi, Mydrade, World's Best Technology and Samsung Smart Series Air Conditioning, can be followed during the season via his http://www.facebook.com/joshhuntermotorsport