Rossi Johnson places 8th in second race at Mt Panorama

Despite a ‘challenging’ practice day and a major scare in Race 1, young Territorian SuperUtes driver Rossi Johnson is having a debut to remember.

Rossi Johnson in his number 333 SuperUte at last year's Adelaide 500. Picture: Mark Walker – Speed Shots Photography.

Up and coming Territorian driver Rossi Johnson has had a weekend to remember as he embarks on his professional SuperUtes career.

After a ‘challenging practice day on Friday, Johnson didn’t let minor hiccups get in the way of his debut.

“It was a hectic and challenging day, with other people’s incidents bringing out the red flag in practice,” the number 333 driver said.

“In qualifying, unfortunately the ute overheated on Lap one.

“So I nursed it over the line to complete a lap, finishing 11th.

“I drove minimal laps, but despite the problems, the ute feels great.

“I’m still coming to terms with the different driving style, but I’m confident we have the pace to fight through the field.”

With a bit of experience at the track coming from his Toyota 86 days, Johnson said that while he isn’t intimidated by the track, it is certainly unlike anything else.

“I’m not really one to get nervous, but there’s definitely a unique feeling whenever you race at Bathurst,” he said.

“I think it’s excitement, anxiousness, the pressure of performance and knowing how hard this place can bite all rolled into one.

“Already this weekend, the best (drivers) have been caught out.

“It’s a testament to this volatile track.

“Until you come here and spectate, the TV just doesn’t do the elevation justice.”

Preluding what would ultimately happen to himself, Johnson was one of the many that were caught out on the track.

Rossi Johnson finished 8th in his second ever SuperUtes race at Bathurst. Picture: Rossi Johnson Facebook.

In Race one on the first lap, following a solid start where he gained two positions, the Territorian almost flew into the concrete barrier at McPhilliamy Park (Turn 10).

Fortunately, Johnson had the wherewithal to right his ute in time, much to the admiration of the commentators who said, “What a drift. Yep. He’s used up all his good luck on would think. Rarely do you get away with it up there.”

Despite his miraculous save, Johnson couldn’t recover lost time and finished 15th.

The young driver’s fortunes changed in Race two, and he was finally able to put his driving ability on full display.

Johnson went through unscathed and secured a top 10 finish, crossing the checkered line in 8th place.

Johnson will take to the track for his third race and fourth races of the weekend on Sunday, February 25, at 6.30am and 11.45am respectively.

Originally published as Rossi Johnson places 8th in second race at Mt Panorama