Townsville Date for Touring Car Masters in 2018
The Touring Car Masters will answer the call of local fans when they head to the Townsville 400 for the first time in July 2018. Confirmation of the series’ debut at the popular street circuit event in North Queensland comes as the series unveils a bumper eight-round calendar for next year, that includes a return to Tasmania for the first time since 2015.
However, it is the addition of Townsville to the schedule that is likely to promote the most enthusiasm amongst fans and competitors alike. As well as several members of the TCM competitor base hailing from North Queensland, a significant local fan base has been established in recent years.
A ‘Bring TCM to Townsville’ group was established several years ago on Facebook and has attracted more than 1,500 people to support its cause.
“There has been significant momentum generated in Queensland to see Touring Car Masters race in Townsville and we are proud to be finally making the trip for the first time in 2018,” TCM Category Manager Tony Hunter said. “The local fans have been very vocal and passionate about their support of the category and we’re looking forward to putting on a show for them next July. There is a strong Muscle Car culture in the North and we think TCM can be a fantastic addition to the Townsville 400 Event. I know everyone is looking forward to making the trip.
“There is a strong North Queensland contingent competing in TCM at present and this is also a welcome way to thank them for their support.”
Townsville will mark the fifth of eight rounds scheduled for next year, with the TCM series once again kicking off on the streets of Adelaide at the Adelaide 500 for the tenth time in eleven years.
A trip across Bass strait follows to round two, with home-town hero John Bowe set to enjoy competition on his home circuit at Symmons Plains.
Round three will see the regular and popular visit to country Victoria for the Winton SuperSprint, while the sunshine of Darwin beckons competitors to the Top End for the fourth round.
After Townsville, the Wilson Security Sandown 500, Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 and the Coates Hire Newcastle 500 complete a bumper year.
“2018 represents our best calendar yet and we are appreciative of the great relationship with the team at Supercars for their support in putting it together,” says Hunter. “TCM has established itself as one of the most popular categories racing at rounds of the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship and this calendar reflects that.
“We will be taking our form of racing, our great cars and stars to more corners of Australia than ever before. Not only will it be great for our competitors, but a thank you to our great series partners and supporters.
“With new cars being built and new drivers joining the category we are very excited about what the future holds for TCM.”
