2 minutes with Andrew Waite

Six weeks out from the first enduro race of 2012 at Taupo we talk to Tasman Motorsports Group's newly signed co-driver, Andrew Waite. Did you know he's also a DJ?

Q: A few months ago you took out the NZ V8 Ute title, now you're about to line up in a V8 SuperTourer for the first time, you must be pretty excited?
A: Yes I sure am! Since the day the V8 Supertourer concept kicked into action I knew thats exactly what I wanted to do and to sign with Tasman Motorsports Group knowing the history behind the team, has made it even more exciting for me.

Q: A few of your mates are lining up on the grid with you, what have they told you about the cars?
A: One of the stand out characteristics they have told me about the cars is that they are very good at turn in, a lot like a Porsche. I'm sure they wont have much more to say about them now since I am lining up on the grid with them!

Q: What are your goals for the V8 SuperTourer enduro's?
A: My goal is to be consistent and to show I have the speed to run at the front of the field.

Q: We know you as a racing driver, what is your day job(s)?
A: I have two jobs, I am an Auto Electrician by trade and also during the weekend's I DJ at various Clubs and Bars around town.

Q: How did you start out in motor racing? What was your first race car?
A: I started out motor racing when I was 8 years old in Karts. I raced them until I was 15 and from there the first car I stepped into was a Formula First as part of the Speedsport Scholarship programme.

Q: What's your favourite track in NZ and why?
A: We have such a fantastic selection of tracks in New Zealand its hard to choose, but if I had to narrow it down to one I would say Taupo because it is a very technical track that rewards a very smooth and patient driver.

Q: When you're not in a car and racing, what do you like to do?
A: I like going to the gym, Mountain Biking and hanging out with mates.

Q: Who is your motorsport hero?
A: Sebastian Loeb. Everything he seems to touch turns to gold!

Q: What's your take on the V8SuperTourer season so far?
A: I think it has been great for New Zealand. The racing has been very close with a lot of passing making it a great spectacle for the fans.

Q: Any surprises in the season so far? Stand out drivers?
A: Scott McLaughlin has been impressive this year, when he and his team finally got it all together at the last sprint round he really showed his true potential.

Q: What's in the future for Andrew Waite racing wise?
A: The goal is to do the best possible job I can in the V8 Supertourer Enduros this year and aim toward a full season next year. Joining Tasman Motorsports Group has been a huge boost for me and I'm hoping that it will open up many doors for my future.

Q: Describe yourself in three words.
A: Determined, Genuine, Happy.

Check out Tasman Motorsports Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TasmanMotorsportsGroup