After a year on the sidelines, the driver pairing previously barred from the Am class of GT World Challenge Australia has been cleared to make a comeback. They will pilot Sheagold's Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO, run by Garth Walden Motorsport/RAM Motorsport.
The duo, Mike Sheargold and Ben Hobson, captured the Am class title in 2024. The same car also claimed Pro-Am honours at this year's Bathurst 12 Hour with Hobson, Walden, and Dylan O'Keeffe. They are now confirmed for GT Festival Sydney and the Adelaide Grand Final.
The path back wasn't straightforward. Ahead of the 2025 season, the team planned to field Hobson in place of Walden after his licence was downgraded from Silver to Bronze. However, SRO deemed the pairing against the 'spirit' of the Am class, leading to their exclusion. Other factors, including experience and performance, were also considered.
Now, after a lengthy process, they are allowed to compete again. Hobson, who hasn't raced in GTWC for three years, admitted he felt his edge slipping. "After a three-year hiatus, I felt I was losing touch with my racing ability. I needed to get back in the seat or risk becoming washed up," he said. He also stressed his aim is to hand the car to Sheargold in the best possible position.
Sheargold, while optimistic, is realistic about the challenge. "Two years out of a GT3 car is two years out of a GT3 car. I'm under no illusions, but I'm looking forward to returning to a circuit I know well," he commented. With a strong team behind them, they hope to recreate the magic of their 2024 championship and Bathurst win.
Their return is set to add spice to the competition. The Am class battle promises to be intense, and fans can follow their progress through Sportrik's coverage.
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Mike Sheargold dan Ben Hobson kembali ke GT World Challenge Australia setelah larangan. Mereka akan membela Sheagold di Sydney dan Adelaide.
DJR memanggil kembali insinyur berpengalaman David Smith untuk membantu strategi di Enduro Cup. Tim juga waspadai masalah rem dan mesin jelang The Bend.
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