The New Zealander participated in an assessment day with Walkinshaw Andretti United at Winton, where he took the Gen3 Ford Mustang, usually operated by Nick Percat, for a spin.
Wood’s prior Supercars experience was solely with Gen2 vehicles, under WAU’s Super2 initiative. This made his test with the Gen3 car a novel experience.
The test came on the heels of a comprehensive test day on Tuesday. Regular racers Chaz Mostert and Percat, along with enduro partners Lee Holdsworth and Fabian Coulthard, were also in action.
Wood described the Gen3 test as an “eye-opening” experience, but was thrilled to pilot the new low-downforce car.
He said, “Getting a chance to drive the Ford Mustang Gen3 car today was exciting. It was certainly eye-opening, but the team was fantastic and driving it was a lot of fun.
“The entire day was quite fascinating. I learned a lot, but now I’m turning my attention to Sandown and the remainder of the Super2 season.
“I am eager to see how both [main game] cars perform in Sydney next week and am hoping for a successful weekend for the team.”
Wood made his Supercars debut with WAU this year, turning down a Porsche scholarship to race in Super2.
His twin victories in Perth earlier this year have made him a significant player in the 2024 Supercars silly season.
With WAU contemplating not renewing Percat’s contract for the #2 entry, Wood might be in line for a promotion, especially since Cam Waters, a potential WAU recruit, seems likely to remain at Tickford Racing.
Team 18 is also reportedly considering Wood as a possible replacement for Scott Pye, partnering with Mark Winterbottom.
Bruce Stewart, WAU team principal, said that Wood’s evaluation signals the full operation of the WAU Foundation Academy, which also includes Super2 driver Zach Bates and Formula Ford and Toyota 86 driver Matt Hillyer.
Stewart stated, “It was excellent to see Ryan operating the Ford Mustang today.
“These days are designed to provide opportunities for young talents to drive a Gen3 Supercar, so it’s gratifying to see it happen. These opportunities are precisely why we established the WAU Foundation Academy, not just for drivers but all staff members. So, we are eagerly looking forward to exploring possibilities with Zach as well.
“Today’s session followed a positive test yesterday with Nick and Chaz, and Lee and Fabian gained some crucial laps as well. We have a lot to analyze back at Clayton before Sydney on the main game front.
“We’re thrilled to offer Ryan, as well as our young engineers and mechanics, a full day of running at Winton. But now, our complete attention is on Sydney next week, and Ryan’s is on Sandown.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Gen3 Supercars Test Drive
What was Wood’s first experience with the Gen3 car?
Wood described his first experience with the Gen3 car as “eye-opening”. He was excited about the chance to drive the Ford Mustang Gen3 car, and despite some challenges, he found it a lot of fun.
Who were the other drivers involved in the test day?
The test day also involved regular drivers Chaz Mostert and Nick Percat, as well as enduro partners Lee Holdsworth and Fabian Coulthard.
What is the future outlook for Wood in the Supercars season?
Wood’s future is promising in the Supercars season. He might be in line for a promotion with WAU if the team decides not to renew Percat’s contract for the #2 entry. Team 18 is also reportedly considering Wood as a potential replacement for Scott Pye.
What is the WAU Foundation Academy?
The WAU Foundation Academy is an initiative by the Walkinshaw Andretti United team to nurture and provide opportunities for young talents. Apart from Wood, it also includes Super2 driver Zach Bates and Formula Ford and Toyota 86 driver Matt Hillyer.
What are Wood’s next racing plans?
After the test drive, Wood is now focusing on Sandown and the back half of the Super2 season. He is also eagerly anticipating how the main game cars perform in Sydney the following week.
More about Gen3 Supercars Test Drive
- Walkinshaw Andretti United Official Website
- Gen3 Supercars Information
- Ryan Wood Supercars Profile
- Sydney Motorsport Park
- Sandown Racecourse
5 comments
Wow!! wood’s really making waves in the Supercar scene…imagine turning down a porsche scholarship? Big things to come I reckon.
Loving the Gen3 Mustang, its got a lot of potential. Wood seems to be enjoying it too!
wau’s doing great job with the young talents, good to see them giving these opportunities. Keep pushing guys!
hold on, Percat might not be re-signed? Say it ain’t so. love seeing him behind the wheel of the #2.
Thats our boy! Go Kiwi. Can’t wait to see how he performs at Sydney next week, fingers crossed for a win.