Gary Baxter’s spectacular appearance at the Clipsal 500 series opener (in which the SAGE Automation / NHP / HMNS Holden burst into first smoke then flames on two separate occasions) has the hard charging South Aussie ‘all fired up’ for a strong run at Winton for Round Two next week.

“We were spectacular at Clipsal, but probably not for the right reasons,” he admits, “although we did score some significant TV exposure for all our sponsors I’d rather have the Championship points.”

Baxter can take heart however from the fact that his win record at Winton is formidable to say the least.

“We’re always tough there. If we don’t win we get a podium spot. There’s something about that track and our team. I always feel confident heading in.”

Looking back on the fiery Clipsal 500 showing, Baxter can take heart that the SAGE Racer had good car speed and gelled well with V8 Supercar star Cameron “Conkers” McConville.

“It was great working with Cameron, he brings a lot to the table as a driver and a team personality. We had plenty of fan interest and Cam was the complete professional. It was a great opportunity to race with Cameron, even though the result was not what we’d planned.” McConville too was pleased.

“The V8 Utes are a heap of fun to drive,” he admits, “and far more difficult to get around than many people realise. I have a new found respect for what these guys do. The SAGE Racing team are very professional, I like the way they go about things. I’m disappointed that we didn’t get a better result but we certainly put on a show!”

Coming into the predicted chilly conditions at Winton next weekend Baxter and the SAGE Boys are 16th in points and have plenty to gain.

“We’ve been in this position before where we struggled in the first round and need to bounce back with a strong points haul. We were the fastest Holden at Winton (and the only Holden on the podium) last year and the year before that we won. We’ll be right.”