Photo: Dumbrell to leave Walkinshaw Racing at the end of ’09
Walkinshaw Racing will bid farewell to Team Autobarn driver Paul Dumbrell at the end of the 2009 season, the 27 year old opting not to renew his contract with the team for 2010 and beyond.
CEO of Walkinshaw Racing Craig Wilson said he will be disappointed to see Dumbrell, who joined the team at the start of 2008, leave the organisation.
“Paul has done a great job over the last two years and has been a valuable member of our team,” Wilson said.
“It will be sad to see him go but Paul has chosen to further his career outside of Walkinshaw Racing and we wish him well,” he said.
“We will be working hard with Paul for the remaining events in the 2009 season to ensure that he and the team can make a strong finish to the year,” he said.
Dumbrell joined Walkinshaw Racing at the start of the 2008 season driving an HSV Dealer Team prepared, Autobarn backed Commodore. Driving alongside 2006 Series Champion Rick Kelly, Dumbrell showed consistent speed and determination.
A reshuffle of Walkinshaw Racing’s operations at the beginning of 2009 saw Dumbrell join Garth Tander, Will Davison and David Reynolds at the newly formed four car team. He has finished in the top ten on nine occasions this year and is currently placed 13th on the Championship points table.
Dumbrell thanked the team for their effort and commitment over the past two V8 Supercar seasons.
“I have really enjoyed my time with Walkinshaw Racing,” Dumbrell said.
“I have been lucky enough to have had a hard working bunch of guys working on my car and I can’t thank them enough for their constant dedication,” he said.
“I have enjoyed sharing this time with them, but the time has come for me to move on and I am excited about what the future holds,” he said.
Dumbrell will leave the team after the Sydney 500 in December.