Jack Daniel’s Racing has announced that Tim Blanchard will replace the injured Todd Kelly at the next three rounds of the 2012 V8 Supercar Championship, starting with the Armor All Gold Coast 600 on 21 October.
Kelly hurt his shoulder at a training camp prior to the Dick Smith Sandown 500 and successfully underwent surgery following the Bathurst race.
Blanchard is already familiar with the car and team having been Kelly’s co-driver at Sandown and Bathurst this year. The Dunlop Series driver will now team up with American IndyCar driver Marco Andretti at the Gold Coast.
“I’m really looking forward to driving for Jack Daniel’s Racing once again and appreciate the opportunity that Todd and Rick have given me,” Blanchard said.
“I can’t wait to join Marco at Queensland Raceway for the test day and then share the driver’s seat with him at the Gold Coast.”
Kelly will now continue his rehabilitation following surgery in readiness for the 2013 season opener next March.
“I’m a bit sore at the moment which is to be expected and pleased with the result of the surgery,” said Kelly.
“I can’t wait to get back behind the wheel once I get the green light from Dr. Barwood.
“Tim will take over the #7 Jack Daniel’s Racing car and I know he will do a great job for us and will help get Marco Andretti up to speed at the Gold Coast race.”
The promotion is the second main driver change for the Gold Coast 600 following Garry Rogers Motorsport’s announcement that Greg Ritter will replace Alexandre Prémat in the #33 Fujitsu Racing GRM entry.
