Title: Lexus Australia Grand Prix Celebrity Driver Field
Description: 21 March 2011
Stephen - March 21, 2011 11:54 AM (GMT)
LEXUS AUSTRALIA ANNOUNCES GRAND PRIX CELEBRITY DRIVER FIELD
• Complete driver field announced for 2011 Lexus Celebrity Challenge at Qantas Australian Grand Prix
• Stellar line-up includes sports stars, musicians and TV and radio personalities
• All will compete in identical CT 200h luxury hybrid hatches
Lexus Australia and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation have announced the complete field for the 2011 Lexus Celebrity Challenge.
Singer Brian McFadden says: "It's not very often you are given the chance to be part of such a race and I'm certainly not doing this just for fun - I'm doing this to win!'
The grid will include:
• Jessica Hart
• Jacqui Cooper
• Corbin Harris
• Kris Smith
• Lauren Phillips
• Anthony Lehmann (Lehmo)
• Brian McFadden
• Sav Rocca
• Tom Gleeson
• Rhys Uhlich
• Brodie Harper
• Kasia Z
• Dr Chris Brown
• Callan Mulvey
• Laura Enever
• Kate Waterhouse
• James Mathison
• Luke Ricketson
• Shannon Eckstein
• Anthony Bell
• Ross Stevenson
• Giaan Rooney
• Natalie Hunter
Driver training began today with an induction and suit fitting, followed by an intensive two-day course conducted by ace professional motorsport drivers Neal and Rick Bates in their capacity as Lexus ambassadors.
The celebrity drivers will get their first taste of the Albert Park Formula One circuit at Thursday's practice before racing on Saturday and Sunday.
Five lucky promotional winners will be competing beside a host of Australian and international celebrities.
The five have won their places through a variety of Lexus promotions, including dealer competitions, vehicle sales promotions and a charity auction benefitting the Red Cross Victorian Flood Appeal.
Andrew Scifleet, the dealer principal of Lexus of Brisbane, Lexus of Southport and Lexus of Maroochydore, won through to be the dealer representative in the race and one of the five.
"I'm feeling very lucky to be here, and quite apprehensive - I'm not sure what to expect!" Mr Scifleet said.
"I do know that the CT 200h is a beautiful little car that handles great and is quite nippy too - it's a surprise packet."
Competition is expected to be strong, with many drivers vying for a podium finish.
"There are a few of us in the Lexus Celebrity Challenge who share the same competitive sporting streak," said Ironman champion Shannon Eckstein.
"I can't wait to get out there and give them all a run for their money."
