With a new look and a new naming rights sponsor, the 2008 Execuline Shelby Can Am championship gets underway at Kyalami on Saturday 26^th January.  

Boasting a new, more modern and aerodynamically efficient body and a new sponsor in vehicle insurance specialists Execuline, the season promises to attract a lot of attention as it takes in all the major centres. Last year there were only eight rounds but with the Pro Tour now adding Cape Town and Port Elizabeth to its destinations it has increased to 10 rounds. 

The new style body is reckoned to be worth up to half a second at most of the longer circuits as it’s not only a more slippery shape, but it also generates more downforce which will give the cars an extra dose of speed through high-speed corners.  

Reigning champion Darryn Lobb (DK Woodcraft) is determined to get his title defence off to a quick and forceful start, but he will be under pressure from the likes of seasoned campaigners Rui Campos (Hugo Boss) and Alan Eve. Driving the distinctive Hi-Q Plettenberg Bay liveried car is Chris Hart who intends making the long trip from Plettenberg Bay a worthwhile one and a lot of his rivals reckon he’s long overdue for a win. 

Talented Execuline backed Jennifer Murray is the beauty among the beasts. The former Formula Ford and kart racer she made her debut in the series last year and immediately impressing with her pace and professional approach.  

Brian Algar (Firedart) and Sean Greve (Vulcania Reinforcing) are two drivers who manage to combine pace with consistency while Colin Frost is a sports car racing stalwart and more than capable of bringing the Strocam backed car home in a good points scoring position. 

Another driver with heaps of experience in these cars is Dave Beattie (BACE Structural Engineers) who spent some time racing Formula Ford 2000 in England during the ‘80s. 

Knocking on the door are the likes of Craig Shorter (Hollard) and Rob Wall (Vered Estates). They haven’t been in the series for long and showed great improvement throughout last year. Veteran Richard Wood has been in the series since its inception and is a reliable finisher.  

A newcomer to keep an eye on is hard charging former Porsche racer Thomas Reib in the Intertrans sponsored car. He’s had a taste of Shelby Can-Am and loved the refined responsiveness of the car.  

KZN Porsche enthusiast Sun Moodley (Big Foot Express) will be making his debut in the big league and his progress will be watched with great interest.  

With an expected field of over 20 cars the two Execuline Shelby Can-Am races will be watched with great interest. 

Execuline Shelby Can-Am Racing is supported by Spanjaard Ltd, Carrera eye wear, British International and Goodyear.