Courtney back for Gold Coast V8s

I’m back.

If the message on James Courtney’s newly-designed helmet does not make it clear, the Holden star wants to ram home the point with “total dominance” at this weekend’s Gold Coast 600.

V8 Supercars gun Courtney will don his new-look helmet after confirming he will launch his comeback from injury at the year’s final enduro round.

Courtney says he is determined to make up for lost time at his first event since a freak pitlane accident at August’s Sydney round.

He broke five ribs and suffered a punctured lung when hit by pit equipment propelled by a low flying Navy helicopter at Sydney.

Courtney failed to receive a last minute medical clearance for the recent Bathurst 1000 where his fellow Holden Racing Team driver Garth Tander nailed third place.

“I’m back,” Courtney said.

“It’s been a long, tough recovery to get back in the car this weekend but I have to thank everyone for their support in helping me get through this so quickly.

“Now it’s time to repay the favour with nothing but total dominance at the GC600.

“I’m stoked with my new lid (helmet) for the weekend, the design looks awesome and really depicts the fighting spirit of the team.

“With their hard fought podium Garth and Luffy (co-driver Warren Luff) showed at Bathurst we have the car speed to dominate the field and that is exactly what I’m planning to do this weekend.”

Courtney will finally link with co-driver Jack Perkins at the Gold Coast after veteran Russell Ingall filled his seat admirably at the Sandown 500 and Bathurst.

It is believed Courtney’s ribs are still technically broken but the Holden star has officially received a clearance from the Confederation of Australian Motor Sport to contest the two 300km events on the tight Gold Coast street circuit this weekend.

It is believed veteran Greg Murphy was on standby for Courtney but all concerns were eased after a secret test at the team’s Gold Coast track.

“It’s a relief to be back for my hometown race on the Gold Coast. I’m raring to go,” Courtney said.

“Missing three events, especially Bathurst, was tough, but my doctors tell me I’m OK now and ready to race.

“After nine weeks out of the car I’m up for it.”

Courtney’s tender ribs face a workout on the Gold Coast.

As Perkins’ co-driver, Courtney must complete at least 34 laps in each 300km race this weekend on the tough concrete lined street circuit armed with aggressive curbs.

He is yet to win a race at the Gold Coast round.

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