Daytona 24: Russell Walker preview

Russell Walker to Make Sportscar Debut in a Big Way

Daytona, FL:- Russell Walker is looking at making the transition from single-seaters to sports cars. Often times drivers will pick a low-profile race to cut their teeth on and try to get acclimated slowly to the differences. Not Walker. This Texas racer is jumping in full force, making his debut at the fabled Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona International Speedway. Russell will be piloting the #83 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup fielded by Farnbacher-Loles. The #83 will be one of seven Porsches run by the impressive and very experienced team.

Russell found his stride early in his career, securing a top-10 in the championship standings of his first full racing season, earning Rookie Of The Year honors. He improved upon those successes the next season by finishing second in the championship, and gaining the attention of teams higher up the ladder. The last two years have seen Russell right in the thick of the fight in the very competitive and world-renown Star Mazda championship. With many top teams and professionals in the industry watching, Walker fought his way to a top-10 finish in the 2007 championship standings. Russell is very excited about his new opportunity to advance his racing career. "I have been working very hard the past few years to really hone my skills as a driver and place myself in different situations to make sure that I am prepared for whatever a race throws at me." He continues, "I'm really excited to be a part of this race, especially when I think back to all of the legends that have raced here that I have always watched growing up. I just can't wait."

Russell was born in Mississippi, but raised in Dallas. As his passion for the sport became more and more intense, he decided to go racing right out of high school. Russell still finds the time to balance his studies, pursing his bachelor's degree in Business. Russell also displays strong character and commitment off the track, as he stays active in community efforts such has Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Buckner Family and Children Services, as well as other community out reach programs.

Russell hopes to make this race the start of a new direction in his career, and plans to add more races to his schedule throughout the season. "This team has all the experience and talent to really put together a race winning car. It's about everything all coming together; the drivers, the team, the car, and some luck here and there. I couldn't really ask for a better scenario to make my Sportscar debut, and I hope to be doing this for a very long time to come."

-credit: p1g