Hughes, Dalton carry strong form into Enduro Cup

Erebus Motorsport co-drivers Jarrod Hughes and Lochie Dalton are feeling well prepared heading into this year’s Enduro Cup, having enjoyed strong results across their respective categories in the lead up to The Bend 500 and Bathurst 1000.

Both drivers made their Bathurst 1000 debuts last year, with Hughes pairing up with Jack Le Brocq in car #9, while Dalton competed in a Tickford wildcard entry with Rylan Gray. 

Each driver has enjoyed a successful year so far, with Hughes boasting the highest average qualifying position in the Trans Am Championship.

“The good results we’ve been having in Trans Am & GT4 give me a big confidence boost moving into the enduro season,” Hughes said.  

“There’s a lot less nerves this year than there was last year. I have one Bathurst 1000 under my belt, so I know what I have to do, I just need to execute. 

“I know I can do it, but going in with proven results certainly adds some strength to the whole program. I’m very excited to get it all under way.”

Pairing up alongside Supercars rookie, Jobe Stewart, Hughes is confident their previous work together will contribute positively to their results. 

“Jobe and I have worked together for 2 years already, through our Super 2 program with Erebus Academy. We always push each other to be better, and we work well together.”

It’s been a similar tale for Dalton, who currently leads the Super2 Championship, having already secured three race wins and three pole positions so far in the category.

“I have been in the seat plenty this year and achieved great results in both Super2 and GT4,” Dalton said. 

“My season so far in Super2 has given me confidence heading into Enduros but the enduros are a whole different ball game.”

Heading into his second Bathurst 1000, Dalton said he has a better understanding of what to expect. 

“I know what worked for me last year and what didn’t, so I will focus on those areas to ensure I am best prepared.

“I have done a few endurance races now with different drivers, so having a new co-driver isn’t something new to me.

“I have known Cooper for a long time, from our karting days to racing against each other in Super2, and we have spent a lot of time together at the track this year so I’m really looking forward to pairing up together.”

Hughes and Dalton will join Erebus Motorsport next weekend for the first Enduro of the season at The Bend Motorsport Park, September 11 - 13.