V8 LEGEND MARK SKAIFE JOINS TEAMVODAFONE

Mark Skaife, 5 time winner of the Australian V8 Supercar Championship and 5 times Bathurst 1000 winner, will pair with former teammate and TeamVodafone driver, Craig Lowndes, for the 2010 Enduro season - an experienced and successful combination.

Meanwhile, former Development Series Champion Steve Owen has been announced as reigning V8 Supercar Champion, Jamie Whincup's endurance race co-driver.

The #1 plate holder for the second year running, Whincup said he was very excited about the prospect of the season ahead and teaming up with former Fujitsu series winner Steve Owen at the endurance events. "I raced go-karts and Formula Ford with Steve Owen and I have always rated his ability. He was my first choice and I am glad Roland did the deal.

"I now look forward to working with Steve to give him the opportunity to perform at his best. He plays an important role in my championship defence and our partnership should give him the opportunity to show his skills," Whincup said.

A three-time champion with Holden, Lowndes said the return to the 'red side' had presented him with an exciting new challenge. "I am really looking forward to the start of this season. Knowing I have always had my best results in a Holden definitely gives me some added confidence.

"It is exciting to be pairing up with Mark again after 10 years. He has a lot to contribute in a driving sense and I know his feel for the car, his seat position and the way he likes the car setup is very similar to mine. His technical input and especially his mental approach will definitely suit our team," Lowndes added.

Lowndes and Skaife were teammates for three years from 1998 2000 and won the Queensland 500 Endurance race in 2000. "I'm really looking forward to joining TeamVodafone for the endurance events," Skaife said.

"They are the benchmark team in V8 Supercar racing and their change to Holden provides a great opportunity for me to be in an ultra-competitive outfit for Australia's biggest races.

"The other great aspect is co-driving with my former teammate Craig Lowndes. He has always been my strongest competitor and rival, so to 'join forces' is a very special opportunity. We'll both be putting 100% effort into winning another Bathurst title," Skaife stated.

Team Principal, Roland Dane, expressed his delight with Skaife and Owen joining the Team commenting, "Today we are very pleased to confirm our endurance line-up for 2010 and announce the re-formation of the famous Lowndes and Skaife partnership.

"With a total of nine Bathurst wins between them, Craig and Mark will make a formidable team for the enduro races this season.

"Equally, Jamie and Steve will undoubtedly make a great team with speed and maturity being a hallmark of both these guys in recent seasons," added Dane.