Retiring three-time Supercars champion Craig Lowndes admitted to being quite emotional when his farewell vehicle was unveiled on Newcastle 500 eve.
The 44-year-old driver, met by primary school students from St Therese’s at New Lambton, got his first look at the golden design in pit lane next to Newcastle Harbour on Thursday.
“It is emotional,” Lowndes said.
“The suit, the car and the team have done a fantastic job keeping it under wraps. I had no idea about it.
“There was talk of a gold helmet, but we already had that in the pipeline for Bathurst. To see the suit, see the car, for me has been amazing. It's been an honour.
“I think come Sunday it will be more emotional for me, but for the moment it’s business as usual.”
This weekend’s Newcastle 500 will be Lowndes last as a full-time driver after more than two decades at the top of the sport in Australia, including his seventh Bathurst victory last month.
Lowndes will continue as a co-driver next season and pursue other interests, including overseas events and media commitments.
