Shane Van Gisbergen takes first V8 Supercars win of 2014

Shane Van Gisbergen scored his first V8 Supercars victory of 2014 in the third race at Pukekohe. Ford driver Mark Winterbottom followed close to finish second, just three tenths of a second behind, but more importantly claimed the championship lead from Craig Lowndes, who finished tenth in the race.

Volvo Polestar Racing’s Scott McLaughlin started from pole position and claimed the lead for the first eight laps.

The safety car was brought out almost immediately as Jason Bright ran wide and struck the tyre barrier on the opening lap.

As the field resumed racing, Van Gisbergen made his way past both reigning champion Jamie Whincup and McLaughlin and held the lead from there. Triple Eight Race Engineering driver Whincup started second but dropped to fourth position and chased McLaughlin for third position right to the finishing flag.

Holden Racing Team driver Garth Tander crossed the line in fifth position ahead of David Reynolds’ Ford Falcon in sixth position.

The V8 Supercars weekend in New Zealand continues tomorrow with a fourth and final race of 70 laps.