IPSWICH’S Hudson “Hotlaps” James is living the dream after exceeding expectations in his rookie Tyrepower V8 SuperUte Series campaign, with the 22-year-old preparing for round three at the Perth Super440 from July 31 to August 2.
After an encouraging test session, James said both he and the team were continuing to make steady progress with the car.
“Testing went very, very well,” he said.
“We’re definitely moving forwards with the car.
“It was good to get back in it and get back in the habit of driving the ute again because I drive so many different cars.”
Entering 2026, James viewed the season as a chance to learn the category and gain experience against Australia’s best.
Instead, he has already surpassed his own expectations, sitting 12th in the championship after the opening two rounds.
“Where we are in the championship is a bit unexpected,” he said.
For James, simply lining up on the SuperUtes grid is something he never imagined would happen so soon.
“It’s seriously a dream come true,” he said.
“A lot of hard work has gone into it, but to have people around me supporting me and sponsors who see potential and believe in me – it’s unreal. I can’t do it without them.”
Just a year ago, a drive in the national category still felt out of reach.
“I never thought this was ever going to happen because it is seriously the world of money,” he said.
“But it’s the people you know who will always look after you. I’ve just got the right people looking after me to make my dreams come true.”
James credited the support of EFS 4×4 Accessories, V8 Experience, PHP Asphalt and Warrego Transport and Repairs, saying the relationships built away from race weekends have been just as valuable as their financial backing.
“It’s really good because we’ve also got a really good relationship outside of race meetings,” he said. “That’s where it all happens.
“We’ve got the racing side of things, but we’ve also got the personal side too, and that really helps.”
