Australian Pro Stock standout Tucker
joins Cagnazzi Racing 3/5/2007 - Shane Tucker

Cagnazzi Racing announced the signing of Australian Pro Stock driver Shane Tucker as the newest addition to its team, which already fields the cars of Dave Connolly and Jeg Coughlin. Tucker nearly won the 2005-06 Australian Pro Stock championship in his rookie season, finishing second by just five points.

Hailing from Carsbrook, Queensland, Tucker is the reigning rookie of the year on the Australian circuit in his Pontiac Grand Am and is in contention for this year's Pro Stock championship.

"The kid is well-spoken, charismatic, and a hard worker," owner Victor Cagnazzi said. "Shane is a good fit for our organization."

Australian Pro Stock cars use small-block engines and run 7.20s at 190 mph.

"These 500-cubic-inch American Pro Stock cars are a bit different from our Pro Stockers," Tucker said. "I know they're a tough ride and a bit finicky, so I'll have my hands full getting used to it, but I can't ask for better mates than Dave and Jeggie to help me get up to speed.

"This is a dream come true for me. I couldn't have ever imagined I'd be given such a great opportunity with a first-class team such as Cagnazzi Racing."

"We are in the process of soliciting sponsors for Shane," Senior Vice President Dan Pikarsky said. "Shane has movie-star good looks and will bring a young, hip factor to whoever he represents. I honestly believe he will be a good addition to the team and the Pro Stock class and will be a good ambassador for the sport."

Tucker will begin competing as soon as sponsorship is in place. Meanwhile, he will continue to compete in the Australian National Drag Racing Association, continuing his driver-development skills, getting seat time, and working toward the 2006-07 Australian championship.