NGK-sponsored ‘Queen of the Bikers’ Maria Costello is set for a new racing challenge this season, on four-wheels. After sampling four-wheeled racing at last year’s Silverstone Classic, Maria has signed up to compete in the Historic Racing Drivers’ Club, running the HDRC ‘Works’ Austin A30 Academy Car.

The HRDC series boasts an action-packed calendar, racing at several circuits across England including visiting the prestigious Goodwood circuit for some pre-race season track work. The series hosts five Series for pre-’66 historic Sports, GT & Touring Cars and is unique in running a dedicated Series for pre-’60 Touring Cars.

Maria’s little Austin A30 will be up against bellowing Jaguar Mk.1 & 2 racers, super-quick Austin A35 and 40 models as well as a variety of Alfa Romeo, BMW and Ford race cars.

Best known for her motorcycle racing and TT successes, Maria said she is confident in the team and is aiming to be competitive in her new venture. She commented, “I hope I can do the little car justice and will do as many HDRC events as my bike commitments allow.”

NGK Spark Plugs has been a long-standing supporter of Maria with her Kawasaki ER6 supertwin motorcycle sporting an NGK-dominated livery as well as the LCR sidecar she raced last season with Kirsty Hauxwell.

Marketing Manager Mark Hallam said, “We wish Maria every success as she takes up this new challenge. She has always proven to be a fierce competitor on the two-wheel racing scene and I’m sure she will bring the same attributes to the Historic Racing Drivers’ Club series.”

As an Ambassador for the club Maria will be encouraging more female drivers to join the famous series. To follow her progress, including details of upcoming events, please visit the website www.costelloracing.com