Heimgartner reveals baby on the way

Andre Heimgartner has revealed he and his partner are expecting the arrival of their first child.

The Brad Jones Racing driver confirmed the news via social media on Thursday.

Heimgartner said his child, a girl, is expected to arrive in April 2023.

It comes just months after the Kiwi announced his engagement to partner Jemma.

Several drivers are parents, including Mark Winterbottom, James Courtney, Tim Slade and David Reynolds.

Courtney’s fiancé is expected to give birth to the couple’s first child between the Bathurst and Gold Coast events.

Winterbottom is a father of three, and Courtney a father of two.

Slade’s partner is expecting their second child.

Seven-time champion Jamie Whincup, who will return to the driving fold in Bathurst, welcomed his first child earlier this year.

Dad life will add to what looms a pivotal 2023 season for Heimgartner, who is readying for his first BJR Bathurst.

The Albury team will switch to Chevrolet Camaros as Gen3 arrives next year.

Heimgartner’s first BJR Bathurst also comes with the extra pressure of the PIRTEK Pit Stop Challenge.

BJR is the two-time defending champion, and will aim for a third straight title in Bathurst.

BJR will take on Shell V-Power Racing Team, Tickford Walkinshaw Andretti United and Red Bull Ampol Racing in the live finals.

Dual podiums on home soil for Heimgartner

BJR is the raging favourite to win the title considering its crucial speed in Pukekohe last time out.

Twice in New Zealand did BJR help Heimgartner jump rivals in the lane.

It helped the hometown hero score dual podiums, efforts that weren’t lost on the driver.

“The boys were pretty pumped up,” Heimgartner said of his crew in New Zealand.

“Second yesterday, and third today, a strong part was their pit stops and how fast they were.

“Whenever you come into the pits, if you’re close to someone, you’re going to jump them.

“It’s unfortunate for your competitors, but really great for us.”

Cars will hit the track in Bathurst for Practice 1 on October 6.

Tickets for the Repco Bathurst 1000 are available on Supercars.com and Ticketek.