Erebus Academy’s Jaylyn Robotham and Jay Hanson have completed a two-day test at Winton Motor Raceway ahead of next weekend’s season opener at Sydney Motorsport Park.

For Hanson, Monday saw the 18-year-old step into a Supercar for the very first time ahead of his upcoming Super2 debut.

“The first lap in the car was a bit of a relief. It was a pretty crazy moment and one I’ve been waiting for for a long time,” Hanson said.

Although a power steering issue on Monday saw day one cut short, he was pleased with his return to the track across the next two days. 

“The rest of our test was really productive! We had a play around with different tyres and set ups and did a couple of race starts,” Hanson continued. 

“Driving a Supercar exceeded all of my expectations, from the way the car handles and behaves, to how quickly I was able to adapt to the car even after having no experience in anything similar.

“By the end of Wednesday, I was pretty wrecked. There was nothing more left in me.”

For Robotham, the test marked the start of his second season of Super2 which he enters with more confidence after getting to know the category last year. 

“Having a year in Super2 behind me, I understand the level of competition and how hard the category actually is so I know what to expect and am a lot more prepared,” Robotham said. 

“During the off season I spent some time with Paul Morris at Norwell Motorplex to work on my driving and getting into the right headspace off track, which is a big focus for me this year.

“This week’s test was really about getting back into the zone and getting re-familiar with the car. We also made a couple of big set up changes that were definitely a step forward for us.” 

Hanson and Robotham were also joined by Erebus drivers Will Brown and Brodie Kostecki, who served as mentors to the Image Racing duo.

“Having the main game guys alongside me, as well as Jaylyn and Jordan Boys, was absolutely awesome,” Hanson said.

“To have their knowledge is one of the best tools you can have and without being part of the Erebus Academy, I don’t think I would get these kinds of resources and experiences.”

Robotham added, “Will had a couple of laps in my car which helped me get a baseline on where I can improve and how I can improve. It’s great to have them around to ask questions and to get their advice.”

The pair will hit the track next weekend for the Dunlop Series season opener at the Sydney SuperNight, March 4-6.