Here at Red Bull Racing Australia, the life of a mechanic never stops. There is always something to be built, something to be tweaked and, try as they might, they just can’t seem to put down the spanners. But hey, that’s why we love ‘em.
Next up on the getting-to-know-wheel-of-fortune is car no. 88 lead mechanic, Ty “Tybo” Freele.
Now, Tybo is one of the originals, and we all know original is best (this can also be said for chip flavours and The Wiggles). He has been a part of the Triple Eight family since its Australian conception, and we are confident he will be here for many more years to come (we’ve got too much dirt on him).
So here is what you need to know about the one and only Tybo.
How long have you been with Triple Eight?
I started with John Briggs Motorsport in early January 2003, just after finishing my mechanical apprenticeship. In September 2003 Triple Eight took over the company, and well, the rest is history, I have been with the team ever since.
What’s your role at Triple Eight?
I have kept very busy over my time at Triple Eight, having a number of different roles at one time or another. This year sees me as number one mechanic for Jamie Whincup and car #88. It is certainly keeping me very busy both on and off the track.
What do you do in your role?
At the workshop, I prepare and maintain the car. I find myself pretty much glued to it at all times. When I’m at the track, as well as car maintenance, I also take on the role of right front wheel changer in the pit crew.
Where were you before Triple Eight?
Well, that was a LONG time ago. I was doing my apprenticeship at a mechanical workshop in the Blue Mountains called Winmalee Car Care. Now look where I am!
The best part of working at Triple Eight?
We are lucky; there are so many great parts about working for the company. I think having such a big team around you is great; it’s just like one big family
Have you faced any great challenges working at Triple Eight after all these years?
It wouldn’t be Triple Eight if you weren’t faced with a challenge every single day. You are constantly learning and being confronted with new, and often exciting, challenges.
Which is your favourite event?
Bathurst. It’s easily the best round of the season and something we really work towards. It has always been my favourite, the atmosphere is great.
