[Racer Duck]

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) is delighted to welcome V8 Supercar driver Jack Perkins as an Ambassador and supporter of the Foundation.

The son of Bathurst legend Larry Perkins, Jack made his own name for himself rocketing through the various levels before reaching the sport’s premier category in 2007, the V8 Supercar Championship Series, only to have a spanner thrown into the works when diagnosed with type 1 diabetes late in the season.

With his condition now well and truly under control, Jack is back in the racing seat and dedicating whatever spare time he has to supporting JDRF and the Australian type 1 diabetes community.

“When I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes I had to face my greatest fear – that I would never be able to race professionally again,” Perkins said. “Now that I am back on track, both with my health and my racing, I am determined to show Australia what people with type 1 diabetes can achieve. I am also looking forward to working with JDRF to provide support and advice to newly diagnosed kids and also help to raise funds for much needed medical research into the condition.”

“I hope that by helping to raise money and awareness I can make a real difference and ultimately help JDRF find the cure that we are all so desperately waiting for!”

Mike Wilson, CEO of JDRF Australia commends Jack for his generosity and dedication.

“We are absolutely thrilled that Jack has joined the JDRF team as a celebrity supporter,” Wilson said. “His passion, dedication and generosity make him a wonderful ambassador for JDRF – and more importantly – an inspiring role model for young Australians living with type 1 diabetes. We welcome Jack to the JDRF team and look forward to seeing him back on the starting grid in 2008”

In 2008, Jack Perkins will contest the Fujitsu V8 Supercar Series in a Holden Commodore with primary backing from new sponsor, Mack Trucks Australia.