Tipperary racing driver will compete in two eight-hour races in the United States

Tipperary racing driver Nicole Drought has travelled to the United States to join compete in two eight-hour races with the American Endurance Racing series.

The UK TDC (Trackday) champion received an invitation to join the HC Autosport Team in their BMW at the Summit Point Raceway in West Virginia.

READ NEXT: Swimming pool and sports complex in Tipperary have closed

The Roscrea woman arrived at the circuit this morning to meet the team and will have a short test before going straight into qualifying.

On Saturday she will take the wheel for at least three stints during the race and she will do the same on Sunday. Some 40 cars will take to the two-mile track on Saturday morning for the opening race and Nicole is really looking forward to it.

SEE MORE: Junior Irish Foursomes team in golf club in Tipperary reaches East Munster semi-final

She says, "I'm really excited about this one. The last time I was in the States was to drive John Campion's Jordan F1 car, Lancia LC1 and March 83G and I have always wanted to compete there.

"I'm glad I have been training so hard because temperatures are going to be around 35 degrees, even more inside the car. The team have been really helpful and have sourced me a suitable drinks bottle, cool shirt etc. The car is good and HC have had some good results, so all going well we will be aiming for a podium finish.

"As ever, a huge thanks to my sponsors who help me to do things like this". 

Nicole is backed by Gem Oils, ITM Naas, Siltex Safety, Joe Mallon Motor Group, RAC Air Conditioning,  Mondello Park and IEC Solutions.

She returns to the UK TDC Championship, which she leads, at Donington Park on July 19.