2 Mar 2015

Courtney wins Clipsal 500

7:17 am on 2 March 2015

The Australian V8 Supercar driver James Courtney won a pulsating Clipsal 500, backing up his 2014 victory and claiming the lead in this season's championship.

James Courtney (Holden Racing Team) winner of Race 3. 2015 Clipsal 500 Adelaide. 1 March 2015

James Courtney winner of Race 3. Clipsal 500 Adelaide. Photo: Photosport

Courtney won from pole position, holding off the relentless New Zealander Shane Van Gisbergen and teammate Garth Tander to take out the 250 kilometre race.

For the final 25 laps, the three shared a monumental battle for the lead, with the Kiwi wedged between the Holden Racing Team duo.

Van Gisbergen actually passed Courtney on lap 60 but in an act of sportsmanship he surrendered the lead because he'd made contact with the Australian's car.

Courtney was grateful for the act of sportsmanship.

Van Gisbergen's fourth in the championship, 36 points behind Courtney.

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