TODAY 26 MAY Exclusive Lexus News

...Hart, Jacqui Cooper, Corbin Harris, Kris Smith, Lauren Phillips, Anthony Lehmann (Lehmo), Brian McFadden, Sav Rocca, Tom Gleeson, Rhys Uhlich, Brodie Harper, Kasia Z, Dr Chris Brown, Callan Mulvey, Laura Enever, Kate Waterhouse, James Mathison, Luke Richetson, Shannon Eckstein, Anthony Bell, Ross Stevenson, Giaan Rooney and Natalie Hunter.Driver training began today with an induction and suit fitting, followed by an intensive two-day course conducted by ace professional motorsport drivers Neal and Rick Bates in their capacity as Lexus ambassadors.The celebrity drivers will get their first taste of the Albert Park Formula One circuit at Thursday's practice before racing on Saturday and Sunday.

Five lucky promotional winners will be competing beside a host of Australian and international celebrities.The five have won their places through a variety of Lexus promotions, including dealer competitions, vehicle sales promotions and a charity auction benefitting the Red Cross Victorian Flood Appeal.

Andrew Scifleet, the dealer principal of Lexus of Brisbane, Lexus of Southport and Lexus of Maroochydore, won through to be the dealer representative in the race and one of the five."I'm feeling very lucky to be here, and quite apprehensive - I'm not sure what to expect!" Mr Scifleet said.

"I do know that the CT 200h is a beautiful little car that handles great and is quite nippy too - it's a surprise packet."Tanya Prescott, a real estate agent from Salamanca, Tasmania, has placed an order for her own CT 200h and as a result won the opportunity to drive in the celebrity challenge.

Ms Prescott was drawn to the CT 200h due to its styling, compact size and fuel efficiency."I do lots of kilometres in my job, so the hybrid with eco mode will be great for me. I think it's the way of the future," Ms Prescott says."I can't wait to get out and drive the car, it will be a fun weekend!"

Competition is expected to be strong, with many drivers vying for a podium finish."There are a few of us in the Lexus Celebrity Challenge who share the same competitive sporting streak," said Ironman champion Shannon Eckstein."I can't wait to get out there and give them all a run for their money."