Courtney to race in Formula Ford

Courtney was a member of the three-car factory Van Diemen team in this season's FF series.

However, an agreement between Van Diemen and Courtney's manager, Alan Gow, means the Australian driver will have number one status with the team in 2000.

'I've spent all year learning the tracks and getting totally familiar with the team and the Formula Ford series,' said the 19-year-old.

'I'd never even sat in an open-wheeler before this year and it was such a tough championship in which to be thrown in at the deep end.

'I really want to win this title, and now have the perfect opportunity to capitalise on what I have learnt this year.

'Winning with a car I helped to develop will give me even greater satisfaction.

'It's all down to me now, but I've no doubt that I can do it and can repay the enormous faith (and investment) that Alan and Van Diemen have placed in me.

'What a great way to start the new millennium.'