A little bit sideways Rallying in New Zealand, where we like to get A Little Bit Sideways! Up to date Rally News from teams around the country together with event reports.
It was a case of third time lucky for Christchurch’s Dylan Thomson who finally recorded a finish at the Lone Star Rally Canterbury, round three of the Brian Green Property Group New Zealand Rally Championship, with the added bonus of another victory in the NZRC Two-wheel drive class.
Thomson moved from Waiuku to Christchurch over the off-season so revelled in the opportunity to perform on his home rally but was apprehensive knowing he was yet to finish the event.
Unfortunately the wet, slippery forestry roads with a soft top didn’t suit the lower powered Fiesta, with the inconsistent grip not allowing Thomson to carry the corner speed required to keep up with his more powerful rivals. Despite that, Thomson and co-driver Amy Hudson were the fourth fastest two-wheel drive car through the opening stage and led the NZRC Two-wheel drive class for front wheel drive cars up to two litres.
The Total Lubricants Ford Fiesta was able to take all the punishment the rough forestry roads could throw at it with nothing more than a punctured tyre and Thomson balanced his pace to pick off several rivals as the day progressed. After some impressive times in the final two stages, held under the cover of darkness, Thomson had progressed to 15th overall, second two-wheel drive and victory in the NZRC Two-wheel drive class and junior category.
“That’s the toughest event I’ve ever finished, the conditions certainly put our whole team and package to the test,” said Thomson. “It was a relief to make it to the end, and pleasing to set a couple of good stage times in the dark, it seems everyone else slows down in the dark and I don’t!”
The Dylan Thomson Rallysport team now turn their attention to the Stadium Finance South Canterbury Rally on June 23.
Dylan Thomson Rallysport’s campaign is supported by Total Lubricants, Riordan and West Transport Pukekohe, Drew + Accounting, Harrier Signs, Rustorations, Mark Rose Construction, LJ
Hooker, Fowler Homes South Auckland and New Zealand, Northwood Beaurepairs, Ford Ultimate Motor Group, Jivan Produce, Dunlop, Hunt Diesel, Ferodo Racing Pads and GHL Tempfence.
Press Release by BB Media
