Featherstone takes a break to consider options 

Graham Featherstone is taking an indefinite break from rallying as he ponders where to take his career.

The popular Featherstone has been a notable absentee from the past two Brian Green Property Group New Zealand Rally Championship events and is considering his next move in the sport as he goes through some big life changes.

An engine drama in his Mitsubishi Lancer EVO VII disrupted his start to the season. Although he did score a good haul of points at Rally Otago the problem forced him out of International Rally of Whangarei and he opted to remain on the sidelines at Canterbury and South Canterbury.

“There was a bit of over-heating and there were also some electrical problems going on as well so that is why we decided to pull the pin,” Featherstone said.

“I was actually thinking of not going to the South Island this year and having a bit of a break. I have been doing it for about five years and haven’t missed too many rallies.

“I thought I would take a step back, have a bit of a break and see how I felt a bit later in the year.

“I parked the car in the garage and we went on holiday.”

While he could easily freshen the motor on his Mitsubishi another possibility is to get into a modern generation car. Featherstone has proven to be a genuine contender at the pointy end of the field but he will take his time before deciding what next step to take.

“[A new generation car] could be an option – it depends on what happens. We will see what we are thinking later in the year,” Featherstone said.

“We are trying to sell a farm as well and change a bit of direction in life. We have been doing it [farming] for nearly 30 years.

“I am just about 60 so I am one of the oldest in the field.

“I am going through a whole lot of changes – not only rally but in other things as well. I don’t know what will shake up after the next year or so.”

Featherstone has missed not being at the past two rounds and watched the action via Chrissport and admits that he would love to have a go in a modern car.

The 2018 New Zealand Rally Championship is proudly supported by Brian Green Property Group, Gull New Zealand, Dunlop New Zealand, Hella New Zealand and Stadium Finance