From the Service Park – Daybreaker Rally
Opportunity of a lifetime
Which talented NZRC driver is about to head overseas for a massive opportunity that could well lead to WRC?
While the opportunity is now confirmed (there will be a public announcement in the next week or so), it will be up to how well the driver performs to see how far the opportunity can be taken but make no mistake, this is the fast track to WRC if it all goes well.
Historic class renaissance in 2025?
There is no hiding the fact that just two competitors in the Historic 2WD class this year is disappointing but it could quickly become the most hotly contested class next year.
Andy Martin confirmed during the commentary he will be entering next season and we reported previously that a regular will be back for the final two rounds of 2024.
I’m hearing there are plenty of others ready to make a comeback and that once one domino falls, the rest will follow suit. Think Buist, Van Klink, Ross, Murland, Evans etc.
Calling Andy
Speaking of Andy Martin – how good was he in commentary?
And the drivers loved him interviewing them in the Service Park.
If he isn’t in the Historic class next year, he has a future with a microphone.
A name he won’t forget
Even the best get caught with live microphones. How good was it to have the voice of world rallying Colin Clark down at the Daybreaker Rally over the weekend?
But even legends like Clark can get caught out at times.
Clark went up to chat to Zeal Jones live on air during the Super Special but couldn’t remember the talented youngster’s surname.
After his maiden podium finish and another classy drive by the teenager, Clark won’t be forgetting that name again anytime soon.
Many happy returns
Bryn Jones celebrated a podium finish in NZRC 2WD by recognising his father Anthony.
To help the older Jones celebrate his birthday, the younger Jones sought him out at the podium to make sure he coated him in champagne.
Happy birthday Jonesy!
Did everyone pass the police check?
We were glad to hear all competitors that were breath-tested in a check point on Saturday passed.
What was funny however, is that when Hayden Paddon went through the checkpoint, the officer approached the right-hand window (passenger side) of the Hyundai Rally 2 car and asked co-driver Jared Hudson to blow into the gadget.
He passed, and Hayden plucked first and drove off!
Rivals showcasing rallying spirit
It was really cool to see the rallying spirit on full display on Saturday afternoon when Rally Challenge 2WD championship leader Jared Parker and his team turning up to celebrate rival Pat Norris’ class win.
Parker had gone out early in the day with mechanical failure but wanted to celebrate Norris’ first win in the class.
Mind that sheep
It was great to see five-time national champion Richard Mason back behind the wheel of a rally car, albeit the zero car at Daybreaker.
Hayden Paddon would have enjoyed catching him in the cancelled SS4 I’m sure but Mason was held up with livestock on the road.
We know this as he got the team to smell his gloves at the service park and they did smell like sheep!
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