Paddon embraces challenge of defending title
Paddon will miss the extra point scoring Otago Rally due to a clash with the opening event of his European Rally Championship schedule, leaving the rest of the Kiwi field with a massive opportunity to strike a significant blow.
While disappointed he misses one of his favoured events, Paddon will be at the remaining five rounds of the national championship and is prepared for arguably his biggest challenge to date on Kiwi shores.
“Looking forward to returning to the NZRC – our favourite events and stages in the world and competing at home is what ultimately helps us to put our European campaign together,” Paddon said.
“It’s a real shame to miss my favourite rally first up but gives us a good challenge thereafter to see if we can close the points gap over the next five events.
“The target is to try and defend our title but under no illusions that that will be harder than normal with missing Otago.
“But I’m looking forward to enjoying my favourite events and doing the best we can, and seeing how we are positioned later in the season.”
Paddon has also confirmed that youngster Jared Hudson will serve as his co-driver in the five New Zealand events this season with long-time co-driver John Kennard sitting with Paddon in Europe.
“Will also be great to have Jared in the car with us for our championship campaign together as we continue his development,” Paddon said.
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