We’re halfway through the series – 2022 has been full steam ahead and it’s been awesome seeing the field come out to play. With noticeable absences of some of our regulars, the field still remains strong.
38 competitors hit PCC’s Bothwell Loop to tackle the series icebreaker on March 20th. Donned with face masks and a spacious pits area, the elements delivered a dry, dusty day resulting in a great first round. The road had a fair amount of attrition, mainly mechanical with some small incidents. It seemed a little out of place not being able to hold a prizegiving post event, however as time has progressed, we’re now re-introducing fundamental parts of race day and easing back into the regular schedule.
Round 2 at TVCC’s Piakonui Road on 8th May saw another good field of 36 come out to play, many needing to reschedule the Mother’s Day catch up. NRSS organisers chased cars to get door banner stickers applied, we love seeing action shots capturing our important event sponsors in recognition of their support.
Another bluebird day, the weather set the scene on how it would go. Slippery roads were the prominent challenge, the day was going smoothly until round 4 saw incidents unfold. Mechanicals, offs and roll overs unsettled the field, the day ending a little later than expected. You get this on the big jobs though, commiserations to those sustaining damages and huge appreciation to Club organisers and volunteers for the long hours that go into these single stage events.
The rally community then received news of sudden loss which left us all in shock. The passing of Malcolm McLeod and Leon Styles. Thoughts remain with their families and friends with fitting farewells taking place. Both were prominent figures, Malcolm was a big part of the NRS. It was comforting to know he had his debut in the Accord at NRSS round 1 Bothwell Loop. Malcolm’s post round 1 article will be published in the next edition of ‘A Little Bit Sideways’ magazine, make sure you are subscribed to tune in.
Round 3 was a slight calendar shuffle with HCMC squeezing in a rescheduled round at Arcadia Road on 29th May. This was the final registration round of the series, drivers automatically qualifying for registration with no forms and no fees, co-drivers still needing to register either on the website or at event documentation. The event went well, the road only taking a few casualties. It’s a fair way up in Paparoa but well worth the drive, the rolling hills of the north a reminder of why rallying is so much fun! Supported by the Lions Club, its great seeing clubs give back to their communities.
Points have been tallied, congratulations to driver and co-driver teams so far. Check it out in the Points section of the website.
With some great rounds coming up, tighten up your belts for some exciting rally action. This year we have MBOP on board with a new course to tackle, we’re still quietly hoping NCC will jump back in later in the year, so fingers crossed.
Thank you all for your support, your attendance, your ‘moments’ on the course, your catchups before and after the events. It’s brilliant, a real sense of rallying comradery.
