Author: Nikki Sim

Challenge / something that needs great mental and physical effort in order to be done successfully and therefore tests a person’s ability. The definition, in every sense, has under toned the 24′ series.

We push on as we love this crazy sport. It’s addictive and thrilling, the sights and sounds stirring adrenaline from the core and raising the hair on the back of your neck. The partnership’s, the rivalries, racing against time, all the amazing people and the harmonious groups that trek from event to event. Honestly, on behalf of anyone and everyone that makes up this awesome Northern Rally Sprint Series, thank you. You are what keeps this thing going.

There are hordes of you, in every facet of the running of these events, the competing teams, so many services and faces that make up each leg. It’s incredibly difficult to thank each of you for your part but know the contribution you make is significant.

Reclaiming a round toward the end felt rewarding. On rally soil, in a place that resets the dials. Maramaura’s allure will always draw us back, its forest tracks rich in rally history. As the healing journey continues, this time we were cleansed by the sanctuary of the forest. Its airy silence disturbed by those who challenged its path. It was an awesome day for competing teams and a big deep breath out for organizing clubs as the masses converged ready for a rip-roaring days racing.

SACC & TVCC pulled a white rabbit out of the hat, or was it a giant hare? Magic on the face of it anyway. The joint affair was well executed, blended teams seamlessly merged together and pulled off a very well-run event. Even from the very start of the planning phase, meeting with Sam and Emma Miller for a forest drive-through, it has been a pleasant process dealing with all involved and it returned many welcomed faces.

Yeah, yeah, the pits were spread out, the timing lights were a little bit different. The whole platter is delicately constructed, every little bit considered. Placements, thoroughfares, equipment, personnel. Soy pearls may not substitute for caviar, but we try our best to make it a tasty dish. The course was remarkably groomed, there were some beefy rocks that appeared in some bits which is annoying, especially if it’s in your drive line on your run but who ever gets a perfectly groomed course all day? Drive it as it is.

Timing is key, clockwork and syncing to ensure the day tracks along is critical. The timing and results team had their work cut out for them, trying to focus with RX7s pulsing beside you is absolutely an art. Always spare a thought for those who facilitate your experience, I’d dare say they’d trade places with you in a flash.

Photographs tell 1000 words and there are many photographers that support the events and the series. They scale cliffs and banks to track your movements, to bring you the money shot and entertain you post event and for months that follow with their array of images. You can just about taste the dust that Roostertails cars in their phenomenal action shots. We very much appreciate you all.

The fanfare also definitely rates highly, the spectators who cheer you on even if the cornering’s a bit dodgy. They too pop up on corners, up trees, on hills, in funny places, they just want a piece of that action too. It’s just cool how these events that are run by the clubs deliver so much.

Pin those ears back cause once you’re on a flow, this road is fun. I’ve always liked racing the forests, the course definitely looked different though with its large-scale cleared sections. Considering its a forest road, I thought it held up remarkably well. I’m not a master nor a frequent flyer, I’ve had the unfortunate experience of dodging other worse things like livestock, so a few rocks are an acceptable price to pay.

We come back and race on these surfaces. They’re familiar, they may even be frequent on the calendar but by gawd they’re fun. I haven’t had a decent blat in the forest for ages and there’s just something about the forest that lies in waiting. Made for logging trucks and rally cars they are. Be careful though or it’ll bite, fortunately no one got bitten on this event and only good times were had.

There were some blisteringly fast times notched on the board on run one, too much chomping at the bit clearly. Phil Campbell set out as the trail blazer to catch, the forest legends responding, setting respectable run times. Mike Goldsbury and Phil Broadbent posting in the top 8 fastest times on this run in their class B 1300-1600cc cars.

We’re a but gutted Rambo’s times weren’t recorded – obviously the detriment of a dual driven entry – his time spent bedding in the car, with its impressive demeanor & performance.

Most acquainted themselves well for run two, pressing ahead. The familiar feeling when it’s all going a bit right. I’m always a fan of the long ascents but what goes up must come down and the descending sections seemingly an art of nimble turns as the road cautiously snakes back down to the valley floor. Jenny Webley and Jess Jones swapped extreme for extreme, switching codriver seats for a run and getting the most out of 4WD v RWD thrills. Marc Huband had mechanical issues on this run, so too did Blair Richardson, leaving them out of the race. It was high fives seeing Carlin Leong sitting at the start line ready to go, Cheryl Leong also delighted in being able to ride one run shotgun. It’s great to see the very sharp looking Subaru back in action, it’s equally entertaining watching Carlin Leong and Nathan Roa’s YouTube feeds, seriously a must watch.

Run two top 8, Phil Campbell led the field with a 14 sec lead over closest rivals Dave Strong and Phil Brodbent putting in a solid effort. While every driver shaved back crucial seconds in this run, it only gets harder making the top 8 from the overall field. Time was in favour for the running of the day, and things were heating up mid-way through the eliminations.

Timing was on point and at just before 2pm, we were getting ready for run 3. I was getting a bit excited, as an organizer being in the dust and wind for half the day, I was starting to image the sweet taste of Red Fox ale. The sounds of the Mazdas snapped me back out of the haze. Were the Mazdas multiplying, there was more at this event than there have been in a while, David Beaver’s green RX7 a welcomed addition, Marcus Lowry the lucky co-driver recipient. Mitsubishi Evo’s were also in force and hunting for time. Sam Miller ending 4th fastest at 5:24, Kingsley Jones 3rd at 5:22, Dave Strong 2nd at 5:16 and Phil Campell still well ahead at 5:06.

Something loud was coming down the hill into the finish, enough to make you take notice. What was it, it sounded hmm, can’t put my finger on it, maybe a bit Mad Max? It was Tony Young less most of his exhaust, still dragging and rattling underbelly. Going for a wander and checking out how bad it was, I returned shortly after humming, Bob the Builder, can we fix it, yes we can, Tony quite adamant that wasnt going to stop his day.

Last run before the final run offs and Dave Strong sustained some damage in stage leaving him unable to finish. By this point the field were in full speed mode, very comfortable with the fast pace the course offered. Fresh to the course Tom Kemp-Hill was having a brilliant day’s racing, the forth run usually the run where you’d be really wishing it was your run one time. Kingsly Jones managing to scoop up 2nd fastest to round out the top two overall.

Class runoffs ensued, Class A Garry Trayes was able to have a healthy punt with Tony Young 6:13 to Tonys 5:51. The anticipation for an abled body to give Mike Goldsbury a good run for his money built high for class B, Phil Broadbent sustaining mechanical damages allowing Mike to take the win with a 5:27. Honda v Honda for class C, Anthony Te Rito v Grant Liston, 5:27 to 5:41. Class H PCC member battles Brian Best v David Beaver, 6:12 to 6:15, close. Charlie Evans was able to take out class D with a 5:25 with Leon McKnight a DNS. Phil Campbell had a good toggle with Kingsley Jones the difference 4:55 to 5:15.

It almost seemed like a new race then, to the Red Fox, we were parched. This is clearly the next best thing to forest racing, beer to wash away dust taste. It was a great turnout, the carpark was full. The best parking went to Cayleigh Young, parking on a slight hill, up a curb, with a trailer, she’ll be right, good stuff! That’s what cruisers are for.

Phil Campbell you’re a legend, Kingsley Jones almost had ya ..

Prizegiving

7th December from 5:30pm

Northern Sports Car Club, Mt Richmond Domain, Mt Wellington

Run in conjunction with the North Island Rally Series

Join us for another evening of prizegiving and entertainment with food trucks, socializing and silverware.

We are currently taking expressions of interest to sponsor the Northern Rallysprint into 2025. With primary sponsor CPS Chris Woundenberg having sold the business, we are looking to secure an event partner to support the series into the future.

Please get in touch with Nsim@xtra.co.nz 021 191 0660 for expressions of interest and to obtain further information.

Partners

The Northern Rallysprint Series round 4 was held Sunday 23rd June at Stanley Road, Whakatane but cut short after torrential downpours and wet conditions hampered efforts on the day.

Motorsport Bay of Plenty club organizers pushed ahead in favour of delivering the event to the competitors but after an incident/off on the first run and timing issues, paired with persistent rain worsening, reluctantly, organizers were forced to cancel the event. Although expressions of frustration were had at the cancellation, realizations were clear that every effort was made on the day to make the event happen.

Jackets, raincoats and gumboots were on. The water over the stage ford was a test for the brave and a spectacular sight for event photographers. Thank you Motorsport Bay of Plenty for persevering with the event despite the challenging conditions. Such a good road, it seems a shame not to be able to get a full days runs in for competitors.

Thoughts are with Carlin and Nathan after their incident. Carlins social media progress reports show every ounce of determination the young aspiring competitor has to get back on the road. It also gives procrastinators a kick up the pants for projects that are on the list to do but not yet done. Go well Carlin, you’re inspiring us all!

Inmotion Photography & Brian Young

Looking at ford splash levels, not sure which tactic is better, fast or slow, as seen above. I heard about the little red submarine but hadn’t seen the pic, now I know what they were talking about. Brian, we almost lost you in the water there mate.

The series moves onto Round #5, Hoddle Road which is scheduled for August 18th. Event regulations have been published and are online and available. Get in early so Hamilton Car Club can track entry numbers, it’s the golden number event organizers need to see leading into these events.

Recently, communications went out to advise of a change in the series points. Round 1, Arcadia Road points were retracted due to the event being abandoned following the tragic accident. No official results were made available on the day and as such, no points can be awarded. Although not a sanctioned series, the Northern Rallysprint Series organizers align to the MSNZ rules as listed in the NSC and without official results, I’m afraid our hands are tied. No, it’s not ideal and it’s not taken lightly, so apologies folks, we do try to deliver a seamless structure in the annual series.

The Series rules have points that cover and include scenarios;

Northern Rallysprint Series Rule 15. states ‘If the event is to be shortened for other reasons, prior to any runs, or competition such as bad weather, road deterioration etc, the organizers must inform competitors of the decision prior to the next run’. 

The decision to retract round 1 points was reviewed and reached by series convenors. We understand the outcome may not be favourable for all, and we appreciate all feedback submitted.

Northern Rallysprint Series Rule 16. states ‘If there are 5 or more rounds in the series, the registered competitors must drop 1 round’s score in the series for class and overall points‘.

As Thames Valley Car Club were not able to run the scheduled round 3 Piakonui Road, round 1 being abandoned and round 4 cancelled, it has resulted in only 2 rounds counting towards series points. Dilemma – not ideal at all.

Series organizers are enquiring into running a further round after Hamilton Car Club’s August Hoddle Road. A social media post was sent out to competitors asking if this could be what you’re after? There was some positivity, Dale James said’ would be awesome to get another round’, Bryn Jones said ‘if you can get another round in around NZRC events, I’m keen’. A glimmer is all I need to get onto fleshing out another round.

The calendar is pretty tight though and the 29-Sept is the selected tentative date. Apologies Geoff Batt, he’s a bit dark as that date messes with the holiday schedule, sorry!

Crunching numbers, she’s a bit tight. Further communications will go out to the competitor base – a proposed event would only go-ahead pending series members confirming entries. It’s a busy time of the rally calendar and this date is a one-time only offer.

Thank you to series sponsors CPS, Suspension Tech and Neil Allport for their support of the series.

Also to competing teams attending all rounds, clubs, and all volunteers who give up their time to make these events possible.

Our heartfelt thoughts remain with the families from the Arcadia Road accident as we continue with the final event/s of the 24′ series. *Forever and always*

The Northern Rallysprint Series sponsored by CPS and Suspension Tech, formerly known as the ABC Pipefitters Northern Rallysprint Series, the Clubsport News, Fortron and Woolf Mufflers series, is in its 38th year running.

Local clubs form the backbone of the series and supporters, competitor and spectator attendance, help drive its success. The series nets a wide of range of competitors, it facilitates shake downs prior to bigger events, local and wide club competitor entries, and for many, is our rally event/s for the year, including other events dotted in.

You can’t ignore the harsh economic sting though, it isn’t getting any cheaper to run events. Event entry fees have been fairly stable, small increases year-to-year, club-to-club. The cap has been roughly $300 for an entry, to cover costs, and to leave a bit of sliced ham in the bank account. That’s the aim, that’s the goal.

The 24′ series prizegiving is locked and loaded for Saturday 30-Nov, to be run with the North Island Rally Series prizegiving and held at the Northern Sports Car Clubrooms. It was a pretty good event and roundup last year and the venue fits a car up front as the center piece. You can’t find too many venues where the series winner can park their car proudly at the front of the room.. We’re looking forward to doing something similar again this year.

South Auckland Car Club drew the round 3 series drawcard & were able to facilitate an excellent day’s racing. Autumn sunshine blazed & screams of unleashed horsepower were in the air, rolling across the hills.

The course direction had shifted from previous hillclimbs, it incorporated elements of the WRC stage, it had crests & humps, bends & turns, machinery (can look at impressive machinery after run), the course kept you on your toes. I don’t know how all drivers feel about crests & humps, but spectators join me in saying ‘hell yeah’!

Mark Tapper not shy to give her a kick when lining up one of a couple of decent crests the course had to offer.

Run 1 seems to blow out cobwebs & test the underfoot. With 52 entrants, it’s a chance to pave out the driving lines & start the days push. For a shorter course of 4.9kms, dramas started early with Chris Subritzky having issues in his BWM 130i, close to marshal point 1, understeering into a ditch & receiving unnecessary panel beating to the underbody resulting in an early exit. Adrian Sutton also experiencing a gearbox issue in the Nissan Pulsar that sounded & felt ‘not good/expensive’. Unfortunate for Steven Dill who was next up for dual driving duties, hard luck guys.

Phil Campbell maintained his masterclass driving style with a 3.40 fastest time in his Ford Fiesta, followed closely by Hayden Mackenzie in the Toyota Yaris 3.42.19 & Todd Bawden in the Ford Fiesta R5 3.42.69.

Class H, 2WD classic, & class G, 4WD classic, were out in force strengthening the class battles. Bryn & Anthony Jones were dual driving the Mk2 Escort in class D, Ray Chubb was giving it a good go in the immaculate BMW 135i, not too far behind the Jones’s & Mazdaman Charlie Evans in the RX7. Honda powered John Whooley settled on a fair 4.12 time in class C, leaving next in line Glen Farrier with some work to do. Team Toyota, Phil & Sam Broadbent were carving out tracks & doing the dance, Simon Rabbidge keeping pace in the Suzuki Swift.

Has Tony Young driven this course before? 1300cc untethered Datsun 1200 power ripped around the course in a 4.14, Garry Trayes & Adam Wilson in Toyota Starlets getting in the groove ready to reset for run 2.

Quentin Palmer/Mitsubishi Evo 5 pushed back for a 3rd overall in run 2 while front-runner Phil Campbell held the line 7 seconds in front of rival Todd Bawden. Rick Aubin also charged in his Mitsubishi Evo 8 making the top 8 eliminations behind Hayden Mackenzie, Mark Tapper, Dave Strong & Ben Hubband. Great to see Jeremy Dawson out racing again dual driving with good mate Jimmy Dunlop in the Subaru Impreza, what are mates for eh to share their car & the good times – awesome guys!

Run 2 then had a cruel twist, issue with car 39 rolled, Andrew Keighley testing the ballast levels & unfortunately rolling the Mk 2 Escort in stage. A check everyone’s ok & straight back into it. A short time later, de je vu – Simon Rabbidge also having a big moment in his Suzuki Swift with a roll. Dismissing some vital equipment, the sump guard embedded in the clay bank, at least the pieces were locatable with a frustrating exit off stage.

Many cars will catch your attention, none more though than Steve Cox’s Audi Quattro beaming. Its agility & power is impressive & we watch you dance & weave. Not only can we catch your antics at start, finish & some of the spectator points, but friends of Steve’s have created a beaut YouTube compilation allowing us the in-stage experience. Check it out, it’s one of a few good YouTube clips showcasing the day ..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BN0iOTQbgE

1.30pm run 3 started solid, Mark Tapper & Dave Strong just ending up falling short & locked out of the top 4 eliminations. In class battles, Brian Best was playing a favourite game in class H called chase & tag Craig Tickle, just able to pin the tail on the donkey. Class G, Bevan Wilson/Subaru Impreza just inside the 3 min club 3.58 ahead of Shaun Wade & Ben Brown in Mitsubishis.

Charlie Evans wouldn’t give it to Bryn Jones easily, with Jonesy just a whisker back, mere seconds separating the trio. Class C maintained its leader with John Whooley charging still, Bruce James/MR2 & Glen Farrier/Mk2 chasing hard. Class B, there were 3 after Phil Broadbent has some issues & had to forfeit the run , Sam Broadbent happily waived the baton & charged to a finish of 4.12 in front of Rodney James/MR2 & Jeff Hill/Toyota Corolla. Tony Young still having fun in class A battles ahead of Garry Trayes & Adam Wilson, who got stuck in some rally traffic after Simon Rabbidge’s roll earlier on.

Now let me enjoy some air …

Shaken & stirred with just a little hang time, my ideal recipe. Commitment stations, spectators balancing phones for the best snap or videos. Big ups teams, you delivered, we liked. Yes, yes.

Timing wise, we were tracking well at just after 3pm. Timing control & results volunteers were fueled by home baking, sugar right into the veins to keep up with data entry, as drivers were running on adrenaline to see the push intensify into the 4th run. Phil Campbell clocked in a 3.31, Hayden Mackenzie now clearly reacquainted with the car but out by 100ths/second for top 2 placings losing out to Todd Bawden 3.34.35 to 3.34.61.

Flip it round, we think Tony Young has done this rodeo before topping class A with a 4.06. Sam Broadbent was 1 sec back to lead the class B team in front of Rodney James. The gap had closed in class D, Bruce James chasing down John Whooley, 4.07 to 4.10 to John, nicely played. Bryn Jones and Charles Evans were still dancing the salsa, all fiery like, Jonesy kept up an impressive pace, but just out of the top 2 in class. There were a whole bunch of class E competitors that had ended the run impressively & within the 3 min group. Rick Aubin & Carlin Leong keep doing what you are doing, you guys have been having awesome run-to-run and event-to-event progress!

Run 5 goes as fast the cold beers waiting at prizegiving. It is necessary & usually painless for those chasing top class times. Phil Campbell setting a finish time of 3.30 for the class E chargers & overall field leader, congratulations! Class H, Adrian Smith with a hundredth of a sec win over David Ayling. Class G saw only Shaun Wade run to take out the win. Class D the lads were still at it, 3.50 to 3.51 to Bryn, congratulations Bryn.

Bruce James took them brave pills & gave it all he had finishing on a 4.06 to John Whooley with a 4.07, right down to the wire! Class B, when your opponent isn’t able to race, then buckle up son & give it another elbow, happy to race another race. Garry Trayes happy to joust a final run with the Datsun, happy with anther days racing.

Where better to have prizegiving than in the heart of the Force Motorsport workshop, dotted with current projects, the familiar smell of hard work & elbow grease. The workshop itself dwarfed by dominant heavy machinery spread around the place. Prizegiving’s engaged by both event organizers. Dishing out the rally sprint winners’ placings first, then the North Island Rally Series, who had used Jacks Ridge as their round 1 to kick off the series. It’s great we can have these awesome series battles in action giving competitors all the very best of rally sprint & rally action.

Next rounds

MBOP Stanley Road, Whakatane 23-June

HCC Hoddle Road, Otrongohanga 18-Aug

Event organizer’s welcoming competitors to the Bay’s hospitality.

TVCC has had to forfeit 9-Jun to hopefully a date later in year. Piakonui Rd is very much a part of the series & we’re hoping to see them make the 24′ calendar.

Buckle up & enjoy the 24′ series as we track ahead. The points tables will be available soon.

Come see all your favourite competitors do battle again at the next round!

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Suspension Tech

Please continue the support where and how you can. Together we are strong.

https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/honouring-tyson-zane-jemmett.

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This running of Bothwell Loop was going to be the ice breaker, no which way about it.

Everyone was keen to get into it and the entry numbers even surprised the organizers.

It still had that feeling about it though, a strange emptiness, an anxiety, almost an awkwardness to fully fledge into the day.

Homemade baking scented the air, a bit spoilt really. Dare I say flat whites and mochas for those able to get past the morning butterflies. Big tick from me the writer and I wasn’t even competing.

The organizers were a bit nervous, wanting every duck lined up right. The volunteers held the focus, and a lot of thought went into making sure each person was ok to be there helping out on the day. The drivers briefing was held, the humble crowd listened and right before we departed for the day, we stopped and had a moment of silence to remember our friends. A respectful moment for them and helping us all take a step forward.

41 competitors started the day. The road was being run in reverse direction, starting at the northern end on the flat and ending up on the hilltops, around 7.5kms of limestone gravel. Running the stage from north to south changes the dynamic of the road a fair bit. In-car footage post event shows the road in its flowing state with very narrow sections, every part demanding from start right to finish. Fasten your seatbelts and listen to those pace notes!

Mechanical dilemmas struck early for some, Ray Chubb experiencing coil issues in the recce run in his BMW 135i and Hamil Pala breaking a front axle in his Mitsubishi Evo 9 a few hundred meters off the start line, forcing the team to spectate for some time.  It allowed an insight into others driving styles, Brad Hill unofficially awarded most radical driving style. 1min & 39 seconds separated the entire field on the first run, not much in it really.

Front runners Mike Young, Phil Campbell, Zeal Jones and Jack Hawkeswood set impressive opening run times. Zeal Jones recording the fastest first run time in his Skoda Fabia with a 6:03. Rallysprint eliminations dictate the top 16 on the first run and part of that bunch was Mike Goldsbury, Lukas Ramsay, Russell Jenkins and Phil Broadbent in their class B 1301cc – 1600cc cars, Stumpy Holmes and Grant Liston in their class C 1601cc – 2000cc cars and Bryn Jones and Ian Wood in their class D 2001cc and over cars. Not all class E 4WDs make up the top 16.

Unlike a hill climb, it’s balls out on the first run to make eliminations, the challenge is on from the get go. Tony Young had daughter Cayleigh giving co-driving her first go. Ending up position 19 on run one, I am not surprised she felt a little green, needing to pass the baton on a little later in the day. Sickness added to afternoon changes to teams. Highly recommended is those sticky behind the ear antinausea patches or Nausicalm tablets. They work an absolute treat, from mild to moderate motion sickness. Patches or pills and a Red Bull at lunch time, yee-hah, bring on the sideways.

With healthy numbers throughout classes B, C, D and E, classes A, G and H were guaranteed podium class positions regardless of how the day was to go, but push they did and had a good time doing so. Brian Best and Craig Tickle tussling away in class H with good battles throughout the day, shortening the gap on the final run to a mere 10 seconds.

Unfortunately, bad luck was to strike again for Rodney James in the MR2, dual driving with Bruce James, a broken brake line would have them withdraw at the end of run 1. Colin Goodwin in the Subaru Impreza also ended his run 1 with overheating issues needing to be towed out of stage.

Garry Trayes, in class A, was acquainting himself with Bothwell Loop having never been to the Waikato stage before. Tony Young, the only other class A competitor wasn’t letting the uphill geography slow him down, pedal to the metal and taking a healthy lead into run 2.

Rob Sutherlands Opel Mantra was sitting midfield in run 2. At position 17 in run 1, this car clearly has the boogie to keep up with the pack, a car as impressive as the trailer it arrives in. Another car, striking in the Waikato countryside, is the Nissan Skyline of Kaden Wood, keeping in tow with consistent times throughout the day.

Top 8, run 2, ended with Mike Young, Phil Campbell, Zeal Jones, Jack Hawkeswood, Carlin Leong, Derek Payne, Mike Goldsbury and Gavin Feast. The top three placings sitting on 5:51.47, 5:51.72, 5:51.92 respectively.

Ian Wood in his Totoya Corolla had issues and Cam McKay in the Toyota Starlet had a moment, resting against a wire fence ending in a precarious spot. A tow was required. Jeff Torkington also stopping in stage.

Run 3, top 4, this run wasn’t without further withdrawals. Jack Hawkeswood exiting with a broken axle, Bryn Jones had a brush with a bank parting way with his bumper and damaging his intercooler, Rick Aubin sustaining a flat tyre, then rim and braking issues and Dave Strong coming to a halt after point 1 with issues.  

Stumpy Holmes was entertaining sponsors as co-drivers and Sam Broadbent was driving the absolute pants off his Toyota Corolla again. Mazda man Charlie Evans was a second off Mike Goldsbury and Carlin Leong ended in 4^th fastest at 5:49 in his Subaru Impreza.

Down to 29 starters later in the day, run 4 kicked off at around 3pm. Morning showers dried into pleasant afternoon autumn weather as the class battles played out.

Mike Young and Phil Campbell were neck and neck all day, now top two, with Mike just taking the win at 5:36. Charlie Evans and Ian Wood were trading seconds in class D, similarly in class C with Grant Liston and Kaden Wood. John Whooley and Stumpy Holmes would have been likely contenders if they were still going.

As thin as piece of paper was the gap between Mike Goldsbury and Sam Broadbent in class B, I’d dare say no spare tyre in either car removing unnecessary weight, and Sam had removed a bumper somewhere along the way in the day, another unnecessary fixture. Sam took out fastest class time in this run with a 6:03 vs a 6:04.

Chris Burke was the sole occupant of class G for the day and Craig Tickle and Brian Best were keeping up with the round-to-round friendly rivalry in class H, joined by Andy Bowie, Craig Tickle taking out the win with a 6:25. Back up the field in class A, Tony Young had swapped over a co-driver, (not sure if it was this run or run 3) his current co-driver was a little miffed when the scandie flick didn’t go accordingly to plan at the intersection, lurching them off to the right. In usual Tony fashion, it didn’t slow him down, finishing this run with 6:30, Garry Trayes enjoying the day and road and happy with his efforts.

It’s always a good day when all runs can complete with no major time delays or tow or retrievals cutting into running time, and you can move straight to the final run-off for the day, for top 2 in each class. The winners were sighted in the service park and sent back to the start line. Having online results is also very beneficial as people can track their progress throughout the day helping them make those ever-important decisions like when to bolt on fresh treads.

From top to bottom, class A Tony Young 6:25 and Garry Trayes 6:57.

Class B, a readjustment of final order, Mike Goldsbury 5:58 and Sam Broadbent 6:04, awesome drive Sam!

Class C had a handshake and decided to call it a day without a final run-off.

In Class D, Charlie Evans 5:57 and Ian Wood 6:01.

Class E, Mike Young 5:34 and Phil Campbell 5:35.

Class G, Chris Burke didn’t need to run-off against himself.

Class H, Craig Tickle 6:22 and Brian Best 6:32.

Overall, Mike Young 5:34, Phil Campbell 5:35, Mike Goldsbury 5:58.

 With targa on in the vicinity of the region, some had braved an exit only to be turned around and unsure which way to go home. For those that stayed, it was a welcome gathering at the local hall with an array of delicious food still available to top up energy levels. We thank the local farm owner for the use of his paddock for pits and of course the local community for their support in allowing us to use Bothwell Loop again for another year. It makes a huge difference having community support and massive effort goes in from the local club to engage with as many locals as possible.

Trophies were lined up, refreshments were served, banter was rife. It was nice. Chris Kitzen hit a new PB producing results for review some 3 mins after the last car finished for the day. We still have to wait 30mins past posting results for them to be final. Prizegiving kicked off, the winners and grinners for the day came up to collect their spoils. It was a good day’s racing with all your favourite driver and co-driver teams.

Another good day at Bothwell Loop in the mighty Waikato.

A big thank you to photographers Noah Hutchinson and Alex Stewart for action shots.

Recap – Round 6, Kaharoa/Penny Road Rally Sprint 19-Nov-23

Although numbers were light, call upon the people and they will come. MBOP had a 90° turn into Penny Road that had drivers turn #BOSSmode, giving spectators a well-deserved show. Someone clearly forgot to turn the sky tap off as it was dousing down leaving competitors with rather wet conditions to deal with.

In light of the precipitation, Phil Campbell rolled out another masterclass of driving in his Ford Fiesta AP4, a weapon of speed and agility baiting all for a good battle.

The morning started off slightly wet, and although hopeful for the skies to clear, it stayed on and off wet most of the day. Smaller fields do mean a quick turnaround and full runs on offer for the day, despite the weather.

Run 1 proved a good warm up with two drivers recording under the 5 minute mark, Phil Campbell 4.37 and Jay Pittams 4.55, James West not too far off. Disappointingly, Chris Alexander had some car issues 3km into the first run, meaning his day was cut short.

Second run, the road was a bit dryer, and it seemed the rain might clear up with drivers getting more used to the road. Little did they know, it was about to rain heavier and the road to get more slippy. Phil Campbell was untouchable by the third run with his local knowledge and AP4 proving he can almost go as fast on the wet as the dry, almost equaling his personal record on the road with a 4.24.47.

Fourth run was again a bit slippy but the drivers seemed to have gotten comfortable with their tyres and grip. Most drivers managing to get faster and faster as the day went on with 5 drivers cracking the 5 minute mark. Lukas Ramsay proving, he has found some pace in his Fiesta well below the 5 minutes in the third and fourth run to finish 4th overall.

Final placings were almost already decided before the runoffs and a few cars decided to put on a show at the spectator junction, giving everyone a splash or a laugh. Phil Campbell finished the day by beating his own personal record, which was done in the wet, on rally tyres with a 4.23.62. Second was Jay Pittams with a 4.43.83 and rounding up the top 3 was James West with a 4.48.88.

A few mechanicals but surprisingly no major offs. A few whoopsies – some on purpose, others not. Overall, a well-run event despite the weather gods not playing ball, it meant for a good spectating day.

Driver-codriver synchronization of racecar, balancing skill to conditions to achieve a result worthy, no matter the conditions.

Impressive times were set on the day, at just over 8kms in length, the tarmac masters danced the dance and wiggled into the groove, to shave back round times and cap off the series only tarmac round.

Kudos to all competitors and organizers for this round, and every round that made up the 23′ series. It’s a well followed series, one now 35+ years in the making.

23′ Series Prizegiving

The Northern Sports Car Club, situated in Mt Richmond Domain Mt Wellington, housed a special evening on 25-Nov. A joint event, the Northern Rally Sprint Series teamed up with the North Island Rally Series for an evening of prizegiving, awards, food and banter.

Most competitors were involved with one or both series, so an evening to celebrate both series panned out. The evening was split, and commemorations were in order for all award recipients. Glassware was clinking and trophy ware was being dished out. The challenge seemingly, was for the stage teams to try pass over trophies to the right people as 1st, 2nd & 3rd placings were coming up to celebrate together. NIRS then calling up codrivers with drivers, it was a very busy stage area.

Trophy winners navigated down the invisible runway to the rear of the room for professional group photos by NIRS series photographer Geoff Ridder.

Series sponsors, Chris Woudenberg & Chris Alexander, handed out driver and codriver championship trophies. Series convenors, Grant Liston and Don Brunt, handed out series special trophies.

Speakers entertained, Bob Mitchell, Marty Roestenberg, Neil Allport and Kingsley Jones providing great banter for the evening. Trophies decorated tables, Phil Campbells car stood proud in the room right in the middle of the action and all in all, it was a very enjoyable evening.

2023 Award Winners – Drivers

2023 Award Winners – Co-drivers

2023 Award Winners – Special Trophies

24′ Series Calendar

Clubs have committed and there is another 6-round-series in store for 24′.

New roads/venues are desirable to add variation to the series, clubs trying to seek out new roads where possible. SACC were scheduled to run first, however have requested to be pushed out later in the year – so first up is HCMC with Arcadia Road.

*Roads/dates are subject to change.

Clubs are aiming to deliver high for your rally sprint action.

Drivers and codrivers, please click on the link below to register for the series

Series Registration

The Otorohanga region painted the palate on race day with overcast and wet conditions making for an interesting approach to Hoddle Road. The pits parking in the fields was potentially the first big hurdle of the day, and turned into a mere introduction of what was in store.

It was a gumboots kinda day with mushy conditions that posed no troubles for some but most took an optimistic approach to test the waters on what was to be a very damp, muddy start to the day. Usually fast and furious, Hoddle Road dialed it down a notch where drivers had to hone in on keeping it tidy and getting into the groove.

The rallysprint series lackies achieved their daily step counts after a walk round the vast pits area dishing out sponsor stickers. Very challenging getting door banner stickers to stick on wet door panels. Geoff Ridder did give us the heads up that despite our best efforts, these stickers may not be recognizable post run one when cars etch on the first coat of race mud. Right he was.

The paddock pits hill started working its magic, testing cars traction upon exit. Most chuckled at peoples attempts to get up a very slight incline – until it was their turn. A sturdy tractor parked itself strategically to help aid the multiple stragglers getting caught out. Cudos to those pitting roadside, or even better if you got in on the smaller gravel car park area.

Run two, would this be the money run, all or nothing on a deteriorating road surface. Most made a good dent in their run times, a trio of same minute battlers stood out – Lukas Ramsay, Brooklyn Horan and Jordan Grant, all giving it a good push with an equal finish time of 6.20. Charlie Evans notched into the top eight, finishing with a run time of 6.11 and Todd Bawden, who lost time in stage on run one missing out on a top 16 placing, put in a fierce charge back in run two seeing him finish with an impressive 5:57 stage time. Eliminations are tough, when you have to push to the limit right from the get-go to keep within the clutches of cut offs, its full noise run to run.

All made the most of the trying conditions, even the local farmers and their dogs stopping for a gander. Were they watching the cars or keeping tabs on the state of the road, ahh it’s soupy anyway, what’s a couple a hundred extra churns through the corners.

Most say no to the mucky conditions, good drivers just drive it, rain, sun or hail. Atrocious conditions aside, spare a thought to the organizer’s playing Russian roulette running these events when old friend mother nature time again tests the core resilience of the club’s ability to commit to race day.

Run three was definitely time to do the business. It seemed 50/50 on another run, the ruts were really digging in but the charging continued strong. Forever envious of those getting a good washdown between runs, there was no escaping the muddy warpaint for most. Focus though was on keeping it straight and keeping it tidy, easier said than done.

Kingsley Jones was ready for a good nudge, trailing just behind Dylan Turners Audi AP4 on this run, just one second down. The results said he was in an Evo but the nakedness of the unwrapped Skoda was a stark contrast to the lush green backdrops. Chris Subritzsky was winning on the diagnosis issues, enough to see him join back in the race to give it a good push but when one rejoins, one taps out, Lukas Ramsay ending this run with a dnf. Disappointing as it’s always good seeing Lukas out there charging, just as entertaining when it’s out in Dad’s car.

For most, just keeping in the tracks and finishing with a good clean run was enough to keep the dream alive. A downpour during this run would leave many questioning if run four would be. All long for a dryer Hoddle to unleash the potential this road harnesses, realistically we’ll have to wait another year to make the famous comeback tour.

To go forward, first you have to go backwards, the mysterious philosophy heading into run four. Not applicable to all, Shaun Wade and Bryn Jones were a small splattering of drivers who actually got faster on this final run. Time ticked onto the run times, hats off though teams, you got your full winter experience rally drive and challenging for all, it resets the field with all in the same slippy slidy boat.

Raana led the field all day, his impressive attacking style saw him stay under the 6 min mark on all runs. Haydn Mackenzie did not start this run, neither did rallying stalwart Grant Liston, or Barry Gibbs amongst others. Nick Marshall definitely got filthiest car of the day by the look of the post-match pics, if only there was a wash world voucher up for grabs at prize giving.

JP Van Der Meys was tipping it in hoping for a smooth final run, just a tad too much losing the rear 300m from the start line, hitting a bank and resting in a slightly upside-down position. Andrew Keighley joined the class H competitors in his Ford Escort, and class G competitors all finished with a class podium.

Phil Campbell has put in a good solid five rounds this year to retain the series lead as we draw closer to the 23′ series end.

While all drivers are out there making lemonade enjoying the spoils in rallysprint land, there is one final round which could prove to be just the fizz, a game changer, to sum up another bumper year. Motorsport Bay of Plenty’s Kaharoa/Penny Road on Sunday 19th November is a tarmac round… now before you throw your arms up and demand for gravel, variation can be key to blurring photographic minds, unfamiliar territories ensure an even playing field leading into the final push. This round will be worth the trip, a targa-esque type feel but on steroids, when rally teams come out to play once more, it will be for final standings for the year.

A mere one week later, the series prizegiving will be held at the Northern Sports Car Club in Mt Wellington. Dial the trophy engravers on turbo, there’s not much time in between the final run to splashing the champagne. The evening, being run in conjunction with the North Island Rally Series prizegiving, will bring food vendors, key speakers, trophies and a good yarn. Please add Saturday 25th November to your calendars as we’d love to see you there.

The field was turbo charged leading into this round. Whispers of Shane Van Gisbergen attending adding to the hype. The seeded list confirmed it, no pressure teams, very cool. Competing numbers were close to a full field of 50, testament to the lifeblood of the humble rally sprints.

Cars were gleaming at service before recce, very short lived for most upon their return. Pits paddocks housing a mere few on mushy underfoot, the majority field was scattered along the Paparoa roadside to pit and service.

After the morning’s precession, it was time to get into the business. The sweet, sweet sound of cars departing for the start line charge, the final hurrahs of people catching up then sinking down into race seats ready to rock and roll.

Classes were proportioned well although the 1300cc field again appeared light. Business time, round 1, let the battles begin. Teams were on charge straight out of the gates and quickly got into the groove feeling for what the roads had to offer for the day. It was looking good for most but not all. Clinton Cunningham suffering a puncture blipping his chances to launch a serious attack, Rodney James constant overheating issue reared its ugly head again in the MR2 leaving Bruce James also unable to run, dual driving disadvantages.

Lukas Ramsay had his business socks on, leading class B after R1. Mike Goldsbury a mere stone’s throw behind him, while Phil Broadbent was ‘making friends with new wheels’ getting the feel for the new LHD Starlet.

Grant Liston dominated class C, Hondas pulling rank for top 3 in class for R1, followed by Toyota dual drivers Jeff Torkington and Dale Crossley.

Class D’s Charlie Evans ‘catch me if you can’ Mazda, saw a good push from Steve Goodare in the Sunny, welcome back Steve, we’ve missed you! Brad Hill just snaked Barry Gibbs for P3 and JP Van Der Meys was having a good battle with Ray Chubb, just 4 secs between them.

Class E was essentially the 5 min club, Shane Van Gisbergen’s double drive times not counting towards the official timing stakes. Eyes would be on Phil Campbell to see how the planned attack would play out. Down by 10 secs on the first round, do not doubt the series leader. Contending class E drivers had their own strategies in play resulting in very close competitive times.

Class G welcomed Simon Bell back dual driving the Subaru Legacy with Dylan Turner, to add to the stakes for Jay Pittams and Chris Burke. Dylan, still driving like it was the Audi, sat up front with a 5:33 at the end of the run.

Robert Van Gisbergen raised the bar in his quick Ford Escort Mk2 in class H joining the 5 min club. Gary Wainwright responded with a mighty push and Craig Tickle brought the BWM home 3rd in class. The battle of the Ford’s was rife, Brian Best, Stephen Porter and Andy Bowie were knuckling in.

Variable road condition was evident after R1, this was not going to end well. Organizers quiver at the sound of clay, apex’s being chewed away slowly at points. Competitors really dig in and fight for seconds in R2 to claw into the points standings.

Tony Young’s lack of class competition didn’t see him idling about. If in doubt, go flat out, ripper R2 time of 6:01.

Lukas Ramsay was having a really good push until a rerun of his R2 missed time resulted in LH rear hub failure 2 corners in, not boding well for the bridge entry, snaping it right off, collision course immanent. Game over. With the James’s and the Broadbent’s DNS into R2, the remaining class B competitors shaved serious time from their R1 attempts, Mike Goldsbury back in P1 and the Toyota Starlets battling hard for places.

Mark Neilson launched a comeback tour in class C, the Hondas were just relentless. Dale Crossley and Brendon Andrews traded seconds, so too did Dale James and Nick Flanagan. Jeff Torkington, dual driving with Dale Crossley, broke a CV on the start line on his go, grr moment and ended R2 with a DNF.

Class D was a knife fight with Charlie Evans taking P1 over Steve Goodare by 1 sec. Barry Gibbs pulled out a doozie and JP Van Der Meys clearly had his Red Bull in between runs shaving almost 1/2 a min from his previous R1 time to be within secs of Brad Hill in the BWM. Damian Morris next in line for mechanical issues, broken wheel studs on left rear, unable to make the start line.

Phil Campbell was down 7 secs from Shane Van Gisbergen after R2 in class E. Still not fretting, it’s a marathon not a sprint, so to speak. Kingsley’s Skoda was in stealth mode with its different appearance, and he had the Subaru Impreza of David Sievers in his sights. Clinton Cunningham put in an impressive 5:17 time and a fierce battle ensued between Derek Payne, Hamil Pala, Gavin Feast and Phil Macquarie. Bevan Wilson was having issues in this run leaving him with a DNF.

Jay Pittam’s was not having any part of being P2 in class G as the battle of the Subarus continued resulting in a 7 sec lead over Dylan Turner. Simon Bell and Chris Burke very consistent in R2.

The standings were somewhat unchanged for class H, progression for R2 finish times for all, Stephen Porter just 1 sec down from his R1 time.

The clay issue was back into R3, it was unlikely they’d be able to sustain this level of intense driving with the large field on those soft corners. It’s time to pin the ears back and get stuck in, it’ll likely be the last round. No one wants that but also no one wants road damage and unhappy residents either, hard juggle.

Tony Young had troubles leaving him stranded at pits. Mike Goldsbury improving his time still sitting in P1, Phil Broadbent sorted his R2 DNS issue, reacquainted himself with the Starlet and flew into P2 with a 5:38. Russell Jenkins and Cam Mckay rounding out 3rd and 4th places.

Seconds were indeed shaved, the podium of class C was unchanged, team Honda stamped their mark – Mark Neilson, Grant Liston and John Wholley 1, 2, and 3. Dale James consistently completing his runs, getting more kms of seat time in the Ford Fiesta.

Fast chargers Charlie Evans and Steve Goodare would stay out and do the business all day long given the chance, a final time of 5:17 put Charlie just 4 secs ahead of Steve for R3 class D. Brad Hill was taming the beast to see him on the improve again sitting in P3, Barry Gibbs relinquishing the battle having issues leaving him unable to finish.

You can’t help but sit and up and absorb the fast and furious run times of class E. Series leader Phil Cambell, with co-driver Michele Brunt on board, delivered a final push – blink and you’ll miss it for the final times for the day. If betting stakes were on, it’d be a hard choice, but you’d be wise to back Phil. He took out the win for the day, just 1 sec in front of Shane with a 5:55. There’s that magic number again, is it a sign?! Congratulations Phil Campbell!

Kingsley Jones got the job done in the Skoda v Subaru battle with David Sievers. Bevan Wilson got going again to haggle R3 times with Phil Macquarie, just blipping him in a standing’s perspective. Clinton Cunningham DNS and Derek Payne, Hamil Pala and Gavin Feast were at it again, throwing stones and trading seconds.

Strange things happen when you know it’s your last run, Dylan Turner and Jay Pittams kept at it, Dylan ending the day trumping Jay with a 5:23, 3 secs up. Simon Bell and Chris Burke making good gains for final run times.

Robert Van Gisbergen had a moment leaving him off the road, now this is where the stakes change very quickly. Gary Wainwright, Craig Tickle and Brian Best squeezed out everything they could and crossed the finish line in that order.

HCMC organizers had to call it at the end of R3, the road was not in a good way. It was disappointing but it is what it is sometimes, road preservation and resident rapport takes priority over racing.

Below, in car footage with SVG and Brianna Little.

Series points calculators are tapping away and the updated points tables will be published very soon.

1st Overall Phil Campbell

2nd Overall Shane Van Gisbergen

3rd Overall Kingsley Jones

Photo Credits: Ridder Photography, Snoad Photography, Blissful Photography, Wayne Otten.

Big thank you to our event photographers showcasing our favourite sport!

Final Rounds

Round 5

20 August, HCC Hoddle Road regs have been circulated on the CPS Rallysprint messenger chat Derek created, great way to reach out to all. Jump onto the Facebook page to join.

Round 6

19th November, MBOP will conclude the 2023 series by bringing a tarmac round to the series. Kaharoa and Penny Roads 

Prizegiving

Saturday 25th November @ the Northern Sports Car Club in Mt Richmond.

The Northern Rallysprint Series will be teaming up with the North Island Rally Series this year to maximize on prizegiving, particularly given a large proportion of competitors compete in both series. More details to come closer to the event.

Like many others, I would like to acknowledge the recent passing of Allan Woolfe. A long-time sponsor of what is today the Northern Rallysprint Series through his company, Woolf Mufflers.

What an incredible man passionate about motorsport and a true ambassador for the sport.

Woolfy’s last race was held today at the City Impact Church.

On behalf of the Northern Rallysprint Series, our thoughts and wishes are with the family.

To arrive at the event and have to haggle for a good pits spot, well, competition on! Class battles, give it your all, this humble series just keeps on giving. It is the clubs though that make the series. Every contributing club plays an integral part in the series future. Keep on delivering us the good roads, and we’ll push hard to keep this series going for years to come!

In between rounds, while wallets accrue and extra cable ties are securely fixed, buy those extra tyres and bolt them on ready for the final rounds. It’s a small price to pay but it pays dividends on race day!

3 women codrivers showcase the top overall series codriver table, Brianna Little, Olivia Robinson and Carol Liston, Little with a safe distance from her second-place rival Robinson.

The codriver series is going from strength to strength, series admins are now able to piggyback off clubs codriver sign sheets to confirm who’s codriving round to round. It’s quite a task tallying codriver points, we now welcome Simon Rabbidge to assist Grant Liston in this dept.

Early series reverse rounds indeed changed it up, however driver teams adapted quickly to the challenge and embraced these changes. As we move back into familiar territory with Arcadia Road and Hoddle Road coming up, experienced teams will no doubt be pulling out historic notes, adding in real time updates knowing there’s seconds to shave.

The pace notes have been a huge advantage to teams, new and old. Series sponsor Neil Allport enlightened to hear from codrivers as to the benefits the provided notes bring. Thanks to Neil who has been out on stages this year pace noting the new/old courses.

Volunteers also play a huge part of the running of these events, so please take the time to say hi or thanks when you can on race day, it speaks volumes to those who give up their time to aid the running of these events. The crew and the wife are equally very important!

MBOP have a game changer planned for the last round of the series. 12th November, Kaharoa/Penny Road is a tarmac round. This may not be to the fancy of all but, let me be bold here, are you up to it? Rally gravel by nature, do you tarmac as well? Bit of set up changeover sure, versatility is the name of the game here and an evolving series with a sprinkle of new to the existing recipe, adds to a new flavour.

Supporting the member clubs with what they have to offer keeps the series alive. Where’s the fun if you know what’s what.

Regionally, it also diversifies the field, introducing new competing teams to the mix. Maybe just the push you need to make sure you’re properly dialed in. We want to see the final round well supported, so make sure there’s a set of tarmacs on the shelf leading into November.

Prizegiving plans are underway and soon to be announced. It will be in the Auckland region, late November, shortly after the final round, date TBC. A chance to congregate in a social setting, out of overalls, to enjoy an evening with our rally mates. We’ll get through the last few rounds and allow time to line up the glassware and prepare for our wrap up celebrations, we do hope we’ll see you there.

Post photo credits: Geoff Ridder, Matt Smith & other unknown photographers.

The aim was to deliver something new for competitors, spice up the regular course with a new flavour. Undertones of whipping wind, sideways rain & slushy roads, all added challenges to test competitors’ resilience. Undoubtedly, we prefer rally with the sun high & a slight breeze on our back, but not on this day!

Allocated start times aided drivers to start line positions, necessary when the pits are a long way from sight. Run 1 was slightly daunting after the reconnaissance run, but drivers got straight into the groove. Brooklyn Horan having the misfortune of bonnet pins working loose 300m from the finish line resulting in bonnet up & a smashed windscreen. Dave Wright had mechanical gremlins leaving him unable to get to run 1, Rodney James faced an overheating issue & Brent Milner was seen being towed out of stage in his Toyota Starlet.

Phil Campbell dominated with a time of 5:52, this would be the fastest stage time of the day. Matt Jensen responded with a time of 6:02. Phil Broadbent led the class B battles with Lukas Ramsay nipping away at his heels, 2 secs off. Tony Young almost had class competition for the day until Brent Milner had to retire. Grant Liston was at the helm of class C & Brooklyn Horan put in a respectable 3rd place time despite the bonnet issue. 3 contenders were eyeing up 3rd for class D, Wayne Pittams, Chris Ramsay & Mcrae Sloper all finishing on a 6:32. For class G, there were 3 & class H, Colin Cole a mere 0.04 sec off Craig Tickles 2nd place time.

Jay Pittams started run 2 with a good push, Phil Campbell bolting on new tyres & proceeding to go 4 sec slower. The road had deteriorated between running as car 1 then running again after nearly 50 cars had been over. John Whooley smacked a bank after setting an excellent time on run 1 & despite losing little time in the stage, was forced to change his rear tyres to an inferior pair for run 3 as stones were lodged between tyre & rim.

Sam Broadbent had set his sights on Dad who was clearly comfortable on the back country roads. Daniel Haines was on the improve on his 2nd run time, while Charlie Evans & Dave Strong were still battling at the front of the class D. E class teams were fiercely attacking for 3rd place positions, Mike Torr just 0.05 sec ahead of Matt Jensen. Chris Sherrif & Nick Thompson were being very consistent with their run progression, while Craig Tickle took a chunk out of his run 1 time.

Colin Cole having to retiring in this run.

Back at pits, the circulating clouds set in. Some pits kids enthusiastically wiped down the sides of cars ready for the next run, while others envied Phil Campbell’s pits setup. Phil surpassing his competitors here as well with a water blaster set up ready at hand.

The road was deteriorating further with some run 3 times ending up slower than that of run 2. Dave Strong strategized & ran his special Pirellis & closed the gap to 1 sec behind Charlie Evans in the battle for class honours & 4th overall. Mike Goldsbruy redeemed himself to finish first in class B & a respectable 2nd place for Lukas Ramsay. Brendan Andrews tailed Grant Liston to take out 2nd in class C & Hamil Pala was in good form & snagged 2nd place from Mike Torr.

Jay Pittams set the 2nd fastest time of the day on this run with a time of 6:05 & Brian Best was sitting just outside of class honours after a really good push.

The end result, the same top 4 overall as the last rallysprint in Maramarua.

Phil Campbell

Jay Pittams

Charlie Evans

Dave Strong

There were technical issues during the day, one being mud on the finish beams & two being the lack of ability to print results, both not ideal. Despite this, Thames Valley Car Club persevered & ran a great event in terrible weather conditions.

Thank you to the many TVCC volunteers, hot chocolates for everyone!

📸 Also many thanks to Geoff Ridder for the selection of fantastic action shot images.

There is a bit of a break now in between the rounds. Hibiscus Coast Motorsport Club have a rescheduled date for their round of the rallysprint series, round 4 is on Saturday 15th July.

The points calculators are tallying & the tables will be up soon. Check out where you’re sitting as we hit the halfway mark of the series, the competition as strong as ever.

There are 3 rounds to go & a bit of a shin dig planned for later in the year to round out a very enjoyable 2023 series so far.

Brake Pad special

for competitors for duration of the rallysprint series.

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