APRC drivers Haydon Paddon and Emma Gilmour are also competing in the NZ Rally championship. Last weekend was Round 1, the Rally of Hastings and Paddon finished 2nd place and Gilmour 3rd.
Read Paddon’s account of the event and plans for next weekends first APRC event, Rally of New Caledonia. A press release from Emma Gilmour is below.
FROM HAYDEN PADDON NEWS LETTER
Hi all, Today has been another solid day, finishing second for the day and second overall behind Richard Mason. Although things did not go to plan, all in all has been a successful weekend in getting our championship off to a good start. We started the day well with the first forestry stage, just 3 seconds off the stage win over 24km. But then as soon as we got to the public road stages with a covering of slippery gravel, it was a continuation of the grip issues we had yesterday. The car was sliding all over the place and we were struggling to carry the car speed that we normally would through corners.
Other than a small moment on the last stage in front of the TV camera’s, everything has gone smoothly today and has been most enjoyable. The team has put in a massive effort over the weekend and a big thanks to them all including Dad, Math, Neil, AD, Wayne, Katie, John, Mike and all our sponsors and supporters.
The next round of the championship is Otago, which before our trip down south will have a chance to rectify the handling issues so that we can challenge for the top of the podium. Before then though we have our first two rounds of the Asia Pacific Championship, starting with Rally New Caledonia this weekend. Dad, John and I fly out from Auckland first thing Tuesday morning and get straight into recce Wednesday and Thursday. The rest of the team fly over Thursday before shakedown and the Rally start on Friday.
Throughout the week I will keep you all up to date with our first experience of New Caledonia, which I am thoroughly looking forward to. Also later this week we will have our video diary posted on the web, which we will forward you the link to. Have a great week, and again thanks to every one for your support.
For results visit – www.chrissport.co.nz Team website – www.hayden-paddon.com
