Last run as a round of the APRC in 2009 it has a long been part of the multi-continent series and even hosted two rounds of the World Rally Championship (WRC) between 1996 and 1997.
Heading up the field this weekend is 2018 Pacific Cup champion Fabio Frisiero, back behind the wheel of the Peugeot 208 AP4.
But a new generation of Indonesian drivers will be hot on his heels and keen to make a name for themselves. Three Mitsubishi Lancer’s will be piloted by Priamanaya Djan, Edwin Djaya and Aldrian Suwardi. And Andrew Hawkeswood’s AP4 Mazda 2 will make another APRC appearance, this time in the hands of Rihan Variza.
All crews are contesting the Asia Cup qualifying round, which is the second opportunity for teams to earn entry to the end-of-season Grand Finale in China.
From pine and sugar plantations to sections of natural bush, the road surface is gravel on a clay base – which can become very slippery if it rains.
Following Friday evening’s ceremonial start the two days of competition begins 9am Saturday as teams tackle six special stages. Distances range between 11km and 24.9km through the Rambong Sialang estate (south of Medan) – which includes the centrally located service park.
Sunday’s remaining four special stages, all held within the same estate, return to the nearby Lubuk Pakam for the ceremonial finish.
Entry List
Priamanaya Djan / Hade Mboi, Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X
Rihan Variza / Andi Rendy, Mazda 2 AP4
Fabio Frisiero / Giovanni Agnese, Peugeot 208 AP4
Edwin Djaya / Gulam, Mitsubishi Evo X
Aldrian Suwardi / Romy Capri, Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX
Photos courtesy of Terry Hill, apsm.tv and Geoff Ridder.
