Running from 3 to 6 July, the ten special stages are as unique as the traditional Longyou event. Along with a mix of gravel and tarmac (concrete) stages the event is known for, there is a chance of redemption on the final day with a unique all-in final stage. Fastest time wins US$50.
The fifth of five rounds for the Digital APRC series, Longyou hosted 2019’s final Chinese Taipei driver Lin Dewei was crowned. Lin’s knowledge of the region and changeable conditions allowed him to sweep aside all those who journeyed for a chance at the crown title.
This weekend’s event promises to test competitors in a similar way with the weather playing a key factor at driver decisions on car setup and tyre choice.
Illustrating the skills at figuring the best car setup and tyre combination and then applying them, stand-out performances and consistency by the three competitors place them head and shoulders above the rest.
Of the four rounds contested Australia’s Luca Giacomin has a nearly 100-point lead over Japan’s Ranofka. Similar performances across all four events keeps New Zealand’s Matt Summerfield third, 102 points behind Ranofka. Japan’s Toru Tanimura is the only other driver with a mathematical chance of finishing the season on the podium.
Starting at 18:00 Friday (3 July 0600 GMT), the first leg of four stages will run until just before midnight (11:45 GMT Saturday). The Sunday leg of six stages will begin at midnight (12:00 GMT and run through to 1800 (0600 GMT) Monday 6 July.
Just prior to the final stage will be a quick 15-minute service, for competitors to completely freshen their car for an all-in finale – for a chance at the US$50 prize.
Based on events scheduled to run as part of the 2020 FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC), the Digital APRC was a fun alternative that drew a broader competitor base. Each of the five rounds was run approximating the itinerary and weather conditions typical for that event – to add realism to the virtual realm.
Following this weekend’s Digital APRC finale will be a one-off Trophy event later in the month, based on the itinerary of the South India Rally.
Again; the APRC are providing prizemoney for the ‘Biggest Moment’. Submitted footage from competitors is judged on the https://www.facebook.com/FIA.APRC Facebook page for the most comments.
Entry to the event and series is free with registration and competition from the event link https://dirtrally2.dirtgame.com/clubs/club/321214.
Series regulations and details can be found at https://fiaaprc.com/digital-aprc-event-regulations.
