For immediate release: Friday 6th June 2008.

Kiwi’s win pre-rally showdown

A waka contest between international drivers and a selection of kiwi’s entered in to this weekend’s NAC Insurance Hella International Rally of Whangarei has already illustrated a fierce rivalry.

A pre-event activity for the third round of the Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC), three out-rigger canoes were used to emulate a waka race.  Crews of five were made up of international drivers plus a team of senior kiwi rally competitors and a junior team.

Requiring strength, as well as co-ordination and team-work, the kiwi seniors comfortably won all three races while the kiwi junior team attempted the tactic of distraction by lobbing items at the opposition.

“It was hilarious and I suspect a few rotten eggs were provided by not only those on the waters edge but a few were smuggled in to the boats too,” commented Laurie Brenssell, chairman of the NAC Insurance Hella International Rally of Whangarei organising committee.

Raced over a 200 metre course in the Hatea River opposite Whangarei’s Quayside Town Basin, the teams were visibly fatigued after each heat:  “They were serious about it too; they worked hard and wanted to win.  They weren’t trying to conserve energy for the rally – they were going all out, their egos made sure of that.”

Re-focusing their competitive attention following tonight’s ceremonial start, the real action begins Saturday with eight stages through the Kaipara District, with a further seven stages on the Sunday.

Returning to Whangarei mid-Sunday afternoon, the closing ceremony kicks-off from 3pm at the Quayside Town Basin.

Paddling for victory; drivers in this weekend’s NAC Insurance Hella International Rally of Whangarei exercise their competitive streak before taking to the regions roads for the two-day rally.
Photo: Euan Cameron

 

Ends.