The 2014 Tasmanian Rally Series (TRS) is set to be an exciting tussle with prestigious and new events in the calendar to keep it interesting for Tasmanian and interstate crews alike.
A four round TRS in all the three main areas of the state will see the smooth Tasmanian forestry “highways” in use. These roads are some of the best the country has to offer, with the ARC having previously been hosted in three event locations.
In the past, plenty of mainland crews have competed in the TRS, including Glen McIntyre and Brett King (pictured) last year.
Four events make up the Tasmanian Rally Series in 2014.TRS1 – Legana Tyres & More Retreat Rally (MSCT) – 5th April
Round 1 of the TRS is all new for 2014! The event, with long term support from Mick & Leanne Luscombe at Legana Tyres & More, has shifted from the Bakers Beach area to the Retreat forest just north of Launceston. This forest has not seen rally action since the late 90s, so will be new for everyone. Starting and finishing in Launceston, the event takes in approximately 110km of rollercoaster roads which will reward the brave. NOTE: The date has shifted a week earlier to the 5th of April.
Contact: Mitch Newton (mitch_newton@hotmail.com / 0427 502 218) or see msct.com.au
Ken Roddam Memorial Trial 2014 – 24th May
Not a round of the TRS, but a major part of the Tasmanian rally scene for 2014 is the Ken Roddam Memorial Trial. This year, the event moves to the North West of the state and is run by the Historic Rally Association in conjunction with the 500 Car Club. This allows mainland competitors a minimal drive from the ferry terminal. There is a Sunday night ferry sailing to ensure mainland competitors can be back in Melbourne early Monday morning.
Contact: Geoff Rainbow (geoffrainbow@dodo.com.au / 0429 864 949) or see hra.org.au / 500carclub.com.au
TRS2 – The Hellyer Rally – 21st June
An event which has always been popular with mainland crews, the event continues on the North West for 2014. With the start/finish an hour away from the ferry, it makes it an easy event for mainland crews to attend. The North West hosted the ARC in the mid 80s, and ever since, the region has been held in high regard, with great events being run by the North West Car Club.
Contact: nwcctas.net
TRS3 – The Southern Safari – 19th July
The Southern Safari sees a return to the famous Styx Valley area, where the Saxon Safari ARC round took place in the late 90s and early 2000s. Highly rated by many ARC crews as incredibly enjoyable to drive on, especially the Styx Road, this event is also based very close to Hobart. Run by the 500 Car Club, this is a classic not to miss!
Contact: David Allwright (0438 685 266 /davidallwright2@gmail.com ) or see 500carclub.com.au
TRS4 – Mountain Stages Rally – 18th October
The Mountain Stages Rally is the final round of the TRS. Run across many areas of forest (in recent years Tower Hill, Saddleback, Blessington, Mt. Nicholas and others), competitors are faced with some great roads, climbing through mountains east of Launceston. The area has also been used by the ARC in the past. The rally is also held in the warmer months of the year, making a very pleasant day! A fitting end to a great series!
Contact: Mitch Newton (mitch_newton@hotmail.com / 0427 502 218) or see msct.com.au
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