Australian Chris Atkinson has had a fast, yet troubled weekend at the Oregon Trail Rally in the United States over the weekend.
Driving in his first rally in the United States, the Subaru Rally Team USA driver won seven stages over the weekend, but it was a mechanical issue on Saturday which put paid to any chance of victory.
The stage seven issue forced them to retire for the day - a frustrating way to go out of a strong position.
“(We’re) pretty bummed that we’ve had such a rare technical hiccup with the car, especially so close to the finish of the stage,” Atkinson said in a Subaru press release.
Subaru driver Chris Atkinson at the Oregon Trail Rally. Photo: Yujiro Otsuki / Subaru Rally Team USA
Atkinson and co-driver, Stephane Prevot, rejoined through the super rally regulations and go on to win six out of the eight stages on Sunday.
The Aussie praised his team on the overnight fix.
“The guys obviously did a great job overnight, fixing the car and getting it going again today,” he said.
Atkinson said that he was getting more comfortable with the car, and getting the setup more to what he wanted on the Sunday stages - that being reflected in the stage times.
Subaru driver Chris Atkinson slides his 2018 Subaru WRX STI at the Oregon Trail Rally. Photo: Mathew Stryker / Subaru Rally Team USA
Eight time Oregon winner, David Higgins took the top step of the podium in another of the Subaru Rally Team USA cars, while Jeff Seehorn finished in second.
Ken Block and Alex Gelsomino finished third in their classic Ford Escort RS Cosworth despite teething problems throughout the weekend.
Well-known Australian co-driver Rhianon Gelsomino also competed in the famous Oregon event, finishing in 15th position alongside American driver Eliza Coleman.
The next round of the American Rally Association (ARA) is the Olympus Rally, based in Shelton, Washinton on May 19th and 20th.
SUBSCRIBE BELOW TO READ THE FULL STORY
RallySport Magazine Subscription
Select Subscription Level
Select Subscription Length
Recurring Subscription Cost
A subscription to RallySport Magazine give you access to all our rally
content from Australia, New Zealand and around the world – with news,
features and experiences nobody can match.
Our team are dedicated to providing an unrivalled experience which
shares, supports and promotes the sport of rallying.
By clicking "Subscribe Now" you agree to receive news, offers and updates on RallySport Magazine.
If you do not wish to receive marketing communications, you can update your preferences in My Account.
We will commence charging your payment method after the 7 day free trial expires.
If you cancel after expiry of your trial, cancellation will take effect from the end of your current monthly subscription period.
You will not be refunded any fees paid to RallySport Magazine unless otherwise set out in the terms and conditions.
Account Created!
Welcome to RallySport Magazine VIP Membership.
Get ready for your rally news experience to completely transform.
Start browsing news, exclusive VIP content or check out your account.
