Behind the wheel of a Subaru Impreza WRX obtained specifically for his rally debut, Taylor Bourne (18) will co drive alongside step father and MP for Rodney, Mark Mitchell, to follow in his father’s tracks - the area made famous for rallying on a world stage by Possum during the 1990’s and throughout the peak of his career.
Taylor’s Subaru - a 2012 WRX coupe has been put together by none other than Pukekohe’s own Possum Bourne Motorsport and has been “tricked out” says Taylor to suit the demands of rallying. “She’s no slug” says Taylor “but the priority will be on finishing this rally and enjoying every moment of it. I’ve got a bit of time left yet for testing our new toys pace.”
When asked what convinced Taylor to compete in the iconic memorial rally, Taylor mentioned that it was actually his step-father Mark that suggested the idea. “I’ve never actually done any kind of formal tribute to my late father, but seeing as this is the 10th anniversary of his passing, as well as the rally itself we decided together and as a family that it was a fitting thing to do” says Taylor.
All of this, confirmed in discussion following a morning’s Motokhana at the Pukekohe Car Club at an event held in nearby Tuakau some 2.5 weeks ago. Not fitting with the usual preparation required prior to a rally, the family banded together and quickly called on friends, family and contacts to not only find a suitable race vehicle, but obtain the correct licences in order to be able compete legally, bring sponsors on board and everything else required to get Taylor and Mark to the ceremonial start in Pukekohe’s King Street at 7am.
Taylors Mother, Peggy Bourne said “it’s been an absolute mission, but a very, very humbling few weeks to see and feel the support coming in for Taylor and the family from every direction.”
“Knowing the emotion that will be involved for everyone on Saturday, we think it’s an amazing thing to be part of not only for Taylor, but for everyone who has ever had a direct or indirect connection to Possum.”
Supported has been poured in for Taylor’s campaign from new and old sponsors such as CRC, Subaru New Zealand, McDonalds Orewa, Chicane Racewear, Glasurit Paints, Agility logistics, Northern Arena, Caltex, PBM and Hella. All of which have come on board in the short space of time it has taken Taylor to realise Taylors his calling.
“I am extremely proud, but would be lying if I said it wasn’t all a bit nerve racking” says Peggy. “With that though, the sheer admiration for Taylor’s personal tribute to Possum and overwhelming amount of support from everyone around us has superseded most of the nerves.”
“There’s no pressure on Taylor this weekend, it’s about having have fun.”
The Vantage Possum Bourne Memorial Rally will take place this Saturday as the fifth round of the New Zealand Rally Championship.
SUBSCRIBE BELOW TO READ THE FULL STORY
