"I think the timing is a bit of cheeky festive season merry-making by the AASA. To suggest the Australian Rally Championship's long and distinguished tradition, which dates back 40 years, can just be appropriated for any group of events does a disservice to the memory of our past champions and devalues their achievements - even if it was intended tongue-in-cheek," Chairman of the Australian Rally Commission, Colin Trinder, said today.
"The battle honours won in the forest by the likes of Harry Firth, Possum Bourne, Cody Crocker, Neal Bates and Simon Evans can't just be usurped and I don't think anyone will be fooled" Trinder said.
"Rallying is a broad church and part of the appeal is that we try as best we can to welcome everyone," continued Trinder. "The broad categories announced by the AASA are already provided for within CAMS’ own vehicle eligibility framework. ARCom is always happy to receive submissions suggesting alternatives, particularly where there is a consensus that people want changes to the way their sport is packaged and run," Trinder said.
"ARCom is appointed by CAMS to make decisions in relation to Australian rallying, and we recognise that there are some big challenges facing rallying right now. We will be examining both the strategic direction and range of reforms early in the new year. We will watch with interest for further details regarding the AASA proposal to emerge and we will make an appropriate response in due course," Trinder said.
SUBSCRIBE BELOW TO READ THE FULL STORY
Love rallying? You’ve come to the right place.
Our team share the passion for rallying.
A subscription to RallySport Magazine gives you superior rally content from Australia, New Zealand and around the world – with deals, offers and experiences nobody can match. Our team is dedicated to providing an unrivalled experience that shares, supports and promotes the sport of rallying.
BASIC MEMBERSHIP
$79.99 / yearSign up now
Sign up now$7.49 / monthSign up now
Sign up nowPREMIUM MEMBERSHIP
$171.00 / yearSign up now
Sign up now$14.25 / monthSign up now
Sign up now
