A return to the popular format of classics running first on the road will be a key feature of the 2016 Brakes Direct Border Ranges Rally.
Kiwi Derek Ayson will drive Ed Mulligan's car in the Escort Rally Challenge.Known as the Zupp Property Group Classic Rally Challenge, this “event within the event” is open to all cars complying with the CAMS Classic Rally Car Category.
Leading the charge will be the spectacular V8 powered Opel Manta driven by the equally spectacular Jack Monkhouse. Recently rebuilt, the Manta started life in England before being acquired by Australian rally personality, Ed Mulligan.
Now, with the car in Australia, rally fans will have the opportunity to see this unique car pitted against a strong field of Escorts, Datsuns, Toyotas and others of the period.
Among those will be the exciting New Zealander, Derek Ayson, piloting a Group 4 Escort. Ayson has visited this rally before and he is expected to be at the front all event.
Keith Fackrell has confirmed his intentions to run his beautifully prepared BDG powered Eaton Vale Escort, while Thomas Dermody, Matt Linning and Jay Davidson, also Escort mounted, are expected to create a close contest in the Escort Rally Challenge, also a part of this event.
Clay Badenoch will not allow the Escorts to have it all their own way, and his pace in the Toyota Celica RA40 means he could spring a surprise upset. Alan Griffin’s Datsun Stanza, always a popular front runner, has also signalled intentions to run, so competitors and spectators are both in for a treat.
This event has been a happy hunting ground for Classic Rally Cars due to the smooth nature of the roads, so spectators are in for a great show.
The Brakes Direct Border Ranges Rally has a limited entry of only 55 and places are expected to fill fast. Entries can be made online and close at 5:00pm, Monday, August 15.
For further information, updates and entry forms for the Brakes Direct Border Ranges Rally, click on http://www.borderrangesrally.com.au or go to the Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/BorderRangesRally/
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