Gilmour out of Daybreaker Rally

The Dunedin driver suffered concussion and a cracked rib, which has influenced her decision not to compete in her Citroen C3 Rally2 car in the New Zealand Rally Championship qualifier.

“This change of plans is disappointing as I was really looking forward to rallying back in New Zealand and especially at this Manawatu event, which was last held eight years ago,” Emma says.

She was set to pair up with experienced co-driver Nicole Summerfield for the all-female duo’s first full event. They had a successful debut together in the Catlins Rallysprint last month, winning the short, southern event.

“I’m gutted not to be able to do the Daybreaker Rally with Nicole and the Paddon Rallysport team,” Gilmour added.

“It’s a real shame to miss an opportunity to get out on the amazing Manawatu and Rangitikei districts’ roads. My Extreme E schedule this year means I have only been able to drive in the first NZRC round at Otago in April.

“However, I’ll take this time out to focus on letting my body heal and we will be back for the final NZRC round at the Bay of Plenty on October 15, when I’m fully fit again,.”

She thanked her supporters for their messages, texts, and comments following her crash.

“I really appreciate them and I’m all in for a speedy recovery!”