Higgs makes triumphant return as new AP4 VW takes shape

Former ARC regular, Chris Higgs, has returned to rallying in triumphant style, finishing third outright in the Narooma Rally, 12 months after an accident that could have ended his life, and that of co-driver, Daymon Nicoli. Higgs and Nicoli drove their recently purchased ex-Stewart Reid, ex-Chris Giddons Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 6 and were over-joyed at the result.

"After 12 months out of the seat and hearing calls from Daymon, we came down to Narooma where last year it very easily could of put us both out of rallying," Higgs said.

"Today was all about finishing and getting seat time. In saying that, I’m speechless of today’s outcome.

  "After losing boost 2km into a 27km stage when a turbo to manifold gasket let go, and then having a big spin in stage four, it looks like we have finished on the podium in third outright for the day. "The team only got the car down to Narooma at 1.ooam on Saturday morning, and I my first drive of it was at 8.00am, so it's been a big effort." Higgs and his High Country Motorsport team had been working hard on a new AP4 Volkswagen, but that lengthy project has currently come to a standstill.

"Unfortunately, due to work commitments we have not had the time to focus on the AP4 build, so the decision was made that when the right stand in car came up for sale we jumped at the opportunity," Higgs told RallySport Mag.

"The Evo 6 has a great history, starting out being Stewie Reid's second Evo after he crashed his first one in Tasmania, and it then went on to be the NSW Rally Championship, winning in the hands of Chris Giddons."

As for the AP4 VW, it's now on track for a debut early next year. "All the engeerning is pretty well finished, the shell is pretty well prepared ready for paint, and hopefully we'll have our first test drive late this year," Higgs added. Plans are to contest the 2019 Australian Rally Championship.

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