One of the drive’s of Brother Rally New Zealand came from popular American Ken Block, who steered his way to ninth place in his Monster World Rally Team Ford Fiesta RS WRC.
Block’s entry in to the World Rally Championship has been viewed by many as more a gimmick than anything else, but his performance in New Zealand proved that this is far from the case.
His driving over the three days of the event was very spectacular (as you’d expect!), but also very controlled. His commitment was right up there with the best drivers in the WRC, and his ninth place was well deserved – particularly when you consider that none of the top drivers (other than Ott Tanak) retired from the event.
This is despite Rally New Zealand being only his second WRC round this year. After day two of the event he commented:
"It's just been incredible," said Block, "definitely my best day ever in a rally car. The roads are fantastic, better than anywhere else in the world.
“We were catching air jumping from camber to camber through the corners, I have just loved it.
"We had one small spin, when we got the wrong side of one of the cambers, but otherwise it has been perfect."
As always, Block was popular with the crowds and graciously gave autographs wherever he went.
He really is an asset to the WRC, and we hope that he remains in the championship for many years to come.
Photos: Peter Whitten