Consistent driving throughout the season has clinched the 2009 Queensland Rally Championship for Subaru Impreza driver Matt van Tuinen, of Brisbane.
Van Tuinen, took first place in the first three rounds and second in the final two rounds, ensuring an unbeatable points tally for his maiden championship.
The Alexandra Hills driver, backed by mobile communications specialists Philcomm Pty Ltd, needed to finish only third in the final rally, the Extreme Motorsport Gallangowan 150 on November 28.
He and co-driver Nathan Long started strongly with a win on the first stage and an overall lead of 23 seconds after four stages. They continued to pressure their rivals throughout the day, but opted for a cautious approach on the night stages to ensure a finish and secure the championship, although still managing to complete the event in second place.
“I’m thrilled to have won the 2009 State championship for myself and Philcomm,” said van Tuinen, whose season also featured a class win in the Rally of South Australia.
“The rallies didn’t all go smoothly, but we ended with a great result and it was pretty satisfying to beat some very quick other local drivers.
“This has definitely boosted my confidence and ambition for the season ahead.”
Van Tuinen is looking for a new car and plans to contest the full 2010 Australian Rally Championship, including the International Rally of Queensland round of the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship in July.
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