John O’Dowd is ready for the massive opportunity that competing in the Kennards Hire Rally Australia represents. The WA rally driver will carry the hopes of his state in the CAMS Australian Rally Championship’s new-for-2017 category, ARC2. The division was created for teams who compete in their home ARC event and one other.
“There’s some tough competition with Tony Sullens and Craig Brooks, but I reckon we’re a strong chance,” O’Dowd said.
Maximum Motorsport team mate Brad Markovic was originally set to compete against Sullens and Brooks, but declared he was unable to compete in NSW as he continues to recover from back surgery. That paved the way for O’Dowd and co-driver Ken Sheil to be elevated to the ARC2 winner-takes-all final. “I feel for Brad because I know he’s frustrated that he’s not able to compete,” O’Dowd said. “But we’ll make sure we do him proud.” O’Dowd will head into his first Kennards Hire Rally Australia with his confidence high. Last month, he won the final round of the CAMS Onslow Contracting WA Rally Championship, the Carrington’s Safari Rally. In September, he had his best result of the ARC season, finishing fourth at the Lightforce Rally SA. O’Dowd climbed two championship positions after the big result and now sits at sixth place. He’s just one point off fifth and is the highest-placed WA driver.
At the Kennards Hire Rally Australia, O’Dowd will be one of just two West Australian drivers. The other is Maximum Motorsport boss and mentor, Dean Herridge.
“It’ll be great to have Dean there for support and advice,” O’Dowd said. The event, which is also a round of the FIA World Rally Championship, runs on the NSW Coffs Coast from November 16 to 19.

SUBSCRIBE BELOW TO READ THE FULL STORY

RallySport Magazine Subscription
Select Subscription Level
Select Subscription Length
Recurring Subscription Cost
A subscription to RallySport Magazine give you access to all our rally content from Australia, New Zealand and around the world – with news, features and experiences nobody can match. Our team are dedicated to providing an unrivalled experience which shares, supports and promotes the sport of rallying.
Already have an account?

By clicking "Subscribe Now" you agree to receive news, offers and updates on RallySport Magazine. If you do not wish to receive marketing communications, you can update your preferences in My Account.

We will commence charging your payment method after the 7 day free trial expires. If you cancel after expiry of your trial, cancellation will take effect from the end of your current monthly subscription period. You will not be refunded any fees paid to RallySport Magazine unless otherwise set out in the terms and conditions.

Account Details
Payment Information

By clicking "Subscribe Now" you agree to receive news, offers and updates on RallySport Magazine. If you do not wish to receive marketing communications, you can update your preferences in My Account.

We will commence charging your payment method after the 7 day free trial expires. If you cancel after expiry of your trial, cancellation will take effect from the end of your current monthly subscription period. You will not be refunded any fees paid to RallySport Magazine unless otherwise set out in the terms and conditions.

Show Your Support

Author

Title

Go to Top