Mads Ostberg has completed the first test of the Ford Escort RS1800 he will be driving at this weekend’s Otago Rally.
Testing north of the rally’s base of Dunedin, Ostberg and co-driver Stephane Prevot, did several runs in their Rossendale Escort watched by enthused onlookers.
The Norwegian said that he was excited about competing on the Otago roads.
“I’ve heard so many great things about the event and I just can't wait to see the stages on the recce,” he said.
When asked about his expectations for the weekend, he was hopeful.
“I could say it’s for the experience, but I would lie”
Mads Ostberg had a successful first test of the Ford Escort. Photo: Peter Whitten
“Always when I complete, I like to win. I will try for sure,” he added.
Ostberg will face fierce competition in the Otago Classic Rally with leading Kiwi charger, Regan Ross, clipping at his heels.
Ross went close to beating Estonian, Markko Martin, last year, and will be hoping to come up trumps against another highly fancied international.
In a similar car to Ross, Ostberg, will be learning, as it is the first time he will drive a rear wheel drive car on gravel.
The Norwegian will be hoping for a strong weekend at the Otago Rally. Photo: Peter Whitten
“It seems that the limit of the car is quite high, higher than I expected. We will see,” Ostberg said.
“I want to enjoy the roads, the landscape and enjoy the time in the car with Stephane and the great team.”
“Hopefully on top of that, we can win,” he concluded.
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