But despite not contesting Rally Nelson, 26-year old Malley will still make an appearance when the round goes to air on New Zealand's TV3 at 4.30pm on Sunday, as a guest commentator, an opportunity Malley is relishing.
“I have always wanted to do a bit of TV work and thanks to Dave and the team at Volt TV I have that chance,” says Malley. “It is always hard to miss an event, especially one as enjoyable as Nelson, but this would have to be the next best thing.”
Since returning to a four-wheel drive car at the end of last season, Malley has scored sensational results. Third at last year's Rally Nelson was backed up with second at Otago and missing out on the podium by a mere tenth of a second at the International Rally Whangarei. On top of that, Malley has taken victories in both the Tauranga Rally and Rally of the North, two non-championship events.
Looking towards the 2011 New Zealand Rally Championship, Malley has drawn inspiration from fellow competitor Dean Sumner. Sumner took the majority of the 2009 season off to concentrate on improving all aspects of his rallying and now with one round to go, he is in a strong position to become 2010 New Zealand Rally Champion.
“Our focus is now on making the 2011 season work for us,” said Malley. “We are looking at options both at home and abroad, but our number one goal at this stage is to win the 2011 New Zealand Rally Championship.”
Looking to launch his international career, the South Aucklander is looking to build on the exposure New Zealand rallying has got from Pirelli Star Drivers Hayden Paddon and Mark Tapper. Malley is also part of Ministry of Dirt, a group of young Kiwi drivers looking to inject some more fun and excitement into the local rally scene.
“Ministry of Dirt is going to take some cues from overseas personalities like Petter Solberg, Travis Pastrana and the popular Ken Block, but with a distinct Kiwi twist,” says Malley. “Keep an eye out for our new website at www.ministryofdirt.com.”
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