McRobbie’s Loop in Maramarua Forest is one of the most storied roads in New Zealand rallying. Over the years it has hosted many of the world’s biggest names and all of New Zealand’s top talent, from Hayden Paddon to Possum Bourne.
On this, otherwise quiet, Friday morning at McRobbie’s, a white Subaru Impreza WRX sits growling as it warms up. This scene is repeated several times a week, year in and year out, as unknown local club sport competitors use this iconic ribbon of forest road to hone their skills.
The car’s 22-year old driver has never competed in a single hillclimb, rallysprint or rally and his nervousness is evident to all present. He looks exactly like any other beginner taking his first step into the world of rallysport … because he is.
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