From April 5 to 7, see the ARC cars – as well as a handful of other exciting categories – rev through the forests of Nannup and race the electric Busselton Toyota Super Special Stage under lights around the Busselton Foreshore.
Last year’s two-wheel drive event winner Eli Evans already leads the 2013 ARC championship after a strong run at the first round, but there’s a line of capable contenders in the field who will take this opportunity for points with both hands.
According to Quit Forest Rally Clerk of Course Ross Tapper, the new two-wheel drive concept will make this year one of the best yet.
“For the first time in the championship’s 45-year history, the winner can come from a choice of seven different makes of car,” Tapper said.
“The entry list shows the Honda Jazz, Mazda 2, Renault Clio, Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, Nissan 370Z and the Nissan Silvia could all take the win – so 2013 is definitely set to be one of the most exciting rallies we’ve had.”
In 2012 there were two categories for ARC vehicles, easing the switch from a four-wheel drive to two-wheel drive series. But this year is the first all entrants must be in two-wheel drive cars – so there are plenty of new makes and manufacturers to see.
With new cars come new challenges for the teams and drivers and when you add the unique ball-bearing roads of Western Australia to the mix there will be plenty of action to catch over the weekend.
Back in the ARC is former Quit Forest Rally winner Scott Pedder in a Renault Clio who will face competition from not only the rest of the field, but also from his own teammate – and Busselton local – Tom Wilde.
Another exciting addition to the entry list is Brendan Reeves who returns to the competition after spending the past two years competing overseas. Competing in a Mazda 2, Reeves’ will be keen to stamp his mark on the championship and do his new manufacturer proud.
Alongside the main game players will be the West Australian Rally Championship (WARC) competitors. Quit Forest Rally is the first round of their championship, so it will be vital to bag some early points. Ones to watch include former winner and outright placer Alex Stone, Leigh Hynes and John O’Dowd.
To add to the spectacle, the Classics, Side by Sides (all terrain vehicles), Clubman and Moto categories will run across the weekend ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy in southern Western Australia at Quit Forest Rally from April 5 to 7.
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