The potential of the Britek Motorsport prepared Ford Fiesta Super 2000 has been evident in the hands of Darren Windus at the third round of the Australian Rally Championship, Coates Rally Queensland on the Sunshine Coast.
Windus jumped out of the blocks at the start of heat #2 setting the fastest time, before an electrical issue sidelined him on the start-line of the second stage of the day.
It was a tough pill to swallow for Windus and co-driver Jon Mortimer, after a challenging opening day when suspension dramas ended any chance of a strong finish.
“At the end of the opening stage of the second heat I was thrilled with how the car was performing,” said Windus.
“We were then rolling-up to the start line of the second stage and the car just cut-out and we couldn’t re-start it. Once we were pushed off the road by officials, we had to withdraw from the day.
“We showed some speed on Saturday, but a spin and suspension issues never really allowed us to get into the fight.
“The things we had problems with this weekend could have happened to any car or team. The Fiesta is without doubt an excellent package. It’s just a shame we couldn’t show it at the Rally Queensland.
“The decision to get back aboard the Fiesta has been the right one and I’m looking forward to South Australia to really stretch the legs of the car.”
Britek Motorsport Rally Chief Engineer Marcus Clarke was upbeat despite not completing either leg of the Coates Rally Queensland.
“Getting that fastest stage time was a huge lift,” said Clarke.
“Then to have Darren back on the radio reporting the car wouldn’t start was clearly disappointing. A broken wire internally seems to have been the cause, but we will further examine that back at the shop.
“The suspension issues yesterday are a concern. We do work with an outstanding supplier in Drummond Motor Sport and together we are sure to rectify any issues going forward.
“Considering that the Fiesta missed the opening two rounds, it’s a great achievement for us and Darren to have set that benchmark time on the first stage in heat #2. The aim in South Australia is to get back on the pace, but without sacrificing reliability.
“The car will have a thorough inspection and re-build ahead of the next event in South Australia.”
Sprint Auto Parts Rally SA will be held in the Barossa Valley on 26-27 July.
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