Dodd sets the pace in thrilling opener for Hankook Gravel Rally Championship

South coast rally driver Marcus Dodd ensured a thrilling start to the Hankook Gravel Rally Championship recording his fifth Rallye Sunseeker win and taking maximum points on the opening round.

Together with co-driver Andrew Bargery, Marcus set the fastest time on nine of the 14 high speed tests on the Bournemouth-based event, setting the pace in his Hyundai Accent as the rally moved from the seafront on Friday night into the forests on Saturday.

While Marcus’ WRC car took top honours in the main category, the drive of the day came from Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge driver Phillip Morrow who was fourth overall and first in Group N.

Together with co-driving brother Simon, Phillip produced an outstanding performance against more powerful machinery and was delighted with the result.

“I hadn’t expected to do so well on this round so it is a great start to my season,’’ said Phillip who now looks forward to the second round of the Hankook GRC and Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge, the Border Counties rally.

The series began in style with two special stages through the Bournemouth Winter Gardens and along the seafront with the Hankook GRC attracting thousands of spectators.

And the fans were back on Saturday to see the championship contenders bid for the first points of the season in the forests of Hampshire and Dorset.

“Rallye Sunseeker produced an outstanding start to the Hankook GRC with some great battles throughout the field,’’ said Hankook Motorsports manager Mike Patterson.

The Hankook GRC moves to Scotland next month for the Jedburgh-based Border Counties Rally which takes place on March 24.