SPECIAL AWARD FOR FRONT-WHEEL-DRIVE COMPETITORS INTRODUCED AT 2005 SILVERSTONE RACE TO THE SKY

A special trophy has been introduced to encourage drivers competing in front-wheel-drive rally vehicles, particularly on the national rally circuit, to enter the 2005 Silverstone Race to the Sky at Easter.

Clerk of the Course, Roger Laird, says the Kiwi 2 class in the national rally championships is growing in popularity and Race to the Sky organisers are keen to see more competitors in their 2WD rally class this year.

“There are plenty of opportunities for 4WD cars in the event but by creating this extra award for New Zealand competitors we are giving the rally class a leg up.”

“It would be good to entice some of the higher profile drivers in this class to the Race to the Sky to race alongside some of our regular competitors.”

The 2004 national 2WD winner Jason West of Dunedin will be competing in his Suzuki Ignis and there will be a lot of focus on his performance at Easter.

The Suzuki, along with vehicles such as Toyota Levins and Toyota Corollas, are expected to be highly competitive in the 2WD rally class and front runners for the new front-wheel drive trophy.

“What we are really saying is that the front-wheel 2WDs are somewhat handicapped compared to the 4WD vehicles which are more suited to the gravel Waiorau Snow Farm course. The special award is designed to create more competition and enthusiasm for the drivers,” says Mr Laird.

Entries in the 2005 Silverstone Race to the Sky have been increased from 100 to 120 to cater for increasing demand from both New Zealand and offshore drivers. Entries close on February 18.

The 2005 Silverstone Race to the Sky is scheduled for Easter Weekend, March 26 and 27 at The Snow Farm in Cardrona Valley, close to Queenstown and Wanaka.