This will suit smoother, less aggressive driving. While Shane loves to steer on the throttle, his circuit racing will absolutely be beneficial in the dicey conditions, as will his natural talent for car control.
If SVG is to see success at Whangarei, it won’t be a walk in the park. Full time professional rally driver, Hayden Paddon (Hyundai i20) and former NZ rally champion Ben Hunt (Skoda Fabia R5) both love the Far North roads and will also be ones to watch this weekend.
There are subtle differences between the WRC 2 / R5 specification cars of Padden and Hunt over the domestic spec AP4 S1 van Gisbergen is piloting, but by in large it will be a very close match.
The Rally of Whangarei has proven popular with drivers and attracts talent from all over the world. This year, US businessman, action sportsman and former Whangarei winner, Ken Block, will have his memory honoured with a perpetual trophy to be awarded at this year’s International Rally of Whangārei.
Block, an Audi ambassador who sadly lost his life earlier this year in a recreational accident, contested multiple New Zealand Rally Championship events. Of his three visits to Whangārei he won the national category title in 2015. His last appearance was in 2019.
It’ll be a special moment if Shane can secure the inaugural Ken Block Trophy in an Audi.