Hunt Secures Third Victory in Whitianga Rally Championship

Hayden Hunt clinched his third victory in the New Zealand rally championship, triumphing at the Whitianga-based rally on October 15, 2023. Driving his Skoda Fabia Rally 2, Hunt finished the race 10.4 seconds ahead of fellow title contender Robbie Stokes, also in a Skoda Fabia Rally 2. This win further solidified Hunt’s standing in the championship, extending his lead over Stokes to 11 points with only two rounds remaining.

The competition was fierce throughout the day as Hunt and Stokes exchanged leading times. However, Hunt’s strong performance from the opening stage allowed him to maintain his advantage. In addition to his overall victory, Hunt secured the maximum five bonus points by winning the power stage, a critical aspect of rally scoring.

Jack Stokes, competing in a Ford Fiesta AP4, secured third place, marking his second consecutive podium finish. The race also highlighted strong performances from others in the field. Jack Hawkeswood finished fourth in his Toyota GR Yaris AP4, while Kingsley Jones rounded out the top five, driving a Skoda Fabia R5.

In the NZRC 2WD class, Bryn Jones continued his dominant campaign by defeating rival Tim Mackersy in identical Ford Fiesta Rally 4 vehicles. Jones’s victory margin was 23.8 seconds, showcasing his skill and consistency throughout the season.

Meanwhile, Deane Buist maintained his supremacy in the historic 2WD class, winning for the fourth consecutive time in his Ford Escort. Despite a clutch issue, Stephen Gill, also driving a Ford Escort, managed to secure second place, followed closely by Pat Norris in a Toyota Corolla.

In the rally challenge 4WD category, Haydn Mackenzie made an impressive move to the Toyota Proto, resulting in a victory. Vanuatu driver Julien Lenglet finished a commendable second in his Subaru Impreza, while Andy Martin placed third in his Subaru WRX, narrowly edging out his friend Gavin Feast.

The rally challenge 2WD class saw Kyle Percival deliver a solid performance to secure the win. Additionally, Kevin Laird triumphed in the group A challenge, leading over Josh Keighley in a competitive battle between two Subaru H6s.

The New Zealand rally championship now looks ahead to the next event, the Rally of Bay of Plenty, which is set to take place in six weeks. As the competition heats up, drivers will be eager to challenge Hunt’s lead and secure crucial points in the remaining rounds.