Rally New Zealand 2010

[Livewireshock]

After wrangling with work, I am now finally able to organise my travel to the Shakey Isles for Rally NZ. It looks like it will be another great event, moving away from Hamilton to Auckland. The entry list looks good too.

Accomodation is not bad either too. Staying at Mercure Auckland about 100m from the service park for NZD$88 or AUD$67. Not bad for a 4 star class hotel.

Curious to see and hear who else if attending and what they will be doing over this weekend.

[ProRally]

After wrangling with work, I am now finally able to organise my travel to the Shakey Isles for Rally NZ. It looks like it will be another great event, moving away from Hamilton to Auckland. The entry list looks good too.

Accomodation is not bad either too. Staying at Mercure Auckland about 100m from the service park for NZD$88 or AUD$67. Not bad for a 4 star class hotel.

Curious to see and hear who else if attending and what they will be doing over this weekend.

Indeed I stay at Rydges for 197 euro for 4 nights .... next to Sky Tower and not to far from service park.
The flight there is different story :D

[GigiGalliNo1]

I want to go! I want to go!!!! damn it!

[Francis44]

I want to go! I want to go!!!! damn it!

I would like to go too, but Rally Portugal isn't far :) .

[Livewireshock]

I want to go! I want to go!!!! damn it!

Yes, it is not the easiest of trips from Perth. Hope you can make it to the east for next year.

[WRCfan]

Had a suprise email this morning, looks like my magazine are interested in sending me back home to NZ to cover the event for them.

It's a 50/50 whether it goes through or not but would be fantastic if it could!

[6789]

I'm going over there with the RallySport Mag tour.. Taking my f2.8 lens and cheering for Petter ;)

[WRCfan]

I'm going over there with the RallySport Mag tour.. Taking my f2.8 lens and cheering for Petter ;)

f2.8 is the only way to go! Better get on the phone to the boss and do some convincing! Might be able to see you on the stages!

[harriswrc]

You can find the entrylist of Rally NZ at Rally Guide 2, page 11.

http://www.rallynz.org.nz/media/2010/04/rnz-rally-guide-2-2010.pdf

56 entries, 9 wrcars, 7+1 S2000.

[Budd]

f2.8 is the only way to go! Better get on the phone to the boss and do some convincing! Might be able to see you on the stages!

I've already convinced my editor of the need to cover the event and will be on the stages. I'll be doing a piece featuring the habits of the Kiwi rally spectator, can anyone tell me were to find the hardest core spectators to embed with???

[6789]

f2.8 is the only way to go! Better get on the phone to the boss and do some convincing! Might be able to see you on the stages!
Absolutely, have to find a nice corner for some sidewyas action! I'm not sure on the tours itenary just yet but ill post it in here..

If anyone out there has a website out there that would like me to email them a few photos during the rally let me know :)

[WRCfan]

I've already convinced my editor of the need to cover the event and will be on the stages. I'll be doing a piece featuring the habits of the Kiwi rally spectator, can anyone tell me were to find the hardest core spectators to embed with???

Haha then you might want to come out with the guys I tour with.
Since 1993 7 guys have gone on tour with 2 large jars of home-brewed pickled onions. Special jar and holder with cheese and crackers attached to the side.

Possum Bourne has sampled the onions and gave his approval, Tommi Makinen only laughed, he was not game enough to give one of them a try.

What started out as a joke has turned into a tradition. Have found packed spectator areas soon make room once the great scent of pickled onions wafts through the air, no worries securing a spot once the jar is opened up.

Probably an odd 'habit' but the F.F.A.R.T (Foul Fumed Admirers Rally Tour) team is out on the stages every year!

[mjh]

I'm heading to NZ in a couple of weeks for a tour of south island with my wife and the boys before I head up to Auckland to join the Rallytours official tour. I've taken the cheapskate option, staying in the All Seasons.

[alleskids]

wil Dave Strong get a S2000 Wild Card?

[Budd]

Haha then you might want to come out with the guys I tour with.
Since 1993 7 guys have gone on tour with 2 large jars of home-brewed pickled onions. Special jar and holder with cheese and crackers attached to the side.

Probably an odd 'habit' but the F.F.A.R.T (Foul Fumed Admirers Rally Tour) team is out on the stages every year!

Brilliant! Sounds like it would make a great story, how do I find these guys?

[GigiGalliNo1]

not the pickled onions!

i can actually make it over for that weekend... flights are pretty cheap at AU$700 return to Auckland.... soooo hrmmm......

[WRCfan]

Brilliant! Sounds like it would make a great story, how do I find these guys?

PM sent :)

[Livewireshock]

Probably an odd 'habit' but the F.F.A.R.T (Foul Fumed Admirers Rally Tour) team is out on the stages every year!

Hey, don't you Kiwis should that not bet be WHart, according to that stupid NZ spelling practice. Who the hell decided that WH makes an F sound?

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_vEx-o9fMP4Y/Rug8hnsLRkI/AAAAAAAAG3U/XOh8sECKvYA/s800/IMGP4920.JPG

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_vEx-o9fMP4Y/Rug2sXsLRaI/AAAAAAAAG0I/XpQV3odSWNQ/s800/IMGP4859.JPG


I've already convinced my editor of the need to cover the event and will be on the stages. I'll be doing a piece featuring the habits of the Kiwi rally spectator, can anyone tell me were to find the hardest core spectators to embed with???


As for crazy hardcore Kiwi rally fans, here is a pic of a group I was spectating with in 2007 with Hanninens rear bumber after they helped him back onto 4 wheels after his second roll on the same stage. They were fully keen and dyed in the wool rally fans. A great bunch of guys.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_vEx-o9fMP4Y/RugNTHsLQDI/AAAAAAAAGaY/TKrpeHlq1g8/s800/IMGP4272.JPG

The most entertaining and ecclectic group of fans I came across in NZ in 2007 were a bunch of 15 backpackers from all over the world who had crammed into one van. None of them had met before that morning in a hostel but most of them with out transport to on to the stages. Until a Czech tourist said he was going. They all shared in waving the Czech flag despite coming from all over the place, especially a tiny Japanese man. Few of them could speak each other's language but it was brilliant to see them all come together for the rally. Plus the spectator marshals at the Waitomo stage we were on were American ski instructors who had never seen a rally who joined in on the multi-cultural fun.

[Livewireshock]

Has anyone else noticed that the Super Special Stage and Shakedown venue in the Auckland Domain finishes in Lovers Lane!

That could mean we might have some extra special intimate moments between some driver / co-driver pairings at the Stop line.

[WRCfan]

Blame the natives for their way of speaking haha.

The infamous (and possibly deadly) pickled onions complete with the 'warning corrosive material' sticker....

http://img121.imageshack.us/img121/733/photowv.jpg

[Maui J.]

Has anyone else noticed that the Super Special Stage and Shakedown venue in the Auckland Domain finishes in Lovers Lane!

That could mean we might have some extra special intimate moments between some driver / co-driver pairings at the Stop line.

Yeah, quite a strange place for shakedown. Tarmac for a start. Great for easy spectator access but not really typical of the rest of the rally.

[N.O.T]

NZ is the best drivers event out there...to win NZ you have to be a true rally driver ...to win in finland you have to be a bit crazy on the brain...

Its a good choice kimmi is not going...especially now that Citroen is in shotrage of C4s

[J.Lindstroem]

NZ is the best drivers event out there...to win NZ you have to be a true rally driver ...to win in finland you have to be a bit crazy on the brain...

Its a good choice kimmi is not going...especially now that Citroen is in shotrage of C4s

Than i suppose NOT that you would be in the top spot? ;)

[N.O.T]

no

[J.Lindstroem]

no

haha alrighty

[WRCfan]

Here is hoping the weather is nice. Dry days and damp roads with minimal dust will make for a photographers heaven!

Going to be a fantastic event!

[Livewireshock]

Here is hoping the weather is nice. Dry days and damp roads with minimal dust will make for a photographers heaven!

Going to be a fantastic event!

You do realise that by stating your wishes and hopes for a dry day with damps roads, you have invoked Murphy's/Sod's Law. We must now prepare for a torrential downpour, mud and freezing weather.

Regardless, the one thing that you did get right was that it will be a fantastic event, no matter what the weather or conditions.

[6789]

You do realise that by stating your wishes and hopes for a dry day with damps roads, you have invoked Murphy's/Sod's Law. We must now prepare for a torrential downpour, mud and freezing weather.

Regardless, the one thing that you did get right was that it will be a fantastic event, no matter what the weather or conditions.
Fingers crossed for no rain.. Please god!!

[WRCfan]

I survived the event held in 2000? when it was so bad that stages were cut due to flooding. Pickled onions keep ya warm ;) haha

[Dingardo]

day 2 on 2006 wasnt exactly pleasant either.. but awesome for me anyway as I got some good shots of the drivers avoiding the big puddles.. haha

i can remember i think it was 98? with the ford escort wrc cars when they were in the white and blue ford colours. that event was wet. can remember hiding under some trees trying to keep dry :)

[WRCfan]

If your not wearing gumboots on the Rally NZ something is wrong...haha

New Zealand is good for that, get into the remote areas and lining the stages is dense foliage so makes for a great dry spot to spectate from! Love it!

[Livewireshock]

If your not wearing gumboots on the Rally NZ something is wrong...haha

New Zealand is good for that, get into the remote areas and lining the stages is dense foliage so makes for a great dry spot to spectate from! Love it!

In 2007 on the first run of the Waitomo stage, the spectator point access was walking on the stage for 100m through a cutting before entering a paddock that extended for several hundred metres along the stage. I cut across a small creek to move up onto a spur offering great views.

A Citroen Team member followed behind, wearing immaculate leather dress shoes, carefully trying to avoid the damp morning dew and sheep droppings. When he reached the small creek, he walked up and down one side of the bank trying to cross, wanting to avoid the boggy mud. He saw a spot where it seemed to narrow and walked back for a run up and ready to leap across the creek.

At least, that was until I called out to him and stopped him dead in his tracks. His desired landing spot was in reality a dead sheep carcass with some mud and grass obscuring it from his view. So reluctantly he was forced to make a massive detour around the creek, going down a long way and back up the steep spurline. He was breathless when he got to where I was standing waiting for the first car, so I got not so much as a thanks for what would have been an extremely embarrassing return to the Service Park. Yet it was interesting to see him work, radioing back reports about the Citreons, Subarus and Fords as they passed by.

[Livewireshock]

Hope the air travel bans across Europe will clear up enough to allow for safe travel to NZ. Even once the air clears, there will be a huge backlog of passengers to clear plus the people originally scheduled for that day.

[ProRally]

Last time this volcano was active was 130 years ago (no problems with flight those days :D :D ) but then it stayed active for 2 YEARS....

[6789]

Last time this volcano was active was 130 years ago (no problems with flight those days :D :D ) but then it stayed active for 2 YEARS....
:(

Still pumped for NZ, hope everything will be fine logistics wise

[WRCfan]

After reading more and more reports of flights canceled I am starting to worry about the NZ event and teams delayed in arriving with cars and gear.

Anyone know whether this damned volcano has disrupted anything as of yet from the teams sending cars and equipment to NZ?

Flying back from Japan for the event so kind of hoping that is does not get postponed or anything stupid...

[bowler]

it will have disrupted everyone leaving Turkey.

not sure what the flow on effect will be

[6789]

After reading more and more reports of flights canceled I am starting to worry about the NZ event and teams delayed in arriving with cars and gear.

Anyone know whether this damned volcano has disrupted anything as of yet from the teams sending cars and equipment to NZ?

Flying back from Japan for the event so kind of hoping that is does not get postponed or anything stupid...
I really hope not, be abit of a waste of money just seeing group N cars

I'm sure it will be fine, they ship most of the stuff there from Mexico?

[WRCfan]

I am reading planes have done passenger-less test flights and reported no damage. Airline officials are requesting flight bans to be readdressed for certain areas.

Teams are using the Turkey cars for the NZ event or are cars being used at NZ event already prepped and ready to be shipped?

[mjh]

I really hope not, be abit of a waste of money just seeing group N cars

I'm sure it will be fine, they ship most of the stuff there from Mexico?

I think only the service set-up and 'standard' spare parts get shipped from Mexico. I think the cars and special spares get flown in.
And the drivers obviously!

[WRCfan]

So it seems the cars from Mexico or even in some cases the latest round are shipped back, rebuilt and then shipped air freight to NZ.

Tight schedule, Rally NZ said this morning they are inquiring about any possible delays but as of right now everything is fine. Nothing major reported as of yet.

[bluuford]

I am reading planes have done passenger-less test flights and reported no damage. Airline officials are requesting flight bans to be readdressed for certain areas.

Teams are using the Turkey cars for the NZ event or are cars being used at NZ event already prepped and ready to be shipped?

Nassers Skoda comes directly from Mexico

[hari]

According to Rallye-magazin.de NZ is in danger:
http://www.rallye-magazin.de/top/topnews/d16/d/2010/04/18/aschewolke-neuseeland-wackelt/index.html

[6789]

According to Rallye-magazin.de NZ is in danger:
http://www.rallye-magazin.de/top/topnews/d16/d/2010/04/18/aschewolke-neuseeland-wackelt/index.html
Really, really hoping everything can just get to NZ and be fine.. if they open the airways on Wednesday then they should be fine yes? That gives them 10 days or so i think

[Mirek]

Czech air space was already opened since midnight, all airfields are opened since 12 o'clock CET. In next 48 hours they should decide what to do in next days. They say that most European countries do so. But it doesn't mean that all usual flights are going. The air traffic is quite low anyway.

[6789]

This may be a stupid question but can you actually purchase the Petter Solberg WRT shirts, jeckets ect at the rallies or is it by internet order only?

[Hartusvuori]

This may be a stupid question but can you actually purchase the Petter Solberg WRT shirts, jeckets ect at the rallies or is it by internet order only?

At least in last year's NORF the team had a merch stand at service park.

[WRCfan]

According to Rallye-magazin.de NZ is in danger:
http://www.rallye-magazin.de/top/topnews/d16/d/2010/04/18/aschewolke-neuseeland-wackelt/index.html

I gave it a babelfish but was a bit weird. Anyone able to summarise the article. How much danger exactly?

[jbmarcus21]

Google Earth Map of Rally New Zealand : http://planetemarcus.free.fr/googleearthmap.htm

[bluuford]

I gave it a babelfish but was a bit weird. Anyone able to summarise the article. How much danger exactly?

It is more like a forum talk, nothing special.

[WRCfan]

Good to hear.
It has come right at the worst time as far as next destination goes. If it was European event then can long haul using the trucks but the teams need to air freight this time...

Where there is a will there is a way...

[Livewireshock]

The FIM and organisers have postponed this weekends Japanese MotoGP until October due to the current flight restrictions.

Hopefully things do clear up soon.

[Hartusvuori]

Good to hear.
It has come right at the worst time as far as next destination goes. If it was European event then can long haul using the trucks but the teams need to air freight this time...

Where there is a will there is a way...

What exactly were the reasons Portugal couldn't be organised after Turkey and then to NZ? Or NZ before Turkey or Jordan? There must be some good reasons, but logistically - with or without flight problems - it first looked unwise.

[bluuford]

What exactly were the reasons Portugal couldn't be organised after Turkey and then to NZ? Or NZ before Turkey or Jordan? There must be some good reasons, but logistically - with or without flight problems - it first looked unwise.

It is due to the logistical reasons. SWRC guys are using the same cars they used in Mexico and WRC teams can do the same. The ship started from Mexico with the cars and equipment that were not needed in next round. Most teams have two sets of equipments. One is traveling around long haul events and one is for Europe. Some teams even send their car like Nasser did.

[Livewireshock]

It is due to the logistical reasons. SWRC guys are using the same cars they used in Mexico and WRC teams can do the same. The ship started from Mexico with the cars and equipment that were not needed in next round. Most teams have two sets of equipments. One is traveling around long haul events and one is for Europe. Some teams even send their car like Nasser did.

Last year at Rally Australia, because there can be literally months for many of the competitors about when they literally can touch their cars, the PWRC organised an impromptu extra day of testing on the Shakedown stage for their cars. It allowed them time to sort out any extra bugs and faults that would have been impossible to do in the few hours between the formal Shakedown and the Super Special.

It was a great fantastic day. Informal, relaxed and lots of fun with one local Australian rally team providing a barbecue lunch for everyone in attendance.

[bowler]

Last year at Rally Australia, because there can be literally months for many of the competitors about when they literally can touch their cars, the PWRC organised an impromptu extra day of testing on the Shakedown stage for their cars. It allowed them time to sort out any extra bugs and faults that would have been impossible to do in the few hours between the formal Shakedown and the Super Special.

It was a great fantastic day. Informal, relaxed and lots of fun with one local Australian rally team providing a barbecue lunch for everyone in attendance.

PWRC do this at every event

[Livewireshock]

PWRC do this at every event

I understand that. I should have clarified the impromptu nature of the it was from our end and not from FIA PWRC staff. Just trying to emphasise the passage of time from when a team might see their vehicles with the need for the extra test day.

[ProRally]

Got msg from people traveling back from WRC Turkey, end of this week they will decide go or no go for NZ apparently... they are afraid for the airfreight cars to get there now that so many flights are cancelled !!
Lets hope it is ok as I am also hoping to go.
My other friend who is in China for F1 says he got flight back confirmed on 1 of May !!!!
A other friend who is in Abu Dhabi for GT1 has only flight next friday..
I just drove rental car from Spain back to home... 1800km pffff

[Francis44]

Well I have some good news, according to WMO, big rains this weekend will clean what's left of the cloud, and meteriologists think that through next week most of the sky will be clean, so I think that NZ will have it's rally on schedule.

[Hartusvuori]

Hirvonen wrote in his blog yesterday that Stobart Fords are still in Turkey waiting to be flown to England for rebuilt before NZ. Schedule will be tight, I guess. I know it's only Stobarts, but still...

Flights are now operating more and more on schedule, so if no new ash clouds coming, I think NZ is safe.

[WRCfan]

I think it will be ok (touch wood). The guys will need to put in some additional hours to get it sorted. Come crunch time everyone helps out and gets the job done.

Looking forward to seeing the guys out on the stages!

[6789]

I think it will be ok (touch wood). The guys will need to put in some additional hours to get it sorted. Come crunch time everyone helps out and gets the job done.

Looking forward to seeing the guys out on the stages!
Hey mate, which stages are you going to? I'll try and keep an eye out for you :)

Everything should be fine for NZ.. hopefully. The teams mights have to burn some midnight oil!

[WRCfan]

Hey mate, which stages are you going to? I'll try and keep an eye out for you :)

Everything should be fine for NZ.. hopefully. The teams mights have to burn some midnight oil!

Hey mate. Not sure which stages I am headed for yet, the guys back in NZ are the ones who organise the tour and I just jump in with them now that I am living in Japan.

Will be working for a magazine supplying media for the event so Hampton Downs super special and service will be on the cards for sure. PM me your details so I can let you know closer to the time and try and meet up on the stages!

[Carlo]

Remember that NZ has a "can do" attitude.
There is no such thing as a problem, rather it is more a case of there is a solution that they are still discovering

[GigiGalliNo1]

I shall be in NZ!!! For the Rallye!!!! Yipeeeeee Now.... gotta get the map out!

[GigiGalliNo1]

Will be in Auckland for the first two night Thurs and Fri, then Hamilton on Sat for the closer stages and then back to Auckland for the Ceremony night (Sun) before I fly out.

Not sure what stages I'll be at but most likely 80 percent of them. Excluding Recce and Shakedown as I'll be in Sydney working. So NZ for a weekend!

[Dingardo]

about time you finally came back :P

might see you on the stages :)

[jbmarcus21]

Entry list is now online : http://planetemarcus.free.fr/nouvellezelande10.htm

[GigiGalliNo1]

Exciting! Not long now!! Anyone in NZ able to get pic of service park, recce etc?

[WRCfan]

Matt hope you have your Holden Racing team V8 Supercars jacket for the stages like everyone else. Otherwise a Ford Performance Racing racing jacket is acceptable too. Haha! There are more of those than anything else on the stages usually, all the bogans come out of the woodwork for the event.

Kind of like wearing a Britney Spears t-shirt to a ACDC concert! Some people have no clue...

[GigiGalliNo1]

well..... will i be needing my knee high (fashionable) boots to walk around on in the mud and dung?

[WRCfan]

Yeah those are a must. Good for digging the heels into the ground to steady yourself and the camera to combat camera shake from all the red bull you will be drinking over 3 days...

[6789]

Matt hope you have your Holden Racing team V8 Supercars jacket for the stages like everyone else. Otherwise a Ford Performance Racing racing jacket is acceptable too. Haha! There are more of those than anything else on the stages usually, all the bogans come out of the woodwork for the event.

Kind of like wearing a Britney Spears t-shirt to a ACDC concert! Some people have no clue...
Haha, was only just thinking about that.

"A commodore would go good through the stages" lol

Under a week now and ill be in NZ..

Petter is doing no testing for this rally?

[Livewireshock]

Exciting! Not long now!! Anyone in NZ able to get pic of service park, recce etc?

Service Park Queens Wharf

http://www.joelcayford.com/Queensb4.jpg

Entry and regroup will be through the red gates, bottom left.

Ford will be positioned on the western side of the wharf in the background.

Citroen will be in the foreground near the closest shed

PWRC/SWRC will be at the end of the wharf at top right.

Pirelli tires and refuel will be alongside Quay Street where the trucks are parked in the foreground. Exit is out of shot to the right.

Big screen TV will be in centre of this picture along the fence, together with merchandise etc.

Aucklands central ferry terminal is adjacent to the left of the picture

[Livewireshock]

Haha, was only just thinking about that.

"A commodore would go good through the stages" lol


Nah mate, Got to be a true V8 ute!!!

Credit to them though for supporting the event, despite their touring car "blue vs. red" attitude. We have that in WRC but the red is for Citroen and not Holden.

[driveace]

Is former English driver Willie Rutherford,who lives south of Christchurch,not doing the historic part,the Possum Bourne ,part or is that his son Scott Rutherford?
Or not even related!

[Carlo]

Is former English driver Willie Rutherford,who lives south of Christchurch,not doing the historic part,the Possum Bourne ,part or is that his son Scott Rutherford?
Or not even related!

Willie has a new 911 under construction after he and Alistair Gilmore (Emma's father) totalled the old one at the Catlins Rally last year. He should have it out at a few events shortly as he prepares for the week long NZ Silver Fern Rally which is held in the South Island and runs from Christchurch to Queenstown in November this year

[Maui J.]

Haha, was only just thinking about that.

"A commodore would go good through the stages" lol



There was a V8 Commodore in Rally NZ, must have been 1986 by memory. Driven and co-driven by a couple of Aussies.

I remember in forest stages at night, you could hear the V8 coming long before you could see the lights. The crowd started making Kookabura sounds. It was pretty funny.

[driveace]

Willie has a new 911 under construction after he and Alistair Gilmore (Emma's father) totalled the old one at the Catlins Rally last year. He should have it out at a few events shortly as he prepares for the week long NZ Silver Fern Rally which is held in the South Island and runs from Christchurch to Queenstown in November this year
Thanks for that info Carlo

[GigiGalliNo1]

I'll be right near the service park in Auckland!

Can someone get me some un-signed or signed memorbilia from the autograph show? few cards from cit, ford, s-wrc teams please? :D

[6789]

I'll be right near the service park in Auckland!

Can someone get me some un-signed or signed memorbilia from the autograph show? few cards from cit, ford, s-wrc teams please? :D
I arrive in NZ on Wednesday, on Thursday I'm going on a tour of the Petter Solberg WRT.. I'll try and get some cards, posters or something. I have no idea what the tour will be like though, I'm taking my own photos to get signed as well..

Thanks for the pic of queens wharf, can really picture it now!!

Shame about 2011 for NZ, I'll be at the Australian round, whereever that is!

[WRCfan]

Seems a little game called Rugby takes priority over the WRC in NZ for 2011. Sad state of affairs...haha

[Tom206wrc]

Entry list is now online : http://planetemarcus.free.fr/nouvellezelande10.htm


Where is Kimi Räikkönen ??? :confused:

[Langdale Forest]

Where is Kimi Räikkönen ??? :confused:

He is not doing NZ.

Anyway, I think this rally willl be another easy win for Loeb.

[N.O.T]

NZ was never easy for Loeb.....

[Langdale Forest]

NZ was never easy for Loeb.....


It could be this year though! ;)

[Zeakiwi]

Loeb- Radio Interview between the ads.
http://www.radiolive.co.nz/Audio/tabid/109/Default.aspx

2 May - 16.30pm

[GigiGalliNo1]

Well, tomorrow late afternoon I am heading from Sydney to Auckland and my apartment is right across from the Service Park but I miss the rally show but at least I am close and Saturday night I'm in Hamilton! It's fantastic and I cannot wait! I organized to go but then friends canceled and now it's back on as I wanted to see the last era of the current WRC spec cars in action!

[Dingardo]

will have to catch up at some point Matt!


anyways, just took a stroll through the service park earlier. Mikko was practising his mechanic skills by dismantling the front left of Latvalas car.. I hope that wasn't sabotage :P


My pics for the weekend will be up here
http://gallery.wrcfm.com/main.php?cmd=album&var1=RallyNZ+2010/

Already put a few up that I snapped from the service park.

[Datto1600]

Thanks for the pictures!
You would be able to post a high res picture of the rally plate on the bonnets? I'm wanting to make some decals for my model cars.
Cheers.

[MJW]

What time is shakedown? for us Europeans..........

[Hartusvuori]

What time is shakedown? for us Europeans..........

I believe it will be on in 1 hour and 40 minutes. It starts 9:30 local time in NZ.

[Dingardo]

indeed. the shakedown is all on tarmac though (also used as SS9 tomorrow night).

Datto1600 - I'll see what I can do for ya :) otherwise check out the competitor itinerary on http://www.rallynz.org.nz as they might have the pictures of the plates there.

[J4MIE]

Stupid to have shakedown on the SSS :confused:

[sollitt]

Not at all! Gives them a look at it, and the public another chance to see them in action right in the middle of the city.

[J4MIE]

But that is not the point of the shakedown, it is to allow the crews to get everything fine tuned for the event proper, and that is just not possible going through a parkland stage on tarmac :down: Granted most events are similar and a lot of the roads used aren't completely representative of the actual stages, but at least they are the same surface!

[sollitt]

I think most of us would recognise, due to the comment you have just made, that the shakedown is of very little value in that regard.
Frankly, if they don't already have all the data they need for these roads there'd be something very wrong.

[J.Lindstroem]

I think most of us would recognise, due to the comment you have just made, that the shakedown is of very little value in that regard.
Frankly, if they don't already have all the data they need for these roads there'd be something very wrong.

So, why not take away the shakedown if it's of little value? I understand that the fact that the Wrc is turning more and more into something that is all about pleasning the crowd and media is making some people see red.

[Datto1600]

Datto1600 - I'll see what I can do for ya :) otherwise check out the competitor itinerary on http://www.rallynz.org.nz as they might have the pictures of the plates there.

Cheers Mate,
That would be great if you could.

[jbmarcus21]

Rally of New Zealand program, entrylist, mobile live result, Google Earth Map : http://planetemarcus.free.fr/nouvellezelande10.htm

[GigiGalliNo1]

Just boarding my flight to NZ! See ya soon guys!

[turves]

No one seems to have posted shakedown times, so here we go, from WRC.com

1. LATVALA. Ford Focus RS WRC 09. 1:07.3
2. LOEB. Citroen C4 WRC. 1:07.5
3. HIRVONEN. Ford Focus RS WRC 09. 1:07.6
4. P. SOLBERG. Citroen C4 WRC. 1:07.7
=5. SORDO. Citroen C4 WRC. 1:07.8
=5. H.SOLBERG. Ford Focus RS WRC 08. 1:07.8
7. OGIER. Citroen C4 WRC. 1:08.3
=8. VILLAGRA. Ford Focus RS WRC 08. 1:08.5
=8. WILSON. Ford Focus RS WRC 08. 1:08.5

[Red bull]

will have to catch up at some point Matt!


anyways, just took a stroll through the service park earlier. Mikko was practising his mechanic skills by dismantling the front left of Latvalas car.. I hope that wasn't sabotage :P


My pics for the weekend will be up here
http://gallery.wrcfm.com/main.php?cmd=album&var1=RallyNZ+2010/

Already put a few up that I snapped from the service park.
NICE QUALITY PICTURES. :D

[Comal]

All shakedown times on chrissport.co.nz

[Barreis]

I like the photos..

[Dingardo]

Shakedown and ceremonial start pictures are up

http://gallery.wrcfm.com/main.php?cmd=album&var1=RallyNZ+2010/


will be interesting to see how the teams go tomorrow evening battling through the Auckland weekend traffic to get to the SSS. Today Mikko and one of the other ford boys burnt out their clutch on the way to Shakedown and it was only a 5 minute drive from service (without any traffic of course ;) ).

[Doon]

Why was Shakedown on tarmac? I thought the whole point was to get a final set up in simliar conditions/surface to the rally itslef?

[pettersolberg29]

Just had a pleasant surprise. I got all confused about the timings in NZ, and thought the first stage started at 10pm on Friday British time, but realised it actually starts tonight at 10pm British time i.e. 5 and a half hours. Looking forward to this one.

[noel157]

Nasser and Rene Georges ready to spilt?

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/83336

Perhaps RG had flight or logistical problems with the volcanic ash.

What's up Jack? Hope you and Nasser can work something out.

[GTA]

Nasser and Rene Georges ready to spilt?

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/83336

Perhaps RG had flight or logistical problems with the volcanic ash.

What's up Jack? Hope you and Nasser can work something out.

Let me comment on the news Item in Autosport by mr Evans:

The team had a lot of problems getting the equipment to NZ due to the Volcano activity and the Team had informed the FIA if there would be a problem if it was possible to change the event to WRC Germany, Mr Al-Attiyah's management was aware of this problem and request..!! But maybe did not inform him.?
The FIA decided to not allow the change, so RGRS had to fight hard to get all material on the way.

The material got send by air last wednesday evening and arrived in NZ on Monday, Ok maybe not all the parts are there, but at least the team made it in time for the event.

For the rest i can not comment, and we have to wait for the Final decission.

I personally believe that Mr Evans should have waited with the article until he has facts and not just talks..!

[Luis Pacheco]

Why was Shakedown on tarmac? I thought the whole point was to get a final set up in simliar conditions/surface to the rally itslef?

I was already doubting my vision...

[N.O.T]

4:30 hours until ss01 starts....

[noel157]

Let me comment on the news Item in Autosport by mr Evans:

The team had a lot of problems getting the equipment to NZ due to the Volcano activity and the Team had informed the FIA if there would be a problem if it was possible to change the event to WRC Germany, Mr Al-Attiyah's management was aware of this problem and request..!! But maybe did not inform him.?
The FIA decided to not allow the change, so RGRS had to fight hard to get all material on the way.

The material got send by air last wednesday evening and arrived in NZ on Monday, Ok maybe not all the parts are there, but at least the team made it in time for the event.

For the rest i can not comment, and we have to wait for the Final decission.

I personally believe that Mr Evans should have waited with the article until he has facts and not just talks..!

Thanks Jack, I suspected there was more to the situation than reported in Autosport. Hope the weekend goes well for you.

[DonJippo]

Let me comment on the news Item in Autosport by mr Evans:

The team had a lot of problems getting the equipment to NZ due to the Volcano activity and the Team had informed the FIA if there would be a problem if it was possible to change the event to WRC Germany, Mr Al-Attiyah's management was aware of this problem and request..!! But maybe did not inform him.?
The FIA decided to not allow the change, so RGRS had to fight hard to get all material on the way.

The material got send by air last wednesday evening and arrived in NZ on Monday, Ok maybe not all the parts are there, but at least the team made it in time for the event.

For the rest i can not comment, and we have to wait for the Final decission.

I personally believe that Mr Evans should have waited with the article until he has facts and not just talks..!

What about other teams? Do they have all needed spares with them?

[MJW]

Is the "eye in the sky" helicopter camera available this year? If so anyone kind enough to post a link?
NZ sure is one of my favourites.

[N.O.T]

the rally is 30 mins away ?

[MJW]

the rally is 30 mins away ?
Yes about 30 mins to stage 1

[N.O.T]

the stage is live...

[wwbroe]

Stage should be live, but i don't see any splits?

[N.O.T]

indeed...

[harriswrc]

Splits are on. Petter is flying!

[N.O.T]

good start by solberg...

[wwbroe]

I see splits now, Petter on a charge :)

[jonkka]

yawn... slept 2.5 hrs and up at midnight... yup, it's time for RallyNZ again... :D

[Finni2]

bring on the old road-position rules.. it's now normal guessing game i anyone of them is pushing full.

[Gard]

yawn... slept 2.5 hrs and up at midnight... yup, it's time for RallyNZ again... :D

No sleep yet, and only 5 hours to work starts

[jonkka]

No sleep yet, and only 5 hours to work starts

If your work involves sleeping for money, I'd not worry. Otherwise: :eek:

[Viking]

Alive and kicking (ore was i awake and kicking) :)

[sollitt]

bring on the old road-position rules.. it's now normal guessing game i anyone of them is pushing full.

Crikey! The rally's not yet 5 minutes old and someone's whinging already.

[N.O.T]

with only 40kms of sweeping on day 3 i think tactics are not going to be a major factor here....we have to wait.

[N.O.T]

ss02 on...

[pettersolberg29]

Why aren't they onstage with Colin on WRR? Did I miss something?

[jonkka]

Some unreal splits - Ogi's second shows some promise... :eek:

[Viking]

Colin only on ss3.. Must be Bull :D

[Josti]

Totally forgot it was going to be a night shift with NZ. What a pleasant surprise! :)

[jonkka]

Totally forgot it was going to be a night shift with NZ. What a pleasant surprise! :)

Yeah, first full night of rallying and in the morning it'll be interesting day in European stock markets after US crash...

[Xsara Fan]

2 result from Slowson????!!!!

[pettersolberg29]

Well done Matthew Wilson - great time.

[MJW]

2 result from Slowson????!!!!
road is obviously cleaning

[Viking]

First competitive time from Wilson in... ages? Maybe Sami is right?? :)

[jonkka]

Loeb isn't kidding...

[jonkka]

Again interesting splits, f.ex. Sordo's 4th...

[ridder]

Mikko disappointing .... again?

Sordo has everything to prove so far this year, here in first two stages he had 4th and 6th time from probably the best road positions out of top 6. So now he's pushing, question is how it ends.

[jonkka]

Nice performance by Sordo, from 6th to 1st in a single stage :eek:

[Halvis]

Interesting to see what happens the rest of the day, will Sordo keep pushing to get a solid lead, how far behind will Loeb get, does Petter dare to keep pushing?

Henning is so slow that I can hardly believe it.

[JFL]

Once again a problem with Hennings car.. Did they service it after Turkey?

[N.O.T]

back again after a 3rd world country internet glitch...somehow i could only open the google and the youtube pages....

[N.O.T]

this stage smells disaster for Loeb so far....

[N.O.T]

Problems for loeb 1 minute lost !!!!

[jonkka]

Petter drops a minute?

EDIT: Loeb...

[Mirek]

Loeb hit a bridge.

[N.O.T]

probably a small off or a puncture

[N.O.T]

hmmm...seems that the damage isn;t big enough to retire him though.....the time loss after that spot seems normal

[N.O.T]

Solberg has a golden chance now to win this event....

[pettersolberg29]

Really? Sordo, JML and Mikko still favourites. Petter will be first on the road tomorrow now.

[Finni2]

I think Loeb can still win this rally. He will get super good road-position for two days so he will do a strong comeback. With old road-position rules it would be lost rally to him. Last time in NZ Loeb intentionally lost 40 secs in order to get out of his road-position trap.

[N.O.T]

with Loeb out of win contention so early and None of the top 5 places is yet decided this rally has many potential winners.....lets see who wants it more

[Halvis]

Really? Sordo, JML and Mikko still favourites. Petter will be first on the road tomorrow now.

You really think so? He's currently 4th...

[jonkka]

We'll see - obviously it's not a disaster for Loeb but to win is a tall order...

[N.O.T]

I think Loeb can still win this rally. He will get super good road-position for two days so he will do a strong comeback. With old road-position rules it would be lost rally to him. Last time in NZ Loeb intentionally lost 40 secs in order to get out of his road-position trap.

i think winning is impossible but a podium is very likely.

[pettersolberg29]

You really think so? He's currently 4th...

He's doing well this stage, and now Ogier and Sordo do not have to sweep for Loeb so can play their own tactics.

[Halvis]

Petter is doing very, very well again - trading top times second on the road. I am impressed - again!

[Halvis]

He's doing well this stage, and now Ogier and Sordo do not have to sweep for Loeb so can play their own tactics.

And when have they sweeped today?

[pettersolberg29]

It means that Sordo and Ogier will rocket to the front as they have done, but now do not have to care about helping Loeb so will drop time so they're not first on the road tomorrow.

[N.O.T]

yes actually now Solberg and the ford boys are in trouble....

[N.O.T]

1:40 minutes and 2.5 days to go......hmmmmmm

[N.O.T]

Ketomaa seems to have an easy job so far

[Subbe]

1:40 minutes and 2.5 days to go......hmmmmmm

Not that bad, all they need to do is get Fords and Petter infront of 3 Citroens on day 2. If Seb is 6th on the road tomorrow, he will win.

[J4MIE]

After Loeb's accident Mikko must take advantage of the situation now and make sure he finishes ahead of Seb at the end of the event, and hope that there are a few cars in between them.

[sollitt]

Agreed. He must push for the win, nothing less.

[jonkka]

Mikko should always push for win.

[bluuford]

Well, In my view, Pons has been the most impressive driver so far. He has managed SWRC perfectly. Usually when I say that, those drivers make some kind of stupid mistakes ;-)

[jonkka]

Leaders shuffled...

[Red bull]

Not that bad, all they need to do is get Fords and Petter infront of 3 Citroens on day 2. If Seb is 6th on the road tomorrow, he will win.
cant somebody else win the rally?i feel its intresting to watch the rally with different drivers fighting for victory minus loeb the undisputed wrc champion,hes got nothing to prove. :s mokin:

[Langdale Forest]

I am so happy to see Petter in the lead, I have not been so exited since Duval was leading Rally Germany back in 2007!
:bounce:

[Halvis]

I am so happy to see Petter in the lead, I have not been so exited since Duval was leading Rally Germany back in 2007!
:bounce:

I am unhappy that Petter is in the lead, I don't understand why he went on to win SS8 - it would have been much better to have stayed 3rd. I say it again, it's stupid, stupid starting order rules. But I guess someone must lead on day 2..

[Leon]

I am unhappy that Petter is in the lead, I don't understand why he went on to win SS8 - it would have been much better to have stayed 3rd. I say it again, it's stupid, stupid starting order rules. But I guess someone must lead on day 2..

Maybe is the sponsors promotion stuff again

[Moriarty]

What's happened with Tuohino?

[Finni2]

I am unhappy that Petter is in the lead, I don't understand why he went on to win SS8 - it would have been much better to have stayed 3rd. I say it again, it's stupid, stupid starting order rules. But I guess someone must lead on day 2..

There might still be the possibility that after day two Petter is third, fourth or fifth on the road with striking distance to the leader. Let's see how they will drive tomorrow and then what are the tactics. I expect that after tomorrow's stages Loeb will be relatively close to the leading group (maybe 20 seconds). Today it's clear that Latvala and Ogier were playing tactics at the last stage. But tomorrow could be also important in tacitc wise so it's interesting to see how it goes.

[Viking]

I am unhappy that Petter is in the lead, I don't understand why he went on to win SS8 - it would have been much better to have stayed 3rd. I say it again, it's stupid, stupid starting order rules. But I guess someone must lead on day 2..

Well what else could he do? If he drove slower they still would have clocked in behind him and Loeb would be closer.

But the disadvantage of running first on the road was not to big today, Loeb was in fact fastest if you skip the stage where he hit the bridge, and Petter was running 2`nd all day in slightly different lines than “the sweeper “.

[Dingardo]

the roads cleaned quite a lot today, and tomorrow will as well if they stay dry. In saying that however, the prediction is for rain tomorrow morning.

anyways I am slowing getting my Day 1 pics up. Just trying to get as many done as I can and then sleep as I have to be up early tomorrow as I am blocking myself inbetween stages 10 and 11. Used to be the old Wairamarama stage so should be plenty of fun driving tomorrow ;)

pics up at http://gallery.wrcfm.com/main.php?cmd=album&var1=RallyNZ+2010%2FDay+1%2F

enjoy the teaser I have attached!

[coldrive]

I think Loeb still has a chance to win this rally but needs to drive at his absolute best to do it. We will know after first three Saturday stages. There are 73km of first pass stages tomorrow morning when the roads will sweep. Loeb will probably take back a good chunk of the time from Petter who is sweeping but more important is how much he can take from Mikko. I think fifth on the road and 20secs off the lead puts Mikko in a strong position. Maybe Mikko has played the perfect tactical game today.

For me Mark Tapper is the star of day one.

[Barreis]

I like the photos..

[Finni2]

I think Loeb still has a chance to win this rally but needs to drive at his absolute best to do it. We will know after first three Saturday stages. There are 73km of first pass stages tomorrow morning when the roads will sweep. Loeb will probably take back a good chunk of the time from Petter who is sweeping but more important is how much he can take from Mikko. I think fifth on the road and 20secs off the lead puts Mikko in a strong position. Maybe Mikko has played the perfect tactical game today.


Hirvonen and Sordo are in perfect position: good starting place and they are still very near to the leader. Unfortunately we don't know if they were just slow or if they played their road-position. Hirvonen said that he was flat-out but was not able to do better. Unfortunately we are not in a position to know if this true.

In any case it will be interesting rally tomorrow. In my view there are many potential winners Seb including.

[N.O.T]

if it rains Loeb will not even be on podium without tactics...if it stays dry i think he can be second at best if things go normal and we don;t have retirements.

[ZequeArgentina]

Strange NZthis time, sweeping seemed not be as bad as expected (I have not heard of rain).

Surprises for me:

1st Tapper: the fastest a real N4 has gone compared to S2000 at WRC or IRC level
2nd: Pons,keeping excellente results in his third S2000
3rd:Henning and Villagra: the worst rally I have seen both of them.
4th: I expected Mikko to be faster.

Good an interesting rally so far, pitty timetable (for me in Argentina with such big time difference is completely in the night).

[mm1]

If Hirvonen was flat out, what was going on with Matt Willson? Somehow I don`t think it`s the case.

[dimviii]

Strange NZthis time, sweeping seemed not be as bad as expected (I have not heard of rain).

Surprises for me:

1st Tapper: the fastest a real N4 has gone compared to S2000 at WRC or IRC level
2nd: Pons,keeping excellente results in his third S2000
3rd:Henning and Villagra: the worst rally I have seen both of them.
4th: I expected Mikko to be faster.

Good an interesting rally so far, pitty timetable (for me in Argentina with such big time difference is completely in the night).

Τappers evo is group a.Even in group A he is doing extremely well. :)

While in participations is an evo8 in photos it is a evo7.

[Sulland]

Did Henning find out what was giving all the noises in the back of the car yesterday ?

[ZequeArgentina]

Τappers evo is group a.Even in group A he is doing extremely well. :)

While in participations is an evo8 in photos it is a evo7.


My mistake, I did not noticed his EVO is classed in group A.
An old EVo VII i seems?
Does somone know which spec is his car? I guess a bigger restrictor, better brakes and a little lighter N4 Evo

[Viking]

Did Henning find out what was giving all the noises in the back of the car yesterday ?

"At the midday service, Solberg reported handbrake problems and his co-driver, Ilka Minor noted problems with the back rear diff. However, the short 15 minute service made it difficult for any problems to be addressed thoroughly"

"Stobart M-Sport Ford driver Henning Solberg said:“The stages were as we expected but I struggled to find the right rhythm today. I was having problems with my handbrake during the morning’s stages and the rear of the car kept coming round – I lost my confidence. In the afternoon everything was a little better but I lost a lot of time today. I hope to do better in the tests tomorrow.”

[igi]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YV6W3iZXxA&feature=player_embedded

Loeb was quite lucky!

[Tomi]

Ketomaa seems to have an easy job so far

yep,yep, cruising without risks and enjoing the roads.

[Wim_Impreza]

Why wasn't Cody Crocker at the start of this rally?

[karo]

Crash Loeb

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56q2YGbQL6E&playnext_from=TL&videos=H_6E8oXb0wE


and know take a look at a video of Richard Burns

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5sLQA2MtsY

[JFL]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YV6W3iZXxA&feature=player_embedded

Loeb was quite lucky!
If anybody else would slide of there like Loeb did, they would either fall down at the side of the bridge, or get stuck there..

[Mirek]

They are quite lucky to have those polymer absorbers in side door. He could have easily damage rollcage...

[COD]

What's happened with Tuohino?

Off road I heard?

[COD]

Seems that after Solberg and Ogier have found speed in a proper car and Latvala not making SO many mistakes, the true "speed" of Hirvonen is finally showing...

[tolis]

@Moriarty:
From Tuohino's official site:

Janne Tuohino's challenge got off to a bad start on the first day of Rally New Zealand after sliding into a roadside ditch left him stranded and forced to retire from the opening day¹s action.

Together with new co-driver Risto Pietiläinen, the two Finns started the rally well with three third fastest FIA Super 2000 World Championship times in the morning¹s opening loop of four stages.

However, the problems started in stage 5 when the windscreen washers continuously poured water onto the screen. Then just four kilometres into the following test, Tuohino slid into a ditch, with the car resting on its side, and no way out.

The 40th Rally New Zealand kicked off with its 54 starters completing the Ceremonial Start activities alongside Auckland¹s harbour last night. But the rally burst into action this morning as crews tackled the fast, cambered, flowing roads that make this event a favourite among most competitors.

First up was the 11km Waipu Gorge test and Tuohino set a solid third fastest time * but still complained that his JanPro Ford Fiesta S2000 wasn¹t just set up exactly how he liked it.

But by SS3 Bull, the longest of the rally at 32.56km, he was much more at ease and had found a fast, comfortable rhythm through the stage. After a brief 15 minute remote service in Whangarei crews set off for the afternoon tests * and they weren¹t to go to plan for the flying Finns.

The first day of the event was billed to be the most challenging and offered competitors the highest amount of stage kilometres including two runs over Bull - the event¹s longest stage.

The rally is based in Auckland for the first time since 2005 and that allowed organisers to include classic northern tests that had not been used for a few years. Battle was fought out across the Whangarei and Kaipara districts located 100km north of Rally HQ in Auckland.

The afternoon¹s action finished with a night-time stage at the Auckland Domain, the public park in the centre of the city which hosted pre-event shakedown on Thursday afternoon.

Tuohino is hoping to rejoin the action tomorrow under SupeRally rules when the second day of Rally New Zealand takes competitors south-west of Auckland to the Franklin and northern Waikato areas and to stages last used in 2008. The day also includes two all-asphalt tests at the Hampton Downs motor racing circuit.

Janne Tuohino said: The day started off well and we built up a good pace over the first three stages. By stage 4 the feeling with the car was very good indeed and I was really enjoying the roads here * the stages are amazing fun to drive on. But some problems started on stage 5 and then on the next stage we slid off the road * not what I had planned for the first day of the rally.

[N.O.T]

roughly 1 hour until the longest day starts...

[Halvis]

Any news on the weather?

[Langdale Forest]

stage about to start......

[N.O.T]

only 3 min until the start

[Langdale Forest]

Good evening N.O.T ;)

[dimviii]

lets see how fast Loeb can be with clean roads.
Also Ketooma with no power loose against Pons.

[amilk]

good evening gents, will be interestind day in NZ

[Sulland]

Splits on Petter ?

[jonkka]

g' evniiin...

[Francis44]

Cheers Everyone.

[N.O.T]

Hirvonen is very slow....

[N.O.T]

very nice driving by Ogier.

[amilk]

dissapointing Hirvonen - don' understand

where is is Petter?

[jonkka]

Both Sordo and Petter don't have splits?

[Halvis]

Petter +11 to Ogier - that was too much I think, hopefully (for him and me) it will be better on the second pass.

Hirvonen slow again, actually clearly slower than Petter in a much better road position.

[Langdale Forest]

spin for Mikko?

[N.O.T]

hirvonen 20 seconds down on ogier.....

[Halvis]

Also, Loeb not faster than Ogier (yet at least) - that's a bit surprising.

[N.O.T]

he hit a bank and something is wrong with the suspension.....or he is just that bad.

[N.O.T]

Loeb is going to smash everyone.....

[Halvis]

I might consider joining the Henning bashers now, I just can't understand why he is that slow? Doesn't he trust his new codriver or something? It's painful to see...

[Langdale Forest]

Loeb is going to smash everyone.....

Not literley I hope. ;)

[amilk]

the rally is for Ogier and Latvala they will go for victory

not enough cleaning for Loeb, not enough speed for Hirvonen

PG need for Ford quickly

[N.O.T]

Crazy time by Loeb....

[amilk]

I might consider joining the Henning bashers now, I just can't understand why he is that slow? Doesn't he trust his new codriver or something? It's painful to see...

He is slower than last years - shame

[Langdale Forest]

PG need for Ford quickly

PG Anderson as a replacement for Hirvonen at ford? :eek:

[N.O.T]

just 34 seconds off hirvonen.....and still a lot of stages to go...LOL

[Langdale Forest]

I might consider joining the Henning bashers now, I just can't understand why he is that slow? Doesn't he trust his new codriver or something? It's painful to see...

He has problems on this stage, but he has been alot slower this year for some unknown reason.

[Rallyper]

Either is it something wrong with Hirvonen´s car or isn´t he in good shape at the moment. He might need a physician...?

Yeah, PG to Ford and make a three car team aside JML and MH. :)

[amilk]

Just calculate quickly on Loeb

20km - ~5-7 second on Latvala and Ogier

remaining 130 km means 30-40 sec additionaly today for Loeb- and So he would start the day3 with 30 sec behind the leaders

of course this is poore estimation based what we saw on today's first stage

[Barreis]

If Loeb wins here we can finish championship right now.. :)

[amilk]

If Loeb wins here we can finish championship right now.. :)

+1

[N.O.T]

seems that until 1st service sordo and solberg will have no splits.

[jonkka]

Interestingly, Sordo's splits did appear after the stage...

[xavier]

If Mikko is still having troubles, Seb will not necessarily push like crazy.

On the other hand , after SS10 he was saying it was not the best stage to push hard, so he could get more time in SS11.

If i had to bet, i would give Ogier winner tomorrow!

[jonkka]

JML is losing a lot now...

[Langdale Forest]

Ogier is a future rally legend.....

[N.O.T]

yes seems that road position is more of a factor on this one...

[N.O.T]

no splits for sordo after 2nd...

[jonkka]

They have chosen interesting place for split 5 :eek:

[N.O.T]

lol...yes aparently 50 meters from the finish...

[pettersolberg29]

Great time by Petter being first on the road. I am really impressed by him still.

[N.O.T]

lets see if sordos splits are due to a glitch.....Loeb once again flies

[jonkka]

Sordo finished

[amilk]

it will be hard for Latvala to remain calm and not crash

[Carlo]

Skysport NZ is giving great live coverage and have just the eye in the sky following Petter through SS11 in it's entirety. The road is pretty well swept with a very distinct race line as opposed to a normal public road line visable. With a couple of obvious exceptions the recce has swept most of the loose metal off most of the groove. Mind you get off the line and it is tricky as Petter did find out with a couple of slow exits out of corners but it really was a near as damn all to perfect run

[Rallyper]

In someway the Citroens is supreme over the Fords regarding enginepower.

[N.O.T]

Loeb is just head and shoulders above the rest....

[pettersolberg29]

Not surprising really is it, bearing in mind the road position and his supreme talent! More suprising is Petter's fast pace, Ogier's fast pace and Mikko's hideously slow pace.

[N.O.T]

Loeb now 1 min below the leader....and 20 seconds off hirvonen and the big one follows.