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| MAXIMUM POINTS AND A CLASS WIN |
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| 1 Jul. 2002 |
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Victory for Suzuki on the Rally of Rotorua is even sweeter considering the terrible conditions the rally was run - rain, mud and mist. And while traction was sometimes a problem in the slippery conditions the handling and power of the Suzuki Ignis helped much experienced Nobuhiro Tajima bring home the Suzuki first in the 2-litre class and take maximum points for their Asia Pacific Rally Championship quest.
Every day of the Rally of Rotorua is very different. From the twisting Motu mountain tracks, to the fast and flowing New Zealand country roads and then the soft purmice surface of the forestry stages, the drivers have the challenge of many different road conditions and terrains.
Add to that torrential rain and roads running through the mist and clouds, reaching the finish is a feat in itself.
A trouble free run through the Motu, meant that Tajima and the Suzuki could attack on the fast roads through the Gisborne sheep country and finish the first day in a good position. Day two was unfortunately pouring rain and mist and called for a conservative approach on the slippery and soft forestry roads - a day when many competitors did not make the finish. To reach the podium and consolidate their championship lead was the priority for day 3, but this didn't slow the Suzuki has Tajima raced through the wonderful flowing roads near Rotorua.
Back at the lakeside finish Tajima said, 'We have our reached our first goal in the Asia Pacific Rally Championship and I am especially pleased to win, because the conditions were so tough. The Suzuki Ignis has come along way and on the fast and smooth New Zealand public roads the handling is fantastic. The engine is producing a lot of power and even in these conditions we are ahead of many four-wheel drive turbo powered cars.
The next event of APRC is north island of JAPAN, Hokkaido. |
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