Rally driver set for debut

Michael Young is set to make his first appearance in a turbo four-wheel-drive (4WD) at the International Rally of Whangarei this weekend. The 22-year-old will pilot a Cusco Racing-prepared Subaru Impreza GRB at his home event despite never having driven the vehicle before. “I’ve only driven the car in and out of the container at the customs inspection,” he says. “While we may be going into the dark, the stages and road conditions are to my liking so I’m hoping that pays off. “I also have an incredible team behind me including Malcolm Read, who has a huge amount of experience in 4WD cars here, which will be a help.” Young and Read, from Opotiki and Hamilton respectively, have now finished nine consecutive rallies and will be aiming for their 10th this weekend – and it’s the first event they’ve competed in together in New Zealand. The International Rally of Whangarei also follows an opportunity for Young to compete for World Rally Championship team, M-Sport, in the Drive Dmack Series in Europe. This follows his success in the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship. “The team at M-Sport has given me an incredible opportunity to compete in Europe, but obviously the costs are huge and for this year we’re hoping to do just one or two events to get some experience.” Donations for Young’s European adventures can be made online at www.gofundme.com/WRC2015.