Superbike star to tackle rally

A legend in the world of motorcycle racing is swapping two wheels for four after being named as a celebrity guest driver for this year’s Otago Rally,

Superbike racer Avalon Biddle was the first woman to win New Zealand’s Supersport 600 title and is a two-time winner of the FIM European Women’s Cup.

But she’ll be ditching her bike leathers and donning race overalls when she gets behind the wheel of an H6 Subaru at the rally, which is being held from April 16-18.

The 28-year-old, who is also a co-presenter for Sky Sport’s Skyspeed, says she leapt at the chance to compete in the race alongside this year’s other guest driver, fellow New Zealand motorcycling legend Aaron Slight.

“It’s the opportunity of a lifetime. To drive a rally car in one of the country’s most iconic motorsport events and compete alongside an absolute legend like Aaron Slight is definitely one to tick off the bucket list,” she says.

“I can’t wait to see how the racing skills I’ve developed on two wheels transfer to four. My competitive spirit certainly hopes for a seamless transition, but no doubt, it’ll be a challenge.”

Roger Oakley, a spokesman for the rally, says organisers were keen to showcase the sport by inviting high-profile sportspeople from another code. 

“Avalon stood out to us not only for her achievements in motorcycle racing, but for her passion and enthusiasm to have a go,” he adds. “She will be a wonderful ambassador."

The Otago Rally is the first round of the Brian Green Properties New Zealand Rally Championship.

High-profile competitors who will be taking part include New Zealand Rally champion Hayden Paddon, former champions Ben Hunt and Jack Hawkeswood, Robbie Stokes, Dylan Turner, Raana Horan and Dunedin favourite, Emma Gilmour.