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PRESS RELEASE 26 August, 2004
Sara Ready to Tackle Rally of Nelson.
Currently studying a double degree at Massey University, former Nelsonian
Sara Randall is really looking forward to this weekend's Rally of
Nelson.
"It's going to be awesome to get back to my favourite roads - the roads I
learnt to drive on!"
A new-found self-confidence and determination sees Sara glowing. "Based
on what I was taught at the Elite MotorSport Academy, we've been
working a lot
on my fitness, mental toughness and motivation, and I'm feeling
the most
balanced and happy I've felt in all my life. It's given me
such
a boost,
which is helping my rallying no end."
Currently 2nd overall in the New Zealand Rally 2wd Championship,
Sara
intends to give it her all at Nelson. "We've been coaxing the car along
this
season, trying out a few new things and working on my cornering
speed etc.
However, we've made the decision that we'll go out and do the
business
at
Nelson, and I'm ready for that! We've set some achievable performance
goals
and we'll be monitoring them throughout the rally -
involving the
whole team
in the exercise. We're really looking forward to it"
The second day stages at July's Rally of Rotorua saw Sara work steadily
on
her technique to win the final stage in the NZRC 2wd class. "Rotorua
proved
we could do it, despite having a 1600cc car, it's just a matter
of bringing
everything into the package at the same time" she smiles.
Hawkes
Bay was
the pits for me. I was really sick with a stomach bug and the weather
conditions made it very difficult to get the car safely
through
to the end.
We just drove to survive and gain valuable points. Nelson gives
us a great
chance to redeem ourselves!"
Sara has been testing and training at some local events and is really
happy
with her Toyota Levin. "We competed at a Wanganui Rallysprint and
then a
hillclimb at Dannevirke the next day. This was a really valuable
weekend as
we were able to make a few adjustments which have given us
a better
package
to take to Nelson."
Co-driver Carl Rabbidge will be sitting with Sara for Nelson once
again."Carl has become one of my best friends and we work really well together
both in the car and out. The best co-driver is one
who understands what you
need before you need it - be it reassurance, advice, or just to
be
told
you're being a blouse!"
Sara, Carl and their car will be at the Pre-Rally Display between
2pm and
5pm on Saturday 28th August at the WOW Complex, Tahunanui and
the
rally
itself commences on Sunday 29th August. Results will be available
on www.nelsoncarclub.co.nz/rally