A sublime performance by theSubaru do Motorsportteam has seen it seize first place overall after todays Heat 2 of Subaru Rally Tasmania.
The team were initially showing second overall, but a review conducted by Confederation of Australian Motorsport (CAMS) officials, regarding a re-entry to the days first stage by event leader Eli Evans, led to an end-of-day penalty for the Skoda Fabia R5 crew.
It is expected Evans and co-driver Ben Searcy will challenge the stewards decision.
Heavy rain added to the challenge on Heat 2, but Molly Taylor and co-driver Malcolm Read, in the Production Rally Car (PRC)-class All-Wheel Drive WRX STI, maintained a cool, calculated approach.
With the WRX STI prepared to perfection by Launceston-based Les Walkden Rallying (LWR), the crews local knowledge and professionalism proved an asset right across the weekend.
The WRX STI continued to run faultlessly today while some other key competitors faltered.
Championship leader Evans lost more than five minutes on the first stage, SS12, in the run-off incident that subsequently gained stewards attention. The Subaru do crews third overall after SS12 was bettered with a rise to second on SS13, thanks to a sure-footed approach on some incredibly muddy and slippery forest trails.
The days equal-longest stage, SS14 at 24.99 kilometres further entrenched Taylor and Reads second spot, going into late morning service ahead of the three repeated stages.
Despite deteriorating conditions, with countless washaways and potholes adding to the on-stage lottery, the Subaru duo maintained their composure and podium contention.
At the end of the action, the team initially anticipated a third or fourth place finish on the Heat and a second or third on the podium.
But the team, together with rally fans gathered for the podium presentations, were all surprised by a one-hour delay to proceedings, prompted by the officials enquiry into the circumstances of the Evans re-start.
Molly said: I think we were all taken aback by the announcement and, of course, its still subject to appeal by Elis team.
Having said that, from our perspective, its fantastic to be back on the podium.
Firstly, it puts our championship challenge very much back on track, with two rallies still to go.
Were also very happy to get this result in Less back yard. Les and the crew kept the car running perfectly all weekend, so we couldnt have asked for more.
And finally, its great to do it for Subaru at an event sponsored by them!
"Based on this weekend, its brilliant to have a Tasmanian round back in the championship. Lets hope it stays that way in the coming years.
SUBARU RALLY TASMANIA HEAT 2 PROVISIONAL RESULTS (subject to CAMS final confirmation)
1 GLENNEY/SARANDIS, WRX STI, 1:14:29.9+
2 COPPIN/FEAVER, Skoda Fabia R5, 1:17:02.0, +02:32.1
3 TAYLOR/READ, Subaru WRXI STI,1:17:10.2, +02:40.3
CAMS AUSTRALIAN RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP CALENDAR 2018
Round 5 Adelaide Hills Rally SA, 21-23 September
Round 6 Kennards Hire Rally Australia, Coffs Harbour, 15-18 November
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