V8 Supercar front runner Shane Van Gisbergen is contemplating a move to rallying in 2013 after a test in the Group N Andrew Simms Mitsubishi Evolution 9 over the weekend. The test was held in secret on a closed road in Maramarua Forest south of Auckland under the guidance of former National Rally Champion Chris West who described the outcome as surprising and highly satisfactory. “We expected Shane to be quick but I think we were all surprised at how quickly he got in the groove and how quickly he advanced on each consecutive run”, said Westy. “Shane certainly has the ability and the attitude to do very well in rallying”.
The Mitsubisho Evo 9 that Van Gisbergen used for the test is the same car that Chris West drove to second place in last season’s Rally of Otago. Should Van Gisbergen decide to run in the 2013 National Rally Championship then the world renowned Rally of Otago would be his first event. Chris West who will drive the new Andrew Simms Mitsubishi Evo 10 in 2013 described the team’s Evo 9 as well sorted and easily capable of a podium finish. “It is a great car and one in which Shane could easily give the established rally competitors a hurry up”, said Westy.
Footage of Shane Van Gisbergen’s first drive in a rally car is available at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rt_DF1BTjL4
Van Gisbergen will decide on his participation in next year’s National Rally Championship following a further test and discussions with sponsors in the near future.
Thanks to our valued sponsors, Castrol, The New Zealand Herald, Pirelli Tyres, Andrew Simms Mitsubishi and Team Ralliart NZ for their on going support.
So “the Gis” was quick? That comes as no surprise to me. He is a very talented young man behind the wheel. He could even make a tractor go bloody quick!