In a promising start to the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC), New Zealand driver Mike Young clinched fourth place overall at the lightning-paced Otago Rally last weekend. Piloting the team's faultless Toyota Yaris AP4 car, Young's performance sets a solid foundation for his APRC campaign.
With his sights set on qualifying for the 2024 FIA APRC and securing points in the APRC Pacific Cup, Young expressed satisfaction with the outcome. Despite the fierce competition, his strategic balance between pushing the limits and avoiding excessive risks paid off handsomely.
Speaking from Brighton Beach, south of Dunedin, Young reflected on his experience, stating, "I was pushing on, but not going over the limit or taking big risks. It's nice to maintain speed and competitiveness while enjoying the roads and our new car."
Highlighting the unique focus of his campaign, Young emphasized his aspiration to triumph in Whangarei, the Asia-Pacific championship decider slated for the year's end. While many competitors double as contenders in the New Zealand Rally Championship, Young's primary objective remains the APRC.
Looking ahead, Young's calendar includes the Rally Bay of Plenty on October 5th and the Rally Whangarei from November 8th to 10th, with additional events expected to be announced.
Young's stellar start sets the stage for an exciting journey through the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship, as he continues to chase victory while showcasing his skill on the diverse terrains of New Zealand's rally circuits.