Flat Bush-based rally driver Matt Jensen and co-driver Kieran Anstis are aiming to start their attack on the New Zealand Rally Championship at the weekend’s Rally of Whangarei.
They are targeting a strong top five finish amongst a field of top International and national drivers.
With a handful of top three finishes to their name, the Flat Bush rallying duo have set a goal of taking out the Category 5 Championship this year.
The team has made some changes to its EVO 9 rally car over the past few months.
“We have changed a few things on the car including a new engine that is more powerful and reliable, also a quicker steering rack which has helped me gain more confidence in my driving,” said Jensen.
“We have done a few small testing events since these changes and it has proven the car is a lot quicker.”
Earlier this year Jensen found out he was a successful applicant of the Paddon Foundation, a programme set up by Kiwi WRC star Hayden Paddon to guide and support selected New Zealand drivers and co-drivers.
“It is an incredible opportunity to be a part of this programme,” said Jensen.
“The assistance and guidance is invaluable and it is helping us a lot this year.”
Elite Motorsport Academy graduate Anstis is in the co-driver’s seat this season and is eager to get underway “I’m really looking forward to this season. Matt and I work well together and he has put all the tools in place to have a successful year.”
Meanwhile, the team has new sponsors onboard this year with Panasonic, Elf, NZKW, Heller’s, Motorsport Engineering and Aarque Group.
“With them joining the team it has enabled us to have a good go at the championship,” said Jensen.
- You can follow the team’s progress during this weekend’s International Rally of Whangarei — April 28-30 – on their facebook page MaddyJRallysport.
