Today’s conditions have been described as some of the worst ever in Targa Tasmania’s 20-plus year history. Yet before a car was even started this morning the dramas began when rally leader Steve Glenney (NIssan GT-R) was forced into retirement with gearbox troubles.
This handed the lead to Jason White (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX) who was hoping to nurse his car home with the benefit of a 2 minute 30 second buffer. Alas, like so many other drivers today, White succumbed to the Riana stage and crashed out of contention.
Tasmanian Jamie Vandenberg (Nissan GT-R) now heads the field, enjoying a 16 second lead over Matt Close (Audi TT RS). Their battle to the finish line in Hobart tomorrow will be one worth watching!
Eight-time Targa Tasmania winner Jim Richards was another who crashed out on the Riana stage. Both he and navigator Barry Oliver escaped unharmed after their Porsche Cayman S was forced out with a holed radiator. It’s just Richards’ second crash at Targa in 22 starts.
Our car, the #923 MINI JCW GP, is looking strong going into the final day where a cautious approach will be taken in an attempt to avoid final day dramas which we have endured in recent years. Fingers crossed!
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