New Zealanders Hayden Paddon and John Kennard have safely completed the opening stage of RallyRACC Catalunya – Rally de España which took place on Thursday evening (European time), as they reach the milestone of 100 rallies together.
The Kiwis set a 10th quickest time in their Hyundai, one of several WRC crews affected by rain, which left standing water on the slick street special stage in Barcelona. The 3.20km super special stage uses roads that used to host the Spanish Grand Prix, and features a 360 degree doughnut in front of the spectacular Palau Nacional building.
As Paddon and Kennard ran as the ninth WRC car through the stage, rain seemed to get harder. “Not easy conditions,” said Paddon. “Tried to keep it clean, taking it slowly in places, overall a good way to start the rally.”
Later, writing to his 222,000 fans on Facebook, Paddon said: “Got caught in a rain shower, but happy with our progress for a SSS compared to our team mates. Now let’s get the rally proper started in the morning.”
Tomorrow (Friday, European time), Paddon and Kennard depart host town Salou to tackle the first full day of action, which is primarily on gravel – the exception being the 38.95km Terra Alta test which includes asphalt sections and puts great emphasis on driver concentration and tyre management. Adding to the complexity of Friday’s itinerary, there will be no lunchtime service, with only a tyre fitting zone splitting the morning and afternoon loops.
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