Chris West: Rotorua workout a real challenge

We achieved what we set out to do at the Wairarapa Rally last weekend and have taken the lead in the championship but I was a bit disappointed with my result. Second is not too bad. But it's not winning.

Richard Mason drove really well for victory. On the second day we had good speed and were faster when everything was going well but things kept biting back. Certainly the pace was hot as Richard and I drew away from the rest of the field.

We were able to win one stage despite spinning but another spin and de-ranging the front suspension and steering twice when we hit things didn't help. Most of the roads were narrow and left no room for error. I was pretty pleased to keep up with Richard. One of the roads we raced down three times went right past the gate where he was brought up, so he was always going to be a tough proposition.

Now we have the Rotorua Rally on Friday. It's also a round of the Asia Pacific Championship so for a change we won't be the first car on the road and sweeping the loose gravel aside.

We're starting fifth behind four of the Asia Pacific series drivers which is good. We are also allowed to drive through the stages twice during reconnaissance on Wednesday and Thursday because it's an international event.

On the other rounds of the national championship we only do one pass over the roads during reconnaissance. So, at Rotorua, we have a chance to get our pace notes spot on.

I enjoy Rotorua. For the first time we will be doing the Motu Rd near Opotiki as a big long stage over 40km, which I've never done before. Ever since I've been rallying it has been split into two shorter stages.

Motu will be crucial for a good result. Just about every time a rally has been held through there it has been a major factor in the final result.

Motu is the tightest, twistiest stage I know with corners every 20 or 30 metres so you hardly ever get out of second gear and it's like that the whole way.

You certainly don't want power-steering failure. Driving the Motu is a real physical workout.

- HERALD ON SUNDAY