Hayden Paddon's future as a high calibre driver seems assured after the Kiwi ace secured the second podium of his World Rally Championship career - but the man himself says he still has important lessons to learn.
The Timaru star finished second behind world champion Sebastien Ogier in Rally Sweden over the weekend in a performance which captured eyeballs and has led to seasoned observers saying he is one of the sport's emerging forces.
Paddon hit a wooden post on the final stage and damaged his radiator, but still managed to carry out repairs with his co-driver John Kennard and wet-nurse the vehicle home to the runner-up position. He is now fourth equal in the world drivers' championship.
"A podium is a fantastic result for me and everyone in the team," Paddon said. "We were hoping to have had a less stressful finish to the rally, but unfortunately we had some water leaking from the radiator after hitting a wooden post in the stage, which required some quick repairs.
"Thankfully, we were able to find a temporary fix and get back to service with our second place intact."