Rocket Rally teams up with SubaruNeil [email protected]
Local rally car champion Pat Richard of Rocket Rally Racing is steering Subaru Canada's return to racing and the release of the 2008 Impreza WRX STI."It's a big project," said Richard, who expects the contract will lead to at least another four building requests. "The contract with Subaru not only allows us to build the two cars for them but we're also going to be one of the two authorized shops to build the new elite cars for Subaru customers."
The crew has been busy over the last two weeks as they start to rebuild two racecars in preparation for the Canadian Rally Championship Series starting Friday (Feb. 8) at the Rallye Perce-Neige in Maniwaki, Quebec.
Although Richard said he is driving a 2006 model this weekend, the modifications to the new car should be ready for the second round in April. "It's good for the shop," said Richard, "it's good for the guys, and we're going to be able to get back into racing full hog. "It's awesome."
With Richard's proven track record as the two-time Canadian National Champion, two-time Rally American Champion and North American Champion, it's no wonder Subaru Canada chose the top-ranked rally driver in North America to pilot efforts to reclaim it's crown after a hiatus from the circuit.
Richard was able to shake off some of his rust and practice with new co-driver and navigator Alan Ockwell from Ontario on roads closed west of Lillooet Lake near Pemberton Monday (Feb. 4). Having previously won championships with his sister Nathalie, Richard said his new partnership is also working out well. The pair intends to compete in six Canadian races and at least two in the U.S. with hopes of qualifying for the 2008 X Games this summer in Los Angeles.
"We're looking to reclaim our North American and Canadian rally titles," said Richard.The Squamish-based Rocket Rally crew has nine years of experience specializing in the preparation of competitive motorsports vehicles. One of the two STIs being rebuilt will be used for racing while the second will be for promotion and display at various events and venues across the country. It takes about two months to rebuild a ca, said Richard."Pretty much the whole car ends up getting modified."
The crew makes safety modifications like installing a roll cage, harnesses, fire system, and new seats, along with drive train modifications like engine and a clutchless gearbox. And of course bigger brakes and rally suspension are vital, too.
The car must be meticulously molded for drivers to navigate rough terrains and hairpin turns.
