CARS IN ACTION NEWCOMERS ARE CONFIDENT
The 2006 Total Economy Run, which runs from 1-3 June, looks set to be as tight as ever with scores evenly matched cars set to take each other on. Cars In Action set about the task with a handful of teams ranging from the sublimely experienced to the totally inexperienced, but all have the same goal in mind – scooping frontline honours in the prestigious event.
2003 Production car Rookie Of The Year winner Jesse Adams, who was recently appointed as Action Publications Bakkie magazine editor, teams up with fellow motoring enthusiast and Cars In Action Motorsport editor Stuart Grant to spearhead the Cars In Action Class J hopes piloting an Alfa 147 1.9 JTD.
Although newcomers to regularity rallies and the art of light footed driving the duo are focused on upsetting the usual suspects and have taken full advantage by attaining the much needed knowledge and experience from long time economy runner and boss, Michele Lupini. The pairing have spent time understanding the intricacies of the Total Economy Run, as well as put in hours of driving practice that is sure to stand them in good stead when it comes to extracting the optimum from their long term test Alfa.
Jesse Adams “I am getting a crash course in economical driving, but I think it’s pretty obvious- don’t touch the gas. I also feel I have an advantage over some of these old ballies. I’ve been on a budget for years, saving gas is nothing new to me.”
Stuart Grant “Maths was never a strong point for me, but it is amazing what results you can get when you are interested in your subject and not forced to do it . I am really looking forward to the event and the possibility of raising a few eyebrows, I firmly believe that the Alfa is a competitive package and it is up to Jesse and I to get the result that the impressive vehicle deserves.”
The turbo diesel powered — cc Alfa 147 falls within the Class J category and should face stiff opposition from the likes of Golf, Astra and Focus but as with any form of motorsport it is not over until the fat lady sings.