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Adrian Spencer, behind the wheel of his iconic RED Industries and Adgespeed-backed Subaru Impreza S11 WRC replica, once again proved his mettle at the Rali Bae Ceredigion Rally. As the 7th round of the Protyre National Asphalt Rally Championship, the event is notorious for its intensity, and this year was no different. Co-driven by Rick Sutcliffe, Adrian navigated through 116 competitive miles of challenging stages to claim a solid 28th Overall finish and an impressive 1st in Class in the Protyre Championship.

This rally was no ordinary outing. Set in the scenic yet demanding surroundings of Aberystwyth, it is considered one of the toughest rallies in the championship. Adding another layer of prestige to the event, it was also a round of the European Rally Championship, with teams from both competitions sharing the same grueling route, albeit in their respective championships. Adrian and Rick’s achievement was not just about speed but about surviving the intense conditions and challenges thrown at them over the three-day event.

A Rally of Highs and Lows

Friday Night:

Adrian and Rick kicked off the rally on a high note, starting strong on the two stages set in and around Aberystwyth. The Subaru Impreza performed flawlessly under the night skies, setting a promising pace for the weekend ahead. It seemed like the crew was in for a smooth run—until Saturday morning arrived.

Saturday Morning – A Setback:

The rally took a tough turn during the morning loop of three stages on Saturday. The Welsh terrain showed its true colours, with one stage inflicting some serious damage on the car. A smashed rim and a puncture cost the team valuable time, pushing them back in the standings. But in rallying resilience is key, and Adrian, as experienced as he is, handled the setback with the coolness expected of a seasoned driver.

Saturday Afternoon – Electrical Gremlins:

After replacing the damaged rim, the team seemed back on track, but the afternoon presented new challenges in the form of electrical issues. The car struggled through five more stages, but Adrian and Rick were able to identify and resolve the problem just in time, preventing a disastrous finish to the day. These challenges put their skills and teamwork to the test, yet the duo managed to maintain a competitive edge in their class.

Sunday – Slippery but Steady:

With the rally nearing its conclusion, Sunday’s two loops of two stages were met with mixed weather conditions, which added another layer of difficulty. The roads became dangerously slippery, catching several teams off guard. However, thanks to Adrian’s expert handling and Rick’s precise navigation, the Subaru remained steady, navigating through treacherous conditions to finish the rally safely. They crossed the finish line in one piece, a feat not every team could claim by the end of the weekend.

A Standout Performance in the Protyre National Asphalt Rally Championship

Adrian Spencer’s performance in Aberystwyth not only demonstrated his driving skills but also solidified his position in the Protyre National Asphalt Rally Championship standings. His finish at the Rali Bae Ceredigion boosted him to 2nd in Class in the overall championship standings, a well-deserved result for a season marked by both triumphs and setbacks.

Unfortunately, despite his stellar performance, Adrian will be unable to compete in the final round due to other commitments. However, with six strong scoring results already secured, and considering the best six rounds are used for final scores, he remains optimistic about retaining his second-place finish in class. Missing the final round may not be the end of the road for his championship hopes.

A Tough Rally and an Even Tougher Team

The Rali Bae Ceredigion Rally is not for the faint-hearted, and Adrian Spencer’s performance alongside Rick Sutcliffe is a testament to their grit, determination, and teamwork. The RED Industries, Adgespeed-backed Subaru Impreza S11 WRC replica was put through the wringer—damaged rims, punctures, and electrical issues—but with each challenge, the team fought back harder.

Adrian’s 1st in Class finish isn’t just a number on a leaderboard; it’s the culmination of years of experience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to rallying. Despite the bumps—literally and figuratively—Adrian and Rick’s perseverance saw them safely to the finish line, and their achievements were well-earned.

Looking Ahead

Though Adrian won’t be competing in the final round of the Protyre National Asphalt Rally Championship, his current standing and performance throughout the season ensure that his name will remain a force to be reckoned with. Retaining his 2nd in Class position would cap off an already stellar year of racing.

The RED Industries and Adgespeed team has proven that they are at the forefront of the national rally scene. With their Subaru Impreza S11 WRC replica as a powerful symbol of their relentless drive, they continue to make waves in the rally world. Whether they’re overcoming mechanical issues, navigating tricky Welsh terrain, or battling it out in the most competitive stages, Adrian and his team remain dedicated to pushing the limits of what’s possible on the asphalt.

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Here’s to more rallies, more podium finishes, and more stories of success in the world of motorsports!