Max McRae delivered his strongest performance to date at Saturday’s Karri Rally in Western Australia.
The 16-year-old son of Alister McRae took a second consecutive two-wheel drive class podium, but landed his maiden top-10 result aboard his Ford Fiesta ST.
McRae Jr won one of the stages and finished less than 30 seconds down on a Ford Escort Mk 2 and a 300bhp Nissan Silvia. The three were six minutes ahead of their nearest rival after the event’s six gravel stages.
He told DirtFish: “I’m really pleased with the way things are going, we’re making good progress with the pacenotes and the speed is really coming. Getting my first stage win in the class was pretty cool on this event.
“I’ve got to say a big thanks to Bill [Hayes, co-driver], who is doing a great job and really helping me progress. It was nice to come to some more stages and learn some more great roads here.”
McRae Sr admitted he was pleased with the pace, adding: “There’s some real progression from event to event which is great to see, but what’s really encouraging is how Max is listening and working with Bill when it comes to the notes. And being out there watching, it’s pretty clear the commitment’s all there as well!”
McRae’s next event will be the final Western Australian round of the season Safari Darling Rally on November 7.
