Driver: Andrew Chand
Navigator: Luke Olholm
The car: 1998 AC Cobra replica, built by DRB in Brisbane
SUMMARY – 2012
Australia Classic rally
The inaugural Australia Classic run, the “2012 Cairns”, was a great bonding opportunity with plenty of similar father and son teams including Paul and Weston Wright ranking 3rd, as well as teams of spouses who shared a memorable experience together in the company of great people, beautiful cars, magical scenery and some animated fun.
The winner, Andrew Chand and his navigator Luke Olholm in an AC Cobra replica, says he will be back next year, and is full of praise for the event and the organisers. Chand planned his return to Australia from a 12-month English teaching contract in Vietnam to coincide with the event.
“Arriving only two weeks before the event started, vehicle preparation was short but thorough. Knowing the cars had to be show and go, the 550 kms over two days were a good test for older cars that are often only driven small distances at weekend club events, weddings and school formals”
His car was a 1998 AC Cobra replica built by DRB Sports cars in Brisbane. The engine is a boss block 347 stroker, with five-speed Tremac manual, a leather interior, Halibrand polished rims, and finished in black with yellow racing stripes.
“It was an honour to take out first place and a fitting tribute to Carroll Shelby, who died on May 10 at age 89. Carroll Shelby raced, manufactured and revolutionised the AC Shelby Cobra, which is now the most replicated vehicle in the world”, he said.
NEWS FROM 2012