Mitsubishi Motors UK is delighted to announce its continued commitment for its much acclaimed and highly competitive one-makes series for Group N (Production Class) Lancers, the Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge.
Now into is eighth successive season, the 2008 championship features seven events: six National A status rallies, running alongside the Pirelli MSA National Gravel Championship and one International, the Ulster Rally, which is also a round of the Tesco 99 Octane MSA British Rally Championship.
“It is always out intention to formulate a calendar which appeals to competitors”, explains Evolution Challenge coordinator Simon Slade. “This season sees five gravel and two asphalt surface rallies, all with excellent reputations for organisation and stages - plus they are evenly-spaced throughout the year to help with car preparation in-between events.“
Following the recent announcement that the championship will feature Sunoco as its controlled fuel and Pirelli as its controlled tyre suppliers, organisers are confident that they can offer competitors a great-value, closely-fought season which will be contested on an ultimately fair and level playing field.
“We spend a great deal of time looking at the options and opportunities open to us”, said Slade. “Our decisions are always based on what will provide the best for competitors and I am pleased to report that both Sunoco and Pirelli are making valuable contributions to the championship prize fund.”
For the past five years the Evolution Challenge has offered what is widely regarded as the best prize in British Rallying – and beyond: a fully funded Mitsubishi works drive in the UK, behind the wheel of a Group N Lancer Evolution. Although it has been confirmed that MMUK wish to continue to offer this much-coveted and valuable award, the introduction and subsequent evaluation of the Evolution X for motorsport has played a part in delaying the announcement of this prize until after the season has begun.
“It’s not ideal starting a season before the first prize is announced”, said General Manager for Ralliart and MMUK motorsport boss Paul Brigden. “However, we trust that our track record over the past five years will reassure competitors that we intend to present a high-value and aspirational first prize. We therefore hope that the championship will prove to be as popular as ever.”
From the initial feedback received, organisers are predicting a high number of returnees this season, plus the anticipated registration from a number of young and up-and-coming drivers and the now familiar and most welcome support from Irish crews.
Organisers are also pleased to announce that regulations and entry forms are now available - both on-line and on request. Potential competitors are encouraged to visit the Evolution Challenge team on the Mitsubishi stand at the Autosport Show, or contact the coordination office for further details and answers to any queries they may have.
The 2008 series is backed by Mitsubishi Motors UK Ralliart, with support from its associate sponsors: Pirelli, Sunoco, PIAA, Speedline Corse, Sparco, Performance Friction Brakes and ADR Motorsport.
2008 UK calendar
22/23 February - Rallye Sunseeker
5 April - Border Counties
9/10 May - RBSI Manx Rally
31 May - Severn Valley
19 July - Swansea Bay
22/23 August - Ulster
18 October - Bulldog
This year will also see the launch of the Evolution Challenge in Ireland and Sweden.
For further information please contact the coordination office:
Tel: 01935 424873
Email:
simon@rpmpromo.comOr visit:
www.evo-challenge.com
