Rally fans are being given the opportunity of a lifetime, with the chance to ride in a Ford Escort RS1800 driven by 1981 World Rally Champion, Ari Vatanen.

The Rally of Otago, in conjunction with Rossendale Wines, are auctioning two rides with Vatanen, one in Christchurch, and the other around the tarmac street stage during the Rally of Otago in Dunedin.

The Christchurch event will take place on Tuesday, April 5, in a forest
close to the city, with Vatanen behind the wheel of the Escort that he
will drive in the Otago Rally.

The road chosen will be several kilometres long, giving the lucky bidder ample time in the seat beside Vatanen.

Bidding is taking place on at www.trademe.co.nz, or by clicking HERE .

In Dunedin, Vatanen will drive a brand new BDA Escort, a replica of the
Rothmans car that he won the World Rally Championship in. The car is
owned by Richard Bethune.

“The chance to ride with Ari Vatanen in a BDA Escort is something that
is very, very rare,” Rally of Otago spokesman, Roger Oakley, said.

“We expect that there will be some spirited bidding for this once in a lifetime opportunity.”

The Flying Finn will give the lucky winner their ride at approximately
4pm on Saturday, April 9, after he completes his competitive run around
the tarmac super stage.

The Dunedin ride is also up for grabs on www.trademe.co.nz, or by clicking HERE .