Zeal Jones and Thomas Paul will receive the Central Machine Hire Otago Rally Scholarship, helping them to make the most of their entry into the Dunedin-based rally.

The package worth $2,500 covers all things from entry fees, some cash and stage notes through to access to a workshop in the week of the rally.

Jones is elevating to the top class of the Brian Green Property Group New Zealand Rally Championship field in 2024, and will be one of the exciting talents of the series moving forward.

Paul, an Otago Sports Car Club member, will drive a Honda Civic in the popular Allcomers field after previously winning the New Zealand Intermediate Class grasskart championship.

Both have impressed with their speed in their rallying career thus far, and the scholarship support will help to get them a strong result and kick their season off in the right way.

“We received 10 really impressive applications, it’s great to see the enthusiasm from young drivers for the sport,” scholarship co-ordinator, Tony Johnstone said.

“Those that were unsuccessful are welcome to re-apply next year. We will be following the progress of all the applicants in the rally and wish them all the best of luck.”

The Otago Rally gratefully acknowledges the Premier Event grant support of the Dunedin City Council.