The Central Machine Hire Otago Rally’s scholarship winners have performed brilliantly at the 2025 event, highlighting the value of the program.

Terri Taylor and Harri Silcock made the most of their prizes, that included free entry into the rally, a set of stage notes and $500 in cash.

Taylor was competing in the Classic 4WD category in a Subaru Impreza H6 and finished ninth outright after two days of tough competition.

“It was 110% the best week of my life,” she said.

“I won the scholarship, did the media day, two days of recce, walked the catwalk for ID Fashion Week, and was a part of the signing session in the Octagon.

“I also got to meet Kris Meeke, and completed every stage of the rally.

“I had a few dramas throughout the rally, with intercom problems on the first two stages, low boost all Saturday, ran wide and rolled a tyre off the rim in Berwick, but overall t was a fantastic experience.”

This weekend, she is taking her rally car to the Wheels at Wanaka event, where she will do some demonstration rides in her rally car.

Harri Silcock had an even more successful Central Machine Hire Otago Rally, finishing an incredible sixth outright in the Classic Rally, while also winning his class.

He had a big battle with Paul Cross in a Toyota Corolla in the 1600cc class, but moved ahead when his main rival’s steering broke.

It was a superb drive from Silcock in his Toyota Starlet. His car performed faultlessly throughout, and he used just four tyres for the entire event.

“It’s been a great year for the scholarship,” co-ordinator Tony Johnston said.

“It could have gone to any one of the 16 applicants and the two winners have done us proud with a great attitude, rally prep, driving and results.

“The scholarship has definitely gone up a notch since Allan Dippie and Central Machine Hire has come on board.”