Long-term sponsor, Dunlop, have re-affirmed their commitment to the Otago Classic Rally for 2008.

Major sponsor of the Otago Classic Rally since 2002, Dunlop’s support of the most popular classic rally in the southern hemisphere has enabled investment in the growth of the event. This investment has seen many star drivers from Europe competing, and has helped increase television coverage, both nationally and internationally.

Last year’s Dunlop Otago Classic Rally was featured in a one-hour
program on free-to-air television in New Zealand and Australia, and
appeared internationally on satellite TV.

“Dunlop’s support of the event, and of classic rallying in general, is
not to be underestimated,” Otago Rally Sponsorship and Promotions
Manager, Roger Oakley said.

“Dunlop tyres are now the front-line choice of serious and club rally
drivers alike, with a huge string of victories in classic and
championship rallying, and on both gravel and tarmac surfaces.”

Interest in the 2008 Dunlop Otago Classic Rally is at an all-time high,
with nine Australian drivers already confirming their intention to
enter, along with a two-car entry from the Rossendale Rally Team, which
will feature high profile European drivers.

The lure of the Otago Rally keeps competitors coming back year after
year. Great camaraderie, great roads and white hot competition from a
range of the most popular classic rally cars the world has seen ensures
the popularity of the event continues to grow.

“We’re rapt to have Dunlop back for 2008. We have lots of changes in
store for the event, including lots of new roads, 270km of stages and
an all-new Friday night motorshow. The continued support of Dunlop
allows us to continually improve the event,” Oakley added.

The 2008 Dunlop Otago Classic Rally begins on Friday, May 9 with the
motorshow at Dunedin’s Edgar Stadium, and continues on May 10 and 11
with 13 special stages, all run in daylight.