Back in the co-driving seat

Super excited because I’m going to be co-driving again this weekend in a rally I always wanted to compete, Rally Cañete, the fourth round of the 2008 Peruvian National Rally Championship.

This time I will be navigating for Lucho’s dad, Luchon Alayza, on board a Subaru Forester that from what I hear is pretty fast and good fun. It’s kind of an honour to co-drive for him as he was one of the really good drivers that used to compete during my dad’s days and also it’s his home event.

He is using this rally to warm up for the one in Huancayo in July where he will be competing in a brand new Subaru Impreza, the same one he will be using in the Incas Rally this year. I was in the workshop the other day trying my seat and I saw the car in the other workshop near by…me like!

I have definitely been doing my homework. I have all the co-driving symbols learned by heart now and I feel a lot more confident this time since I know what to expect as far as my duties. I think the first time I was in a bit of a daze just because I was so excited to compete for the first time and also didn’t have much time to prepare, but now, I definitely feel more ready.

I’ve even learned how to take the spare tyre in and out of the rally car and change it. I have the timing stuff figured out too and have read the regulations in and out.

Rally Cañete is a really cool rally and a favourite among local fans. It’s one of those rallies near Lima that I used to go and watch my dad compete and there was always a good atmosphere. There’s tons of jumps which I happen to love and a big wicked one in particular where we will be getting loads of air time. It’s really a mix of twisty and very fast sections, which makes it very interesting.

Mom and dad are coming to see me so that’s really cool. I told my dad to take mom to the really big jump so she can either have tons of fun or have a complete heart attack! I’m sure we’ll have some photos and videos to show you after the rally. Anyway, wish me luck!

You can check out the rally times live on this page http://www.acpperu.net/canete.php