Andrew Keighley & Jonathan Kane

🚗 Ford Escort Mk2 – Class E

For Andrew Keighley, the dream of rallying began with a poster on a bedroom wall.

"My mate's older brother had a Rally New Zealand poster of the Chevettes back in the day. I looked at it and said, 'One day that'll be me.'"

Years later, that dream became reality.

One of Andrew's proudest memories came at Rally New Zealand 1999, when the event introduced its Classic category for the first time.

Competing in what was then a brand-new Ford Escort Mk2—the very same car he'll be driving at Rally Taumarunui 27 years later—Andrew and his team completed every stage despite an engine that was steadily losing oil, making it all the way back to the finish at SkyCity.

The following year, they returned to finish third overall and first in the Classic class, a result that remains one of the highlights of Andrew's rally career.

For Andrew, though, rallying has always been about more than results.

"It's always great catching up with rally friends in both the North and South Islands... and having a few beers afterwards."

That's one of the reasons Rally Taumarunui appealed to him.

"Taumarunui has some of the best roads around, and it's great to see grassroots rallying growing again."

Andrew is also looking forward to returning to roads that have earned such a strong reputation among competitors.

With decades of experience, an iconic Escort Mk2, and a lifelong passion for the sport, Andrew and co-driver Jonathan Kane will no doubt enjoy every kilometre of the King Country stages.

And after the recent earthquake, Andrew couldn't resist adding one final thought.

"So long as the earth stays fixed in place, I'm sure it'll be a fantastic event!" 😄

Please join us in welcoming Andrew and Jonathan to Rally Taumarunui, and be sure to give them a wave when you see the Escort Mk2 out on the stages! 👋🏁

Photo Credit: Geoff Ridder