Carlin Leong & Nathan Roa

🚗 Subaru Impreza WRX – Class G

For Carlin Leong, rallying has always been part of life.

His journey began in clubsport events and hill climbs, driving his uncle's and father's cars from a young age. In 2019, Carlin began building the Subaru Impreza WRX that he and co-driver Nathan Roa would eventually debut at the 2023 Rally Bay of Plenty.

Nathan's introduction to rallying couldn't have been more different.

"I had no connection to the sport at all until Carlin needed a co-driver in 2023."

Since climbing into the left seat, he's never looked back.

"I've loved every minute since."

The pair have already experienced both the highs and lows that make rallying such a unique sport.

Following a major crash in 2024, getting back onto the stages became their biggest achievement.

"We're incredibly proud of the massive effort that went into getting the car back on the road by the end of the season, and being able to repay the huge support we received from the rally community."

That experience reinforced something they value just as much as results.

"We're also really proud of the following we've built and the amazing group of sponsors who help make it possible for us to keep competing each season."

Alongside the team's comeback, both competitors have enjoyed personal milestones.

Carlin claimed the 2025 New Zealand Clubsport Championship, while Nathan laughs that his proudest achievement is simply that people keep asking him to co-drive at exciting events.

"I'm just stoked that people keep asking me to co-drive for them!" 😄

When it comes to Rally Taumarunui, there was never any doubt they would be on the entry list.

"We planned to do every event this season, and Rally Taumarunui was high on that list."

After a frustratingly short outing at Rally Taranaki, they're eager to get back to doing what they love.

"We're looking forward to getting some good kilometres under our belts on what look to be some fantastic roads."

The future is just as exciting.

"Our five-year plan is to work towards competing in the New Zealand Rally Championship in the Rally Challenge category."

If you'd like to follow their journey beyond Rally Taumarunui, Carlin and Nathan regularly share full event vlogs on YouTube and keep fans updated across their social media channels.

Please join us in welcoming Carlin and Nathan to Rally Taumarunui, and be sure to give them a wave when you see the Subaru Impreza WRX out on the stages! 👋🏁