Gareth McLachlan & Tanya Jackson

🚗 Mitsubishi Galant – Class I

For Gareth McLachlan, motorsport has been part of life since he was just 15 years old.

While he's always enjoyed grassroots club events, there's one discipline that stands above the rest.

"I do really enjoy basic club events, but you can't beat rallying. I love the challenge of driving on different roads, and that's the main reason we've entered Rally Taumarunui."

After years of rallying, Gareth has plenty of memorable moments to look back on, but one achievement stands above the rest.

"In 2024 we made the Top 4 at the Ashley Forest Rallysprint and, after trying to break the one-minute barrier for six years, we finally did it. It was very cool to achieve it with the family there."

Like most rally competitors, Gareth says every event seems to produce another story.

"Every rally seems to have a story!"

Away from motorsport, Gareth works full-time as a Field Leader at Unison Hawke's Bay and is also an accomplished B1 squash player, having competed in the sport for more than 20 years.

So why Rally Taumarunui?

"It's one event I've never competed in and everything I've heard about the roads has been great. I'm really looking forward to the challenge."

His goals for the weekend are refreshingly simple.

"Getting to the finish, enjoying the roads, and having a clean, reliable run."

Alongside Gareth is co-driver Tanya Jackson, who has been sharing the journey for nearly two decades.

"My partner and co-driver Tanya keeps me on track and does a fantastic job. We've been doing this together for close to 20 years. We work well together and always have a laugh along the way."

The pair also wanted to acknowledge the people who make events like Rally Taumarunui possible.

"We're grateful to everyone who volunteers and supports rallying. Without them, these events wouldn't happen."

It's a fitting reminder that while rallying is about competition, it's also built on teamwork, friendship and the incredible volunteers behind the scenes.

Please join us in welcoming Gareth and Tanya to Rally Taumarunui, and be sure to give them a wave when you see the Mitsubishi Galant out on the stages! 👋🏁