Phillip Broadbent & P J Ayres

🚗 Toyota Starlet – Class D

For Phillip Broadbent, the spark for rallying was lit more than 40 years ago.

At just six years old, his father took him to a rally near Paeroa in 1977. It's a day Phillip still remembers vividly.

"Even though Dad had a very low opinion of that kind of driving, from that point on I knew it was something I had to do."

His first taste of competition came a little later at a motorkhana on the main street of Paeroa.

"I think I spun out around every single cone, which was very embarrassing!"

Fortunately, the local club members encouraged him to keep coming back and improving his skills.

"I've been doing it ever since."

After decades in the sport, Phillip has enjoyed plenty of memorable moments, but one achievement stands above the rest.

At Rally Waitomo 2024, Phillip and his son Sam claimed third overall, narrowly edging out another strong competitor in a result he'll always remember.

This year, Rally Taumarunui offers another challenge—but there's one battle Phillip is especially looking forward to.

"I'm looking forward to enjoying a skid in the country, catching up with fellow competitors, and trying to beat my two cheeky rascal sons! Their speed is amazing, which is very motivating for a father to keep pushing and not get left behind." 😄

Alongside Phillip is co-driver P J Ayres, a skilled tradesman with a keen eye for detail.

Phillip explains:

"Paul is a gate maker who recently started working at the local steel mill. He also recently finished building a beautiful old Mazda rotary ute. His attention to detail is a huge asset as a co-driver."

Away from the rally stages, Phillip also wanted to acknowledge the people who have supported his journey.

"A big thank you to my lovely wife Vicki for backing everything we do, to Ngatea Panelbeaters for fixing the car on the odd occasion, and to Resene Paints for a lifetime of support."

With decades of experience, plenty of determination, and a little family rivalry to keep things interesting, Phillip and P J are looking forward to another memorable weekend on the famous King Country roads.

Please join us in welcoming Phillip and P J to Rally Taumarunui, and be sure to give them a wave when you see the Toyota Starlet out on the stages! 👋🏁