LEG 5 - LAVERTON TO LAVERTON

JOSH AND THAD CAPTURE SELECTIVE STAGE WIN

Today's Leg had Josh Hall written all over it - long selectives with next to no breaks. However, it was a rough start and before RK 60, Josh had two flats - leaving them with no spare. They were unable to get assistance at the refuel area as Marathon rules only allow Service Crews to fuel the truck. Competitors are not allowed any other assistance and exclusion is the penalty. Now we know why most of the trucks race with three spares.

The flats resulted in Josh running a little more conservatively until the last stage of the day - an 86.86KM selective. At that point, he turned it up. He took the tight, technical slalom style section all out and posted his first stage win! He beat out Bruce Garland by :19 seconds.

After a rough start in the first couple days, it was apparent the team refocused, decided to take each day at a time, set goals for individual stages and legs, and learn the nuances of this rally for a future return. Josh is a gifted driver, Thad the perfect co-driver and the truck is super capable. We look forward to the final two days of racing. Despite what happens now, it has been a tremendous experience for the team.

Remember to check out the You Tube daily recap videos by clicking here.