Spencer Wilkinson is the first driver to commit to the Production Cup this season in the Prestone MSA British Rally Championship. The Warrington-based driver returns to Britain’s premier rallying series in his Subaru Impreza WRX for a second season.
Juggling business commitments with rallying forced Wilkinson to miss several events in 2016, but after his brief foray last year, the Subaru driver has been bitten by the BRC bug and is back to continue his rallying adventure.
“I enjoy the challenge of longer events, battling the elements and enjoying the whole social occasion that goes with it,” enthused Wilkinson. “The BRC calendar has some really good events with a lot of variety and they really suit Glyn [Thomas] and I.”
The Subaru Impreza is an icon of the forests and Spencer is set to continue with the proven Production Cup formula in 2017 as he brings the hatchback version of the Impreza back to the stages.
“The Subaru is a great car to drive. It’s been freshly rebuilt and freshened-up after Wales Rally GB last year. The team and I know the car, it’s reliable, strong and cost effective and I am looking forward to getting back in it this weekend.”
The 45-year-old is keen to put a complete season under his belt and tick off a few more events on his rally bucket list.
“Balancing running your own business and rallying is difficult but I put all the dates in the diary early as I don’t really want to miss any.
“This will be our third Ypres Rally – the atmosphere is brilliant and it’s always good fun there. I haven’t done the Isle of Man since 2002 so I am looking forward to going back there, but I am looking forward to the new challenges like the Border Counties.
It’s like a proper adventure, different events and different places I haven’t been to before. I really enjoy the driving and camaraderie on events – it’s the whole package.”
Formally BRC2 – the new Production Cup is home to the legendary Subaru Impreza and Mitsubishi Evo models and Spencer is hoping to see a few more cars joining in on rounds in the future.
“I have always said Group N cars are big fun without huge costs. The Production Cup really appeals to me as I can use the Subaru on some fantastic BRC events and WRC rounds.
“Hopefully others come and give it a go, enjoy the experience and drive on some of the best stages in Europe.”
