Last weekend Ken Block earned his first Canadian rally win (and also his first in his new '08 Subaru WRX STI) by dominating Rallye Baie-des Chaleurs in Quebec. The event is one of biggest, funnest rally events in Canada and the states, with tons of fans turning out to watch the action.
Though not a part of the Rally America National Championship, Ken was up in Canada racing to get more experience driving his new STI and also gain Recce experience, a style of racing/stage prep used on the WRC. Ken will be battling in three World Rally events later this year, so the more behind-the-wheel time, the better.
Besides, Rallye Baie-des Chaleurs is a fun rally to compete in! Among its challenges is a huge jump, over which Ken flew his Subi a big 115-feet. For reference, that's the length of the big jump at most moto competitions like X Games pretty huge.
Though he had a few close calls--a slam with a bridge that nearly took off his rear tire (photo) and a flat tire--Ken came in first or second on 15 of the race's 17 stages, amassing a lead of over 2 minutes before the rally's 115 miles were done.
About the dominant win, Ken said, "It's great to get my first Canadian win here, especially on such a difficult and competitive rally."
Next up for Ken and SRT USA: the New England Forest Rally on July 11-12. Stay tuned for more!
