14.3.2011 - Vesa Hirvonen victorious in his home rally
Vesa Hirvonen had a superb celebration after winning his home event which was driven 34th time. It was also his first rally behind the steering wheel of 4WD rally car since 2006. Hirvonen and his long-term co-driver Jussi Martinskin drove the event with Subaru Impreza WRX STI rally car.
After colourful events they were fastest by a huge 2 minutes and 18 seconds gap before Mitsubishi driver Mika Myllylä.
- This was a great victory because we suffered no troubles at all during the rally. Car and team worked very well and therefore the result was also great, Hirvonen joyed.
After first three stages it seemed like Hirvonen had to do his best to gain victory because his fellow rival Tapio Lauronen was a bit faster than him.
- When we entered to the fourth and longest stage of the rally I was 6,5 seconds behind Lauronen. Before the start of the stage me and Lauronen discussed that the stage could solve the situation between us in this rally. Unfortunately during the stage Lauronen suffered technical difficulties and we were able to collect victory, Hirvonen told.
- For the fourth stage I drove 32 seconds better time than anyone else. Rest of the stages we drove without risks, Hirvonen continued.
After podium celebrations Hirvonen admit that his expectations for the rally were set high:
- Yes we entered the rally with hopes only for victory. I had some memories from previous home rallies when I suffered off roads. This time we had no worries and therefore I'm also very happy, Hirvonen told.
- Before the event I had only minor experience from this car and tyres on these snowy stages. Therefore I could have driven a bit bolder, Hirvonen continued.
