The Rocky Mountain Rally - May 22-24, 2nd event in both the Canadian Rally Championship and the Western Canada Rally championship is shaping up to be an exciting event for both competitors and fans.

With announcements of Hyundai’s continued support of Antoine L’estage/Nathalie Richard (winners in 2006 and 2007), and both Mitsubishi and Subaru offering impressive support programs for teams in their vehicles, the top level will be very competitive.

Subaru has announced the return of the popular driver Pat Richard in a 2008 STI and Mitsubishi is well represented by Andrew Comrie-Picard in an EVO 9. Several other teams are planning the trip west to add to the excitement.

Locally, Gord Olsen will return in a Rocket Rally prepared WRX as the expected top western team. Other local drivers that should represent well are Colin Armstrong, Mark Jennings-Bates, Eric Grochowski and Kris Schofield. Unfortunately, Aaron Newman will miss the Rocky as a driver due to his recent wreck at the Cochrane rally.

In addition to the competitive action, the Rocky has a new image due to the great work of RPS Design (Rock Paper Scissors) who have added their creative talent to the event Look for the ‘Caution Bump / Caution Tree Posters! A new host hotel, in-town super special stage at Race City Speedway and the return of the VIP Bus program should add to the overall atmosphere.

Rally stages will continue with the Friday national portion on Powderface Trail and the full event on the Saturday in the Porcupine Hills forestry area. The Saturday stages are always popular with the fans because of the criss-cross location and beautiful scenery.

The event finishes up with the annual Volunteer Recognition and Awards Presentation dinner at the Skyline Ranch in SW Alberta.

More information is available on the Rocky website and will be updated as plans are finalized. www.rockymountainrally.com