New Zealand rally driver Hayden Paddon and co-driver John Kennard have made a remarkable start to their full-season campaign in the 2025 Australian Rally Championship (ARC) at the Rally of Canberra today.
The duo, piloting the Paddon Racing Group Hyundai i20 N Rally2 car, showcased exceptional skill and consistency throughout the opening day, positioning themselves as strong contenders in this year’s championship.
Before the event, Paddon acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating, “We are under no illusion that it will be a tough challenge, going up against some high-speed competition on unfamiliar events and terrain.”
The Rally of Canberra, renowned for its challenging stages in the Tidbinbilla and Kowen forests, commenced with eight stages covering approximately 112 kilometres. Paddon and Kennard navigated these demanding terrains precisely, reflecting their extensive experience on the international rally scene. Their performance not only underscores their adaptability to new environments but also sets a positive tone for their ARC journey.
Paddon and Kennard lead the pack after Day 1 and 8 stages with a 29.7s gap to Toyota Duo Lewis Bates and Anthony McLoughlin and an impressive 1.27.5s gap to third-place Skoda Fabia duo Scott Pedder and Glenn Macneall.
Some well-known top competitors struggled during Day 1 in harsh stage conditions, including Paddon Racing Group teammates Stewart Reid and Bella Haggarty in their Mitsubishi Mirage. Their best finish was during SS5 when they crossed the finish line in 9th, placing them 18th in the overall standings. They reset to go again tomorrow.
Paddon’s entry into the ARC has reignited the trans-Tasman rally rivalry reminiscent of the late Possum Bourne’s era. Facing formidable local talents like Canberra’s own Harry Bates, a multiple ARC champion, Paddon’s participation elevates the competition’s intensity.
Defending champion Harry Bates and co-driver Coral Taylor had an unlucky start to the Rally of Canberra. They lost their right rear wheel in SS2 and sustained some damage, which saw them limp to the finish line. They finished 5th, 1.37.5s down from stage winner Scott Pedder.
“We were having a good run in stage 2, you know, we were on a good pace, not pushing too hard or anything, but a small mistake by me just breaking ever so slightly late into a left-hander and the result was we were in a ditch.
“Initially, looking like maybe getting away with it but then there were some nasties in the ditch that caught the right rear and tore it off, so yeah, a little bit disappointed with myself. I didn’t expect to be making a mistake like that so early in a rally that I know pretty well, but yeah, that’s how it is,” said Bates
Bates finished the day 14th in the driver standings.
The Rally of Canberra continues over the weekend, with competitors tackling an additional eight stages totalling approximately 111 kilometres on the final day. As Paddon and Kennard aim to maintain their momentum, rally enthusiasts eagerly anticipate a thrilling conclusion to the event.
“It was a tough morning – challenging stages, plenty of road sweeping, and a wrong tyre call on my part made things tricky. But we got things under control in the afternoon, managing the conditions and tyres much better.
“Harry, Scott, and Lewis have all been quick today, and we’re expecting another close battle tomorrow. Since this is a sprint round, today’s points are locked in, and we reset for Day 2,” said Paddon
Paddon’s successful first day not only highlights his driving prowess but also signals a promising ARC season ahead. His participation brings a fresh dynamic to the championship, and fans on both sides of the Tasman Sea will keenly follow his progress.
Header Image: Shots By TayB/Paddon Racing Group
