The opening round of the 2008 All Japan Rally Championships was held in last years first round venue in Karatsushi city, Saga prefecture. The all new Lancer Evo X and the Impreza were the hot items to watch for, along with the new JN1.5 class.
Last season 3rd placed driver, Ishida took part in his CT9A Lancer Evo IX. He is expected to start in his all new CZ4A Lancer Evo X from round 3 in the series. Kitamura was already participating in his all new Impreza and dominated SS1. Last years champion, Katsuta came in 2nd place along with Ishida following in 3rd.
During SS5, Ishida put out the fastest time and the rally was dominated by these 3 drivers. Nutahara joined the pack and the rally unfolded into a heated battle, finishing leg 1 in 3rd place. In leg 2, the top 2 cars built up a strong time difference from the rest, but Ishida followed vigorously in 3rd place. His efforts were not enough to shorten the lead, but battled on to finish in overall 3rd position. |
