Rally Trinidad 2008 - Scrutineering and Stadium SuperSpecial
26th-28th March 2008
Photography by Candace Bhagirath, Devi Nath, Duane Boodasingh, Gerrard Wilson, Narend Sooknarine and Wayne Lee
Article by Robert Cadiz - TTRC Treasurer



RT08 launched on Friday night in the Hasely Crawford Stadium with Michelle Xavier of Imij and Co. opening the event with the Trinidad and Tobago National Anthem, which delighted the eager spectators.

The first 2 special stages of 2 laps each, were contested on a very tricky track around the National Stadium.

T&T’s local favourites John Powell/Nicholas Telfer, first off the line in their Stag/NP Ultra/Intercontinental Subaru WRC S9, set a blistering pace to the finish line, before a badly negotiated turn forced an engine stall and precious lost time to his weekend arch rival - Paul Bourne (Barbados) driving the same model car. These two teams engaged themselves in a fierce battle over the rest of the weekend thrilling fans on every stage.

Ainsley Lochan in his brand new Stag/NP Ultra/Josef’s Evolution 9 needed all his skill and experience to get through these two stages and keep up with the leaders. Sean Gill/Michael Cummins of Barbados in his 300bhp Suzuki Swift, demonstrated why they were a major RT08 attraction by posting a best time of 2:00 seconds, a mere 2 seconds off the fastest 4-wheel drive time (John Powell) of 1:58. Gill lived up to the hype all weekend long and out-drove many of the 4-wheel drive cars.

The Bajan contingent started really well leading every category except Group 2-4, held firmly from the start by Trinidad’s very own Rezan Mohammed in the Vigourade sponsored Mirage. Mohammed/Mondro would need every ounce of skill just to keep the Suzuki Swift in sight as they battled for overall 2WD honours.