Team Mitsubishi Motor Sports America picks up where it left off with impressive first day results at RIM

David Higgins did not disappoint on day one of the 2003 Rim of the World ProRally, finishing in the top spot with teammate Lauchlin O'Sullivan close behind and third overall. The extreme conditions once again allowed the new Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution to prove its dominance and competitive prowess. Higgins did not lead throughout the entire first day, but fought his way to the top with his unmatched driving skills. Lauchlin, who hadn't found a clean run throughout the night, edged his way into the top three with mistake-free driving. The one and six cars sit in perfect spots for Saturday's competition and hope to hold on for a double-podium finish.

Anticipation was high and momentum was great leading up to this year's Rim of the World event for Team Mitsubishi Motor Sports America. After winning the first event in the 2003 SCCA ProRally season in Michigan, the team is looking for another strong finish here in Palmdale. Dick Kelley, Senior Manager, Media Relations, was asked his thoughts on RIM: "It's unforgiving, brutal, and relentless, you're always a hair's breath away from total failure. We've taken extra time and extra care for thorough preparation and we believe that with the Lancer Evolution's reputation and the intelligence of the drivers, we'll have a good result."

Friday's action began around sunset, but not before a huge gathering of Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution owners, streaming into Palmdale from miles away. The parking lots surrounding race activities saw each new Lancer Evolution drawing crowds wherever they appeared.

After autographs and the impressive display at the Parc Expose, the number one and six cars headed into the mountains for the official start of the race. In past years, the event was known for its dry and dusty conditions, but this year heavy rains fell, eliminating the dust.

"The rain doesn't bother me at all, and with me not running first, it's a big advantage," commented David Higgins prior to the event.

At the first service, Higgins had a more sobering view of the conditions; "pretty nasty really, very foggy in places, then it clears a bit. Huge rocks in the road made things quite difficult."

Team manager John Kennard summed up David's early stage performances; "Things are quite good, first stage David lost a little bit of time with the screen misting up, but other than that he had a good time on the second stage."

Lauchlin O'Sullivan shared Higgins' view, talking about the rocks as well. "There are large rocks out there, real dangerous and we're taking it easy going around them. We haven't had a clean stage yet. We got a flat on stage two and we're losing little bits of time here and there." But his determination is clear, "let's go, go get 'em!

Saturday, when the rally restarts at noon, will again test the Evo's strength and durability. The day will consist of nine stages and two service stops, covering some of the roughest roads on the circuit.

Quotes:

"The rain doesn't bother me at all, and with me not running first, it's a big advantage," - David Higgins

"There are large rocks out there, real dangerous and we're taking it easy going around them. We haven't had a clean stage yet. We got a flat on stage two and we're losing little bits of time here and there." - Lauchlin O'Sullivan

"There are large rocks out there, real dangerous and we're taking it easy going around them. We haven't had a clean stage yet. We got a flat on stage two and we're losing little bits of time here and there." - John Kennard