Gill sets early pace in Johor Bahru
Gaurav Gill and Norway’s Ole Christian Veiby set the benchmark in the International Rally of Johor, the third round of the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship, in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, as the Team MRF duo topped the time sheets at the shakedown ahead of the ceremonial flag-off and the Super Special Stage on Thursday. Delhi-based Gill, 35, was the quickest as he put in six laps around the 1.6 km dirt track in a best of one minute, 39 seconds, ahead of the 21-year old Veiby (01:39.6). The two were well ahead of the pack that included WRC regular Jari Ketomaa from Finland and Swedish ace Robert Blomberg.
“Since this is my first drive in the Skoda Fabia R5 in nearly three months, I was keen to put in as much seat time as possible and am happy with how everything went today,” said Gill on Friday. “The Malaysian Rally is the toughest of the championship with changing conditions and high humidity, but I am well prepared for it.”
Veiby said his goal was to maintain his lead in the championship, referring to his two-point advantage over Gill who won the first round in New Zealand while the Norwegian took the next in Australia.
“My target here is to stay ahead in the championship. I know Gaurav is very quick and has the experience driving in these conditions, while this is my first time in Malaysia. I hope to do well,” said Veiby who won in the WRC-2 category in Poland.
Gill, 35, was the quickest as he put in six laps around the 1.6 km dirt track in a best of one minute, 39 seconds, ahead of the 21-year old Veiby (01:39.6)