Slaughter steps up to world stage

Maidstone driver James Slaughter is competing in the World Rally Championship for the first time.

Slaughter (pictured) runs in the British round – the Dayinsure Wales Rally GB – which starts today (Thursday).

He’ll be up against crews from 25 countries, including New Zealand and Mexico, in his Ford Fiesta R5.

It’s the pinnacle for Slaughter, who turns 44 tomorrow.

He said: “I grew up watching the Lombard RAC Rally as our round of the World Rally Ch amp i on sh i p used to be known in the 1980s. “Dad used to take my brother and I right around the country to follow the event. It was magical. “In all honesty, I don’t think I’m quite up to start comparing times with the best in the world – it’s a very big step to what the likes of Sebastien Ogier are doing. “But competing on the same roads is a fantastic feeling and it’s the realisation of a dream to start an event I followed so keenly when I was young.” Slaughter has codriver Niall Burns for company on his World Rally Championship debut.

He added: “Niall’s been fantastic and has shouldered a lot of the organisation and administration for the event. This is starting to feel like a real adventure.

“On the opening full day of competition, we’ll drive more than 70 miles flat-out through the forests, only stopping for fuel and to fit new tyres. That one day is longer than most of the entire route we’ve been used to doing.

“Turning 44 on the first day of the event, I’m a little bit older than some of the guys I’m competing against, which is why I’ve stayed so focused on fitness. I train every day and I’m hoping that will pay dividends as the event progresses through the weekend.”