Brendan claws his way back in Rally Portugal

Brendan and Rhianon have finished day one of Rally Portugal in 11th place in Class after a disappointing opening to their 2011 WRC Academy campaign.  A flat tyre on Friday's second stage robbed them of over three minutes  which they were then forced to claw back over the remaining four stages of the day.  The puncture had put the pair back to 18th in class but Brendan took on the challenge and had fought his way back up to 11th by the end of the day.

Whilst the Aussie duo are disappointed with their misfortune, they are aiming to continue their climb up the Academy leaderboard on Saturday and finish with a good points tally. Competitors in the WRC Academy have six remaining stages on Saturday to complete Rally Portugal.