Mechanical problems end Targa dream for Rhianon and Rick

After dominating their class in this year's Targa Tasmania Rally from the outset, mechanical problems on the final day forced the retirement of  Rick Bates and Rhianon Smyth.

Rick and Rhianon looked to have the 2WD Showroom category all stitched up, going into the final day with a 50 second lead over fellow Mazda3 MPS driver, Alister McRae.  However their dreams of a class victory were shattered when mechanical problems struck.

Despite their disappointment, the pair thoroughly enjoyed the event, and whilst it was her first Targa Tasmania, Rhianon handled the five day event easily.