Brendan wins Power Stage at National Capital Rally

Brendan Reeves and Rhianon Smyth have had the perfect start to the opening round of the ECB Australian Rally Championship (ARC), winning the Power Stage of the National Capital Rally in Canberra today.

Brendan and Rhianon, in their RallySchool.com.au Mazda2, set the second fastest time in this morning's qualifying stage with the top five quickest crews then completing a Power Stage 'shoot out'. Brend will start second ARC car on the road tomorrow. He also bagged five valuable Championship points.

After rain all week, Canberra has turned on fine weather today and with strong winds helping to dry out the roads, all looks set for a weekend of strong competition and perfect rally conditions.

Brendan won today's Power Stage by 0.9 seconds, ahead of reigning ARC 2WD Champion, Eli Evans (Honda Jazz) and Welshman Elfyn Evans in a Ford Fiesta.

After this evening's Ceremonial Start in the centre of Canberra, Brendan and Rhianon will kick off the rally proper early tomorrow morning.

"Winning the Power Stage and taking an early lead in the ARC is the perfect start for us," Brendan said. "We can't wait for the rally to start in earnest tomorrow."

Follow Brendan' progress throughout the weekend  on the website,  atwww.facebook.com/brendanreevesmotorsport and @BrendoMedia