Australian Tarmac Challenge run and won

Renault's Formula One inspired Clio R27 claimed some impressive scalps in its maiden Australian motor racing appearance in last weekend's opening round of the inaugural Australian Tarmac Challenge (formerly Dutton Rally). The event was held in Victorian at the Phillip Island circuit, Holden's Lang Lang Proving Grounds, Haunted Hills Hill Climb and DECA Newborough.

The Carsales Network/Renault Sport entry driven by Melissa McCormick and Stephen Ottley may have been the smallest car there but held its own against the bigger and more powerful competition. Ottley finished 13th outright in Street Championship with McCormick claiming 21st, meaning the Clio beat cars including BMW M3, HSV GTS and Nissan 370Z.

Highlights for the Renault included two top three finishes in the Street Championship in addition the Clio R27 claimed seven class wins in events across the weekend and a further 12 second place class results.

Street Championship outright driver honours went to Randall Mance driving a Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X, and he and teammate David Van Rooy won the Crew title as well.

Club Championship honours were taken by another Mitsubishi, this time a Lancer EVO VIII driven by Bernie Wilson but the team title went to the Subaru Impreza WRX STI combination of Vin Marco and Vince Misuraca.

It was a successful weekend of Mitsubishi with the EVO VI of David Finnimore winning the Motorsport Championship. Team honours in that class went to the Nissan Skyline GT-R duo of Adam Newton and Chris Thomson.

Round two of the series will be held in New South Wales in September.

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