The Thrill of the Rally
A Look Inside Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland 2023 iN Gympie

Meet the Team Behind the Wheels

At the heart of every thrilling event is a story. In the case of the Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland 2023 in Gympie, the story unfolds on the rugged dirt roads of an eight-stage rally. With the team of Mike Carney Racing at the centre, we got a unique glimpse into their experience. Driver Chris Carney and navigator Sarah Major are at the wheel of a Toyota Corolla, ready to conquer each stage.

The team consists of dedicated professionals:

• Chris Carney, Driver

• Sarah Major, Navigator

• Elliot Sankey, Rally Organiser

• Luen Warneke, Marketing Coordinator

• Lilly Wilson, Marketing Admin

• Hayden Swift, Mechanic

• Nathan Edmunds, Mechanic

• Tiahne Soualiotis, Mechanic Apprentice and Backup Navigator

Connect with the team at their website or follow their journey on social media: @MikeCarneyRacing

Testing, Tweaking, and Trial Runs

Before the actual rally, the team gathered at Driver's Compound, Thanes Creek for testing. From zip-tying mudguards to bleeding brakes, every part of the Corolla received attention. Nathan, Hayden, and Tiahne were hands-on, looking over the car for any loose bolts and out-of-place elements.

A hit with a tree causing a broken mirror and an issue with the alternator may have set the team back initially, but midnight repairs and a never-give-up attitude had them back on track.

Wheels on Mary: A Pre-Race Celebration

The pre-race excitement was palpable at Wheels on Mary, where rally participants drove down the streets of Gympie, showcasing their cars and sharing their passion with fellow enthusiasts. It was a community affair and a chance for the drivers to introduce themselves before the main event.

The Rally: Challenges and Triumphs

The rally itself was a rollercoaster ride. The first day was marked by the missed SS1-SS4 stages due to the alternator issue. But the team's determination saw them overcoming the setbacks, fixing the alternator, and getting the Corolla back in the race.

SS5 BROOYAR WEST II was closed due to a car fire on the track, leading to some unexpected excitement. The team found their rhythm in stages like WIDGEE II and KANDANGA II, with Chris and Sarah working in perfect unison.

IMBIL II, the final stage, was a battle against not just fellow racers but the elements themselves. Nightfall and suspended dust caused reduced visibility, slowing down racers and even forcing some to stop. But the team's determination and camaraderie propelled them to the finish line.

A Race to Remember

Through ups and downs, from the alternator issue to a burning car on the track, the Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland 2023 was a rally to remember. The passion and persistence of Mike Carney Racing Team turned this race into more than just a competition; it became a story of friendship, determination, and the love of the sport.

A big thanks to everyone who supported and followed the journey at @MikeCarneyRacing. Visit the team's website to be part of their racing family and relive this thrilling adventure.

This blog post was inspired by a documentary-style video about the Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland 2023. Stay tuned for the full video featuring interviews, insights, and unforgettable moments from this unique event.