Gene Neilson Stage |
www.olympusrally.com
The Olympus Rally was part of the first US Rally Championship held in 1973. It later became a World Rally Championship from 1986- 1988. Now, in 2007, it is part of Rally America’s Championship Series and we look forward to seeing how the drivers of today will handle the rugged forest terrain and unpredictable Pacific Northwest Weather. With some of the greatest names in rally such as John Buffum, Rod Millen, and Hannu Mikkola having won this race in the past, today’s drivers have a lot to live up to and some pretty big shoes to try and fill.
LOCATION | Olympia, WA
The Olympus Rally is held only 60 miles from Seattle in the capitol city of Olympia, Washington, which is located in the tip of Puget Sound- an area rich in outdoor activities and local culture. Washington is famous for its coffee shops and restaurants, and Olympia is steeped in both. The race begins on the Capitol Campus of Washington State, noted to be one of the country’s most beautiful state capitals, comprised of 55 acres of greenery. The race continues through the town of Shelton, a quaint and relaxing rural community that is a favorite destination for visitors. From Shelton there is easy access to the Olympic National Park and the Hood Canal, a glacier carved inland fjord. This rally is not to be missed as it has both the rural beauty of the Pacific Northwest as well as the cosmopolitan flair of the city, so remember to bring your hiking boots as well as your dinner attire!
CONDITIONS |
Pacific Northwest weather can be extremely temperamental, with rain, sleet or even snow all possibilities. The most dangerous part of this rally is just how quickly the weather conditions can change, with temperatures known to drop 25 degrees in a matter of minutes. Drivers must maintain their focus, as the roads can go from dry to slick very quickly and without any warning. Thick forests are a factor in this race, with vision limited around tight corners and loose dirt roads giving away to ditches on either side. This is a rally that is unforgiving to mistakes, which makes it all the more exciting to watch!
