Motorsport: Xtreme makeover delights Sumner

It's only one round in, but Rotorua rally driver Dean Sumner is already loving the new Rally Xtreme Challenge.

The 2010 New Zealand Rally Championship (NZRC) winner took out the first round of the series two weeks ago and is already sold on the format.

"It's easier and more competitor-friendly," he said. "It's one day only so you can be back at work on Monday."

He said it was also cheaper than contesting the NZRC with all five rounds held in the North Island. And with less regulation of the cars, Rally Xtreme competitors can run a lot more horsepower, which Sumner definitely enjoyed.

The series has attracted a lot of interest, with a number of former New Zealand champions lining up, including Sumner, Chris West and Geof Argyle. Promising 19-year old Alex Kelsey is expected to push his more experienced opponents hard.

Sumner said he had to dig deep to win the opening round, held on day one of Rally Wairarapa, setting a stage record on the final stage.

"I had to push pretty hard on the last stage to beat Westy [Chris West]," he said. "I wanted that prize money."

The next round is set for Hawke's Bay on June 9 but Sumner will skip it to compete in Targa Rotorua.

He said he was not too concerned about missing a round of the Rally Xtreme, believing he can still take out the overall title.