Motorsport: Paddon makes solid start

Kiwi Hayden Paddon has set the seventh fastest time on the opening stage of Rally Argentina on Friday.

The Hyundai factory driver took no risks on the short spectator test on the streets of Cordoba.

World champion Sebastien Ogier posted the fastest time in his M-Sport Ford ahead of teammate Elfyn Evans and Hyundai's Dani Sordo.

Paddon is hoping for big things at the event where he recorded his maiden WRC victory a year ago.

"Nice clean start to the rally tonight," Paddon said. "Ready and raring to go for tomorrow's gravel stages. Can't wait." Paddon told fans on Facebook.

Earlier in the day, they were happy with their shakedown runs which included the second quickest time among the 12 World Rally Championship competitors.

Nice clean start to the rally tonight. Ready and rearing to go for tomorrow’s gravel stages. Can’t wait! #paddonspack pic.twitter.com/EFlQM3i9iE

— Hayden Paddon (@HaydenPaddon) April 28, 2017