The Vanuatu International Rally, held on the island of Efate from August 21 to 24, proved to be an invaluable learning experience for 21-year-old Aliyyah Koloc and her team, Buggyra ZM Racing.
-- Usually focused on rally raids, Aliyyah tackled her first WRC-style event with a new car and co-driver. Despite mechanical setbacks that prevented a competitive finish, her focus remained firmly on development and on gaining crucial high-speed rally experience.
"The rally went really well. Every day, I felt more comfortable in the car. By Sunday, I had gotten the hang of it," Aliyyah reflected on her progress over the weekend. The event marked her first experience with a WRC-type vehicle and a new co-driver, working alongside experienced local navigator Ysée Bedford.
New car, new co-driver
The partnership with Bedford proved immediately successful, with the pair creating their own roadbook for the first time. "Ysée and I worked really well together, considering we met just a few days ago. Before the rally, we made our own roadbook, which was a first for me. Although there were a few mistakes, I learned a lot from her," Aliyyah explained.
Team principal and CEO of Buggyra ZM Racing, Martin Koloc, was impressed with her rapid development: "Stage by stage, Aliyyah gained more speed and confidence. By the end of the rally, she ranked consistently in the top 5 for the last five stages, her best result being 3rd in the penultimate stage."
Challenging conditions
The rally's varied terrain provided the perfect testing ground, with Aliyyah navigating through forest sections, mud, and rain on the opening day. Night stages added an extra challenge. "The night stages were really cool! Twice, a herd of cows crossed the track, so we had to slow down for a bit to let them pass. That was a first for me," Aliyyah recalled.
Mechanical issues
The crew faced a significant challenge when the gearbox failed on Aliyyah’s Ford Fiesta Proto Mk8 during stage 16 on the second day. The mechanical issue forced the team to miss several stages, ultimately preventing any chance of a competitive overall result. "Unfortunately, we got a gearbox failure, so we missed a couple of stages on Saturday afternoon," Martin Koloc confirmed. “Despite this setback, the team's commitment to completing the rally remained strong, with the mechanics working quickly to get the car ready for the night stages.”
Learning from the WRC car
The WRC-style car proved its worth as a learning tool. "The main objective of this rally was driver development. The WRC car allowed Aliyyah to gain high-speed experience, become sharper, and improve her technical skills," Martin Koloc explained.
Even with much shorter stages than what Aliyyah is used to in rally raids, the technical demands were significant. "Narrow twisty lanes can feel quite demanding, and I was happy to cross the finish line," Aliyyah admitted.
Looking ahead
Martin Koloc praised Aliyyah’s adaptability: "She handled everything in a very professional way, and quickly built a strong relationship with her new co-driver. The girls worked really well together and kept up with the top guys."
The Vanuatu International Rally has already shaped future plans. "This rally was a great experience, and we will definitely come back for the Dry Creek Rally in early November," Martin Koloc confirmed, highlighting the team's commitment to continuing Aliyyah’s development in WRC-style conditions.
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