Vancouver, British Columbia -- Reigning Canadian Rally Champion, Pat Richard, of Vancouver, British Columbia and his Subaru Rally Team Canada are in Mexico to compete in the 2003 Corona Rally Mexico March 13-16 against a very strong international field including several fellow Production Car World Rally Championship contenders. The Corona Rally Mexico is considered North America's flagship rally and is a candidate event for inclusion in the FIA World Rally Champion, thus ensuring close competition over the toughest gravel roads Mexico has to offer.

Buoyed by his dominant performance in winning last week's Rallye International de Quebec, Pat is excited about the Corona Rally Mexico. " I am really looking forward to my first trip to Mexico and this event," commented Pat. "I understand from all reports that the country, the roads, and the spectators are all fantastic. With the competition including Sola, Ferreyros, Kulig, Ligato and Higgins, all Production Class WRC drivers, this might well be the best field ever assembled for a rally in North America. I can't wait for the countdown and to represent Subaru, and all of Canada in this prestigious event."

The 2003 Corona Rally Mexico kicks off with a ceremonial start in the captivating city of Guanajuato on Thursday, March 13, but the real action begins on Friday when the crews head into the mountains for the opening of nine special stages. Saturday's route takes the contenders north of Leon for a further eight stages while the climax on Sunday will be contested over five competitive sections. The route covers a distance of 1,020 kilometers over 22 stages. The action and results can be followed on www.rallymexico.com

For more information:
Mike Hurst
Rocket Rally Racing
(604) 619 1583
mhurst@rocketrally.com