SUBARU WINS 2010 CANADIAN MANUFACTURER'S RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP

TORONTO, Nov. 22 /CNW/ - A total of seven Subaru teams finished in the top ten at the Rally of the Tall Pines, the final race in the 2010 Canadian Rally Championship, and the result secured the 2010 Manufacturer's Championship for Subaru for the third consecutive year. First place at Tall Pines went to Antoine L'Estage, who also won the 2010 Driver's Championship. Craig Henderson and Lyne Murphy drove their Subaru into second position overall, and were happy to make a strong contribution to the manufacturer's results in their first full season of competition.

Subaru driver Patrick Richard was foiled in his bid for a third consecutive Driver's Championship. In spite of some outstanding stage times, a bad landing in the fourth stage likely resulted in the broken suspension that took them out of the competition near the end of the race.

"We came to Bancroft to fight for the title, and while Alan and I are disappointed not to win, hats off to Antoine and Natalie for their consistency and success," said Richard. "Although I couldn't bring home the driver's title, it means a lot to know that our efforts helped Subaru Rally Team Canada to achieve a well-deserved Manufacturer's Championship. We're looking forward to more hot competition next year!"

A second Subaru Rally Team Canada entry, driven by former Production World Rally Champion Martin Rowe, overcame multiple mechanical difficulties to take fourth position.

"The Canadian Rally Championship is a great showcase for the rugged performance of Subaru," said Rowe. "We're delighted to be a part of their success this year."

The Canadian Rally Championship returns in February, 2011, with the Rallye Perce Neige near Maniwaki, Quebec.

For further information:

Elaine Griffin [phone]