Zak taking on the best

As the world’s best drivers make their way to Mid Wales this weekend for the FIA Wales Rally GB, Welshpool teenager Zak Hughes will be among the local names looking to make an impact.

The notoriously challenging rally starts on Friday with a ceremonial start in Chester, then covers iconic forest stages throughout Mid and North Wales. The event is considered one of the most challenging in the FIA World Rally Championship and will provide a huge test for 18-year-old Hughes.

“Rally GB is an amazing opportunity for me, one I am very grateful for, a special thanks must be said to SVP Motorsport for their fantastic car preparation and my parents for their constant support,” he said. “It will be a long two days, however, I have my very experienced co-driver Chris Evans to guide me round the challenging course.”

With three championship wins to his name this season, Hughes is in touching distance of the Swift Rally Championship title win.

“The goal is to bring home my fourth maximum points, this will result in the Swift Championship overall win, with the last round to spare,” he added. “The rally is renowned for being a car breaker, so I won’t be pushing too hard, it’s a marathon not a sprint.”

PICTURE: Zak and co-driver Chris are ready for the testing FIA Wales Rally GB this weekend