PlaceMakers ambassador Paddon scores Kiwi first

PlaceMakers P.A.S.S ambassador Hayden Paddon has become the first-ever Kiwi to score a World Rally Championship podium finish outside of New Zealand

The Geraldine rally star, and his co-driver John Kennard, finished a career-high second place in Italy’s Rally Sardegna, having led the event until midway through Day 2. Despite being pipped to the post by championship leader Sebastien Ogier of France, the pair’s historic milestone has seen them written into the history books of NZ motorsport. It’s a new benchmark in a career that has steadily been on the rise.

PlaceMakers brand engagement manager Maria Reinbergen said Paddon’s dedication to be the best has encouraged PlaceMakers to continue sponsoring him – something the company has been doing since 2011, when he became the first Australasian to win an FIA world rally title (the P-WRC).

“When Hayden first approached us, we were impressed by his drive, determination and absolute conviction that he would be number one,” said Ms Reinbergen. “He’s not wavered in that singular belief, and that’s why we’ve also made him the face of our P.A.S.S programme.

“P.A.S.S is designed to attract talented young people into careers in the building industry, and encourage them to great success. Hayden is a great role model in that regard, and someone all New Zealand can be proud of. We certainly are. Well done Hayden!”

Meanwhile, Paddon says PlaceMakers support has been critical to his success.

“We’ve built some great relationships and made some great friendships. Without PlaceMakers support, we wouldn’t be where we are today,” he said.

How Rally Sardegna unfolded:

Three consecutive stage wins on the opening day put Paddon and Kennard at the front of the field – a position they held until midway through Day 2.

However, after breaking their gearbox mount, they were forced to take a cautious approach in the afternoon’s stages. That allowed defending champion, France’s Sebastien Ogier, to take the lead.

The pair managed to make it to the overnight service and get the damage repaired. The 28-year-old said he thought the incident was the end of their rally.

“Thankfully, we were able to push through and earn our podium spot,” he said. “It’s an amazing feeling and not what I was expecting. The support from home has been great; I hope our fans found the late nights worthwhile!”

With the second half of the season featuring three of Paddon’s favourite rounds – Rally Poland, Rally Finland and Rally Australia – Paddon’s supporters and PlaceMakers friends are sure to be watching out in hope of another podium finish, maybe even the top spot!

Hayden Paddon and John Kennard won three consecutive stages on the opening day of Rally Italia Sardegna. Photo: Hyundai Motorsport

Feature Image: Hayden Paddon celebrating his first-ever WRC podium with Hyundai teammate Thierry Neuville. Photo: Hyundai Motorsport