Can Jamie navigate opening round of championship? (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Can Jamie navigate opening round of championship?

2:38pm Friday 13th February 2009 in Rallying By Sports Desk

Jamie Forrest will have a familiar face alongside him when he begins the defence of his title in the Northern Stage Rally Championship this weekend.

The Cross Hills co-driver was the top Forest Challenge Navigator in the ANCC (Association of Northern Car Clubs) competition over 16 rounds last year.

He worked next to several drivers from across the country but will start Sunday’s Riponian Rally alongside fellow Ilkley and District Motor Club member Nick Dobson.

The pair, who will compete in a Mark Two Ford Escort, linked up on the same circuit back in 2004 when Forrest was also crowned champion and Dobson finished second-best overall driver.

Forrest admits the Thirsk-based race will prove a particularly testing opening if the cold snap continues into the weekend.

He said: "Sutton Bank is fairly high up so if there is more snow it could make it interesting.

"We’re not used to these conditions and it will mean changing driving style."

The 34-year-old, who works at White Rose Volkswagen in Cross Hills, used to compete behind the wheel himself but costs meant he swapped to the passenger side.

He said: "I just ran out of money as it is so expensive. It costs £450 to enter a car in a race and when you are paying a mortgage and have a family it can become too difficult."

But Forrest insists he gets more out of navigating than driving.

He said: "I probably get more of a buzz from doing this. It is very much a team effort and there has to be a big element of trust between one another.

"As a navigator, you have to keep your head – and also have a strong stomach!"