Possum Passes On

It is a sad day for Motorsport in New Zealand.  (Peter) Possum Bourne,  one of New Zealands greatest rally drivers passed away about 1:00 am this morining.  This comes following an accident that occurred on Easter weekend and left Possum on life support,  which has since been turned off.

The nick name Possum was apparently given to him when he rolled his first car after swerving to avoid a possum.  Since then he has gone on to become a New Zealand icon winning many rally events driving for Subaru.

It has been requested that all spectators,  officials and competitors wear black arm bands at any motorsport events held this coming weekend.

Our condolences to Possums family.  The whole of New Zealand grieves with you.

What follows is a list of some of Possums achievements :

1979 starts rallying in New Zealand

1993 wins Asia-Pacific Rally Championship

1994 wins Asia-Pacific Rally Championship

1996 wins Australian Rally Championship
Subaru

1997 wins Australian Rally Championship
Subaru

1998 wins Australian Rally Championship
Subaru

1999 wins Australian Rally Championship
Subaru

2000 wins Australian Rally Championship
Subaru wins Asia-Pacific Rally Championship

2001 wins record 6th Australian Rally Championship
Subaru Impreza WRC 2000

2002 wins 7th Australian Rally Championship
Subaru Impreza WRX

For more details on Possums career or photo's, see his website at www.possumbourne.co.nz