Nick Rowland has teamed up with experienced co-driver Tim Sturla ahead the Pirelli International Rally, the opening round in the 2008 Tesco 99 Octane MSA British Rally Championship, where the pair will fight it out in the inaugural Suzuki Swift Sport Cup.
Rowland had been due to link-up with Rob Fagg, but in a change to his original plans will now be partnered by Sturla, who is no stranger to the BRC.
Indeed Tim has competed with several drivers over the last five seasons, including Conrad Rautenbach and Leon Pesticcio.
Rowland is now looking forward to round one of the BRC next week and the MSA British Rally Academy member, who will be the youngest driver in the Suzuki Sport Cup this year, is revelling at the chance to make his debut on an international event at such a young age.
He also believes that Sturla's experience will be a big help - not only in the BRC, but in the Chinese Rally Championship too, where Rowland will compete with the WY Rally Team.
"Obviously I can't wait to get my BRC season started. It will be a dream come true and a real challenge," said the
Crash.net columnist.
"There are a lot of new things for me to get my head around on round one - a new team, a new car, new stages, new co-driver and it will be my first experience of night time stages!
"However I have a fantastic opportunity to get advice from the great guys at TQ/ FX Motor Sports and David Higgins, along with all the people from the MSA British Rally Academy.
"With their help I am sure I will be prepared as best I can for the Pirelli Rally."
