Yeah, I go to the gym every day and I do a lot of practice with completing reconnaissance's too. I think that is where a lot of the speed can come from. Generally I am just working on everything - my mental approach, work on the media side and maybe I will try and get more sponsors too. That is always a good plan. I have got enough sponsors for this year but obviously looking ahead all the time is the main thing. Just working on the overall speed and 'the package'. We know now that drivers can't just be fast. They need to be good at everything. I want to work on every area, all the time. I have decided not to go to University so I can just focus on trying to make a good job of this. I have got plenty of time on my side.

Crash.net:
Have you deferred your University entrance then?

NR:
I wouldn't say deferred. I just haven't applied. I will see how this goes first. I have got my A-levels and that is always a good back-up. I will focus on rallying for now.

Crash.net:
Regarding the MSA British Rally Elite and Academy schemes is that something you are involved in or would like to be involved in?

NR:
No I am not involved with the scheme. I have done a couple of pace-note recce training days with Robert [Reid]. But I am not in it at the moment. I wouldn't turn down the chance to be involved with it. However I think if I am in it or not it doesn't matter because I have got such a good training programme with David and FX. It would be an added bonus to be in that. But if not then I don't mind. I have got good opportunities anyway.

Crash.net:
I assume in the BRC and the CRC you will be making your own pace-notes?

NR:
All of them are international events with recces and things. It is going to be a tall order and it is going to be a tight schedule. I think on a couple of rounds we go straight from one rally and into the next. That is where the fitness will come in to ensure I have enough stamina. It is going to be a very exciting year.

Crash.net:
Who will be your co-driver?

NR:
Rob Fagg, who has previously called the notes for James Wozencroft - and Martin Rowe in China. Obviously he has got lots of experience. Hopefully he will be able to help me along the way and hopefully we will have a strong partnership.


TO HEAR THE INTERVIEW IN FULL WITH NICK ROWLAND: CLICK HERE