Saturday night we traveled from Merritt, BC to Kamloops, BC via backroads through the Rocky Mountain range in Canada. Sunday we headed back to Merritt via a different route in the mountains. The temperatures were a little bit warmer on Sunday, but nonetheless, there was still plenty of snow. But, with warmer temperatures came unpredictable slush instead of predictable snow packed ground. With regularities as long as 66 kilometers and speeds as high as 72 km/hr, the ride was nothing but interesting.

I was impressed with the way the Outlander handled. Its suspension is just soft enough to absorb the bumps and jumps on the roads but stiff enough to retain control in slick situations. And the Hankook iPike tyres were amazing! Never once did I feel out of control or feel like I was not able to make the SUV do what I wanted it to. Using top of the line equipment makes a world of difference.

We finally found out the results from Saturday's run by the time we left Sunday evening. We finished Saturday 4th overall of 38 entries. I am pleased with this position knowing that the best ice racers on the continent were racing against us with competition as tight as 1-2 points separating the first finishers.The final scoring from Sunday placed us 6th overall and in class with a total of 41 points. 5th and 6th places were tied with a total of 41 points. First place had a total of 20 points. But knowing that we had some difficulties along the way such as traffic, losing two of the three wheel speed sensors for the rally computer, and changing road conditions, I was pleased with another high finish after all that we struggled through to make it to the end on time and with little error.

I am feeling good about the practice that we completed at Thunderbird and think that we have a strong chance at winning the 2008 Winter Alcan 5000 Rally.