The Hikutaia School National 4×4 Trial was the scene for the second round the Lucas Oils-supported 2020/21 series hosted by the Thames Valley 4WD Club in late January.

The ground was hard and dry, as to be expected for the northern rally, but featured plenty of mud bogs and action nevertheless for competitors and spectators alike.

Neville Mather & Richard Verner won the day in their D Class Nitro Customs buggy, followed by the ever consistent Greg & Chris McDell and Shayne Towers and Tony Hadland in their C Class Tombuilt. Scott and Jarred Biggs finished close behind in 4th & 5th overall.

Rhys O’Brien and Clarrie Vazey continued their strong form in C Class once again finishing 2nd in class with their Honda K24 powered buggy, this time improving to 7th overall on the day. Nathan Fogden & Mike Gibbons again finished third.

A and E Class both had sole entrants with a Suzuki SJ413 being the vehicle of choice. Luke and Stu Mickell finished the day in A Class after a roll in the afternoon to receive a placing. Daniel Howat & Cole Stockler only managed five hazards in the morning before their transfer-case split, but were able to hold it together long enough to finish the day.

Stephen Andrell returned with his G Class Isuzu Bighorn and finished the day, despite breaking a CV.

J Class saw the addition of Sean Cushing and Dyon Ross with their Evo- powered buggy, who kept up with last round winners Hayden McGill and Barry Williams. Unfortunately their flexiplate let go late in the morning, leaving Hayden to take a second win of the season.

Brent and Michael Ward finished the day with a strong lead in K Class, putting them in the mix at the tail end of C and D Class. Daniel Whiting and Willow Eayrs finished ahead of Luke Mickell and Bradley Laird.

Round 3 was hosted by the Mt Egmont 4WD Club near Eltham on February 20. Report on that event next month.