ARA Rally teams from across the US, Canada, South America, and Europe converged in the mountains of East Tennessee to pit their driving skills against the long and winding roads.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- The Overmountain Rally 2024 took place on September 14-15 in the cities of Newport and Johnson City, Tennessee, as part of the American Rally Association(ARA) National Championship series. This event brought competitors to the rugged and scenic gravel roads of the Cherokee National Forest, featuring over 100 miles of intense rally stages on twisty and elevation-changing trails in East Tennessee.
Teams from across the United States, Canada, South America, and Europe competed in various vehicle classes. The rally is known for its challenging terrain, including a mix of smooth gravel, clay, and hard-packed dirt.
New this year, were the stages held on the forest roads near the cities of Newport and Del Rio, TN Competitors were challenged to routes that hadn't been used in previous competitions, adding to the excitement.
As for the finishers, they faced an arduous rally that tested both the drivers' technical skill and endurance. The winning team in the top 4WD class navigated the treacherous terrain with precision, marking a thrilling end to the race, while several competitors in the 2WD and regional classes also secured hard-earned victories. These drivers braved the twisting forest roads and steep climbs to emerge victorious in one of the most challenging races of the ARA calendar.
Following the first day's stage rally, the drivers participated in a spectator event with head-to-head competition at the newly remodeled and historic Newport Speedway, to the delight of racing enthusiasts. On the second day of competition, the finish line celebration was held at Founders Park in Johnson City, where the rally community gathered to honor the victors and enjoy post-race festivities.
Maryland competitor, Travis Pastrana edged out current national point leader and Canadian, Brandon Semenuk for the victory. The next event on the circuit will be held in Marquette, WI.
Organizers hope that the Overmountain Rally will be back on the 2025 schedule as an ARA championship stage rally.
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SOURCE ARA Rally
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