Defending CAMS Australian Motorkhana champion Corinne East-Johnston has begun her 2019 on a high, taking out the 55th Jugiong Interstate Challenge.

East-Johnston was too strong for her counterparts, winning nine out of the 12 runs across six challenges available to the 19 competitors, while runner-up David Collier won the other three challenges.  

Despite trading places with Nathan Wuillemin throughout the day, Collier’s golden final run was enough to seal second place over Wuillemin by the smallest of margins, as well as sealing the B class.

Finishing in fourth just behind the pair was Renualt Special driver Andrew Collier, while Aaron Wuillemin rounded out the top five.

Other class winners were Phillip East who took out the FWD Sedan C class, Warwick Butt won the second C class and Lauren East-Wuillemin who took top honours in E class. 

East-Wuillemin’s sister Lacey managed to pick up the junior driver award for the day and Butt’s second C class victory also saw him take home the Production Renault award.

The Jugiong Interstate Challenge first began in 1964 between New South Wales and Victorian Renault car clubs and has since grown to feature Renault club members from around the country.

For more than 50 years on every Australia Day weekend, Renault drivers have made their way to Jugiong, with previous numbers reaching more than 110 competitors per event throughout the 1970s. 

As the event cements itself as part of the Jugiong community, Victorian Renault Car Club President Bob Sprague was thrilled the club was able to continue the long withstanding traditions. 

“We believe this is the longest continually run motorkhana in Australia and it’s a tradition for Renault clubs,” Sprague said. 

“The event used to be 10 tests but these days we use six tests but allow competitors two attempts at each and we make sure there are no reversing tests. 

“This allows the competition to be over around lunchtime and everyone can go and cool off at the swimming pool which has kept the tradition alive.”