JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
GEELONG rally driver Alan Jones will share more than just a famous racing name when he starts a 2011 Kidney Kar Rally next week.
Mr Jones underwent an operation to clear a kidney blockage, so he understands the need for research into the vital organ.
“They took the kidney out, fixed it and put it back in,” Mr Jones smiled.
“It was a bit like pulling out a clutch, repairing it and putting it back in the car.”
Mr Jones will drive his 1966 Mustang with navigator Arnold Soethout.
Mate and fellow veteran rally enthusiast Neville Kearney will drive his 1975 Torana with navigator John Nelson.
The two classic Geelong cars will tear up the backblocks of New South Wales between Wagga Wagga and Cowra from August 12 to 20.
“We’re expecting a pretty tough event because the organiser is a former navigator on the original London to Sydney rally,” Mr Kearney said.
The pair has so far raised $30,000 for Kidney Health Australia with the help of sponsors Valis IGA Supermarket, Buxton Real Estate, Davidsons Accountants, Gaugeworks and Murray Downs Golf Course.