Solberg left to rue 'roo as Duval grabs rally lead

0 Comments | AFP, November, 2005

PERTH, Australia (AFP) — Australia's best-known symbol proved the downfall for one of Norway's when a kangaroo bounced into the path of the former world rally champion Petter Solberg as he powered his Subaru Impreza along a gravel road at 190kmh.

Solberg, who held a comfortable lead in the season-ending Rally Australia at the time, could do nothing to avoid the iconic Aussie animal, smashing into it at top speed.

Neither he nor co-driver Phil Mills were injured but Subaru officials later reported the car's cooling system including radiator, fan and oil cooler had been destroyed.

Although Solberg was able to limp across the 13th stage finishing line, his race was over with the engine cooked. The kangaroo, of course, was killed.

Solberg's demise left...