Aussie Atkinson targets maiden rallying victory

0 Comments | AFP, March, 2008

LEON, Mexico (AFP) — Australia's Chris Atkinson has set his sights on a maiden world championship victory after achieving his best career finish in the Rally of Mexico.

The Subaru driver battled to a hard-fought second place behind four-time world champion Sebastien Loeb.

It was his second podium in three rallies this season and lifted him to fourth overall in the drivers' championship, just six points off the lead in the 15-race series.

"Chris did a fantastic job and I firmly believe he can win an event before the end of the year" said Subaru team principal David Richards.

Atkinson, 28, started the final day in second position and finished 66 seconds behind Loeb in the Citroen.

The Australian said he felt comfortable with the handling and...