Motor Image Racing Team (MIRT) co-driver, Rhianon Smyth, injured in crash

Rhianon Smyth was rushed to the Royal Adelaide Hospital after her car hit a tree during the "High Eden" stage of the 2009 Australian Rally Championship (ARC) in Barossa Valley. Smyth remains in hospital for the time being recovering from broken bones and will be unable to co-drive with MIRT driver, Emma Gilmour for the last three remaining legs of the APRC.

Smyth's role will be taken up by Claire Mole, who is no stranger to the rally scene having dabbled in rallying since age 17. Mole has rallied in several countries throughout the world including France, Germany, Belgium, Norway, Sweden, Monaco, Finland, USA, Malaysia, Ireland, Spain, New Zealand, Portugal, Sardinia and Corsica.

"I was very worried when I first heard of Rhianon's accident. She has multiple injuries but she is very fit and also very determined so I am sure we will see her back in the circuit soon. The whole team will miss her," said Emma Gilmour

"I am happy that we managed to find a suitable replacement in Claire Mole from the UK. I have full confidence that they will both maintain the strong and consistent performance in the remaining legs in the APRC," said Tan Keng Hock, Managing Director of Motor Image Racing Team.

Besides Emma Gilmour and Claire Mole, the Motor Image Racing Team also includes Cody Crocker, defending champion of the APRC title, and his co-driver Ben Atkinson.