Hayden Paddon never imagined that the Australian Rally Championship trophy he lifted last year carried a story far deeper than a Kiwi beating his nearest neighbor. The trophy is named the Possum Bourne Trophy, a tribute to the New Zealand rally legend who died in 2003. Now, Paddon is taking on a new role: mentoring Bourne’s son, Spencer, to follow in his father’s footsteps.
For Paddon, the Bourne name is not just history. He vividly remembers getting his first autograph from Possum, and seeing his own name etched alongside his childhood hero. “Just seeing my name alongside his,” Paddon told DirtFish, “it was incredible, and slightly surreal.” Bourne was a massive inspiration to Paddon, who has since continued the tradition of New Zealand rally talent on the international stage.
This collaboration is no overnight project. Paddon has prepared a Subaru Impreza WRX with a livery identical to the one Possum drove. The car will be used by Spencer Bourne at the Ashley Forest Rallysprint this weekend, marking the return of the Bourne name to the event after 26 years. Possum Bourne last won Ashley Forest in 2000. “It’s going to be great to see Spencer out competing, in an iconic car in iconic Possum colors,” Paddon said.
Spencer, now 28, admitted the offer from Paddon came out of nowhere. “Mum always told me to say yes to every opportunity, so I did,” he said. Although it’s his first time at Ashley Forest, he has watched footage of his father competing there. His goals are simple: have fun and don’t crash the car. But behind that, there’s a bigger mission: keeping Possum Bourne’s legacy alive.
Paddon isn’t stopping at Ashley Forest. He is committed to coaching Spencer intensively to prepare for next year’s Otago Rally. “This isn’t a one-off event. We’re going to work with Spencer over coming months with the goal of him competing at Rally Otago next year,” Paddon emphasized. “We’ll be coaching Spencer so he’s at the point where he can compete at Otago and properly enjoy it.”
For Paddon, this is a way to repay Bourne for paving the way for New Zealand drivers. Bourne was a pioneer, taking local talent to the world stage. Paddon himself felt that impact. Now, he wants to ensure the Bourne name continues to shine, and Spencer gets a fair chance to prove himself.
This story is not just about rally; it’s about respect, friendship, and a spirit passed from generation to generation. When Spencer Bourne hits the gas at Ashley Forest, he won’t just carry his father’s famous name—he’ll carry new hope for New Zealand rally. And Hayden Paddon will be there, guiding every step.
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