ROD WADE
Rod is a highly experienced driver with an extensive knowledge of all things mechanical. Over the years, Rod has amassed a precious collection of cars that are now proudly housed in a dedicated climate controlled showroom beneath his house.
He is a determined athlete with a good sense of humour and is never without a challenge to stretch both himself, and his skills to their limits. In 2011, he successfully climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and he aspires to conquer K2.
THE TEAM
AUSTEN RITCHIE
Although born in Scotland, Austen Ritchie has lived on Australia’s Gold Coast since he was four-years-of-age. A fifth generation builder, Austen is no stranger to adventurous challenges having undertaken many epic journeys including those on the high seas as well as rougher terrain where he can put his 4×4 through its paces.
JOHN BELL
Born in Kavieng, New Ireland, John is now retired and lives at Airlie Beach, Queensland, with his wife Carol. They’ve travelled widely both internationally and within Australia. He’s lived in New Guinea , Tasmania, Queensland, Western Australia, a year in Europe and half a year in S.E. Asia.
MICHAEL FLANDERS
Michael is a highly experienced motorsport professional. Having completed his mechanical apprenticeship with Ford in Australia some 17 years ago, he went on to work in the V8 Supercars Championship as the Crew Chief for Dick Johnson Racing, Australia’s most prestigious and oldest Touring Car team.
JACKSON EVANS
18y year old Jackson Evans joined Vintage Adventurer Rod Wade as navigator in the 1953 Ford Crestline on the Road to Mandalay (RTM) Rally in February 2015.
KELLY WHITTON
From Scottsdale, Arizona, Kelly is a keen adventurer and motoring enthusiast. She serves as the Director of the Copperstate 1000 Vintage Car Road Rally, as well as the Copperstate Overland Vintage Off-Roading Adventure. A rookie navigator, Kelly did exceptionally well and worked with Rod to achieve First in Class, his best result to date.
