WRC Backstories: Neil Burgess and Jim Holder

Back in 2003, rally fans around the world were glued to the final round of the championship at Wales Rally GB, where an epic title battle was reaching its conclusion. Petter Solberg in his blue Subaru sealed the title that year, but his was not the only blue car stealing hearts and making headlines that year. ‘Mildred the Mini’ driven by Neil Burgess and co-driven by rally journalist Jim Holder, had entranced the hordes of fans at the event and online. MIni’s and their drivers have inspired a generation of rally fans, Paddy Hopkirk, Rauno Aaltonen and many others. This year was no exception. With huge media and public interest, Neil and newbie co-driver Jim - who had never competed together before, valiantly took on the challenge of one the most legendary events. This is the story of how a ‘mini adventure’ brought maximum joy to an army of rally fans.