STEVE Head, the Carnforth Forester, has been chosen as a finalist in rallying's newest initiative.

The 'Fit to be Champion' initiative will teach 20 young rally drivers the importance of fitness and diet, and is organised by The Motor Sports Association and the Lilleshall Sports Injury and Human Performance Centre.

Aimed at 18 to 26 year-olds, 'Fit to be Champion' is designed to provide the physical and mental attributes needed for success at the highest level of rallying.

The programme includes elements of fitness testing, training, mental preparation and sports science.

Allan Dean-Lewis, MSA Training & Development Executive commented: With 60 entries from the whole of the UK, the quality of applicants was exceptionally high. The selection panel spent a lot of time studying each application in considerable detail before coming to their final decisions".

The programme commences with a two-day assessment at Lilleshall in May.

Comprehensive physical tests will be completed at the Centre's laboratory, where Steve will be provided with a full report and personalised training advice.

Nutritional assessments will be undertaken to determine eating habits; these will be used to advise on nutritional needs.