Defending champion Petter Solberg produced a blistering first run to take the lead in the Rally of Argentina after Thursday's two special stages. The Norwegian Subaru driver lay 0.2 seconds ahead of Ford's Markko Martin, who was fastest in the second test, while Marcus Gronholm was third.
The drivers were accompanied by fireworks as they raced round the twisting track at Villa Carlos Paz.
The serious business will begin on Friday in the Punilla Valley.
There were no problems for any of the drivers on the gravel circuit in the opening action and they will now face the final 10 stages over 162.24km.
Martin's British co-driver Michael Park was the only driver suffering but that because of a viral infection.
And that did not stop he and Martin putting in a solid day's work in Argentina.
"It was a bit narrow in places but an enjoyable stage to start the event with," said Martin.
"I think the organisers must have watered the stage because it wasn't dusty at all."
MMIX
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
