Father vs son warfare: Shane van Gisbergen's dad takes him on

Matthew Hansen
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Father and son combinations in the world of motorsport are nothing new. They're plentiful in the US, Australia, and we've even got a handful in New Zealand. The Richards family, the Evans family, and also the van Gisbergens. 

While Shane van Gisbergen is one of three Kiwi 'men of the moment' in the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship, don't forget his father Robert's comprehensive stint in New Zealand rallying circles — ripping up gravel roads all over the country in his Ford Escort. 

It comes as no surprise to learn that much of van Gisbergen junior's racing inspiration came from not only watching his dad compete, but also competing against him around the family property. So with the help of Holden and Red Bull, the father and son relived the rivalry through a pair of shoe-on-the-other-foot challenges; Shane handing Robert the keys to his Supercar, and both drivers taking on the family farm in a Penny Homes Holden Rally Team Barina AP4. 

What unfolds is a grand continuation of a long-standing family feud; Robert coming exceptionally close to Shane's time around the Norwell Motorplex. As to who wins on gravel? You'll just have to watch the clip to find out...