History 1970s

1972 Rallye Press-on-Regardless (USA)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Event Name: 1972 Rallye Press-on-Regardless

Date: October 4–8, 1972

Host Country: United States

Surface: Gravel

Total Distance: ~960 km

Total Starters: 48 crews

Total Finishers: 26 crews

Held in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, the 1972 Press-on-Regardless Rally (POR) was one of North America's premier stage events. Known for its dense forests, narrow gravel roads, and unpredictable weather, the rally was a unique blend of endurance and precision. Datsun’s Scandinavian duo, Källström and Andersson, put in a dominant performance to take a convincing win on unfamiliar ground.

Route

Forest Tracks: Tight, twisty gravel lanes with blind crests and rapid corner changes demanded constant pace note discipline.
Sand and Soft Soil: Light, loose terrain challenged traction and encouraged early throttle application.
Night Stages: With limited artificial lighting and fog-prone conditions, visibility became a critical factor.

The course ran through Michigan’s remote timberland, incorporating logging roads, old fire trails, and deep-wood stages under changing autumn conditions.

Fall leaves and sudden rain showers made grip levels inconsistent, while wildlife and treefall added unpredictable hazards in deeper sections.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Harry Källström & Claes-Göran Andersson · Datsun 240Z
2nd Place
John Buffum & Tom Grimshaw · Triumph TR6
3rd Place
Gene Henderson & Ken Pogue · AMC Gremlin X

Källström’s composed performance and Andersson’s crisp pace notes made the most of the Datsun’s balance and power, marking one of the first major European wins on U.S. soil in the growing American rally scene.

Navigation & Challenges

  • Forest Density: Constant tree coverage reduced visibility and made light setup critical for night running.
  • Loose Surfaces: Soft, shifting gravel caused frequent oversteer and braking instability.
  • Environmental Hazards: Wildlife crossings, mud patches, and sudden drops in traction kept drivers on edge at all times.

The 1972 Rallye Press-on-Regardless was a gritty American epic—and Källström’s win established Datsun as a serious contender far beyond its home continent.

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