SWEEPING aside highly skilled international competition, Subaru Australia technician Richard Fergusson of Elben Subaru in Adelaide, has won the coveted 2023 Subaru World Technician Competition held recently in Tokyo.

The talented Fergusson took advantage of the competition to showcase his automotive expertise against a select global field of Subaru technicians.

As each representative technician strove to highlight their skills and attract the eye of judges in the biennial event organised by Subaru Corporation’s Japanese headquarters, the gloves were off among competitors.

The competition has been in hiatus for four years as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic but has stormed back onto the Subaru calendar for this year’s eighth edition of the contest, which took place late June and attracted 12 outstanding participants from 12 different countries, including Mr Fergusson representing Australia.

Mr Fergusson showcased what Subaru Australia described as “unparalleled diagnostic skills and mechanical prowess” throughout the demanding competition.

With rigorous challenges and strict time constraints, participants faced immense pressure while diagnosing complex electrical and mechanical issues.

Mr Fergusson’s unwavering expertise, coupled with his ability to perform under demanding circumstances, ultimately propelled him to victory, solidifying his status as the world’s finest Subaru technician.

Commenting on his remarkable achievement, Mr Fergusson expressed his gratitude, describing his participation in the Subaru World Technician Competition as “an incredible experience”.

“The level of competition was exceptionally high, and I am truly honoured to have emerged as the winner,” he said.

“It is a privilege to represent Australia and showcase our automotive excellence on the global stage.”

Congratulating Mr Fergusson on his outstanding achievement, Subaru Australia managing director Blair Read said the South Australian’s victory was: ” testament to his exceptional skill and unwavering dedication to his craft”.

“He exemplifies the highest standards of excellence within the Subaru technician community, and we are immensely proud of his accomplishments. Richard’s success highlights the expertise and talent that exists within the Australian automotive industry.”

Subaru Australia has extended its corporate congratulations to Richard Fergusson on his “remarkable achievement” at the Subaru World Technician Competition.

By Peter Barnwell