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9-11-2002
DONNELLY'S FIRST INTERNATIONAL WIN
Eugene Donnelly took his first International win today with a scorching victory on the West 2002 Rally in Galway. He overcame early problems to put a string of fastest times together and overtake early leader Peadar Hurson. Austin McHale suffered intercom and tyre selection problems while Trevor Cathers overtook Roy White to take groupN on the last loop of stages.
14-10-2002
TIPPERARYM C COONEY ENGINEERING/ESSO
RESTRICTED SINGLE STAGE RALLY AT
CAHIR:
1 Liam Wall/Tommy Kelly (Escort) 31m 13s,
2 Seamus Murphy/Graham Kelly (Escort) 31m 26s,
3 Enda O'Brien/John Butler (Escort) 31m 33s,
4 Andrew Purcell/John Purcell (Honda Civic) 31m 39s,
5 Eamonn Murphy/Noel Coady (Escort) 31m 42s,
6 Tomas O'Rourke/John O'Rourke (Astra) 31m 54s.
6-10-2002
Gallagher Takes Maiden 206 Cup Victory
22
year old Shaun Gallagher from Letterkenny secured victory in the Peugeot
206 Super Cup when he drove perfectly over the entire Le Touquet Rally
in France this weekend. To win the event Shaun had to battle with night
stages, every changing weather conditions and the immense pressure
placed on him by his opposition. However he did not let any of the
pressures phase him and he lead the rally from start to finish to take
his maiden victory in this notoriously competitive championship.
The
team solved this problem in service and Shaun set the fastest time on
SS6 by over 6 seconds. Stages 8 and 9 saw him increase his lead over
Jennings and he finished leg two 17 seconds in the lead lying 24th
overall.
By
the time the cars re-started on leg 3 the rain had started and the
stages were treacherously slippy. Tyre decisions proved very difficult
and Shaun chose a combination of slicks and intermediates for the
opening stage but the rain worsened and he should have run on wets all
round. Despite this Shaun set fastest stage times on the opening two
stages increasing his lead to 35 seconds by the end of stage 11.
Shaun finished 15th overall beating many of the French 206 Super Cup cars on their own soil. Victory for Shaun on this event ensures that the championship battle goes right down to the wire and will be fought out on the Michelin Tempest Stages on 26/27 October.
7-9-2002
RUNNAWAY VICTORY FOR NESBITT
Andrew Nesbitt took a commanding victory on this years Ulster Rally. Fastest on all but one stage Nesbitt won from Johnny Milner with Daniel Doherty third. Gwyndaf Evans took the S1600 from Justin Dale with Rory Galligan fourth while Gary Jennings snatched a late Peugeot Cup win from longtime leader Shaun Gallagher.
2-9-2002
Barrable wins again
Michael Barrable notched up his second win in as many events with a start to finish victory in Portumna yesterday. Only bothered by a turbo problem he took a comfortable win from JJ Fleming. Both Paul Harris and Patrick Elliott crashed out, Harris on the first stage and Elliott from second on the last stage.
11-8-2002
Barrable breaks duck at last
A well controlled start to finish victory has finally put Michael barrables season back on track. Niall Maguire wrapped up the Dunlop National championship for the second time after a very controlled drive. Mac McKenna wasthe driver of the day in his rear drive Peugeot 205 as he set blistering times in the wet and dry. Arron McHale, second to Roy Whites new EVO 7 Lancer in GpN also took the National catagory as well.
4-8-2002
The
2002 West International Rally
8th – 9th November 2002 is a
counting Round of the following championships: -
*
2002 Toshiba Computers Irish Tarmac Rally Championship
*
2002 Ford Ireland Focus Rally Championship
*
2002 Irish Tarmac Historic Rally Championship
*
A National Permit event takes place in parallel with the main event.
The
event is being organised in association with the Quality Hotel Group
with the event utilising both the Quality Hotel in Clarenbridge
(Headquarters) and the Quality Hotel in Oranmore.
Regulations
will be available from 23rd September 2002 and entries will
close on Friday 21st October
2002. Regulations will be posted to those registered for the above
Championships. Regulations may be applied for by Post or Fax ONLY to
Entries Secretary, Ms. Eleanor O'Boyle, Dunkellin Lodge, Weir Road,
Kilcolgan, Co Galway. Fax Number 00 353 (0) 91 758053. The Entry Fee is
€495.
Event
Scrutiny will take place between 2.00pm and 8.00pm on Friday 8th
November 2002.
The
rally start is 8.00 am on Saturday 8th November. The rally
format is eight stages based around a centralised off-road service area
in north County Galway followed by four stages in darkness before a
7.30pm finish. In total five separate stages are being used in a rolling
loop format giving a total stage mileage of 110 approximately over the
twelve stages. Prizegiving will take place on Sunday morning at the
rally headquarters.
The
event is organised by County Galway Motor Club Limited under permit
granted by Motorsport Ireland on behalf of the F.I.A (Federation
Internationale de L’Automobile).
The
organisers have agreed terms to provide 45 minutes of TV coverage of the
event on UTV and certain satellite channels.
Clerk of the Course, Dennis Murphy, expressed his delight at the return of International Rallying to the County Galway after a three and a half year absence. International rallies have been taking place in the county since 1971 and this event, although very different in format, is very important for Galway Motor Club and for West of Ireland motorsport enthusiasts. The November date has brought with it new challenges for the organising team, particularly as the club organises it’s annual Summer Stages Rally a mere two months earlier. The club is particularly pleased to have access to a new off road facility that will contain the Service Area for the event in addition to Rally Offices etc. The reduction in daylight hours at that time of year adds an additional dimension to a tough day's rallying, as the final four Stages will take place in darkness.
21-7-2002
McRae's Punchestown
PUNCHESTOWN RALLY EXPERIENCE:
1 Colin McRae (Ford Focus WRC) 15m 14.4s,
2 Andrew Nesbitt (Subaru Impreza WRC) 15m 28.4s,
3 Austin McHale (Toyota Corolla WRC) 15m 41.5s,
4 Michael Barrable (Subaru Impreza WRC) 15m 51.8s,
5 Derek McGarrity (Subaru Impreza WRC) 15m 54s,
6 Maurice Gass (Subaru Impreza WRC) 15m 54.3s,
7 Robert Woodside Jnr (Subaru Impreza WRC) 15m 58.1s,
8 Davy Greer (Toyota Corolla WRC) 16m 05.4s,
9 Peadar Hurson (Toyota Celica) 16m 08.3s,
10 Eugene Donnelly (Toyota Celica) 16m 11.8s.
Group N Production Class: 1 Aaron McHale (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo) 16m
38.1s,
2 Adrian McElvaney (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo) 16m 38.4s,
3 Garry Jennings (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo) 16m 41.2s.
Class winners: Peadar Hurson, Fergal Allen (BMW M3) 17m 27.5s.
30-6-2002
MAGUIRE ROCKS ON
UNOFFICIAL LEADERBOARD AFTER STAGE 7
GLENMORE - LAST STAGE
1st (3) Niall Maguire/Paul McLoughlin (Subaru) 1.01.30
2nd (9) Patrick Elliott/Sean Moriarty (Subaru) 1.02.36
3rd (10) Sean Gallagher/Victor Carruthers (Escort) 1.03.05
4th (4) Steve Fleck/Mark Aspinall (Subaru) 1.03.14
5th (5) Robert Woodside/Dean Beckett (Subaru) 1.03.22
6th (2) Melvyn Evans/Alun Davies (Esc.WRC) 1.03.41
7th (16) Jon Mercer/Aled Davies (Metro 6R4) 1.04.08
8th (30) David & June Long (Sierra) 1.04.26
9th (28) Mac McKenna/John Loughran (Peugeot rwd) 1.04.34
10th (8) Richie Curran/Gerry English (Esc.Cos) 1.04.35
23-6-2002
DONEGAL RALLY STATEMENT
Statement From Donegal MotorclubEmergency services were immediately on the scene and the event was halted. Despite their very best efforts, 2 people were fatally injured, and another was removed to Letterkenny General Hospital.
The organisers of the rally have expressed their deepest sympathy to the families of the bereaved.
The remainder of the Donegal International Rally has been cancelled by the organisers.
Shell, as sponsors, fully supports the decision of the Donegal Motor Club and their thoughts are with the families of the bereaved at this tragic time."
Donegal Motor Club, the organisers of today's event, is the country's largest Rally Club. Over the years they have had an excellent safety record and we know that the many volunteers who run the event are as shocked and upset as we are by this tragic accident.
In the light of what has happened the Motor Sport Commission (Ruling Council) will meet in emergency session this Sunday. A further statement will issue following that meeting.
3-6-2002
McNulty's Munster First
Summerhills Tim McNulty with Anthony Nestor on the notes, took his first rally victory on yesterdays Limerick MC event. He guided his ex Bertie Fisher Impreza to victory after the 2000 Impreza WRC of Michael Barrable did not re-appear after his propshaft broke loosing his 55 second lead. Ollie O'Donovan nearly took the win with a fantastic drive on the last stage with quickest time to loose out by 1 second. Denis Cronin having set a number of fastest times took third.
26-5-2002
Maguire dominates Cavan
Niall Maguire stormed back to his winning ways with a fine Cavan Stages win. Early second placed man Michael Barrable was under pressure from Eugene Donnellys in the Celica but retired after the fourth stage. Donnelly was untroubled for second while a great scrap for third ensued between Davy Armstrong and Patrick Elliott. Hugh Dunne retired with power steering failure, Tim McNulty mechanical and Andrew Stewart crashed out.
1st (1) Niall Maguire/Paul McLaughlin (Impreza WRC) 1.18.39
2nd (4) Eugene Donnelly/Paul Kiely (Celica)1.19.19
3rd (6) David Armstrong/Herbie Blackburn (Esc.Cos) 1.20.10
4th (7) Patrick Elliott/Sean Moriarty (Impreza) 1.20.15
5th (23) Adrian McElvaney/Paul Goodman (Lancer N) 1.22.40
6th (10) George Robinson/Tommy Speers (Esc.Cos) 1.23.04
7th (29) Gordon Rogers/Philip McEntee (Escort) 1.23.45
8th (141) James & Paul McCann (Esc.Cos) 1.23.53
9th (27) Trevor Lancashire/Noel Hall (Escort) 1.24.06
10th (33) Seamus Gallagher/John McCafferty (Saxo) 1.24.09
12-5-2002
BUCKLEY DOMINATES CARLOW
Scotlands Dom Buckley dominated todays Carlow Stages rally. Leading from start to finish after Niall Maguire went off twice on the opening stage Buckley with Brian Murphy on the notes never looked back. Michael Barrable put in his best performce to date in his new Impreza to take second. Arron McHale put in a great drive to take seventh overall and win GpN after early leader Andrew Stewart punctured. James Harrisson, Kieran Shaw, Kevin Barrett and Rory O'Connor all retired.
CARLOW C C SEVEN OAKS HOTEL RALLY (ROUND 4
OF DUNLOP NATIONAL RALLY
CHAMPIONSHIP):
1 Dom Buckley/Brian Murphy (Impreza) 67m 10s,
2 Michael Barrable/Dermot O'Gorman (Impreza WRC) 68m 16s,
3 Niall Maguire/Paul McLaughlin (Impreza WRC) 69m 58s,
4 Patrick Elliott/Sean Moriarty (Impreza) 72m 00s,
5 David Armstrong/Herbie Blackburn (Escort Cosworth ) 72m 39s,
6 Sean Gallagher/Liam Costello (Escort Cosworth) 73m 13s,
7 Aaron McHale/Damien Connolly (Mitsubishi Evo Gp N) 73m 23s,
8 Jimmy Lambert/James Coleman (Escort) 73m 45s,
9 George Tracey/Elva Roe (Impreza) 73m 54s,
10 Derek Smith/Daragh Cafferky (Escort) 74m 09s
7-5-2002
ORDNANCE SURVEY IRELAND/GLENEAGLE HOTEL KILLARNEY INTERNATIONAL RALLY OF
THE
LAKES (ROUND 2 OF TOSHIBA COMPUTERS TARMAC CHAMPIONSHIP):
1 Andrew Nesbitt/James O'Brien (Subaru Impreza) 2h 35m 56s,
2 Eamonn Boland/Damien Morrissey (Subaru Impreza) 2h 37m 19s,
3 Liam O'Callaghan/David Hogan (Subaru Impreza) 2h 37m 58s,
4 Daniel Doherty/Michael Doherty (Subaru Impreza) 2h 39m 18s,
5 Derek McGarrity/Chris Patterson (Subaru Impreza) 2h 40m 17s,
6 Austin McHale/Brian Murphy (Toyota Corolla) 2h 40m 37s,
7 John Joe Fleming/Robbie Ward (Subaru Impreza) 2h 44m 27s,
8 Donie O'Sullivan/Paul Nagle (Subaru Impreza Gp N) 2h 46m 29s,
9 Trevor Cathers/Francis Regan (Mitsubishi Evo Gp N) 2h 47m 07s,
10 Seamus Leonard/Kevin O'Brien (Subaru Impreza Gp N) 2h 47m 55s.
Class winners: Harry Cathcart/Kenny Weir (Swift), Martin Browne/David Quinn
(Civic), Alan McMahon/Benny Grainger (Integra), Donie O'Sullivan/Paul
Nagle,
Michael Herbert/Karen McCormack (Micra), Dessie Keenan/Enda Sherry (Peugeot
106), Charlie Hickey/Johnny Hickey (Peugeot 306 Maxi), Ken O'Neill/Conor O'
Neill (Nova), John Tully/John Kearney (Escort), Jon Stangle/Frank Sweeney
(Darrian), Tom Randles/Diarmuid Lynch (Escort), Tony Davies/Brian Hardie
(Metro 6R4).
HISTORIC/POST HISTORIC RALLY:
1 John Farrell/Christy Farrell (Escort) 2h 10m 09s,
2 Martin Freestone/Chris Heyes (Escort) 2h 12m 14s,
3 Ray Cunningham/Elaine Cunningham (Mini Cooper S) 2h 14m 59s,
4 Liam Sheehan/Martin Cronin (Escort) 2h 15m 05s,
5 Philip Wylie/Jim Howe (MGB) 2h 15m 44s,
6 Mervyn Johnston/Peter Martin (Mini Cooper S) 2h 15m 48s.
Class winners: Eddie Cronin/Jimmy Devane (Mini Cooper), Mervyn
Johnston/Peter Martin, Niall Creighton/Rory Tougher (Lotus Cortina), Philip
Wylie/Jim Howe, Ray Cunningham/Elaine Cunningham.
21-4-2002
MONAGHAN NAT RALLY CANCELLED AFTER FATAL ACCIDENT
During the running of the Monaghan Stages Rally near Scotstown, Co Monaghan on today the 21st April 2002 an accident occurred where a competitor travelling in one of the competing cars was fatally injured. The organisers of the event, Co. Monaghan Motor Club immediately cancelled the remainder of the event.
A full investigation involving Motorsport Ireland (Governing Body) and An Garda Siochana is now underway.
As a mark of respect Motorsport Ireland has postponed their annual prize presentations due to be held tomorrow the 22nd April 2002.
8-4-2002
MAGUIRE LATE LATE SHOW
Niall Maguire took a last grasp win on todays Circuit of Kerry rally on a last stage tie breaker with James Harrison. Surprise of the event was Liam O'Callaghan who took third in one of Kenny McKinstry's Impreza 555's. Run under glorius sunshine the event was a huge success with large crowds and plenty of action on an event that ran to time all day.
RESULTS OF KERRY M C DINGLE PENINSULA CIRCUIT OF KERRY RALLY (ROUND 2 OF
DUNLOP NATIONAL RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP):
1 Niall Maguire/Paul McLaughlin (Impreza) 50m 42s,
2 Jim Harrison/Harvey Bell (Impreza) 50m 42s,
3 Liam O'Callaghan/David Hogan (Impreza) 51m 10s,
4 Tim McNulty/Julian Nangle (Impreza) 52m 04s,
5 Donal O'Donovan/Pat Lordan (Celica) 52m 08s,
6 Kieran Shaw/Crawford Henderson (Escort WRC) 52m 25s,
7 Patrick Elliott/Sean Moriarty (Impreza) 52m 34s,
8 John Joe Fleming/Robbie Ward (Impreza WRC) 53m 01s,
9 Andrew Stewart/Fabian McShane (Lancer Gp N) 53m 15s,
10 Sean Gallagher/Liam Costello (Escort) 54m 24s.
1-4-2002
NESBITT DEMOLISHES CIRCUIT OPPOSITION
An almost start to finish victory saw Andrew Nesbitt take one of his most comfortable wins to date. Apart from a few minor problems along the way Nesbitt's new P2000 Impreza ran perfectly. This was however the downfall of the oppostion who all seemed to encounter problems of some sort. Derek McGarrity just managed to hold off a strong challenge from Eamonn Boland over the closing stages for second. A dissapointed Austin McHale gained some test milage after his new Corolla encountered many problems. Trevor Cathers took GpN.
RESULTS
1 7 Andrew Nesbitt/James O'Brien Subaru Impreza 8 2:58:27
2 3 Derek McGarrity/Chris Patterson Subaru Impreza 8 3:01:10
3 5 Eamonn Boland/Anthony Nestor Subaru WRC S7 8 3:02:15
4 2 Austin McHale/Brian Murphy Toyota Corolla 8 1 3:04:15
5 9 Niall Maguire/Paul McLaughlin Subaru Impreza 8 2 3:04:39
6 6 David Greer/Michael Reid Toyota Corolla 8 3 3:05:40
7 19 Trevor Cathers/Gordon Noble Mitsubishi Lanc 4 3:07:22
8 10 Brendan Kelly/Rory Kennedy Mitsubishi EVO 4 3:10:05
9 26 Dick Curran/Gary Lyons Mitsubishi EVO 4 3:11:02
10 44 David Armstrong/Herbie Blackburn Ford Escort RS 12 1 3:12:35
11 14 Maurice Gass/Geoffrey Orr Subaru Impreza 8 4 3:12:41
12 31 Patrick Elliott/Sean Moriarty Subaru Impreza 8 5 3:13:45
13 43 Philip Shaw/Derek Brannigan Ford Escort 11 1 3:14:29
14 37 Donie O'Sullivan/Paul Nagle Subaru Impreza 4 1 3:14:40
15 40 Adrian McElvaney/Paul Goodman Mitsibushi 4 2 3:16:13
16 39 Aaron McHale/Damien Connolly Mitsubishi Lanc 4 3 3:18:15
17 36 Martin Doherty/Danny O'Neill Mitsubishi EVO 4 4 3:18:24
18 12 Sean McArdle/Gerard McMonagle Subaru Impreza 8 6 3:21:20
19 33 Raymond McLaughlin/Wendy Blackle Mitsubishi EVO 4 5 3:21:59
20 21 Eugene Meegan/Jim Crowe Mitsubishi Lanc 4 6 3:22:18
25-3-2002
LIAM O'CALLAGHAN MAKES RETURN ON THE CIRCUIT OF KERRY RALLY
Kanturk driver Liam O'Callaghan makes a welcome return to rallying on this months Ciruit of Kerry Rally based in Dingle. O'Callaghan will make an appearance in one of Kenny McKinstry's lhd Impreza 555 cars. Backing for the deal comes from ELF. David Hogan will return to the co-drivers seat and this will be Liam's first outing since the 1999 Lurgan Park rally in a Ford Puma.
19-3-2002
CORK M C irishmobiles.com WEST CORK RALLY AT
CLONAKILTY:
1 Melvyn Evans/Alun Davies (Escort WRC) 1h 59m 11s,
2 Steve Fleck/Mark Aspinall (Impreza) 1h 59m 49s,
3 Jim Harrison/Harvey Bell (Impreza WRC) 2h 01m 28s,
4 John Price/Caroline Price (Metro 6R4) 2h 02m 37s,
5 Tommy Graham/Sean Mullally (Impreza WRC) 2h 02m 46s,
6 John Joe Fleming/Robbie Ward (Impreza WRC) 2h 03m 55s,
7 Phil Collins/Howard Davies (Escort Mk 2) 2h 04m 47s,
8 Mark Morgan/Tony Fisher (Lancer Evo 7 Gp N) 2h 06m 10s,
9 Derek Smith/Daragh Cafferky (Escort Mk 2) 2h 06m 13s,
10 Barry Coleman/Alan Russell (Impreza) 2h 06m 28s.
11-3-2002
FRANK MEAGHER KILLED IN TESTING ACCIDENT
While testing his Sierra Cosworth on
Sunday evening Frank died after the car left the road on a forest stretch
close to his Cloneen home.
Funeral details:
Removal from his Cloneen home to Cloneen Church at 8pm on Tuesday and
Funeral mass at 12.30pm on Wednesday.
11-3-2002
MAGUIRE'S MAYO OPENER
RESULTS OF MAYO & DISTRICT M C BREAFFY
HOUSE HOTEL STAGES RALLY AT
CASTLEBAR
(ROUND 1 OF DUNLOP NATIONAL RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP):
1 Niall Maguire/Paul McLoughlin (Impreza) 64m 36s,
2 Jim Harrison/Harvey Bell (Impreza) 64m 58s,
3 David Armstrong/Herbie Blackburn (Escort Cosworth) 65m 31s,
4 Trevor Cathers/David Moynihan (Lancer Gp N) 66m 12s,
5 Glenn Allen/Shane O'Neill (Escort WRC) 66m 14s,
6 Sean Gallagher/Liam Costello (Escort) 66m 35s,
7 Brendan Kelly/Rory Kennedy (Lancer Gp N) 66m 51s,
8 James McCann/Paul McCann (Escort) 68m 08s,
9 George Tracey/Elva Roe (Impreza Gp N) 68m 24s,
10 Joe McHugh/Paul Gallagher (Escort) 68m 43s.
Class winners: John McElhinney/Brendan McElhinney (Swift) 83m 31s,
John
Hegarty/Patrick McGlynn (Civic) 75m 58s, Roger Kennedy/Martin Carey
(Peugeot) 73m 42s, Trevor Cathers/David Moynihan, Paul Cleary/Brian Cleary
(Micra) 86m 51s, Gareth McHale/Derek Brannigan (Civic) 74m 57s, Andrew
Browne/Keefe Kilcoyle (Peugeot) 74m 59s, Glenn Allen/Shane O'Neill, Donal
McGettigan/Gareth Doherty (Nova) 83m 41s, Anthony O'Brien/Stephen O'Brien
(Peugeot) 77m 14s, Charlie Beatty/Frank Conville (Toyota) 69m 15s, Trevor
Lancashire/Noel Hall (Escort) 69m 02s, Norman Armstrong/Ciaran Kelly
(Escort) 72m 19s, Douglas Richardson/John Richardson (Escort) 75m 37s,
Sean
Gallagher/Liam Costello, Peter Kelly/John Higgins (Corolla) 84m 11s.
27-2-2002
MAYO STAGES RALLY
Top 10 seeds (provisional) 26.02.02
Car No / Driver / Navigator / Car
00 Rory Galligan Gordon Noble - Peugeot 106 Super Cup
1 Paul Harris Eugene O'Donnell - Subaru Impreza
2 Niall McGuire Paul McLoughlin - Subaru Impreza WRC
3 Eamon Boland Anthony Nestor - Subaru Impreza WRC
4 Tim McNulty Dermot O Gorman - Subaru Impreza
5 Michael Barrable Julian Nangle - (Toyota Celica)?
6 James Harrison Harvey Bell - Subaru Impreza WRC
7 Patrick Elliott Sean Moriarty - Subaru Impreza
8 Donal O'Donovan Pat Lordan - Toyota Celica
9 David Armstrong Herbie Blackburn - Ford Escort Cos
10 Rory O'Connor Francis Kenny - Ford Escort WRC
11 Glenn Allen Shane O'Neill - Ford Escort WRC
12 Kieran Shaw Crawford Henderson - Ford Escort WRC
14 Sean Gallagher Liam Costello - Ford Escort Cos
15 Sean McArdle Gerard McMonagle -Subaru Impreza
16 Ivan Stewart Joe Friel - Ford Escort Cos
17 Brendan Kelly TBA - Mitsubishi EVO 7
18 Joe MacHugh TBA - Ford Escort Cos
19 Eugene Ferry John Gallagher - Ford Escort MK II
20 Seamus Gallaher John McCafferty - Citroen Saxo
56 James Mc Greal TBA - Nissan Sunny
57 Sean McHugh John Rowland -Subaru Impreza
Event Details in Brief
4 Special Stages run three times
Over 80 stage miles/ 56 road miles
Central service area
Rally Headquarters – Breaffy House Hotel, Castlebar, County Mayo
Scrutiny – Togher Tyres, Breaffy Road, Castlebar – Saturday 3 – 9 p.m. and Sunday 7:30 – 8:00 a.m.
Stage Sponsors
Togher Tyres, Castlebar
Kelly’s Statoil Service Station, Ballina
Judge’s Honda Car Sales, Ballina
The Fleet Inn, Killybegs, County Donegal
Provisional Timetable (times given for first car)
Service 1 10:40 a.m.
SS1 11:00 a.m.
SS2 11:53 a.m.
SS3 12:17 p.m.
SS4 12:28 p.m.
Service 2 12:59 p.m.
SS5 1:28 p.m.
SS6 2:22 p.m.
SS7 2:41 p.m.
SS8 3:02 p.m.
Service 3 3:23 p.m.
SS9 3:52 p.m.
SS10 4:46 p.m.
SS11 5:10 p.m
SS12 5:31 p.m.
Finish 6:35 p.m.
WEEKEND RESULTS
CARRICK-ON-SUIR M C WILLIE LOUGHMAN
MEMORIAL FORESTRY STAGES RALLY AT
CARRICK-ON-SUIR (ROUND 2 OF KBB DOORS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP):
1 Robbie McGurk/Rory Kennedy (Subaru) 58m 49s,
2 Eugene Donnelly/Paul Nagle (Toyota) 59m 52s,
3 Eamonn Boland/Anthony Nestor (Subaru) 60m 22s,
4 Kevin O'Kane/Stephen Griffith (Subaru) 63m 02s,
5 Brian Murphy/Mick Morrisey (Subaru WRC) 63m 04s,
6 John Treacy/John Smithwick (Escort) 63m 04s,
7 Paul Barrett/Dermot Colgan (Escort) 64m 41s,
8 Garry Jennings/Cian Curley (Peugeot 106) 64m 46s,
9 Eddie Kinirons/Tom Kinirons (Celica) 65m 12s,
10 Kieran Molloy/Brian Boland (Lancer) 65m 52s.
CO KILDARE M C RALLYSPRINT AT MONDELLO PARK:
1 Hugh Dunne (Impreza WRC) 11m 24.21s,
2 Martin O'Connell (Escort Cosworth) 11m 32.66s,
3 Dan Donoghue (Metro 6R4) 11m 51.28s,
4 David Aiken (Nova) 12m 17.53s,
5 Mick Curtis (Tigra) 12m 24.51s,
6 Aaron McHale (Lancer) 12m 25.06s.
SKIBBEREEN & DISTRICT M C 100 ISLES NAVIGATION TRIAL AT DRIMOLEAGUE
(ROUND
2
OF SENATOR ENGINEERING MUNSTER CHAMPIONSHIP):
1 Ger Gowan/Diarmuid O'Donovan (Sunny) 3 marks,
2 Diarmuid French/Jason O'Mahony (Escort) 5m,
3 Ger O'Connell/Adrian Deasy (Celica) 6m,
4 Donal Healy/Peter Keohane (Peugeot 205) 8m,
5 Donie Daly/Ger Fahy (Corsa) 29m,
6 Brendan Fahy/Kieran Daly (Nova) 52m.
Best experts: Ger O'Connell/Adrian Deasy,
Best semi-experts: Donal Healy/Peter Keohane,
Best novices: Diarmuid French/Jason O'Mahony
Best beginners: Donal Mullins/James Mullins (Starlet) 72m.
26-2-2002
KERRY MOTOR CLUB
SUNDAY
APRIL 7TH 2002
KERRY MOTOR CLUB IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE DETAILS OF THEIR FORTHCOMING “DINGLE PENINSULA CIRCUIT OF KERRY RALLY “. THE EVENT IS ONCE AGAIN A COUNTING ROUND OF BOTH THE DUNLOP NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AND THE WEST COAST RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP.
REGULATIONS FOR THE EVENT ARE AVAILABLE BY SENDING A S.A.E TO ANNE TALBOT, TALBYRN HOUSE, CAHERLEHEEN, TRALEE, CO KERRY, PNONE 066-7123496 (BETWEEN 6.30-9.30PM ONLY) OR e-mail rtalbot@eircom.net
. ENTRIES OPEN ON MARCH THE 15TH AND CLOSE ONE WEEK LATER. PRIORITY ENTRIES WILL BE GIVEN TO AWARD WINNERS IN THE 2000 NATIONAL RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP ANDTHE 2000 WEST COAST RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP.
NEW FOR THE 2002 EVENT IS TELEVISION COVERAGE WITH A CREW FROM TG4 TO RECORD THE DAYS ACTION. THIS IS IN ADDTION TO A SLOT ON TV3s SPORT TONIGHT PROGRAMME ON THE THURSDAY AFTER THE EVENT AND LIVE COVERAGE ON RADIO KERRY ON THE DAY OF THE RALLY.
THE EVENT WILL HAVE A NEW HEADQUARTERS FOR THE 2002 EDITION, IN THE SMERWICK HARBOUR HOTEL. THE HOTEL IS SITUATED FOUR MILES WEST OF THE PICTURESQUE FISHING TOWN OF DINGLE IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO THE SPECIAL STAGES. PROPREITOR BRENDAN HOULIHAN IS VERY PLEASED TO BE WELCOMING THE RALLY TO WEST KERRY AREA AND SAYS THE EVENT CREATES A MASSIVE INJECTION INTO THE LOCAL ECONOMY, ESSPECIALLY AT THIS VERY EARLY POINT OF THE TOURIST SEASON. THE HOTEL CAN IS CONTACTED DIRECT ON 066-9156470 WHERE THERE IS SPECIAL ACCOMADTION RATES AVAIABLE FOR THE RALLY WEEKEND. . IT IS ESTIMATED THAT THE EVENT IS WORTH IN EXCESS OF 1 MILLION EURO TO THE AREA WITH THOUSANDS OF RALLY FANS EXPECTED TO FLOCK TO THE DINGLE PENINSULA IN THE HOPE OF CATCHING A GLIMPSE OF THE ACTION. THIS COUPLED WITH THE FACT THAT THERE WILL 150 CARS TAKING PART IN THE EVENT AND EACH CREW WILL HAVE WITH THEM A SIZEABLE SUPPORT TEAM OF MECHANICS ETC. KERRY MOTOR CLUB ARE EXTREMLY GRATEFUL TO THE PEOPLE OF WEST KERRY AND REALISE THAT WITHOUT THEIR SUPPORT AND GOODWILL THE RALLY WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO TAKE PLACE.
18-2-2002
HUGH DUNNE'S NEW SUBARU IMPREZA WRC
Having acquired the ex Freddy Dor Impreza WRC, Hugh Dunne along with Damien Morrissey will contest this years Dunlop NAtional Championship and selected Tarmac rounds. Backing will come from Palfinger Cranes of Tullamore and TG4. Aditional backing is being sought to contest more rounds of the championship and details will be released shortly.
11-2-2002
BIRR & DISTRICT A C DOOLY'S HOTEL SINGLE STAGE
RALLY AT BIRR:
1 Jimmy Lambert/James Coleman (Escort) 23m 21s,
2 Rodney Wilton/Peter Leahy (Escort) 23m 35s,
3 Garry Jennings/David Moynihan (Peugeot 106) 23m 40s,
4 Mervyn Wedlock/Philip Smith (Escort G3) 23m 42s,
5 David Percy/Owen Percy (Escort) 23m 44s,
6 Gordon Rogers/Philip McEntee (Escort) 23m 50s,
7 John Nolan/John Smithwick (Escort) 24m 02s,
8 James Foley/Andrew Cullen (Civic) 24m 07s,
9 Gordon Percy/Joe Shinnors (Escort) 24m 11s,
10 David James/Ron Guha (Escort) 24m 34s.
24-1-2002
Galligans First Run
Rory Galligan today had his first taste of his Peugeot 206 that he will drive this season ib the BRC. A test in Wales to setup the suspension for the coming season was Rory's first chance to get to grips with the car. Further testing will take place tomorrow and he can't wait for further milage as Justin Dale took over for the setup work.
14-1-2002
FERRY'S FIRST WIN
MAYO & DISTRICT MOTORSPORT CLUB
CASTLECOURT HOTEL MAYO SINGLE STAGE RALLY
AT
PARTRY MOUNTAIN:
1 Eugene Ferry/John Gallagher (Escort) 27m 27s,
2 Tom McGovern/Kevin McGovern (Escort) 27m 39s,
3 Conor Curley/Paul Hone (Escort) 27m 41s,
4 Gordon Rogers/Philip McEntee (Escort) 27m 41s,
5 Rodney Wilton/Peter Leahy (Escort) 28m 02s,
6 Pat Higgins/Liam Higgins (Escort) 28m 19s,
7 Terence McHugh/Brian McMonagle (Escort) 28m 26s,
8 James Cassidy/Damien Duffin (Escort) 28m 26s,
9 Gerry Smyth/Charles Adams (Escort) 28m 38s,
10 Martin Magee/Adrian Brolly (Escort) 28m 39s.
Group N winner: Aidan Caddye/Eamonn Ferry (Astra) 29m 10s.
4-1-2002
WRC DATES 2002
17-20/01 - 70e RALLYE AUTOMOBILE MONTE CARLO 2002
31/01-03/02 - UDDEHOLM SWEDISH RALLY
08-10/03 - RALLYE DE FRANCE - TOUR DE CORSE
22-24/03 - RALLYE CATALUNYA COSTA BRAVA - RALLYE DE ESPANA
19-21/04 - CYPRUS RALLY
16-19/05 - RALLY ARGENTINA
13-16/06 - ACROPOLIS RALLY
18-21/07 - SAFARI RALLY KENYA
08-11/08 - NESTE RALLY FINLAND
22-25/08 - ADAC RALLY DEUTSCHLAND
19-22/09 - RALLYE SANREMO - RALLYE D'ITALIE
03-06/10 - PROPECIA RALLY OF NEW ZEALAND
31/10-03/11 - TELSTRA RALLY AUSTRALIA
14-17/11 - NETWORK Q RALLY OF GREAT BRITAIN
Counting Events in the 2002 Dunlop National Championship
March 10 Mayo Stages Rally
April 7 Kerry Stages Rally
April 21 Monaghan Stages Rally
May 12 Carlow Stages Rally
May 26 Cavan Stages Rally
June 30 Carrick On Suir Ravens Rock Rally
July 14 Connacht Sligo Stages Rally
September 22 Clare Stages Rally
October 12 Donegal Harvest Rally
October 27 Skibbereen Fastnet Stages Rally
The following will not be counting rounds for 2002
June 2 Limerick Circuit of Munster
August 11 Tipperary Stonetrowers
September 1 Galway Summer Stages
Prizegiving for National Championship 2002 will be Saturday, 23 November 2002 in Donegal
Toshiba Tarmac Championship
CIRCUIT OF IRELAND 29 MARCH 01 APRIL
KILLARNEY RALLY OF THE LAKES 4/5 MAY
DONEGAL INTERNATIONAL 21/23 JUNE
JIM CLARK MEMORIAL RALLY 12/13 JULY
MANX INTERNATIONAL 1/3 AUGUST
ULSTER RALLY 6/7 SEPTEMBER
CORK 20 INTERNATIONAL 4/6 OCTOBER
WEST 2002 GALWAY 8/9 NOVEMBER
4-1-2002
CARLOW C C RALLYSPRINT AT MONDELLO PARK (SUNDAY):
1 Brian Murphy (Impreza WRC) 11m 16.29s,
2 Ollie O'Donovan (Legacy) 11m 16.36s,
3 Maurice Gass (Impreza WRC) 11m 17.78s,
4 Niall Maguire (Impreza WRC) 11m 19.53s,
5 Kevin Barrett (Impreza WRC) 11m 26.46s,
6 Eddie Kinirons (Celica GT4) 11m 37.55s,
7 Tom Holton (Celica GT4) 11m 49.75s,
8 David James (Escort BDX) 11m 54.74s,
9 Norman Beggs (Tigra 2000) 11m 57.10s,
10 Chris Grimes (Nova 1600) 11m 59.26s,
11 Peter McCullagh (Escort Cosworth) 12m 00.61s,
12 Fergal Allen (BMW M3) 12m 00.89s.
Class winners: Niall Maguire, Brian Flanagan (Micra Kit Car) 12m 14.40s,
John Shanahan (Civic) 12m 11.50s, David James, Chris Grimes, Norman
Beggs,
Kevin Barrett, John Dowling (Uno) 13m 12.84s, Vivian Noone (Ka) 13m
30.37s.
17-12-2001
WEXFORD M C CROSBIE CEDARS HOTEL WEXFORD SINGLE STAGE
RALLY AT NEWBAWN
(SUNDAY):
1 Jimmy Lambert/James Coleman (Escort) 31m 44s,
2 David James/Ron Guha (Escort BDX) 31m 58s,
3 Philip Shaw/Derek Brennigan (Escort) 32m 04s,
4 John Nolan/John Smithwick (Escort) 32m 34s,
5 Tom Randles/Diarmuid Lynch (Escort) 32m 45s,
6 James Foley/Ann Foley (Civic) 32m 59s,
7 Thomas O'Rourke/John O'Rourke (Astra Gp N) 33m 08s,
8 Tom Lawless/Brian Sharkey (Civic) 33m 12s,
9 Mark Kennedy/Derek Kennedy (Corsa) 33m 20s,
10 James M Stafford/James F Stafford (Nova) 33m 28s.
WRC DATES 2002
17-20/01 - 70e RALLYE AUTOMOBILE MONTE
CARLO 2002
31/01-03/02 - UDDEHOLM SWEDISH RALLY
08-10/03 - RALLYE DE FRANCE - TOUR DE CORSE
22-24/03 - RALLYE CATALUNYA COSTA BRAVA - RALLYE DE ESPANA
19-21/04 - CYPRUS RALLY
16-19/05 - RALLY ARGENTINA
13-16/06 - ACROPOLIS RALLY
18-21/07 - SAFARI RALLY KENYA
08-11/08 - NESTE RALLY FINLAND
22-25/08 - ADAC RALLY DEUTSCHLAND
19-22/09 - RALLYE SANREMO - RALLYE D'ITALIE
03-06/10 - PROPECIA RALLY OF NEW ZEALAND
31/10-03/11 - TELSTRA RALLY AUSTRALIA
14-17/11 - NETWORK Q RALLY OF GREAT BRITAIN
3-12-2001
CORK M C IMOKILLY SINGLE STAGE RALLY AT MIDLETON:
1 Ray Breen/Podge Newe (Impreza) 23m 17s,
2 Frank O'Mahony/Brian O'Mahony (Metro 6R4) 23m 49s,
3 Tommy Graham/Finbarr Mangan (Escort Cosworth) 23m 54s,
4 Jimmy Lambert/James Coleman (Escort) 24m 02s,
5 Liam McCarthy/Kieran Murphy (Celica) 24m 21s,
6 Gerry McVeigh/Padraig Dineen (Mitsubishi Evo 5) 24m 33s,
7 Kieran Molloy/Brian Boland (Mitsubishi Evo 5) 24m 37s,
8 John O'Leary/Michael Boland (Impreza) 25m 01s,
9 Leonard Downey/Mark Murphy (Escort) 25m 05s,
10 Wesley Patterson/Bob Kelly (Corsa) 25m 12s.
Class winners: Jimmy Lambert/James Coleman, Liam McCarthy/Kieran Murphy,
Gerry McVeigh/Padraig Dineen, Terence Teggart/Colin Clarke, John
Shanahan/Liam McLoughlin, Shane McCarthy/Derek Brannigan, Peter
Kelly/Con
Lucey, James O'Sullivan/Bill Fitzgerald, Paul McCann/James McCann, Ted
O'
Riordan/Adrian O'Connell, Anthony Sheehan/Denis O'Donovan, David
Parle/Pat
Gowen, Thomas Sheehan/Tim Crowe, Stephen Clery/Pauline Fehily.
30-11-2001
STUART DARCY WINS 2001 BILLY COLEMAN AWARD
Shortlisted for the inaugural Billy Coleman Award in 2000, twenty five year old Stuart Darcy from Killybegs, Co Donegal went one better this year to take the top award and a support package worth £25k.
Stuart began his rallying career in 1997 when he contested the Donegal Harvest Rally. His career began in earnest the following year when he contested the National Championship in which he took second place, a position he also filled in the Border Championship. He then went to work in the US with the intention of financing the 2000 season. The 2000 season was definitely his year.
Driving a Group N Honda Civic V-Tec Stuart and his co-driver Trevor Bustard won their class in all ten rallies. He was awarded the Brian McGrath Memorial Trophy.
Stuart planned to contest the Peugeot 106 SuperCup in 2001 but due to Foot and Mouth his outings were restricted. Nevertheless he continued to exhibit his 2000 form thus clinching the Billy Coleman Award.
Next year Stuart intends competing in the Dunlop National Championship, in as many rounds of the Tarmac International Championship as possible and also is taking in a number of rallies on the Continent.
21-11-2001
CLARE MC POSTPONE SINGLE STAGE
Clare MC have postponed their Single Stage rally planed for December the 2nd. A spokesperson for the club said plans were now going ahead to run the event in Janurary.
19-11-2001
GALLIGAN GETS WORKS PEUGEOT DRIVE
Rory Galligan, the 27 year old from Old Castle in County Meath, won the 2001 Super 106 Cup after a tremendous last round battle with rivals Garry Jennings and Ryan Champion.
But to the winner the spoils – and what a prize Rory now has. Instead of the Peugeot 206 Super 1600 car as a loan car for the British Rally Championship season, plus £25,000 and a recce car, which was on the original regulations, Rory will now take his place as team mate to Justin Dale as full Peugeot works team driver.
The recce car was still his to keep though, and he drove that away after the prize presentation on Saturday night in Daventry.
Rory Galligan said of his championship win; “I’m very happy, I’ve waited a long time for this, 3 tough years, I’ve had the lowest of lows and the highest of highs.”
Mick Linford, Motorsport Manager of Peugeot Sport UK, commented, “We’ve seen Rory improve and mature over the last three seasons. He’s exactly the sort of driver we want for the team.”
Rory, at the prize awards ceremony, said “The regulations had a terrific prize, but what we’ve got is well beyond our wildest dreams. Every car I’ve driven has been a Peugeot and we’re delighted to be associated with them and do them proud next year. I’m very honoured.”
Once the prize had sunk in, he added “I think I’m the only person who has contested every single round of the Super 106 Cup over the last three years, just so that I could learn and get more experience. Maybe I wasn’t the fastest on every stage, but I never gave up. On reflection, I was perhaps a quicker and better driver last year, but I’ve driven more sensibly this year, and that’s given me the championship. I’ve had many phone calls of congratulation, I’m just amazed there are so many people behind us. I just want to make the most of this incredible opportunity and do my best.”
Rory had won the Billy Coleman award last year as reward for his efforts in Ireland. He started rallying in 1993, with only a few events until 1995, when he started rallying regularly to great effect with a 205 Challenge specification car
Full details of the events in the British Rally Championship are yet to be announced, and a calendar will be published as soon as this is available. A co-driver for Rory has not yet been announced, it will likely be in to 2001 before this place is filled
7-1-2001
JOINT PRESS STATEMENT FROM MOTORSPORT IRELAND AND TROA
Following a series of meetings between Motorsport
Ireland and the Tarmac
Rally Organisers Association (TROA) new arrangements to provide a
conduit
for good communication and to develop good working relationships between
the parties have been agreed.
Motorsport Ireland are pleased to announce that the TROA will have a
seat
at the Motorsport Ireland Rallies Committee and an Motorsport Ireland
Representative will be appointed to the TROA Executive Committee.
With the inclusion of the Jim Clark Rally resulting in an even split in
the
number of events run under the jurisdiction of the respective governing
bodies it has been agreed that an MSA representative will also be
appointed
to the TROA Executive Committee.
Cecil Sparks, Chairman MI Commission stated "These new arrangements
will
produce consistency in the organisation of events and Championships
which
will ultimately benefit competitors, sponsors and the sport."
Commenting on the new arrangements Tom Walsh, TROA Chairman, stated,
"We
are all looking forward to the return of rallying following the problems
of
FMD and we are pleased that the premier Rally Championship has been
endorsed by both governing bodies."
CIRCUIT OF IRELAND 29 MARCH 01 APRIL
KILLARNEY RALLY OF THE LAKES 4/5 MAY
DONEGAL INTERNATIONAL 21/23 JUNE
JIM CLARK MEMORIAL RALLY 12/13 JULY
MANX INTERNATIONAL 1/3 AUGUST
ULSTER RALLY 6/7 SEPTEMBER
CORK 20 INTERNATIONAL 4/6 OCTOBER
WEST 2002 GALWAY 8/9 NOVEMBER
7-11-2001
GALLIGAN CLAIMS PEUGEOT CROWN
Rory Galligan has won the 2001 Peugeot Super 106 Cup. This was his third year competing in the championship, but after two years which were marred by bad luck he was hoping that it would be third time lucky.
Round 1 took place in Brighton at the Rally of Wirral where Galligan’s season got off to the perfect beginning. A closely fought battle eventually saw him take the win and claim thirty championship points.
For round 2 the cup competitors crossed the channel to France for the longest rally of the year, the two day Rallye Charlemagne. Rory’s good fortune did not continue and he crashed heavily whilst avoiding a spectator who had fallen on the road in front of him. The team returned to Oldcastle and within two weeks they had rebuilt the 106 just in time for the next round, the Swansea Bay Rally.
Fellow Irishman Kris Meeke won this event but Rory finished a convincing fourth place after a tough and challenging event.
The town of Carwent played host to round 4 and Rory needed a good result so that he did not lose touch with the championship leaders. A weather hampered day left Rory in 3rd place overall and he was one of six Irish drivers in the top seven.
The championship now had four different winners from four rounds and the championship battle was hotting up. Round 5 was the Scottish Rally, deep in the forests of Dumfries and Galloway, a perfect drive over the 65 competitive miles made Rory the first double winner of the year.
With only two rounds remaining now a win on either of the rounds would secure the title. However round 6 did not go to plan, 1½ miles into the Rally of Kent, Rory broke a drive shaft which meant immediate retirement.
So for the third year running the championship would be decided on the final round and this year it was to be a three way battle between Rory, Ryan Champion and the young Garry Jennings. The Prodrive Banbury Rally hosted the final round and a mixed bag of stages meant anything could happen. Rory was a class act all day and dominated the event, finishing 20 seconds ahead of Jennings.
The win secured Rory the coveted prize, a Peugeot 206 Super 1600 for next years British Championship plus a works mechanic and a recce car. After three years all Rory’s hard work and dedication finally paid off.
Rory would like to thank his sponsors Tosh Kellet (Respa Beds) and John Daly (Dalco Nitrogen Systems) and all those who have helped over the past seven years. He would also like to that his hard working team for their commitment, Tom Walsh (team manager) his mechanics, Paul McDermott, John Kellett, Johnny Fitzimons, Darragh Hand, Andrew Browne and Martin Brady, and his co-drivers Tom Clinton, Jonty Bolsover, David Jones, Billy McCullins, Paul Nagle and anyone who has taken the risk in sitting with him over the years. He also appreciates all the help his has received from his long term supporters, many friends aswell as Peugeot Sport for all for running such a fantastic championship.
14-10-2001
JOY FOR JENNINGS
Sixteen gruelling stages over 68
miles confronted the crews on their arrival in Kent for the sixth round of the
TOTAL sponsored Peugeot Super 106 Cup.
Rory Galligan started the first stage in the knowledge that victory would assure
him of the Championship Title with one round still remaining, but the script did
not go to plan.
The opening stage, Kingswood was a tricky 4.98 miler through the morning mist
and Galligan's hopes disappeared within the first four corners, when he slipped
off the stage damaging a wheel and ripping out a driveshaft. Rising star Simon
Hughes was fastest commenting; "It was tricky, lots of grip in some places,
very slippy in others, as soon as you put the car sideways it just went from
under you." Championship leader Gary Jennings said; "We were off the
road, in the ditch a couple of times, so we're happy with the time". Hughes
time of 5 mins 22 seconds was one second ahead of Jennings with Chris Moore a
further four seconds back.
The sun began to shine through at the start of stage 2, Grain West 1, with the mist being burned off by the Indian summer sun Kris Meeke took advantage and posted the fastest time 5.14, one second ahead of Champion with Jennings three seconds further back. This was enough for Jennings to move into the overall lead with Champion, Hughes and Meeke all close behind, only five seconds spilt the top four crews.
Stage 3 Grain East 1 again saw Meeke top the times with Jennings a mere second behind and Champion two seconds back. Meeke was now only four seconds behind Jennings. Richard Sykes clipped a kerb and damaged a wishbone, which he was going to live with for another three stages until service. Shaun Gallagher went off dropping nearly two minutes to the leaders.
Grain West 2 fell to Champion from Meeke, Jennings and Dunbabin, Jennings still led overall but only by two seconds from the charging Champion with Moore third and Hughes fourth.
The 4.18 miles of Stage 5, Grain East 2, saw the demise of the unlucky Meeke, an off resulted in a broken steering arm and immediate retirement. Jennings took his first fastest time of the day, one second ahead of Champion and four ahead of McElvaney and Dunbabin. The lead for Jennings increased by one second with Champion only three seconds down. Moore was next up with Dunbabin trying extremely hard in a close fourth. Martin Evans retired with clutch trouble.
Lodge Hill 1, Stage 6 fell again to Jennings, who opened a gap to Champion courtesy of a time nine seconds faster Story of the stage though was Moore who lost his brakes completely taking a stage maximum and dropping close to three minutes. Mayers also suffered on this stage taking a stage maximum as did Moore. Jennings led overall by twelve seconds from Champion with Dunbabin moving into third place forty seconds behind the leader. Hughes and McElvaney filled fourth and fifth.
The 2.36 miles of Hemsted 1 saw Jennings post his third consecutive fastest time, 2 minutes 39 seconds, however Hughes was up to the task and equalled the time, Champion as ever was not far behind but dropped a further two seconds to Jennings with Dunbabin fourth fastest.
Stage 8 was a re-run of Hemsted and Champion returned the compliment by setting the fastest time and taking back the two seconds he had just lost. Dunbabin was 3rd but Hughes was slower through the stage on the re-run.
At the midway stage Jennings still led by twelve seconds from Champion with Dunbabin nearly a minute behind and Hughes and McElvaney filling the remaining top five.
Stage 9 Bedgebury 1 was the longest
stage of the day at 5.65 miles and saw Jennings yet again fastest, he eked out a
further six seconds from Champion with Shaun Gallagher third fastest twelve
seconds back.
Bedgbury 2 saw the demise of McAlveney who sustained a punctured radiator after
getting stuck for 1.5 miles behind a Ford Ka who refused to move over. Jennings
increased his lead over Champion by a mere one second.
Jennings was one second faster than Champion through stage 11 and Champion
responded through stage 12 taking four out of Jennings. With the event reduced
to fourteen stages due to the late running of the rally after earlier incidents,
Jennings held a sixteen second lead over Champion with Dunbabin third and Sykes
fourth.
The final two stages saw Paul Jones retire late on, after a spirited drive with
his best result to date spoilt by a broken driveshaft.
Sykes was lucky to escape after a hole in his gearbox meant he had to nurse the
car through the remaining stages however it did not affect the leaderboard.
Gary Jennings took the event laurels with Ryan Champion 2nd and Daniel Dunbabin
3rd. Richard Sykes was fourth and Chris Moore rounded off the top five. Debutant
Graham McClintock from Dublin had a torrid day and would have been considerably
higher in the overall standings were it not for a bucketful of road penalties.
For his persistence he was awarded the TOTAL QUARTZ 9000 award.
10-10-2001
GALLIGAN SET FOR KENT
The penultimate round of the Peugeot Super 106
Cup takes place this
weekend when over 20 crews descend on the town of Ashford, Kent. With
such a tight battle at the top of the Peugeot championship table, the
Rally of Kent will undoubtedly be a deciding factor in the title
challenge.
The Super 106 Cup is notorious for its competitiveness and with four
different winners in just five rounds it is possibly the most
competitive one make series in Europe. The Rally of Kent will surely
no different. This event has 16 short stages and because each stage
is less than 4 miles long just one slip by any of the crews could end
their chances.
Rory Galligan is fresh from his victory on round 5, the Scottish
Rally, and he knows how important this event is, "This is a crucial
round for us, a good result will put us in an excellent position in
the championship" commented the Meath driver. Rory will need to draw
on his wealth of experience and his immense ability under pressure if
he is to finish with top honours this weekend. On this event Rory
will renew his partnership experienced Super 106 Cup co-driver, Billy
McCullins.
19-9-2001
West International Rally 2001
Galway Motor Club regrets to announce that in the light of a worsening Foot and
Mouth Disease scare, the proposed running of the West International Rally 2001
has been postponed. It had been planned for November 2nd/3rd 2001.
The decision was not taken lightly, but the Committee had regard for potential
risks to the agricultural industry, and the cancellation of other events in the
area to restrict the spread of the disease should it break out in Ireland.
The Galway Motor Club has approached Motorsport Ireland, the governing body,
with a view to re-arranging the date for the West International Rally in 2002.
The Inishowen Gateway Harvest Stages Rally 2001 - (Sat) 13 Oct 01 - CANCELLED
In light of the concerns expressed recently by Mr Joe Walsh, Minister for Agriculture, regarding the possible re-emergence of the foot and mouth virus in Ireland, the Directors of Donegal Motor Club have decided to cancel the forthcoming “Inishowen Gateway Hotel Harvest Stages Rally” which was due to be held in the Inishowen Area on Saturday October 13th.
The Club once again recognises the invaluable co-operation of the farming community with the running of their events and feel that it would be inadvisable to run this event whilst there is the slightest risk that it could contribute to another outbreak of Foot and Mouth in Ireland.
Dr James McDaid, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation commented: “I fully support the decision taken by Donegal Motor Club, we certainly have to be vigilant in view of the current situation in the UK. The Donegal Motor Club have acted responsibly in the past and know exactly what they are doing”
Mr George O Hagan, Chairman of the Donegal Branch of the IFA commented : “We recognise the disappointment among the members of Donegal Motor Club at having to cancel further events but we in IFA deeply appreciate the consideration for the farming community being shown by Donegal Motor Club again” .
Leonard Wilson, Clerk of the Course for the Event, commented: “Whilst myself and the organising team are disappointed at the cancellation of the event, I feel that the decision is in the best long term interests of rallying. I would like to express my sincere thanks to the many people who have put a lot of time and effort into the preparatory work of the rally. I would like to thank our main sponsor – The Inishowen Gateway Hotel, Buncrana, and the many other sponsors and advertisers who had already committed to the event”.
The Directors of Donegal Motor Club have also decided at this point to cancel its remaining events for the remainder of the 2001 calendar which means that the 2002 Shell Donegal International Rally will probably be the next rally to be organised by the club.
A spokesman for Motorsport Ireland issued the following comment: “Arising from the re-emergence of foot and mouth disease in the UK, the Motorsport Commission, the ruling council of the sport’s governing body Motorsport Ireland, will review the situation as it effects closed road events at their meeting on Thursday next, 20th September”
16-9-2001
FAULTLESS DRIVE SEES GALLIGAN TAKE VICTORY
The Scottish Rally played host to Round 5 of the Peugeot Super 106 Cup this weekend. Early Saturday morning over twenty Peugeot crews set off on this long and challenging two day event which would involve over 100 stage miles on very fast and very rough terrain.
For Billy Coleman Award winner, Rory Galligan, his rally could not have got off to a better start when he set two fastest times on the first three stages, leaving him 3 seconds ahead of Ryan Champion. A bad tyre choice on stage 4 caused Rory to lose his lead briefly, but another fastest time on stage 5 put him back on top. The rest of the day remained trouble free and Rory held a 21 second overnight lead. This was Paul Nagle’s first event partnering Rory and he commented at the end of the day, "it is fantastic to have such a lead at the end of the first day, lets hope tomorrow goes as well"
Day 2 began well, although Rory did not push too hard, knowing that there was still a full day of rallying ahead. The team encountered their only problem of the rally on stage 8, when Rory spent the entire eight miles with one eye on the petrol gauge, when the car was running low on fuel. This did not break Rory’s concentration and he set yet another fastest time on stage nine, the penultimate stage, leaving him with a 36 second lead going into the last stage. A faultless controlled drive on the final stage left Rory with top honours, 34 seconds ahead of Ryan Champion.
Other Irish drivers were not so lucky, Garry Jennings encountered punctures on day 1 and had an engine management problem throughout day 2, while Shaun Gallagher spun twice on the opening stage and Kris Meeke lost a wheel, losing him over 7 minutes. However all drivers recovered well and they finished 5th, 8th and 10th respectively.
12-9-2001
GALLIGAN SET FOR SCOTLAND
The town of Dumfries in South West Scotland will play host to the Scottish Rally this weekend. The rally boasts an impressive entry, with top formula rally competitors and many one make series including the Ford Ka Championship, the Polo Challenge and the Peugeot Super 106 Cup.
The 106 championship will contest both days of this tough event, with over 105 stage miles. The rally will undoubtedly be a test of the crews commitment, speed and stamina. The Scottish stages are traditionally very fast but also very rough, so this will not only challenge driver and co-driver but will also test the strength and reliability of the Peugeot 106.
Billy Coleman award winner, Rory Galligan, who is lying 3rd in the championship, realises that this event is crucial to his championship challenge. With only three events left it is vital that he finishes well. However he is relishing the opportunity to show his immense talent and speed on the famous Scottish stages such as AE, Twiglees and Castle O’er.On this event Rory will be partnered by top Irish co-driver, Paul Nagle.
10-9-2001
WEXFORD CAR RALLY POSTPONED
In the light of the re-emergence of Foot and
Mouth disease in Britain and
the subsequent remarks of Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Joe Walsh,
Motorsport Ireland, the governing body for motorsport in Ireland has
decided to postpone the Wexford Car Rally which was due to take place on
this coming weekend, 15th/16th September.
In taking this decision Motorsport Ireland is acutely aware of the problems
that this may cause for the organisers, the Wexford Motor Club, who have
put nine months work and considerable expense preparing for this popular
annual event; and also the impact it will have on local tourist and
business interests.
The decision has been taken in the interests of the wider community, and
the country as a whole, which must take precedence.
A further statement will be issued on 20th September following the next
meeting of the Motorsport Commission (Ruling Council).
Motorsport events held on private venues will not be affected by this
decision and will continue as before.
CORK FORESTRY RESULTS
CORK M C HORNIBROOKS FOR TOYOTA LISMORE FOREST RALLY
(SUNDAY):
1 Dominic McNeill/Francis Regan (Escort WRC) 32m 11s,
2 Eugene Donnelly/Paul Nagle (Celica) 32m 59s,
3 Dermot Kelly/John Brennan (Escort WRC) 33m 08s,
4 Peter McCullagh/Vincent Fergus (Escort Cosworth) 33m 41s,
5 Ollie O'Donovan/Dave Moynihan (Legacy) 33m 43s,
6 John McKeown/Martin Carey (Sierra Cosworth) 33m 56s.
Class winners: Peter McCullagh/Vincent Fergus, Stephen Moore/Tony McHugh
(Escort), Shane McCarthy/Derek Brannigan (Peugeot 106), Oliver
Williams/Danny McEvoy (Escort), Michael Moore/Michael Cuddihy (Corsa).
29-8-2001
RT GREENMOUNT RALLYSPRINT A HUGE SUCCESS
Perfect weather conditions ensured that over 10,000 spectators
witnessed the inaugural RT Greenmount Rallysprint. This fantastic number of
people witnessed a brilliant days rallying that culminated in Austin McHale entering
the fourth and final run of the day level with Kenny McKinstry. Another
fighting display saw Austin McHale win the Bertie Fisher Memorial
Award by six seconds with Kenny McKinstry second and Frank Meagher third.Best
placed local drivers included Ollie O'Donovan in fourth and Ed Synan in twelfth.
120 drivers took part in the event and all were full of praise for the set up
and the fantastic facilities at the new Limerick racecourse. Sean Mullally,
Clerk of the Course, was "delighted with the spectator figures, the
weather and the standard of rallying. This gives us a great platform make
this event an annual one."
RT Communications (main sponsor) commissioned a beautiful painting of the late
great Bertie Fisher that was presented to Austin McHale who said that he was
"deeply honoured to receive this award in memory of a great rival and a
great friend."
At the Awards Ceremony that evening in the South Court Hotel, Myles Gardiner of
Esat Digifone (main sponsor) was "really delighted with the promotion of the
event and with the huge crowds that turned up on the day".
Over 100 marshals from the Limerick Motor Club ensured that the event was run
safely and very efficiently. With 80% of the circuit in full view of the
spectators and cars reaching top speeds of over 140mph everyone left very keen
that this event will now continue annually.
RESULTS:
1. Austin McHale / Brian Murphy 13.47 (mins)
2. Kenny McKinstry/Declan Tumulty 13.53
3. Frank Meagher/Michael Meagher 14.04
4. Ollie O'Donovam/David Moynihan 14.12
5. Niall Maguire/Paul McLoughlin 14.37
6. Michael Barrable/Dermot O'Gorman 14.41
7. Kevin Barrett/Emma McKinstry 14.53
8. Barry Coleman/Alan Russell 14.56
9. Rory O'Connor/Francis Kenny 15.14
10. Tom Radles/Diarmuid Lynch 15.18
29-8-2001
Provisional Top 20 and Rally Details Monaghan Single Stage
Provisional Top 20:
1 In Memory of the Fisher Family
2 Kenny McKinstry/ Subaru Impreza
3 Niall Maguire/Paul McLoughlin Subaru Impreza 555
4 Peader Hurson/Ian Porter Toyota Celica GT-Four
5 David Armstrong/Herbie Blackburn Escort RS Cosworth
6 Trevor Cathers/Gordon Noble Subaru Impreza Sti V (GpN)
7 Tom Holton/Andrew Cullen Toyota Celica Turbo 4WD
8 Patrick Elliot/Martin Cahill Subaru Impreza 555
9 Kevin Barrett/Sean Mullally Subaru Impreza 555
10 Barry Coleman/Hugh McPhilips Subaru Impreza 555
11 Ivan Steward/Joe Friel Escort RS Cosworth
12 Mac McKenna/John Loughran Peugoet 205 RWD
14 Philip Shaw/Nigel Frazer Ford Escort 2.0
15 Maurice Moffett/Gavin Campbell Peugoet 205 RWD
16 Trevor Lancashire/Noel Hall Ford Escort 2.0
17 George Tracey/ Subaru Impreza Sti (GpN)
18 Mickey McArdle/Ger McMonagle BMW M3
19 Enda Keenan/Raymond Aughney Ford Escort 2.4
20 James Foley/Ann Foley Honda Civic 1.8
21 Adrian McElvaney/Mark Tierney Peugoet 106 Gti
001 Austin McHale/Bryan Murphy
Toyota Corolla WRC
The event will be run over a 9.6 mile stage. HQ for the event will be the Hillgrove Hotel Monaghan.
Start 11:00 from Rally Headquaters
Practice Stage followed by Regroup - No Service after practice Stage.
3 timed Stages with service at the Hillgrove Hotel
29-8-2001
Galway Motor Clubs Rallysprint at Pallas Karting due to take place this Sunday has been Cancelled13-8-2001
GALLIGAN THIRD IN WALES
Welsh Rally Report 13th August 2001
The Peugeot 106 Cup is notorious for its competitiveness and did not disappoint this weekend when the R & M William’s Welsh Rally played host to round 4 of the championship. At short notice this event was moved from the fast flowing stages of Epynt to a military training ground in Caerwent. Despite this change there were 12 challenging stages which entailed over 85 stage miles in total, but high kerbs, an abrasive surface and torrential rain were set to cause difficulty for all competitors.
Rory Galligan began the first stage cautiously, aware of how dangerous the conditions were and knowing that he needed a good finish on the event to move him further up the championship table. He suffered his only problem on stage 2 when the atrocious conditions caused him to slide off briefly, losing over 15 seconds. He then controlled his pace through out the remainder of the day aware that one slip could end his rally. Rory settled into a rhythm and swapped times with Shaun Gallagher and Chris Moore over the next few stages.
The rain finally eased up towards the end of the day and Rory upped his pace slightly but guided by experienced co-driver Billy McCullins did not take any risks and finished a comfortable 3rd only 2.5 seconds behind Gary Jennings and 10 seconds behind the victor Michael Brew. Rory is now lying 3rd in the championship and looking forward to the next round, the Scottish Rally in September.
9-8-2001
FORMIDABLE ENTRY FOR TIPPERARY STONETHROWERS RALLY
The Tipperary club has attracted quality as well as quantity for
the first closed roads multi-stage stage rally of the year when
the Clonmel Arms Tipperary Stonethrowers rally gets underway on Sunday.
The event heralds the return of rallying after a six month layoff due to the
foot and mouth. Driving his Ford Focus WRC Frank
Meagher heads a superb 130-strong entry which boasts a number of national
winning champions on the capacity entry.
Seeking an unprecedented ninth win on his home event local hero Frank Meagher
heads a superb 130-strong capacity entry.
Driving his Ford Focus WRC Meaghers strongest opposition will come from
Cardonagh brothers Daniel and Michael Doherty
now acclimatised to his Subaru Impreza WRC.
However the opposition is extremely strong with several other drivers capable of
ensuring the main players will have to work hard for honours. Peadar Hurson
(Warrenpoint) will have his Toyota Celica ST205 re-fettled in time after his
early exit
from the World Rally Masters event at Punchestown. Having kept his hand in by
com-peting
in several Belgian events Wexford's Eamonn Boland should be on form in his
NVD-backed Subaru Impreza WRC.
Reigning national rally hampion Paul Harris (Letterkenny) and Tim McNulty
(Subaru
Impreza) are seeded five and six while Toyota Celica-mounted pairMichael
Barrable
(Swords) and George Cullen (Galway), Johnny O'Sullivan (Killarney) and top
seeded
Group N driver Stephen Harris (Subaru Impreza) complete the top ten.
While local drivers Roy White and Kieran Molloy and fellow Donegal driver
Brendan Kelly will be Harris's main opposition for
Group N honours White is the man to watch. The on-form Clonmel driver lies
second in the Belgian Group N championship in
the FESP-backed Mitsubishi Evo5. He has regained his winning form after his
massive accident at Ypres in June.
Other Group N contenders are Pat Price (Mitsubishi Evo 6) and James Cribben
(Mitsubishi Evo 5), the surprise winner of the
Rallysprint at Rosegreen earlier this year. John Sheehan (Subaru) is another of
the Group N contenders.
Other competitors outside the top ten are Liam McCarthy (Toyota Celica), Tommy
Graham and Rory O'Connor, both driving
Ford Escort World Rally Cars. Jimmy Lambert is one of many Tipperary drivers
seeking a top result on the Clonmel Arms
Tipperary Stonethrowers rally. The Ardfinan driver contests Class 13 where the
likes of Philip Shaw (Escort) are amongst his
principal opposition.
The quality of the entry is very formidable with the likes of Anthony O'Halloran
(Opel Manta), David Armstrong (Escort), Patrick
Elliott (Subaru), Cathal Arthurs (Toyota), Ed Synan (Subaru) and Tom Randles
(Escort) all seeded outside the top twenty.
Apart from those already mentioned, other locals contesting the six-stage event
are Andrew Fanning (Ford Puma), Damien
Browne (Astra), and Don Keating (Metro). Keating is son of Cahir Hyundai dealer
Donie Keating who won the national cham-pionship
in '81 and again in '91.
A counting round of the Ford Ka Challenge, Challenge leader John Carroll
(Danesfort Kilkenny) is looking forward to getting
back on the roads and must start favourite to take maximum points in the series.
He will be hard-pushed by Liam Denning
(Tallaght) and Newcomer Gerry Keyes (Limerick) while local drivers Trevor
Harding (Cashel) and Pat Quinlan (Clonmel) will
be aiming to keep the premier award in Co Tipperary. Doubtless, Denise Ryan
(Athy) will repeat her consistent form and be a
top-five finisher. Former national champion, Niall Maguire (Subaru Impreza) is
likely to get the call from the reserve list.
The Clonmel Arms Tipperary Stonethrowers Rally will consist of six stages - two
stages repeated three times. The stage loca-tions
are S. S. 1, 3, and 5: Millinarinka and S.S. 2, 4 and 6: Drangan. The first car
will leave Parc Ferme - located at the Mart
Yard on the Waterford Road - at 10. 00 a.m. on Sunday morning. The first stage
(Millinarinka) is scheduled to start at 11. 00
a.m. There are two service halts at the Powerstown Park Racecourse on the
outskirts of Clonmel. They will take place after
S.S. 2 and S. S. 4 at 12. 40 p.m. and 3. 12 p.m. respectively. The finish ramp
celebrations are due to take place outside the
Clonmel Arms at 5. 30 p.m. The prizegiving will take place later the same
evening in the Clonmel Arms.
The Clonmel Arms Tipperary Stonethrowers Rally is the first stage event to take
place on public roads since the foot and mouth
restrictions have been lifted. The organisers of the rally, the Tipperary Light
Car and Motorcycle Club are very appreciative of
the goodwill of the local community. The Club are placing disinfectant mats at
the entrance to the service area and also at the
start and finish of the special stages, the organisers are appealing to all
spectators to follow the procedures in place.
Top 10 Starters -The
number one slot is left vacant in honour of the late Bertie Fisher.
2. Frank Meagher/Micheal Maher - Ford Focus WRC
3. Peadar Hurson/Ian Porter - Toyota Celica ST205
4. Eamonn Boland/Anthony Nestor - Subaru Impreza WRC
5. Paul Harris/Eugene O'Donnell - Subaru Impreza
6. Tim McNulty/Julian Nagle - Subaru Impreza 555
7. Daniel Doherty/Michael Doherty - Subaru Impreza WRC
8. Michael Barrable/Dermot O'Gorman - Toyota Celica ST205
9. George Cullen/TBA - Toyota Celica
10. Johnny O'Sullivan/Pat Cashman - Escort WRC
11. Stephen Harris/TBA - Subaru Impreza
7-8-2001
GALLIGAN ALL SET FOR NEXT PEUGEOT ROUND
Fresh from his 4th place on round three of the Peugeot Super 106 Cup, Billy Coleman award winner, Rory Galligan will be back in Swansea this weekend hoping to come away with a good result from the Welsh Rally. This tarmac event will undoubtedly be a tough and challenging event and Rory is anticipating a tight battle against current championship leader Ryan Champion along with fellow Irishmen, Kris Meeke, Gary Jennings and Adrian McElvaney.
Over the short break, Rory and his mechanics have continued to rebuild his Team Respa Dalco 106, following his huge accident on round two, the Rallye Charlemagne. With over 85 stage miles both the car and crew will need to be in top condition to cope with the testing Welsh stages.
Yet again Rory will team up with Ulsterman Billy McCullins whose vast 106 Cup experience will no doubt add to the confidence within the team over the weekend. The Rally begins on Saturday evening with two stages, however the bulk of competition will take place on Sunday when the rally restarts at 6am and finally concludes at 7:30 that evening.
27-7-2001
WORLD RALLY STARS ENTERTAIN HUGE CROWD AT PUNCHESTOWN
McHale and Nesbitt tie for top spot
The huge crowd which descended on Punchestown Racecourse yesterday (Saturday) to see world rally stars Richard Burns, Freddy Loix and Miki Biasion take part in the first ever World Rally Masters where not to be disappointed as they were treated to a display of spectacular rallying.
Filling the top three places, Burns, Loix and Biasion showed just why they have made it to the pinnacle of rallying. Accompanied by a host of celebrity co-drivers including ex-World Snooker Champion Ken Doherty, Boxer Michael Carruth, International Sailor David Burrows and TV personality Emma Buckley, their participation in World Rally Masters was a major sporting success for Ireland. To the cheers and whistles of a very appreciative crowd who packed the grandstands, the Subaru, Mitsubishi and Fiat stars brought the event to a close with a dramatic display of crowd pleasing 'Doughnuts'.
Spectators where also given their first opportunity to see the impressive set-ups of the Subaru World Rally Team and Marlboro Mitsubishi Ralliart who brought great colour to the courtyard of the County Kildare racecourse.
The competitive side of the event saw a trilling day long battle between current and former Irish Tarmac Rally Champions Andrew Nesbitt and Austin McHale with the pair tying for the top spot with equal times at the end of the six stage event.
The pair, Ireland's top rally drivers, started the event by setting equal times on the opening 4km stage. Driving his Cuisine de France Subaru Impreza WRC Nesbitt then edged ahead on stage 2 going one second faster than the Toyota Ireland Corolla WRC of McHale. The pair once again set equal times on stage three.
In the afternoon, with the stages run in the reverse direction, McHale posted a time three seconds faster than his Armagh rival to regain the lead. Dead level again on stage 5 McHale's Corolla held a two second advantage going into the final run.
Then, in a grandstand finish to World Rally Masters, Andrew Nesbitt set the fastest time of the day while McHale went a second slower than his previous run, leaving it all equal at the finish. After discussions with event director Ronan Morgan the pair agreed to call it a draw.
Behind the battling tarmac champions, Derek McGarrity took the final podium placing in his Subaru Impreza WRC while fourth went to Tipperary's Frank Meagher in a Ford Focus ahead of Daniel Doherty in a Subaru Impreza WRC. Former European and five times Belgian Rally Champion Patrick Snijers rounded off the top six in his Group N Prodrive Subaru.
The event saw Irish Minister for Sport, Tourism & Recreation Doctor James McDaid make his rallying debut as he became co-driver for fellow Donegal man James Cullen in the Wrangler Subaru Impreza WRC, the pair finishing 8th overall.
Double World Rally Champion Miki Biasion won the two wheel drive category driving the Super 1600 Fiat Punto while Ireland's Dermot Carnegie won the Rallycross section in his Ford Focus.
A historic day for Irish motorsport, the first ever World Rally Masters was a resounding success and the organisers are already promising to make the event an even greater spectacle in 2002.
Overall positions after Stage 6 of 6
1. Austin McHale/Brian Murphy - Toyota Corolla WRC - 16m 02s
= Andrew Nesbitt/James O'Brien - Subaru Impreza WRC - 16m 02s
3. Derek McGarrity/Adrian Foley - Subaru Impreza WRC - 16m 22s
4. Frank Meagher/Dermot O’Gorman - Ford Focus WRC - 16m 28s
5. Daniel Doherty/Michael Doherty - Subaru Impreza WRC - 16m 38s
6. Patrick Snijers/Willie McKee - Subaru Impreza (Grp N) - 16m 41s
BRAKE
HORSE POWER AT LIMERICK RACECOURSE
The
much talked about inaugural "Greenmount Park Rally Sprint" will take
place on Sunday 26th August at the magnificent new Limerick Racecourse,
Greenmount Park, Patrickswell.
At
the official launch, drivers such as Austin McHale, Nial Maguire, Hugh Martin
Dogherty, Kenny McKinstry, Frank Meagher, Kevin Barrett and Ollie O'Donovan were
confirmed as competitors at what promises to be a spectacular affair. Rumours
concerning other top drivers from both home and abroad are rife and
announcements are expected over the coming days and weeks. Celebrity drivers at
the event include Peter Clohessy, the D’Unbelievables and Limerick hurlers
Ciaran Carey and Mark Foley.
Another major attraction is that the event will also be a counting round for the extremely popular 2001 Ford Ireland Ka Challenge.
The
winning crew of the Greenmount Park Rally will also be presented with the
inaugural Bertie Fisher Perpetual Memorial Award. This award, endorsed by
Berties wife Gladys, is a tribute to the late Bertie Fisher who was probably
Irelands greatest ever rally driver. He and his son Mark and daughter Emma were
tragically killed in a helicopter accident earlier this year.
Clerk
of the course is International co-driver Sean Mullally, who along with his
colleagues in the Limerick Motor Club (of which he is also President), have
pulled out all the stops to ensure that the event is very spectator friendly and
a real test for the drivers.
At
the press launch Sean commented: "This is the first event to be held at the
world class new Limerick Racecourse - it has even beaten the horse racing! The
venue is located just off the newly opened Limerick bypass and is ideal for
spectators." He continued: "We are expecting a terrific turn out to
see the best drivers in the country giving it their all." He also disclosed
"plans are already in place to make this an annual event." Sean also
took time to thank the Greenmount Park Directors and their team, the Gardai and
Motorsport Ireland for all ensuring that the event can take place.
A
flavour of the cars competing include Austin
McHale, the five times Irish rally champion, in his Toyota Corolla WRC with
Kenny McKinstry in his Subaru WRC, Frank Meagher in the Ford Focus WRC and Tommy
Graham in his Escort WRC.
The
3.0-mile super special stage is 70% tarmac and 30% gravel. After starting down a
long tarmac straight the drivers enter the centre of the racetrack through a
spectacular tunnel. 120 cars in total will compete and the first familiarisation
run will commence at 10am. Four timed runs will then follow with the final run
expected to finish at 5pm. To add to the excitement the last three timed runs
will run in reverse order, thus ensuring a nail-biting climax to the day!
The
event will be televised by RPM and the famous Dougie Hughes will be providing on
course commentary through out the day.
Mark
Pinsent, the Commercial Manager, told the guests at the press launch: "We
are delighted to announce that Shannon Development are supporting this event as
secondary sponsors whilst associate sponsors include Esat Digifone and the South
Court Hotel (venue for the press launch). Their support of this rally is greatly
appreciated and we will be announcing further commercial partners within the
next two weeks.
Guest
of honour at the launch, Mayor of Limerick, Councillor Dick Sadlier, described
the Greenmount Park Rally as a major event that will “further enhance
Limericks reputation as the sporting capital of Ireland”.
Noel
J. Clarke, Chairman of the Rallies Committee, Motorsport Ireland, said:
"This has been a difficult year for both the farming community and rallying
and we are grateful that people like yourself (Sean Mullally) and the management
of Greenmount Park had the foresight and determination to stage this major Rally
Sprint."
The
entire day will be fun for all the family with plenty of attractions including
fun inflatables, a crèche and even Barney is rumoured to be making an
appearance! Tickets are £10pp and £15 for a family. Gates will open at 8.30am
and breakfast rolls, teas and coffees etc will be on sale straight away.
Corporate
hospitality packages range from £70pp in the main restaurant through to £90pp
for a private box.
For
commercial
opportunities including corporate hospitality packages plus media liaison please
contact Mark Pinsent at Event & Leisure Promotions - 061 313367 /
elp@eircom.net
21-7-2001
MEEKE WINS IN WALES, GALLIGAN FOURTH
Kris
Meeke put his previous retirements behind him with a mature and consistent
performance to take his first victory in the Super 106 Cup, an incredible fight
for second place saw Faulkner drive out of the final stage with a rear puncture,
dropping six seconds to Champion, the result being a dead heat on time, Faulkner
however took the runners up spot courtesy of the fastest first stage time.
Champion consolation however was to move into a three point lead in the
Championship overall with Jennings in 2nd place, Faulkner moves up to
3rd.
The
third round of the Peugeot Super 106 cup saw the crews visit the Swansea Bay
Festival National Rally for over 64 competitive miles through the forests of the
Neath and Afan Vale area.
The
crews arrived only two weeks after the Rallye Charlemagne in the northern
France.
The
crews converted their cars from Asphalt specification to full gravel
specification for the five-stage event.
Rhondda
1, the first stage of the event gave the crews little time to settle, a 17.01
miler and the longest stage of the event was certainly a true test.
Mike
Faulkner and Alan Clark were fastest out of the blocks with a time of 19 minutes
21 seconds, six seconds ahead of Richard Sykes and Mark Andrews with Kris Meeke
and Gordon Noble well placed in third a further four seconds down.
Ryan
Champion and Cliff Simmons and the Dunbabin brothers both had short visits into
the undergrowth losing a few seconds apiece.
Trevor
Martin retired near the start of Stage 1 with head gasket failure and was
accompanied by Shaun Gallagher and Paul Jones.
Stage
2 – Tower 1 – 14.66 miles saw a stunning time from Meeke of 15:24 ten
seconds clear of Champion with Faulkner 3rd on 15:30. Meeke moved
into the lead six seconds clear of Faulkner with Champion lying 3rd,
Dunbabin 4th and Hughes completing the top five.
Chris
Moore suffered a puncture and had to stop and change it dropping over five
minutes.
The
shorter Stage 3 Rheola at 4.73 miles saw Champion fastest with Meeke a mere two
seconds behind and Faulkner a further second back.
Stage
4 Rhondda 2 at 14.52 miles was a partial re-run of Stage 1 and Champion had a
big moment on a tight hairpin, seeing the car hang on two wheels after hitting
the deep ruts, Meeke was again fastest setting a time of 16:02, the closely
fought nature of the Championship was shown by the fact that the next three cars
were split by a mere three seconds, Brew on 16:06,Galligan 16:07 and Faulkner
16:08.
Sykes
rolled out, Barbadian born Mayers lost a rear wheel and the Dunbabins had a
puncture dropping five minutes when they stopped to change it.
The
12.97 mile Stage 5 – Tower 2 finally saw Meeke come of age when he crossed the
finish line to take a well deserved win, having been in contention on both the
previous rounds and suffered retirements he was understandably delighted.
Adrian
McElvaney and Cian Curley won the Total Quartz 9000 prize following their
wonderful spirit towards their fellow competitors, letting several start ahead
of them after they themselves had fallen out of contention with a myriad of
problems.
Garry Jennings again took the Top Junior and Rookie awards on this, his first experience of a Welsh Forest.
12-7-2001
BIG INTEREST IN FORESTRY RALLIES
As usual the forestry rally season gets underway with the Cork MC Lismore event
on September 9. However because
of a change in the championship regulations the event this year will not be a
round of the national championship.
Beginning next year the national forestry championship will be run over a
calendar year.
The event will be based in Lismore Co Waterford again with Hornibrooks for
Toyota of Lismore as title sponsors and
the Lismore Hotel as rally headquarters.
Consisting of three stages - each used twice - and centralised servicing the
rally will be run in the Cappoquin and Vee
areas. The Cork club expects a similar entry to last year's event when 80
started the event.
Driving his new Escort WRC Dermot Kelly will be aiming for a repeat victory
while reigning champion Niall Driver will
be hoping for better luck in Lismore this year.
The pair face strong opposition from former champion Kevin O'Kane in his
ex-Allstars Impreza, Dominic McNeill
(Escort Cosworth), Peter McCullagh (Escort Cosworth) and Championship runner-up
John Donnelly (Escort WRC) -all
potential winners. Local interest centres on John McCarthy (Escort WRC) and Pete
Willoughby in his rapid Escort
Mk 2.
Contact Darren McCarthy 086 8454392 for regulations and event information.
10-7-2001
MIKI BIASION TO COMPETE AT WORLD MASTERS RALLY
Former World Champion debuts new Punto Rally car at Punchetown
Miki Biasion, twice winner of the World Rally Championship and one of the most famous names in world rallying, has confirmed that he is coming to Ireland for the World Rally Masters event at Punchestown Racecourse on July 28. Biasion will be driving the new Fiat Punto Rally which he helped Fiat Auto Racing to develop and the event will mark the debut of the stunning looking car in this part of the world.
The attendance of a legendary figure such as Biasion in a brand-new car never seen outside mainland Europe will add enormously to the appeal of the inaugural World Masters event. Biasion won the WRC Drivers title in 1988 and 1989 during the historic and unprecedented string of six successive victories for the Lancia Delta. He has maintained close contacts with the sport since then having competed in many events and now has given the benefits of his great experience to the Fiat Auto Racing team. This will be the Italian’s first time to compete in Ireland.
World Rally Masters, the brainchild of international rally co-driver Ronan Morgan, will see some of the biggest names in World Rallying come to Ireland for the first running of what is set to be one of the biggest motor sport spectacles ever seen in this country.
In addition to Biasion and the Fiat Punto Super 1600 rally car, the event has attracted entries from current World Rally Championship stars Richard Burns driving a Subaru Impreza WRC2001 and Freddy Loix in a Mitsubishi Carisma GT.
Running on the services track at Punchestown Racecourse, World Rally Masters gets under way at 10:30 with the first of six 4Km runs. Set to be an action packed day with entertainment for all the family, tickets to World Rally Masters will be available on the gate, which open at 9 o'clock, at £10 for Adults or £15 for a Family.
7-7-2001
EVANS SEALS ANOTHER LURGAN PARK WIN
GWYNDAF ALL THE WAY
Gwyndaf Evans scored his fourth Lurgan Park victory in dominant style setting
fastest time on all nine stages to cruise
home with 25.6 seconds advantage over Derek McGarrity in the SEAT Lurgan Park
Rally & Challenge Time Trial on
Saturday.
Driving the factory SEAT Cordoba WRC Evo3 the Welshman won the Time Trial to
complete a whitewash and boost
his winnings to £5000. His victory wasn't as easy as it may have appeared
because heavy drizzle throughout the day
made the tree-lined stage extremely slippery. Afterwards he commented "it
was one of those days when everything
goes like clockwork. Although it wasn't as easy as it may have appeared, the
rain made
it slippy and difficult"
The Welshmans closest pursuer was Derek McGarrity(Glengormley), but the Subaru
driver was always one or two sec-onds
shy throughout all of the nine stages. Pre-event favourite Kenny McKinstry lost
time on the first stage when his
Impreza WRC skated across the grass, the Banbridge man coming back from 14th to
snatch 3rd at the last gasp, but
at no time matching Gwyndaf's pace.
The battle for third place provided lots of dramas through the day. Gary
White(Finaghy) occupied the spot early on but
slipped back, while Trevor Moore(Newtownabbey), Denis Biggerstaff (Dromara)and
Maurice Gass (Armagh) all battled
for the bottom podium place. McKinstry however showed the sort of form that has
made him a nine times Lurgan Park
winner to come through at the end.
Fermanagh's Raymond Johnston led GpN initially but made a wrong tyre choice to
allow Neil Simpson in a similar
Lancer to get in front and extend his GpN lead towards the end of the day to
finish 12th overall. Keith White (Crumlin)
was the best placed two wheel drive car after an impressive display, beating
Eugene Donnelly into 2nd, Philip Shaw
3rd, all driving various Ford Escorts.
Max McKillen turned in some very good times in his Citroen Saxo, but there was
no specific class to cater for 1600cc
cars, which meant the Dubliner had to be content with 4th in class behind the
big engined Fords. Main retirement dur-ing
the day was Richard Hogg(Limavady) who crashed his Lancer into the trees,
fortunately with little damage.
Tipperary's Roy White won the Spirit of the Rally award for his efforts in the
Bobby King Porsche after his own Lancer
was wrecked in Ypres the previous weekend. Niall McShea non-started when his
Toyota suffered gearbox troubles
before the start.
SEAT Lurgan Park Top Six - 1.Gwyndaf Evans/Gary Savage (SEAT Cordoba WRC)
14.42.8; 2.Derek McGarrity/Adrian
Foley (Subaru WRC) 15.08.4; 3.Kenny McKinstry/Mark McDonnell (Subaru WRC)
15.18.8; 4.Trevor Moore/Roy Wilson
(Escort Cosworth) 15.19.2; 5.Maurice Gass/Geoffrey Orr (Subaru WRC) 15.19.7;
6.Denis Biggerstaff/Robin
3-7-2001
MITSUBISHI WORLD RALLY TEAM CONFIRMED FOR RALLY MASTERS
INTERNATIONAL
The Mitsubishi World Rally Team are to make their first ever trip to Ireland later this month with the announcement today by Mitsubishi Motors that Belgian Rally star Freddy Loix is to compete at Rally Masters International (July 28th). The second world championship driver in a week to be confirmed for the rally spectacular, which takes place at Punchestown Racecourse situated near Naas, the 30-year-old will drive his Mitsubishi Carisma GT on the event.
‘Fast Freddy’, as he is known by his home fans, joins England’s Richard Burns as one of the star international entries for the one day event and will face tough opposition from top Irish drivers such as Andrew Nesbitt, Austin McHale, Frank Meagher, Kenny McKinstry, James Cullen and Eamonn Boland.
Currently lying ninth in this years World Championship, Loix who is managed by Irishman Sean O’Connor burst on to the world scene in 1997 before becoming a full time driver for the Marlboro Mitsubishi Ralliart team in 1999, where he has been a team-mate of four times world rally champion Tommi Makinen.
Commenting on the news that the Marlboro Mitsubishi Ralliart team are to compete at Rally Masters International Tom Nolan, Clerk of the Course for the event, said, ‘Today’s announcement that the Mitsubishi World Rally Team are coming is brilliant news. Attracting Mitsubishi and Loix is a major coup.’
He continued, ‘The event is going to be a real treat for Irish rally fans particular in a year when a lot of the major rallies had to be cancelled due to Foot & Mouth restrictions.’
To run on the services track at Punchestown Racecourse, Rally Masters International is scheduled to get under way at 10:30 with the first of six 4Km runs for the 40 invited drivers.
Set to be an action packed day with entertainment for all the family, tickets to Rally Masters International will be available on the gate at £10 for Adults or £15 for a Family.
25-6-2001
Subaru Ireland confirm Richard Burns entry for International Rally Masters
Sports fans will get their first opportunity to see the Subaru World Rally Team in action on Irish soil next month with the announcement today (Monday) by Subaru Ireland that world championship star Richard Burns is to compete in the first ever International Rally Masters at Punchestown Racecourse on July 28th.
One of the biggest names in world rallying, Burns’ participation is certain to make the new event one of the highest profile motorsport spectacles ever hosted in Ireland. The winner of nine world championship rallies and the title runner-up for the past two seasons, the English driver will compete in the event in a Subaru Impreza WRC2001 which he has campaigned in this year’s world series.
Commenting on the news of 30-year old Burns participation in the International Rally Masters, event director Ronan Morgan said, ‘This is fantastic news, Richard (Burns) is one of the biggest names in world rallying and on July 28th he will be here, in Ireland, competing against Ireland’s best drivers.’
He continued, ‘The Subaru World Rally Team has one of the most impressive set-ups on the World Championship scene. It will look fantastic in the courtyard at Punchestown. Well done to Subaru Ireland for organising to bring the team over and for giving Irish rally followers the chance to see a world team in action’.
While Burns is set to be the star of the event he will face strong opposition from two of Ireland’s biggest rallying names – Andrew Nesbitt and Austin McHale. Nesbitt, the current Irish tarmac Champion, was the winner a test event held at Punchestown last month and will be keen to repeat this performance in front of the factory Subaru team in his Subaru Ireland Impreza WRC.
Five times Irish rally champion McHale will also be aiming to beat the World Championship visitor in front of the anticipated record crowd expected to flock to the Naas venue. Driving a Toyota Corolla WRC, the Rathcoole contractor will play a major part in the event as he carries out resurfacing work on the 4Km stage.
Run on the services track around the county Kildare racecourse, the 40 invited crews will complete 6 runs, three run in each directions, over the fast asphalt stage.
With growing international interest in the event the organisers expect to confirm more high profile international entries in the coming weeks.
25-6-2001
STATEMENT - FOOT & MOUTH DISEASE
The Motor Sport Commission of Motorsport Ireland considered the current situation regarding Foot & Mouth disease and the continuing implications for Irish Motorsport at their meeting on 21st June. This meeting was able to confirm the intention to lift the remaining restrictions on Hillclimbs from 1st July and Rallying with effect from 19th July. Should the situation deteriorate the ban will remain in place or be re-imposed as appropriate.
Motorsport Ireland would remind clubs wishing to organise events in line with this decision that they should in the first instance establish the support of the local community for such an event. Motorsport Ireland values greatly such support and this is particularly true in the case of the farming community who has helped us over many years with our events.
We also ask clubs organising Rallies if they would please let us have a note of what events they propose to run for the remainder of the year so that we may draw up a revised fixture list. This information is requested by 5th July.
22nd June 2001
STONETHROWERS NEWS
Happily the ‘P.R.’ of the Stonethrowers
stages near Clonmel has been successfully completed. There will be two proper
stages run three times on the 12th August event. Demand for entries is expected
to be massive. Regulations will be available from Willie Walsh from 19th July,
an SAE required to Willie at Graigue, Ballypatrick, Clonmel, Co Tipperary.
www.rallynews.net
PUNCHESTOWN 2 ON TRACK
Ronan Morgan will be back from the
Acropolis this week to start work in earnest on the Saturday 28th
July Punchestown Rally Sprint (Phoenix Park substitute venue). It is rumoured
that there will be some big names competing, while there is major asphalt work
being done on the track.
10-6-2001
McHALE SIXTH IN POLAND
58. Rajd Polski 2001 - vysledky
1. L. Kuzaj - A. Gorski PL/PL
Toyota Corolla WRC 2hod 42min 01,6sec
2. T. Kuchar - M. Szczepaniak PL/PL Toyota Corolla WRC + 46,6
3. L. Sztuka - P. Carlsson PL/S
Seat Cordoba WRC Evo III + 04:47,6
4. M. Gargulak - J. Malcik CZ/CZ
Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VI + 07:01,9
5. M. Bebenek - G. Bebenek PL/PL Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VI + 10:13,3
6. A. MacHale - B. Murphy IRL/IRL
Toyota Corolla WRC + 11:09,5
7. S. Frycz - M. Wodniak PL/PL
Mitsubishi Lancer Evo V + 12:16,8
8. M. Turski - D. Burkat PL/PL
Mitsubishi Lancer Evo + 12:29,8
9. P. Dytko - T. Dytko PL/PL
Mitsubishi Lancer Evo + 14:06,2
10. T. Czopik - L. Wronski PL/PL
Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VI + 14:21,5
9-6-2001
ISSUED BY THE NORTHERN IRELAND MOTOR CLUB LTD
12.00 NOON SATURDAY 9 JUNE 2001
STENA LINE ULSTER RALLY 2001
At a meeting held on Thursday 7 June 2001 The Northern Ireland Motor Club Ltd conceded that the continuing difficulties connected with Foot and Mouth Disease had now forced a decision to cancel the Stena Line Ulster Rally 2001 which was due to run on the first week end in September.
The Northern Ireland Motor Club has always relied on the goodwill and help of the rural and farming communities throughout Northern Ireland to run the Ulster Rally. The club has decided that at this time of crisis we must support them and respect their concerns regarding the perceived risk our event, and its ongoing organisational activities, actually might bring.
Our inability to satisfactorily complete all our organisational tasks on the ground at this time has left it impossible to run the rally on its scheduled September date.
Constant communication, advice and assistance have been made available to the club from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Motor Sports Association and we thank both these organisations for their time and consideration.
On a more positive note much of the work carried out to date can be transferred to next year's event, which is scheduled for 6/7 September 2002.
More details of this event will be released soon.
5-6-2001
WHITES AWESOME PERFORMANCE
Awesome is the only way to describe Roy White's drive in the Belgian Bianchi rally last weekend. Rain over most of the week-end
made conditions tricky making the stages tricky slippery and treacherous.
Nonetheless White and co-driver Michael Patterson were rarely outside the top ten on
all stages in the Group N FESP-backed Mitsubishi Evo6. he and co-driver Michael
Patterson finished third overall behind two world rally cars.
An overjoyed Roy said " We were beating or matching the times of more powerful
machinery throughout the event and on target for a good result. Going into the last stage
we were on intermediates and lying third 24 seconds ahead of a Belgian 206 kit car. As
we went into the stage the rain started bucketing down and the 206 was on wets so we
would beat us to the final podium place. I drove like someone possessed and at the end
of the stage we were 19 seconds ahead of it and we had our podium place."
The pair now lies second in the Belgian group N championship four points behind the leader.
A more sinister occurrence happened as Eamonn Boland and Anthony Nestor were finishing their recce run when a Volvo
(stolen) cut across them forcing them to a standstill and three men wearing balaclavas and brandishing machine guns hijacked
their recce car. Both Boland and Nestor were pulled out of the car and Nestor was made lie on the road with a gun pointed at
his neck. Boland was prevented from getting his mobile phone from the car. Instead the three took his phone wallet hopping
into the recce car and making off with it. The pair returned home on Saturday as their driving suits, pace notes and competi-tion
documentation was also stolen.
Six cars - not all involved with the event - were stolen in one hour during the rally and the local police report a recovery rate of
seven out of every ten cars stolen. It should be a warning to Irish crews contemplating competing in Belgium.
Rory O'Connor and Francis Kenny put in a sterling performance in their Escort WRC to finish 21st overall. It was O'Connor's
first outing in the ex-Frank Meagher machine and the Mayo pair's first event outside Ireland. Both Patrick Elliott and George
Tracey retired their Subarus with engine maladies while Pat Price was also a retirement on the first day of the event.
Irish Auto Week
IRISH DOMINATE AT KNOCKHILL
A fifteen-strong Irish contingent travelled to Scotland for the Knockhill rallysprint at the weekend. Northerners dom-inated
the scene with maestro Kenny McKinstry easily winning from Northern drivers Trevor Moore and Owen
Lamont. Paul Crossen swapped his regular 106 Super Cup mount for a Group N Subaru Impreza.
Results: 1 Kenny McKinstry Subaru Impreza WRC 47.24; 2 Trevor Moore (Escort Cosworth) 48.37; 3 Owen Lamont
(Subaru Impreza) 48.41. Other Irish finishers include Rodney White, Willie Singleton, Paul Crossen and Ray
McLaughlin.
Irish Auto Week
ANOTHER PODIUM FOR BURKE AND CUNNINGHAM
Seamus Burke and Frank Cunningham retained their record of a podium finish when the pair was second overall
in the Susquehannock rally in Pennsylvania at the weekend. However they broke their "always third" mode by mov-ing
up one step on the podium with a fine second place to winner Mark Lovell in the Subaru USA backed Impreza
world rally car.
The Irish pair are the only competitors to have sprayed champagne at every round to-date. Burke started well
breaking the stage time record set by former USA champion John Buffum set in 1997 by nearly three seconds.
However after that the power of the Impreza took over and Lovell set fastest time on 10 of the 12 stages with Burke
interloping again setting fastest time on the seventh stage. Noel Lawler's cruel luck continued to haunt him with five
retirements in five starts this year. He had to retire on SS7 when an oil cooler line ruptured causing an engine bay
fire.
Thomas Lawless and Brian Sharkey were fourth overall behind Group N winner Karl Scheible in a works backed
Impreza.
Results: 1 Mark Lovell /Michael Kidd (Subaru WRC) 2.14.56; 2 Seamus Burke/Frank Cunningham (Mitsubishi
Evo6) 2.23.33; Karl Scheible (Group N Impreza WRX) 2.24.59; 4 Thomas Lawless/Brian Sharkey (Mitsubishi Evo4)
2.26.39. Other Irish finishers: 7 John Drislane/Declan Hegarty (Evo4) 23 Niall Donnelly/Eoin McGeough (Mitsubishi
Eclipse); 35 Padraig Purcell/John McCafferty (Vauxhall Astra GSi).
Irish Auto Week
27-5-2001
Nesbitt wins hugely successful Punchestown Rally Masters
Current Irish Tarmac Rally Champion Andrew Nesbitt was the winner of the first-ever Punchestown Rally Masters today when he steered his Subaru Ireland World Rally Car to a four second victory over Kenny McKinstry. Frank Meagher's Ford Focus taking the final podium placing of what was a hugely successful event.
After the first run over the 2.5 mile stage it was McKinstry who led the way in his world rally car Subaru Impreza but on run 2 Nesbitt turned the disadvantage into a one second lead. Entering the final run separated by this smallest of margins the battle was on and it was Nesbitt who responded best posting a time three seconds quicker than that of McKinstry.
Fourth went to 5 times Irish Rally Champion Austin McHale who was re-united with his Toyota Celica for the spectator orientated event. The Rathcoole legend finishing ahead of the Impreza WRC of Derek McGarrity with Ollie O'Donovan in a Subaru Legacy rounding off the top 6.
A big hit with the large crowds who traveled to see the cream of Irish rallying compete in grounds of the award winning Punchestown Racecourse, the event was the brainchild of international co-driver Ronan Morgan who declared the event a major success.
1. Andrew Nesbitt/James O'Brien - Subaru Ireland Impreza
WRC - 9.20
2. Kenny McKinstry/Mark Geraghty - Subaru Impreza WRC - 9.24
3. Frank Megaher/Dermot O'Gorman - Ford Focus WRC - 9.36
4. Austin McHale/Brian Murphy - Toyota Celica - 9.39
5. Derek McGarrity/Gary Lyons - Subaru Impreza WRC - 9.45
6. Ollie O'Donovan/David Moynihan - Subaru Legacy - 9.47
22-5-2001
GOOD DAY FOR MCKINSTRY TEAM
All four of Kenny McKinstrys cars qualified for the finals of the Loctite nation-al
rallysprint championship at Silverstone. Marku Alen equalled the lap
record in the quarter-finals before beating Martin Rowe in the Ford Racing
Puma 4x4 in the semi-finals by 0.04 seconds.
The 50-year old Finn went on to beat the previous outright lap record hold-er
Roger Duckworth in the finals. Rowe was third there being no need for a
run-off as McKinstry blew the engine of his '99 British championship winning
Impreza in his semi-final battle with Duckworth.
In only his first drive in an ex-Colin McRae Legacy former Irish F2 champion Ollie O'Donovan qualified for the
finals only to get knocked out by an inspired Rowe. Driving a McKinstry Impreza WRC Robert Woodside was
knocked out by McKinstry himself at the same hurdle. Next round at Cardiff on June 30.
This Sunday, 27th May, Punchestown Racecourse will play host to horse power of a different sort when the top names of Irish rallying descend on Naas for the first ever Punchestown Rally Masters.
Heading the high quality field it is current Tarmac Rally Champion Andrew Nesbitt who will get things underway in his mighty Cuisine De France Subaru Impreza WRC. One of the first to commit to this exciting new event of which six of the top 10 entries are world rally cars, this will be the first opportunity for fans to see the Armagh ace in action in the Prodrive run car this year. Chasing him it will be 5 times Tarmac Champion Austin McHale. With his Toyota Corolla WRC currently in Europe, the Rathcoole driver will be re-united with his Toyota Celica 185 for the event.
Third to start is Irish rallying legend Billy Coleman. Another to be re-united with a car from the past, he will drive a Metro 6R4 similar to that which he last drove in 1986 when he was co-driven by the Punchestown Rally Masters Event Director Ronan Morgan. Taking on the current masters of the sport, spectators will get this rare opportunity to see why the Mallow legend is still regarded as Ireland's greatest rally driver.
The Ford Focus WRC of Frank Meagher is next up and Tipperary's answer to Colin McRae is sure to be very fast over the interesting 2.4 mile asphalt stage. He is followed by the Subaru World Rally Car's of Wexford's Eamonn Boland, Northern Ireland's Kenny McKinstry and Donegal's Daniel Doherty. Dunlop National Rally Champion Paul Harris carries number 9 ahead of series runner-up Niall Maguire with Derek McGarrity and Ray Breen rounding off the top 12.
As a result of the recent Foot & Mouth precautions the Punchestown Rally Masters will be the first gathering of Ireland's top crews, and in a fitting tribute to one of the sport's greatest ambassadors No.1 will be left free in honour of Bertie Fisher, Mark and Emma who tragically lost their lives in a helicopter accident earlier this year.
An interesting addition to the Punchestown Rally Masters will be two of the most powerful competition cars in the country. The spectacular Ford Focus of British Rallycross Champion Dermot Carnegie will be joined by the JMC Peugeot 306 of fellow Dubliner John McCluskey. Each producing over 600 BHP, these two Super Cars are sure to be crowd pleasers as they display their amazing acceleration and traction.
Making use of the excellent facilities at Punchestown Racecourse, which includes a full crèche, the event is aimed at bringing the best of Irish rallying to a new audience and highlighting the high standard of rally sport in Ireland. The splendid court yard of the county Kildare race course will be transformed into a service park filled with some of the best rally cars in the country giving spectators the opportunity to get a close up view of the work involved in running a top rally team.
The event will also see 15 identical Ford Ka's from the Ford of Ireland KA Rally Championship compete, one of which will be driven by the 2FM pairing of DJs John Kenny and Ruth Scott. The stage will start in front of the main Grand Stand before venturing onto the Ambulance track which runs around the perimeter of the racecourse and returns to the main arena for the finish.
Set to be an action packed day with entertainment for all the family, the Punchestown Rally Masters will get underway at 10:30 with the first of four runs. Admission is £10 or £15 for a family (children under 12).
GASS WINS AT BISHOPSCOURT
Driving his Impreza WRC Maurice Gass headed Kieran Shaw (Escort Cosworth) home by 13.3 seconds after six
stages at Bishopscourt on Saturday. The Ballynahinch club attracted 140 starters for the Lagan Networks stages rally
including a good sprinkling from the south especially Monaghan and Donegal. Having travelled from Cork Frank
O'Mahony/Hugh McPhillips had a short run retiring with a broken driveshaft on the Metro 6R4. A couple of spins and
overshooting dropped Tommy Graham/Kieran Cusack down to 11th overall in the Escort WRC.
Kenny McKinstry and Robin Phillips who had his 18 year-old daughter Emma sitting alongside had a great battle with
Robin Phillips/Jim Sheils out for the first time in his new Escort Maxi had a rally long battle with Kenny McKinstry
also in an Escort Maxi for F2 honours with the verdict going in McKinstry's favour. Kenny had his 18 year-old daugh-ter
Emma siting alongside making her rallying debut.
Brothers Dick and Michael Curran got the verdict in Group N from the Ballinamallard pairing of Ray Johnston/Ivan
Fisher both in Mitsubishis Evo versions.
A speed trap was used in a stages rally fort he first time showed Owen Lamont was fastest recording 105 mph with
Kenny McKinstry, Davy Greer and Maurice Gass tying for second all on 103 mph. Finishers from the south included
Liam Davis/Billy Kelliher in a Stan Harper Impreza in 17th place and Maurice Moffet/Gavin Campbell (Peugeot) 24th
overall. Other finishers included Barry Coleman/Mary Hogan in the ex-Frank O'Mahony Impreza and Ted
Gaffney/Carrie McCormack in the Motorvalue Micra.
Kieran Shaw left the track in his overalls on his way to the forestry rally championship awards presentation in Carlow.
Results: 1 M.Gass/G.Orr (Impreza WRC) 29m13.4s; 2 K.Shaw/C. Henderson (Escort Cosworth) 29m 26.7s; 3
O.Lamont/P.McCrea (Impreza); 4 D.Greer/B.Crawford (Celica); 5 W. Patterson/Mad Max (Sierra); 6
K.McKinstry/E.McKinstry (Escort Maxi).
13-5-2001
Rowe wins 1st Formula Rally event
Ford Puma drivers Martin Rowe and Chris Wood have won the 1st
ever Formula Rally event.
In the glorious sunshine of the Wirral the duo took a hard fought win by 14.9s
from the Peugeot 106 Super Gti of Justin Dale and Andrew Bargery.
Rowe's teammate Patrick Mauger took the final poduim position.
The Super 106 cup was won by Rory Galligan from Chris Moore and Ryan Champion.
David Henderson won the 1400 Puma class with a fine 11th overall.
GALLIGAN IS TOPS
Rory Galligan set the pace in the Peugeot Super 106 Cup coming away with maximum points despite feeling
unwell all day with a tummy bug. He began cautiously on his first outing with new co-driver David Jones to estab-lish
a new co-driving system with him and also to get used to the driving techniques required for the confined
short stages in new Brighton.
He set a stunning time on SS2 opening up a 12 second lead from Dave Nutt and maintained that advantage over
the next four stages. However the charging Kris Meeke was fast climbing up the leaderboard taking fastest time
on SS6 to get past the Oldcastle man and lie 11th on the overall leaderboard.
In anticipation of a battle with Meeke the Billy Coleman Award winner fitted new front tyres for SS 8 and set
fastest time on the stage. However the battle did not materialise as Meeke retired with a broken gearlinkage. With
the pressure removed Galligan eased off on the final two stages and ran out winner 12 seconds ahead of Chris
Moore.
Further down the field Adrian McElvaney lost time when a slower car delayed him on the stage and Stuart Darcy
retired when he went otl with punctures on SS5.
McElvaney eventually finished sixth with Seamus Donnelly eighth, Mark Doyle
16th and Eugene Meegan one place behind and Donegal's Shaun Gallagher
finished 20th.
As his car does not comply with the French 106 Cup regulations he will not be
contesting the French 106 series again. The next Peugeot round is in
Charlemange France on July 7/8. No replacement event has yet been nomi-nated
to replace the cancelled Pirelli round on July 21. The Scottish was dropped from the series as competitors
would have to compete in three rounds in five weeks in September.
Results: 1 Rory Galligan/David Jones 42m18.6s; 2 Chris Moore/Chris Purvis42m30.5s; 3 Ryan Champion/Cliff
Simmons 42m30.7s; 4 Garry Jennings/Peter Jennings 42m38.2s; 5 Paul Alexander/Mike Panes 42m48.7s; 6
Adrian McElvaney/Cain Curley42m53.7s.
Other Irish finishers: 8 Seamus Donnelly/Paul Garry43m08.6s; 16 Mark Doyle/Rory Doyle 43m 47.6s; 17
Eugene Meegan/William White 44m01.5s; 20 Shaun Gallagher/Ciaran Coyle 44m08.3s.
Cancellation of 2001 Dunlop National Rally Championship
Due to the current uncertainty due to the Foot
and Mouth situation, the
National Rally Championship Committee in association with the Motorsport
Sport Commission of Motorsport Ireland are forced to announce the
cancellation of the 2001 Dunlop National Stages Championship.
The committee took this decision having considered the cancellation or
postponement of six of the ten National Championship rounds.
While it is accepted that some of the events may be re-scheduled, it should
be noted that no event will hold National Championship status for 2001.
The committee would like to thank Dunlop and the organising clubs for their
co-operation and assistance during this time.
The award winning Punchestown Race Course, will attract horsepower of a different sort on Sunday 27 May when it hosts the first ever Punchestown Rally Masters for which top names Andrew Nesbitt, Austin McHale, Frank Meagher and Eamonn Boland have already been confirmed.
Being run by the Carrick-on-Suir Motor Club with the full support of Motorsport Ireland, the event will see 80 of the country's top drivers compete over a 2.4 mile Asphalt stage in an event aimed at bringing the excitement and spectacle of rallying to a brand new audience.
Making use of the excellent facilities at Punchestown, the event will give spectators the opportunity to watch the action both on the stage and in the pits. The splendid court yard of the county Kildare race course will be transformed into one of the most valuable car parks in the country as cars such as the Subaru Impreza World Rally Car of current Tarmac Rally Champion Andrew Nesbitt and the high revving Citroen Saxo Kit Car of Irish F2 Rally Champion Max McKillen are prepared for each of their four runs over the stage.
'This event is about family entertainment, we want to give the public the chance to see the best of Irish rallying both on the stage and in the pits. Punchestown is an excellent venue to do this, it has facilities for all the family including restaurants, bars and toilets. It even has a crèche, a facility we don't normally have on rallies.' said Rally Masters Clerk of the Course Tom Nolan.
Another already committed to competing in the event is leading National Championship contender Tim McNulty. Commenting on the announcement of the event the Subaru driver said. 'Rallying has been badly effected in Ireland as a result of Foot & Mouth and I think the Punchestown Rally Masters is a great idea. Punchestown is a great venue and running such an event will bring rallying to a whole new audience. The event will also be very important for drivers to give something back to their sponsors this year.'
Also set to host the opening round of the Ford KA Rally Championship, the 2.4 mile stage will see the cars start in front of the main Grand Stand before venturing out onto the Ambulance track which runs around the perimeter of the racecourse. Returning into the main arena the cars will complete a slalom course beforing stopping the clocks as they cross the finish line.
Set to be an action packed day with entertainment for all the family, admission will be £10 for adults with children under 12 free. First stages gets underway at 10:30.
SLIGO ROUND CANCELLED
The Connacht club has confirmed the cancellation of the 2001 Sligo stages rally scheduled for July 8. The club had
attracted the support of Tom Hunt Motors and Sligo Park Hotel for the event for this year but felt there was no alter-native
but to cancel the event because of the foot and mouth outbreak.
(FROM IRISH AUTO WEEK)
BOLAND THIRD ON THE RALLY DE WALLONIE
ALL THE THREES IN BELGIUM
Three Irish crews finished the Namur based Rallye de Wallonie in Belgium at
the weekend each claiming a third place for their efforts.
Consistent driving gave Irish crews Eamonn Boland/Anthony Nestor and Roy
White/Michael Patterson well-earned podium positions in the Rallye Wallonie at
the weekend. Boland finished third overall behind Tsjoen/Colebunders (Corolla
WRC) and Loix/Meert (Impreza WRC) while White was third in Group N in his
FESP-backed Evo6 behind local crews Sterckx/Lopes and Turrion/Herbots
both in Evo6s and finished seventh overall.
Completing the "threes" theme were Brian Flanagan/Ted Gaffney who finished third in class A5 in their Micra kit-car
despite a litany of mechanical problems throughout the event.
Driving the NVD Impreza WRC the Wexford/Limerick duo were always in the top half dozen on the first day - apart
from one stage (No 15) when they dropped to 36th fastest. They were third fastest on every stage on the final day
behind the two local crews. It made amends for the cruel luck they suffered in the Tour of Luxembourg a couple of
weeks previously when they dropped from fourth to 13th with three stages to run.
Aaron McHale/Elva Roe's rally was cut short when they went out with a broken halfshaft on the first stage. John
Newman/Logan Caulfield (Proton Satria) and John McCluskey/Ray Gough both failed to start SS23 - McCluskey had
holed a piston in his Celica while the cause of Newman's retirement is not known. Tom Holton/Andrew Cullen (Celica)
retired from 28th on the penultimate stage with mechanical problems. There was no news on Damien Keenan.
(FROM IRISH AUTO WEEK)
Pos. (No) Driver/Co-Driver (Car) Time
1 (1) Pieter TSJOEN/Dany COLEBUNDERS (Toyota Corola WRC)......01:46:31
2 (2) David LOIX/Davie MEERT (Subaru Impreza WRC).............01:46:55
3 (4) Eamonn BOLAND/Nestor ANTHONY (Subaru Impreza WRC).......01:53:36
4 (6) David STERCKX/Pascal LOPES (Mitsubishi Lancer E6).Gp N..01:55:01
5 (12) Marc TURRION/Geert HERBOTS (Mitsubishi Lancer E6).Gp N..01:56:02
6 (10) Olivier COLLARD/Bernard LION (Citroen Saxo Kit Car).....01:57:34
7 (16) Roy WHITE/Michael PATTERSON (Mitsubishi Lancer E6).Gp N.01:59:01
8 (15) Frederic HEBETTE/Pierre DELHEZ (Citroen Saxo Kit Car)...01:59:31
9 (65) Nik ELSMORE/Jayson BROWN (Mitsubishi Lancer E6).Gp N....01:59:56
10 (18) Ben BRIANT/Tim LINE (Mitsubishi Lancer E6)...Gp N.......02:00:44
40 (88) Brian FLANAGAN/Ted GAFFNEY (Nissan Micra Kit Car).......02:18:25
(3rd In CLass)
Retirements
SS9 Aaron McHale (Honda Civic Vti)
SS23 John McCluskey (Toyota Celica GT4)
SS23 John Newman (Proton Satira)
SS24 Tom Holton (Toyota Celica GT4)
LOVELL WINS IN CALIFORNIA
Mark Lovell/Steve Turvey ran out easy winners in the Rim of the World rally in California at the weekend. The for-mer
Irish Tarmac champion drove a world rally spec Subaru Impreza - the first time a world rally car competed in
America - and easily won with eight minutes to spare.
The Donegal/Mayo pairing of Seamus Burke/Frank Cunningham recorded their fourth consecutive podium finish
when they claimed third place in a Mitsubishi Evo6 - the third different car in four events.
John Drislane/Declan Hegarty rolled their Mitsubishi just before the finish of the first stage. The car landed on all fours
and motored under its own power to the finish but enough windows were missing for officials to end their rally. Both
emerged unhurt from the incident. Noel Lawler/Charlie Bradley retired on SS3 with a broken halfshaft.
Recognised as America's toughest event in the calendar the Rim of America is the fourth round of the SCCA ProRally
championship.
(FROM IRISH AUTO WEEK)
McHALE SHINES IN GERMANY
Austin McHale and Brian Murphy got their European challenge off top a
good start with a well-deserved third place in the Pneumant Rallye near
Leipzig. Driving the Toyota Ireland Corolla WRC the Irish pair were in the
top four fastest on each of the 21 stages missing the runner-up podium
place by less than one second.
The event was won for the third successive time by Matthias Kahle in a works backed SEAT Cordoba WRC from
Finns Vierimaa/Muteli (Mitsubishi Evo3) with McHale/Murphy third 0.9 second s behind the Finns.
The Irish pair are leaving the car at TTE in Cologne and will contest two rallies in Poland and another in Germany
between now and July.
Result:
| Pl. | Nr. | Fahrer/Beifahrer | Land | Kl. | Auto | Zeit |
| 1. |
2 |
KAHLE / SCHNEPPENHEIM |
D/D |
A/8* |
SEAT Cordoba WRC Evo | 2:04:52.1 |
| 2. |
6 |
VIERIMAA / MUTELI |
SF/SF |
A/8 |
MITSUBISHI Lancer Evo | + 4:36.5 |
| 3. |
4 |
MC HALE / MURPHY |
IRE/IRE |
A/8 |
TOYOTA Corolla WRC | + 4:37.4 |
| 4. |
5 |
FORKERT / WINKLHOFER |
D/D |
A/8 |
SKODA Octavia WRC | + 5:01.3 |
| 5. |
10 |
WERNER / KROLL |
D/D |
A/8 |
MITSUBISHI Lancer Evo | + 8:01.0 |
| 6. |
29 |
SOHLBERG / HONKANEN |
SF/SF |
N/4* |
MISUBISHI Carisma Evo | + 8:10.2 |
| 7. |
9 |
GASSNER / SCHRANKL |
D/D |
N/4 |
PROTON Pert Evo 5 | + 9:06.7 |
| 8. |
20 |
KUISTILA / RIIPINEN |
SF/SF |
N/4 |
MITSUBISHI Carisma Ev | +10:51.6 |
| 9. |
17 |
WALLENWEIN / ZEITLHOFER |
D/A |
N/4 |
MITSUBISHI Lancer Evo | +10:57.9 |
| 10. |
16 |
ZELTNER / GÖBEL |
A/D |
N/4 |
MITSUBISHI Lancer Evo | +11:18.7 |
FROM IRISH AUTO WEEKLY
Rory Galligan battling hard in France
The Rally Du Terre D’Auvergne was the starting point for a new season and championship challenge for Billy Coleman Award winner, Rory Galligan. This event was the first round of the French 106 Championship, run high in the mountains of the south of France. Over 60 Peugeot 106’s entered the 95 mile gravel event which was the first round of the French National Gravel Championship.
Early Saturday morning, Rory and new co-driver David Jones set out on the recce of the event and were shocked by condition of the roads, with large holes and rocks along the entire route. After the rally began Rory cleared the first stage without any problems, however by the end of stage 2 the rough conditions had broken the front left strut and the crew were unable to fix the problem until after stage 3. They had another clear run through stage 4 but by the end of stage 5, the front right strut was now broken and the team had lost over 4½ minutes to their fellow competitors.
By the end of the day, the rear shock absorbers of the Peugeot were severely damaged and the front suspension was suffering in the rough conditions. The team decided that the car was taking too much punishment and withdrew from the rally. It was a disappointing finish to the first event of Rory’s new season.
Shaun Gallagher and co-driver Ciaran Coyle, who was co-driving in only his second stage event, also suffered due to the rough conditions but were well positioned over night and restarted the second leg 31st overall. They experienced more problems throughout the 2nd day, when the steering rack brackets broke away from the bulkhead and had to be welded many times during the day. Despite this and many other problems the crew finished a well deserved 30th overall and 17th in the Peugeot championship. This was a fantastic result for the young driver.
RALLY OF LUXEMBOURG
| Classement E.S. 18 | Classement Général | ||||||||||
| Pl | N° | Pilotes | Marque | G-C | Temps | Pl | N° | Pilote | Marque | G-C | Temps |
| 1 | 004 | GREER BECKETT |
Toyota Corola WRC | A -8 | 12:45 | 1 | 004 | GREER BECKETT |
Toyota Corola WRC | A -8 | 2:36:31 |
| 2 | 003 | STACEY SONCK |
Subaru Impreza WRC | A -8 | +:06 | 2 | 001 | THEUNISSEN MOMBAERTS |
Toyota Corola WRC | A -8 | +1:03 |
| 3 | 007 | DUVAL GRIGNET |
Mitsubishi CarismaGT | N -4 | +:21 | 3 | 003 | STACEY SONCK |
Subaru Impreza WRC | A -8 | +1:42 |
| 4 | 001 | THEUNISSEN MOMBAERTS |
Toyota Corola WRC | A -8 | +:23 | 4 | 031 | BIJVELDS BIJVELDS |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +8:02 |
| 5 | 020 | COLSOUL COLSOUL |
Mitsubishi Lancer | N -4 | +:47 | 5 | 007 | DUVAL GRIGNET |
Mitsubishi CarismaGT | N -4 | +8:03 |
| 6 | 036 | DEEN SCHOLTALBERS |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +:51 | 6 | 036 | DEEN SCHOLTALBERS |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +9:18 |
| 7 | 022 | GINLEY HAYNES |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +:53 | 7 | 014 | ABBRING VAN_KESSEL |
Toyota Celica GT4 | A -8 | +11:02 |
| 8 | 039 | DE_WINKEL VAN_HOEK |
VW Golf Kitcar | A -7 | +:54 | 8 | 039 | DE_WINKEL VAN_HOEK |
VW Golf Kitcar | A -7 | +11:45 |
| 9 | 014 | ABBRING VAN_KESSEL |
Toyota Celica GT4 | A -8 | +:57 | 9 | 020 | COLSOUL COLSOUL |
Mitsubishi Lancer | N -4 | +11:51 |
| 10 | 012 | ELLIOT CAHILL |
Subaru Impreza | A -8 | +1:01 | 10 | 018 | BRIANT LINE |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +12:47 |
| 11 | 040 | WOODSIDE PATTERSON |
Ford Puma KitCar | A -6 | +1:06 | 11 | 022 | GINLEY HAYNES |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +12:56 |
| 12 | 060 | CURRAN LYONS |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +1:09 | 12 | 030 | GENGLER WEBER |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | A -8 | +13:39 |
| 13 | 030 | GENGLER WEBER |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | A -8 | +1:15 | 13 | 012 | ELLIOT CAHILL |
Subaru Impreza | A -8 | +14:07 |
| 14 | 031 | BIJVELDS BIJVELDS |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | . | 14 | 011 | JONKERS JONKERS |
Mitsubishi Lancer E5 | A -8 | +16:32 |
| 15 | 038 | WEYS RAVEN |
VW Golf Kitcar | A -7 | +1:16 | 15 | 060 | CURRAN LYONS |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +17:51 |
| 16 | 018 | BRIANT LINE |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +1:23 | 16 | 038 | WEYS RAVEN |
VW Golf Kitcar | A -7 | +18:12 |
| 17 | 011 | JONKERS JONKERS |
Mitsubishi Lancer E5 | A -8 | . | 17 | 040 | WOODSIDE PATTERSON |
Ford Puma KitCar | A -6 | +19:05 |
| 18 | 019 | LENTZ BURGUET |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +1:32 | 18 | 019 | LENTZ BURGUET |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +20:36 |
| 19 | 035 | SCHUMANN SCHÜNEMANN |
Mitsubishi CarismaGT | N -4 | +1:33 | 19 | 035 | SCHUMANN SCHÜNEMANN |
Mitsubishi CarismaGT | N -4 | +20:38 |
| 20 | 033 | BAGSHAW HOBBS |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +1:56 | 20 | 033 | BAGSHAW HOBBS |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +23:58 |
| Classement E.S. 10 | Classement Général | ||||||||||
| Pl | N° | Pilotes | Marque | G-C | Temps | Pl | N° | Pilote | Marque | G-C | Temps |
| 1 | 004 | GREER BECKETT |
Toyota Corola WRC | A -8 | 12:40 | 1 | 004 | GREER BECKETT |
Toyota Corola WRC | A -8 | 1:27:38 |
| 2 | 001 | THEUNISSEN MOMBAERTS |
Toyota Corola WRC | A -8 | +:06 | 2 | 001 | THEUNISSEN MOMBAERTS |
Toyota Corola WRC | A -8 | +:35 |
| 3 | 003 | STACEY SONCK |
Subaru Impreza WRC | A -8 | +:10 | 3 | 003 | STACEY SONCK |
Subaru Impreza WRC | A -8 | +1:08 |
| 4 | 009 | BOLAND NESTOR |
Subaru Impreza WRC | A -8 | +:22 | 4 | 009 | BOLAND NESTOR |
Subaru Impreza WRC | A -8 | +3:15 |
| 5 | 031 | BIJVELDS BIJVELDS |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +:43 | 5 | 031 | BIJVELDS BIJVELDS |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +4:16 |
| 6 | 036 | DEEN SCHOLTALBERS |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +:44 | 6 | 032 | MAASKANT KRIEGER |
Mitsubishi Lancer | N -4 | +5:22 |
| 7 | 032 | MAASKANT KRIEGER |
Mitsubishi Lancer | N -4 | +:45 | 7 | 036 | DEEN SCHOLTALBERS |
Mitsubishi Lancer E6 | N -4 | +5:41 |
| 8 | 039 | DE_WINKEL VAN_HOEK |
VW Golf Kitcar | A -7 | +:55 | 8 | 007 | DUVAL GRIGNET |
Mitsubishi CarismaGT | N -4 | +6:44 |
| 9 | 012 | ELLIOT CAHILL |
Subaru Impreza | A -8 | +:57 | 9 | 014 | ABBRING VAN_KESSEL |
Toyota Celica GT4 | A -8 | +7:02 |
| 10 | 014 | ABBRING VAN_KESSEL |
Toyota Celica GT4 | A -8 | . | 10 | 039 | DE_WINKEL VAN_HOEK |
VW Golf Kitcar | A -7 | +7:11 |
17-4-2001
FIRST ACTION PICTURES OF RORY GALLIGAN'S NEW PEUGEOT 106
13-4-2001
Wearden clinches Peugeot deal
British ace lands four-round 206 WRC programme
28-3-2001
British crew Richard Tuthill and John Bennie won the Cherokke Trails Rally in Chattanooga yesterday.
The three leg event, the second round of the SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) Pro Rally series featured 180 miles of forest gravel stages. Just 23 of the 61 starters finished the event, with US veteran driver John Buffam and Briton Neil Wilson second, and Irish crew Seamus Burke and Frank Cunningham third.
The winning crew were quickest on all four stages of the final leg to take victory by over four and a half minutes. "I am delighted both for ourselves, and also for the team, (the Mitsubishi was US prepared and run)," said Richard Tuthill for whom this was his first International Rally win. "We have driven consistently and within ourselves for most of the rally and it was an excellent performance all round.
1 R Tuthill/J Bennie - Mitsubishi - 3:19:20
2 J Buffum/N Wilson - Hyundai - 3:24:07
3 S Burke/F Cunningham Mitsubishi Lancer 3:27:50
4 T Patterson/S Ferguson Mitsubishi Lancer 2:41:22
5 A Havas/E Tremblay Mazda RX7 3:46;18
6 H Krolkowski/C Krolkowski Subaru WRX 3:46:31
Briton Richard Tuthill leads the Cherokee Trails Rally by over two minutes after the second leg.
The Cherokee Trails is the second round of the SCCA Pro Rally series, and is based in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The five stage second leg featured an early charge by Noel Lawler, who closed on the leader. But the Irish driver mis-heard a pace not on stage eight and went off, some 150ft down into the forest, fortunately missing the biggest trees.
Banbury, Oxfordshire resident Tuthill and his Glasgow based co-driver John Bennie were able to build the cushion to John Buffam with four stage wins during the day.
The two Imprezas of Karl Scheible and Marc Lovell both retired with mechanical problems. Scheible's WRC stopped with a blown headgasket on stage seven while Lovell's car succumbed to transmission trouble on the same test. Unable to get the car to service where a spare gearbox was ready for fitment the Briton was out.
The third and final leg finishes in Chattanooga on Saturday afternoon.
1 R Tuthill/J Bennie - Mitsubishi - 2:20:32
2 J Buffum/N Wilson - Hyundai - 2:22:35
3 S Burke/F Cunningham Mitsubishi Lancer 2:27:11
4 T Lawless/B Sharkey Mitsubishi Lancer 2:36:49
5 T Patterson/S Ferguson Mitsubishi Lancer 2:37:52
6 H Krolkowski/C Krolkowski Subaru WRX 2:42:01
OPENING 3 ROUNDS OF DUNLOP NATIONAL RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP POSTPONED
STATEMENT FROM MOTORSPORT IRELAND
RE - FOOT & MOUTH DISEASE
With immediate effect, Motorsport Ireland, the Governing Body for Irish Motorsport, has suspended all events until 5th April. This has been done with the full co-operation and support of our affiliated clubs who are the organisers of these events. The decision has been taken in the national interest and in particular, in the interests of our many friends and supporters within the farming community who are going through such worrying times.
The events involved in this initial notice are:
3/4.3.01 - Co.Cavan Navigation Trial
4.3.01 - Carlow Rallycross
10.3.01 - Co.Monaghan Navigation Trial
10.3.01 - Leinster Healy Cup Sporting Trial
11.3.01 - Birr Autocross
11.3.01 - Mayo Stages Rally
11.3.01 - Killarney Autotest
11.3.01 - IKC Kart Race Meeting
17.3.01 - IVVCC Veteran & Vintage Run
17.3.01 - Co. Kildare Navigation Trial
17/18.3.01 - Cork West Cork Stages Rally
24.3.01 - TDC International Trophy Autotest
24/25.3.01 - ALMC Jumbo Navigation Trial
25.3.01 - Limerick Autotest
25.3.01 - Wexford Autotest
25.3.01 - MEC 4x4 Production Vehicle Trial
25.3.01 - Co. Kildare Autotest
25.3.01 - Midland Single Stage Rally
25.3.01 - Munster Kart Race
31.3.01 - MEC Deveraux Cup Sporting Trial
31.3.01 - Privegiving of the National Forestry Rally Championship
31/1.4.01 Galway Classic Trial
The Hillclimb and Sprint Open Forum scheduled to take place this Saturday, 3rd March, in the Green Isle Hotel has also been postponed.
The decision will be reviewed on 5th April when a meeting of the Motor Sport Commission (ruling council) is scheduled and at weekly intervals thereafter.
TIM McNULTY SUBARU IMPREZA 555
JAMES FOLEY HONDA CIVIC TYPE R 1800
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