News Issue 2 - Motorsport Ireland
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Issue 2
News
MI NEWS THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF MOTORSPORT IRELAND. June 2016
Team Ireland • Race & Rally Previews & Reviews
Issue 2 June 2016 Editor’s Letter
News
Already halfway through the 2016 season and there’s been great action and excitement in all
branches of the sport.
16
June 20
Last weekend’s Donegal International Rally grandstand finish at the end of the famous Fanad
AND.
PORT IREL
MOTORS
AZINE OF
ICIAL MAG
S THE OFF
MI NEW
Issue 2
Head stage, we witnessed the closest finish to any Irish International Rally in history. Donegal’s
Manus Kelly in his Subaru Impreza WRC took the overall win by just 0.5 of a second from Keith
Cronin’s DS3 R5 Citreon (which would have been an R5’s first ever international win).
The TROA Clonakilty Pudding Championship is now wide open with the top five R5 contenders
in the championship now only separated by six points with just two rounds remaining.
The Triton National Rally Championship is at exactly the halfway mark and has a clear overall
leader in Roy White driving his Ford Fiesta WRC, partnered by James O’Brien in the hot seat.
Currently they are the favourites to win their first National Championship overall, but with
rallying anything can happen, as White knows all too well, telling MI News “He’s not going to
Previe
ws &
Review
s
count any chickens before they’re hatched!!”
ce & Rally
d • Ra
Irelan
In Mondello Park on June 11th and 12th, the SEAT Supercup series had 12 cars lapping in
Team
qualifying within .6 of a second of each other. Clearly demonstrating how well-matched their
MI NEWS SEAT Supercups are and providing a great advertisement for the Championship. Also, for the
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE same meeting, Mondello Park were forced to turn away entries for the Ford Fiesta Zetec race
OF MOTORSPORT IRELAND. (MI) with a maximum grid of 32 cars entered and 4 reserves on the sideline!! Budget clubman racing
is obviously on the upward spiral again.
Motorsport Ireland
34 Dawson Street, Dublin 2, Ireland. We would like to thank Motorsport Ireland, all our Advertisers and Contributors for their
Tel: (01) 677 5628 support to date. Where possible, please support our commercial sponsors who are supporting
Email: info@motorsportireland.com our publication. It is only with this on-going support that we will reach our goal of being the
Website: www.motorsportireland.com leading publication in Irish Motorsport.
EDITOR Yours in Motorsport,
Bernard Bradley
Bernard Bradley. Editor.
DESIGN:
email: bernard@pwg.ie
William Aliaga-Kelly
ADVERTISING:
Amo Sayed
CONTENTS
2: Team Ireland
CONTRIBUTORS: 3: Interview with Declan Brennan
Barry Barrable, Andrew Bushe, 4: Fixtures & News
Caoradubha, Conor Edwards, Eddie 7: Circuit Racing
Fitzgerald, Eoghan Fogarty, Darragh 8: Fiesta ST
Gibbons, Trevor Gray, Paul Grogan, Brian 9: Tribunal Decision
Kavanagh, Andrew Murphy, Oisin O’Briain, 10: Irish Tarmac Championship
Kevin O’Driscoll, Martin Walsh,
12: Archive
13: Triton Showers National Rally Championship
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Barronpix.com,Tommy Burke, Bourne 15: Forest Rally Championship
Photography, Michael Chester, Mark 16: Seat Supercup
Dempsey, Conor Edwards, James Foley, 17: Irish Touring Cars
Kevin Glendinning, Lambosport, OnSite 18: Overseas News
Photography, Pyne Photography, Ruaidhri 19: NACC Autocross
Nash, Marc Quinlivan, Brian Walsh, 22: ALMC Smartpart Stages Rally
Martin Walsh. 23: Hillclimb & Sprint
24: Avon Formula Sheane Championship
27: Jordan Dempsey
Cover Photo: Tommy Burke. 30: Product News
Keith Cronin & Mikie Galvin in Citroen DS3 31: Karting
R5, Glen Stage, Donegal International Rally
2016. 32: Ginetta Junior
Centre Spread Photo: Martin Walsh.
Roy White & James O’Brien in Ford Fiesta All advertisers receive extra copies of Motorsport Ireland News.
WRC, Carlow Stages Rally 2016. Issue 3 will be published in September. Artwork deadline is August 23rd.
If you would like to advertise in MI News, please contact Amo or Bernard at The PW Group.
The views expressed by the individual PUBLISHED ON BEHALF OF MI BY:
contributors are not necessarily those of the MSI, PW Group, The Green House
equally, the inclusion of advertisements in MSI News
does not constitute endorsement of the products Hibernian Industrial Estate, Greenhills Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24
or services. t: +353(0)1 405 7070 w: www.pwg.ie
1
Team Ireland
reviewed and a further announcement will though, who is steadily improving in his first
be made in the near future. season in single seater racing. Like Jake Byrne,
Jordan is also contesting the BRSCC Formula
Jake Byrne began contesting in the ultra Ford 1600 series and despite his rookie status,
competitive BRSCC Formula Ford 1600 has been one of the standout newcomers to
Championship in the UK this season. The the championship in 2016. His best results
Motorsport Ireland’s first high performance Naas youngster has had a challenging start to
program was launched back in February came on the last round in Zandvoort in
the 2016 season, juggling racing as well as final Holland where, on an unfamiliar track he
when seven of our most promising race and year engineering exams in Trinity College.
rally drivers were unveiled as the inaugural took a brace of top ten finishes over the race
After the opening three race weekends, Byrne weekend improving on his grid position in
members of Team Ireland. As their seasons finds himself just outside the top five in the
approach the half way stage, all drivers are each race with some decisive passing on the
championship standings. The winner of the lightening fast circuit. Next up for Dempsey,
progressing well under the guidance of championship - subject to them being under
Team Ireland Performance Director, Declan Rockingham in mid June.
25 years of age in September 2016 - will win
Brennan. On the stages and on the track, a ticket to the shootout for a $200,000 prize John O’Sullivan
Team Ireland drivers have been producing drive in US F2000 in 2017. Last year’s Irish Tarmac Junior Rally
many eye-catching performances; here is Champion has made the step up to the
an update on their seasons to date. Josh Moffett main field this year in his Honda Civic.
A comfortable class win on the Galway
Rob Duggan International Rally in February saw his season
get off to a solid start and this was followed
up by another class leading drive on the
West Cork Rally until a final stage puncture
saw him drop to second in class. Another
second place in class on the Killarney Rally
of the Lakes now sees O’Sullivan in fourth
Josh Moffett - Monaghan Rally 2016
Rob Duggan COI. Photo: Ruaidhri Nash place in the ITRC Modified Championship
Photo: Conor Edwards
however, having just sold his trusty Civic, it
Killarney native Rob Duggan, the current Josh Moffett is fighting a battle on two is unlikely he’ll move higher up the modified
Motorsport Ireland Young Rally Driver fronts this season, contesting both the standings. An R2 car and arguably even
of the Year, has got his 2016 season off to Irish Tarmac Rally Championship and the more impressive results are on the horizon
a stunning start. Competing in the junior British Rally Championship in his Ford for the Cork driver.
section of the recently revived British Rally Fiesta R5. Consistent performances saw the
Championship, Duggan finds himself as the James Roe
young Clontibret driver leading the Irish James completes the Team Ireland racing trio,
leader of the series after the opening three Tarmac Championship after the Circuit
rounds in his Vauxhall Adam R2. In testing and like Jordan Dempsey and Jake Byrne, he
of Ireland and lying second in the British is also contesting the BRSCC Formula Ford
conditions on the season opening round Championship but with a calendar clash
in Wales, Duggan took fifth place after a 1600 series in the UK. Roe’s season has been
between the Rally of the Lakes and the fraught with bad luck however, failing to
puncture saw him drop out of contention Pirelli Rally Carlisle, Moffett elected for
for a podium. On the following two finish any of his opening four races. Despite
Killarney. While in contention for the lead, this, the young Kildare driver has much to be
rounds however, Duggan has shown the Moffett slipped off the road, demoting him
opposition a clean pair of heels winning on positive about as he adapts to a new car and
to fourth in the ITRC standings, ten points team and there is little doubt strong results
both the Circuit of Ireland the Pirelli Rally behind new championship leader Alastair
Carlisle to move into the championship lie ahead and he remains upbeat about the
Fisher. Despite missing Carlisle, results remainder of his season.
lead. As well as this, Duggan still has to use there meant Moffett didn’t lose much
his “joker” that allows him to nominate a ground to the BRC front runners and he Patrick O’Brien
round for double points. With the majority lies third in the standings with his double Tyrone native Patrick O’Brien is also
of his rivals having already used their joker, points joker still to play. making the step up from junior rallying
Duggan and his co-driver Ger Conway will in 2016 having claimed the junior title in
head to Scotland for round four at the end Jordan Dempsey the Irish Forestry Championship in 2015
of June full of confidence. aged just 18. A move to four wheel drive
Jake Byrne machinery has seen O’Brien open a number
of eyes, especially after taking the early lead
Jake Byrne steps down from Young
in the 2016 Irish Forestry Championship in
Driver of the year award
his Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 9. Not content
Jake Byrne has advised the Governing with his fine gravel performances, O’Brien
Body of Motorsport in Ireland that he is also made a rare tarmac appearance on the
withdrawing from the Young Driver of Circuit of Ireland where he took maximum
Jordan Dempsey at Zandvoort.
the Year Award. The National Governing points in the BRC2 section of the British
Image: Bourne Photography
Body is disappointed that Jake is unable to Rally Championship and further BRC
continue and wishes him the very best in Still a teenager, Dempsey is the youngest outings are planned before the year.
the remainder of the season. The situation driver in the Team Ireland program. This
regarding the vacant position will be hasn’t fazed the Westmeath youngster
2
Team Ireland
In Conversation with Declan Brennan.
having won numerous All Ireland titles momentum, he was approached to see
since at all codes. if he would like to take on the role of
Performance Director. Brennan picks up
In 2010 he was recruited by University of the story; “It was an honour to be asked.
Ulster to design and implement a sports A lot of sports performance programs
academy programme similar to the generally work in a similar fashion, but
successful sports model he introduced after meeting the Team Ireland drivers
to Dublin City University. He was and doing consultations with them you
responsible for providing services to realise that race and rally drivers face
Sports Academy Members across all unique physical challenges. So much
Gaelic codes, Men’s and Ladies football, force is absorbed by the body at high
hurling, camógie and handball from speed, especially through the back, neck
coaching to strength and conditioning, and wrists. Fortunately, I have a great
Prehab and Rehab, as well as dealing with team of physios, trainers, nutritionists
Public relations. Subsequently, Declan and psychologists who know what they
has set up own sports management at.”
company, DBSM and first began to work Brennan continues; “I actually can’t
with motorsport competitors in 2015 remember the last football game I was it!
when he supported Daniel McKenna Working with these young drivers and
“It’s really very simple, I run a results
and Andrew Grennan as they tackled the seeing them grow and learn and improve
based business” smiles Declan Brennan.
Junior World Rally Championship. is so rewarding. They have all stepped up
Brennan was unveiled as Performance
and know what’s expected of them, I can
Director of Team Ireland in February,
“Living in Monaghan, you’re always only do so much, they have to want it.
Motorsport Ireland’s first ever high
aware of motorsport” says Brennan They have eat right, train right, prepare
performance program.
from his swivelling office chair. “I even right and do that consistently. To have
competed a bit in my younger years the backing from Motorsport Ireland to
He cuts an imposing figure yet is softly
before my attention shifted elsewhere. run this program is an honour.
spoken and while few people may
I was really taken by Daniels story last
have heard of Declan of his world class
year and decided I would try my best Brennan recently travelled to Rally
facility located in his native Monaghan,
to help him in his JWRC campaign. It Portugal with Billy Coleman Award co-
his sporting credentials speak for
was a great experience and Daniel was ordinator Tom Walsh to meet a number
themselves.
a great case study, he worked so hard of WRC team bosses and personnel.
and wanted it so much. In that regard, “It was a really beneficial trip building
He has over 20 years’ experience in
you could nearly argue motorsport bridges with top teams and they were
dealing with the public and has a proven
competitors want it even more, it costs very interested in how we are developing
ability to provide client service solutions
so much more to compete than in any talent here in Ireland.” Brennan is
through effective communication and
other sport that the sacrifices you have planning a similar trip to a high profile
systemic approach to customers using
to make are staggering.” circuit race to build links of benefit to
strong service and quality orientation.
the Team Ireland race drivers, all of
He also has a wealth of experience in
Brennan’s work with McKenna hadn’t whom are currently racing in Formula
dealing with a wide range of business
gone unnoticed however and with Ford 1600.
sectors and financial institutions as well
the Team Ireland concept gaining
as developing multi-national links with
people in Commercial and Sporting
Environments. His contact base in the
sporting and medical world is second
to none. Brennan was the Director of
Dublin City University Sports Academy
from 2004 to 2010 where he designed
and implemented a sports academy
programme in the university, which in
turn developed Dublin City University
from a low base into what it was when
he started, to what it is today; recognised
as the place to be for Gaelic games and
3
News FIXTURES
Devine gains Young JULY
Rally Driver of the DAY EVENT
2 Cork Autotest
Year nomination 2/3 Galway Autocross (GS)
Callum Devine has been nominated (A - Sunday only)
for this year’s Motorsport Ireland Billy 2/3 Carlow Hillclimb/Sprint (HC)
Coleman Young Rally Driver Award for 2/3 BTRDA Rallycross - Pembrey (RX)
his performances in January and February. 3 ALMC Stages Rally (SR)
Callum Devine. Photo: Brian Walsh 3 MRCCI (with Galway Autocross)
The 21 year-old from Claudy, Co Derry,
rounds. He also hopes to contest an event in Midget Car Race
drove his Opel Adam to a class win and
16th place overall in the Donegal Stages continental Europe, possibly Belgium’s Ypres Rally. 9/10 Co Kildare Race Meeting -
Rally in January, and went on to take He would like to progress as far as possible in his Mondello
another class victory and 14th position rallying career, with the intention of targeting the 9/10 IKC Kart Race Meeting (KC)
against much stronger opposition in European Rally Championship. 10 Connacht Stages Rally
the Galway International Rally, the Callum works in his father’s building business. 10 Skibbereen Autocross (LS) (A)
opening round of the Irish Tarmac
His principal sponsors are Premier Car Parts 17 Clare Autocross (GS) (A)
Championship, one week later. (Dungiven), FYTH (Derry), Springhill Springs 17 MRCCI (with Clare Autocross)
Callum began rallying in 2011, driving (Newry) and A. Daly Groundwork (Dungiven). Midget Car Race
a Citroen C2 in the Junior section of The winner of the Motorsport Ireland Billy 17 Imokilly Mini Stages Rally
the Donegal International Rally. Two Coleman Young Rally Driver of the Year Award
years later, he scored a class win in the receives €50,000 worth of support to contest stage 23 Tipperary Veteran & Vintage Run
same event, followed by overall victory rallies nationally & internationally in 2017 along 24 Kerry Rallysprint
in the Junior section of the Cork 20 with the support of Billy Coleman co-ordinator, 24 Birr Multi-Venue Autotest
International in October 2013. 24 Mayo Autocross (LS) (A)
Tom Walsh, while the two runners-up will receive
Last year, Callum changed to the free entries into a number of MI permitted events 27 TDC Production Car Trial
in 2017, along with co-ordinator support.
Opel Adam and took class wins in the
30 500 MRCI Race Meeting -
Killarney Rally of the Lakes and Ulster Five bi-monthly winners are selected from January- Kirkistown
Internationals, finishing in the top ten February, through to September-October, joined 30 Tipperary Veteran & Vintage Run
overall each time. by the winner of the Junior Championship in the 30/31 Limerick Hillclimb/Sprint (HC)
He is contesting the Irish Tarmac Triton Showers National series, the winner of the 31 Killarney Autocross
Rally Championship this year, and has Junior category in the Valvoline National Forestry 31 Co Monaghan Autocross (LS)
also registered for the British series, Championship, and a wildcard selection, as the
planning on tackling one or two gravel award finalists.
AUGUST
Young Racing Driver of the Month - April 2016 DAY EVENT
Andy O’Brien from Dublin has been selected as 1 Donegal Autocross
the Young Racing Driver of the Month for April. 6/7 Midland Autocross (GS)
The 22 year-old from Templeogue won both of (A - Sunday only)
the Tool Dynamics Supercar races at Mondello 7 Tipperary Stonethrowers
Park on April 17, also setting fastest lap each Stages Rally (SR)
time, and went on to score another victory and a 7 TDC Autotest
second place at the next outing at Bishopscourt, 7 IMRC Rallycross - Tynagh (RX)
in Co Down, with another fastest lap. This gives 7 MRCCI (with Midland Autocross)
Andy O’Brien in his Supercar. Midget Car Race
him a clear lead in the Supercar Championship
selected as Young Racing Driver of the
with four of its twelve rounds completed.
Month, and also his first podium finish in 13/14 Carlow Race Meeting
13/14 MEC Hillclimb (HC)
Andy started motor racing in 2010, at the age the Ginetta UK series at Donington Park.
13/14 Skibbereen Autotest
of 16, in the Ginetta Junior class, winning two
14 Co Monaghan Endurance Trial
races in his first three months to finish the year Andy has worked as a technician for Frank
14 Meath Kart Race Meeting (KC)
as runner-up in the series. He took the title in Keane BMW since leaving school. His
14 Wexford Autocross (LS) (A)
the following year, leading to a prize drive for sponsors are Specialist Cars Ireland, Tool
14 Cork Jim Walsh Forestry Rally (FR)
2012 in several rounds of the UK Ginetta GT5 Dynamics, Sunday World, O’Brien Diaries,
Challenge. In 2014, he won the Formula Ford Kinsella Cylinder Heads and ProSHOTS. 19/20
NIMC Ulster International Rally
1600 Champion of Mondello Series. Although (TROA)
he is contesting the Supercar Championship this Having been selected as the first Driver of 21 Mayo Autocross (LS)
year, with its prize of a Dutch Supercar drive at the Month for the 2016 season, Andy is now 21 Westmeath Rallysprint
the end of the year, he wants to return to single a contender for the prestigious Motorsport 21 MRCCI Midget Car Race
seaters and would like to race in the British Ireland Young Racing Driver of the Year
Formula Ford Championship. Award and the historic Sexton Trophy. This 27 500 MRCI Race Meeting -
award is presented annually and is supported Kirkistown
Among the highlights of his racing career to date by Sport Ireland (formerly the Irish Sports 28 Carlow Autocross (LS) (A)
are the two occasions when he was previously Council) and Motorsport Ireland. 28 Galway Summer Rally
4
News
SEAT Supercup has
‘Serious Fun’ welcoming
Barretstown guests
The SEAT Supercup Ireland had ‘serious fun’ got to go out on to the grid to cheer on the
welcoming some very special guests to join SEAT based championship’s biggest ever
them for Rounds 5 & 6 of the championship grid. Adding extra interest for the kids was
at Mondello Park on Sunday (12th June). the new livery of the #33 car of Brian Berry
Working with Barretstown, the not for profit which, with support from SEAT Ireland, had
camp for children with cancer and other been transformed by Fish Graphics into the
serious illnesses, teams & drivers welcomed Barretstown car in time for the weekend.
3 families along to enjoy the racing action of
Ireland’s premier championship. Brian will continue to fly the Barretstown
flag over the remainder of the season for the
The first time any of the families had visited charity which has strong links to motorsport.
Ireland’s only international racing circuit, the The camp, which is located in Kildare close
kids were very excited by the sights and sounds to Mondello Park, was originally set up by
of motor racing which included getting to sit actor Paul Newman who was both a successful
behind the wheel of Rob Bulter’s Dentmagic racing driver and race team owner. On hand
backed Leon fresh after it took victory in Race to watch Erik Holstein take his Enniscorthy
1. The young VIPs were also more than happy SEAT backed Leon to it’s first win of the
to help out with some important duties over season, one or two of the young guests are
the day conducting the podium presentations now hooked on motorsport and the SEAT
for Race 1 when they handed out the trophies. Supercup Ireland looks forward to having
their company again for Rounds 7 & 8 which
As the cars lined up for Race 2 they then take place on July 10th, also at Mondello Park.
This will be mandatory from
Motorsport Ireland Garda Vetting Policy 01/01/2017.
Definitions: of MI officials and has adopted on a more than occasional All new Kart and Race
Child: Under 18 years of age. the following policy: (as defined above) basis and officials must be “vetted”
Occasional: The organising club must therefore Garda Vetting will be with immediate effect.
No more than twice per year appoint a trained Children’s required.
All Other Events:
with a minimum of four weeks Officer where a child is entered
Current MI Kart and Circuit Garda Vetting is not required
between events. in the event.
Racing officials must be Garda for officials at other events as
Kart and Circuit Racing: Vetted before they can obtain these events take place on an
Motorsport Ireland (MI) has Child competitors and officials their official licence. This occasional basis only and there
carried out an assessment at Kart and Circuit Racing includes Kart and Circuit Racing are changes to Club and MI
of events in relation to the events come into contact Scrutineers. personnel between events.
requirements for Garda Vetting
Karting Championship and this was followed by a hands on
Youth Development workshop where members learned how to inspect a carburettor,
Wexford Motor Club proudly unveiled their youth academy build a roll cage, dismantle a steering wheel boss, change spark
earlier this year to much praise and continued hard work behind plugs and change tyres on a kart and a buggy. The academy is
the scenes is seeing it go from strength to strength. With the moving from strength to strength and hopefully it is a format
academy full to capacity, initial workshops focused on pacenotes other clubs may look at implementing. At the launch of the Ravens
and teamwork with academy members guiding their partners, Rock Rally on Friday the 13th of May, Carrick On Suir Motor Club
who were blindfolded, around as custom made indoor rally unveiled their Youth Sports Project which will focus on building
stage developing their communication skills and giving them relationships
a valuable insight into the importance of pacenotes and the with surrounding
relationship between a driver and co-driver in a rally car. secondary schools
in conjunction with
In early April, academy members travelled to Whiteriver Race the Road Safety
Track to meet Team CRG Ireland ahead of round 2 of the Irish Authority.
5
News
RALLY SAFETY – WE CANNOT FAIL
David Moffett competing in the National section of the Donegal International Rally 2016. Photo: pwg.ie
Many of you are doing your very best is for those of you (the vast majority) to would like to lend a hand then please
to ensure our events run safely and that use your initiative to tell people when contact your local motor club or info@
everything that can be done is being they are standing in a box junction or in motorsportireland.com and we will put
done by the vast majority of officials and a prohibited area that this is no longer you in touch.
competitors. Given this fact can we direct acceptable. If people are not prepared
the message that follows at the small to be sensible after all the safety cars Right now our Rallies Committee, who
minority who still don’t get it. have passed then we need your help and are responsible for the administration of
support also. I guess we might call this this branch of motor sport, are doing their
We have had a number of incidents over peer pressure. So be it. level best to find solutions and implement
the last four years that has changed the change. Meetings with clubs, competitors,
outlook for the sport to an unbelievable As organisers we must give our marshals officials and car preparation experts have
extent. From a position of reduced confidence that if people refuse to move been held to try to find a pathway to
insurance fees we are now having to apply from an unsafe place then they should improve matters.
a significant levy on each entry fee in display the yellow flag to slow rally traffic.
order to pay the insurance premium. After that it is a matter of cancelling the But one of the biggest changes required is
stage altogether. This may spoil the show a change in attitude by those who continue
Despite this we are still receiving reports for many but we have no choice. to behave in a reckless “couldn’t care less”
after almost every event that some people manner. So, let us all take responsibility.
continue to ignore safety warnings and And we need more marshals. Without Let us all use our initiative to make things
put our sport in jeopardy. What we need marshals we have no sport. If you safer. Let us all act now before it is too late.
BRDS letter or need to present a letter to
IRDS/BRDS organisers at event sign-on. RACE
arrangements 2016 Instead, under arrangements agreed with our SAFETY
We are happy to report that 2016 Insurers an updated database is published on
arrangements for IRDS/BRDS are working Thursday each week on Motorsport Ireland’s EQUIPMENT
well. An application must be submitted as website under Current news/IRDS_BRDS
in previous years. The application form is database (date updated) which is available to The Race Committee have
available to download on Motorsport Ireland be viewed by all concerned. We cannot give decided that:
website/ Standard forms/ Competitors. the exact link as it changes each week.
Frontal Head Restraint systems
PLEASE ALLOW 14 DAYS FOR IT IS THE COMPETITORS (FHR/HANS) will be compulsory
PROCESSING. RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK THAT for all drivers in classes in circuit
Competitors or officials in: THEY ARE INCUDED ON DATABASE. racing events with the exception
Stage Rally/Navigation Trials/Retrospective Any queries relating to IRDS/BRDS can be of Period Defined Vehicles (Pre-
Trials/Endurance Trials/Multi-Venue directed to Motorsport Ireland 01-6775628 1977) racing in the HRCA class,
Autotest events no longer receive an IRDS/ or info@motorsportireland.com with effect from 1st January 2017.
6
News
Circuit Racing Ireland class who started last year as a sub-class of ITCC and
have full Championship status this year, offering competitive
racing from various parts of the budget scale! The other
With the season well under way, all twelve championship classes championship classes this year are ASK Supercars, Boss Ireland
have had at least two races to get them under way, including the (formerly Formula Libre), Fiesta Zetec, Formula Sheane,
three new championship classes this year, the Fiesta ST class – Formula Vee, Ginetta Junior, HRCA (Historics), Irish Touring
brand new and hitting the ground running with 16+ cars, the Cars (ITCC) and Irish Sports Cars (formerly Strykers). Up to
Future Classics who have been around for a couple of years date championship positions can be found on the Motorsport
in non-championship form and are regularly fielding 21+ cars Ireland website in the Championship section
with full championship status now, and the SEAT Supercup (www.motorsportireland.com/championships).
Hawthorn Trophy
One of the least recognised trophies in circuit racing, the Hawthorn Trophy, presented originally in 1959 to
commemorate the memory of Mike Hawthorn, the Formula 1 Champion, is competed for by ALL championship classes
by combining the results of eight rounds from each class. Current class leaders (at time of going to print) are:
Previous winners include Enda O’Connor (Formula Sheane, Jackie Cochrane (Historics) 105 points
2015), Pat McBennett (GT, 2014), David Kelly (Historic, 2013), Grzegorz Kalinecki (ITCC 98 points
Lee Newsome (Formula Vee, 2012 & 2011), Jackie Cochrane Rod McGovern (SEAT) 88 points
(Historic, 2010 & 2008), Alan Watkins (Stryker, 2009), Paul Noel Robinson (BOSS) 87 points
Sammin (Formula Vee, 2007) and Ray Moore (Formula Vee, Philip Lawless (Fiesta Zetec) 80 points
2006), so a bit of a battle between Historics and Formula Vee for Timothy Duggan (Future Classics) 80 points
the title over the last ten years! Dan Polley (Formula Vee) 75 points
So far, the championships have visited three tracks, Mondello Graham McDonnell (Fiesta ST) 74 points
Park (twice), Kirkistown, and the annual event at Bishopscourt. Brian Hearty (Formula Sheane) 70 points
The rest of the season will certainly keep racing interesting. The Andy O’Brien (Supercars) 70 points
June 11th/12th meeting in Mondello Park is on the international Alan Watkins (Irish Sports Cars) 64 points
track, and all classes have championship rounds except BOSS William Harron (Ginetta Jr) 63 points
Ireland and Ginetta Junior. The July event is scheduled to
include the Formula Vee festival on the national track, while grid. The October 9th meeting, the traditional ‘end of season’
the August race meeting will see a return, for the first time in meeting in Mondello, this year includes a few races to finish
quite a few years, to racing on the Mondello National circuit in off the national championships for Ginetta Junior, Fiesta ST
an anti-clockwise configuration, definitely one way to make it and Future classics. So plenty of action all the way to the end
more interesting! The September race meeting in Mondello on before a six week break to the six hour fiesta endurance race on
the 17th and 18th is the Leinster Trophy race meeting, and this November 20th. The endurance race is always entertaining with
year BOSS Ireland are racing for top honours, and are hoping differing team strategies and the fact that it starts in daylight
to attract a few visitors from overseas to boost numbers on the and finishes in darkness all adding to the spectacle.
7
News
Formula Ford 1600 has unfortunately failed to appear on the Irish commentators who gave the audience a full run down of Sean’s
race calendar this year, but we still have a number of talented Irish career to date and highlighted him as a young man to watch – we look
drivers competing in the UK BRSCC National Championship forward to watching the continuing development of Sean’s racing career.
including current Sexton Trophy and MI Young Driver of the
year winner Jake Byrne, former Sexton Trophy winner Niall Back at home we continue to review and revise the rules as
Murray, Former Sexton Trophy winner Jonny McMullan and needed to try to keep a fair, level and safe playing field for all
previous Sexton Trophy nominees and runners up, Jordan competitors, and with safety in mind a decision has been made
Dempsey, James Row and Stephen Daly – demonstrating that to make Frontal Head Restraint (FHR) systems (aka HANS)
there is a substantial amount of talent in the Irish paddock – and compulsory in all classes of Irish racing from 1st January 2017.
by the looks of those still racing at home, a lot more talent to Exceptions will be made for Period defined pre-1977 vehicles
come. With the prize for winning the BRSCC National FF1600 competing in the HRCA class.
championship being a seat in the Mazda Road to Indy scholarship
shootout, Niall Murray, having won rounds 3-6 inclusive holds This year saw the introduction of full ‘track limits’ rules for racing
a 31 point lead in the championship heading to rounds 7 and 8, at Mondello, and also the addition to Appendix 40 of sections
keeping Irish interest in the series very much alive. 22.1 to 22.8 to assist in the expansion and understanding of the
definitions regarding driving standards, including no weaving
Separately, a driver who started his career in junior rallycross, to prevent overtaking etc. Race Committee also ran a full day
and then raced successfully in Ginetta Junior, Global Lights, training course for Senior Officials on the 10th April to cover
Formula Sheane and Formula Ford 1600, was nominated for the all aspects of running a race meeting, disciplinary procedures
Sexton Trophy in 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014, Sean Doyle, made etc, and another one is planned for the 30th January 2017
the move this year to the big league, driving for Greg Murphy’s (provisional) which will have further new modules added. If this
Murphy Prototypes team in the LMP2 class of the European Le is something you are interested in, please contact your club who
Mans Series, and at his last outing in Imola on the way to a top will be able to point you the right direction. The more volunteers
10 finish in diabolically wet conditions got the attention of the that we have, the easier it is for everyone!
Fiesta ST
Patch Tyre Fiesta ST
Championship 2016
Rounds Three and Four
The championship points Doran hit a kerb
after rounds 3 and 4: and his exhaust
broke leading to
Graham Mcdonnell 55 his retirement.
John Denning 45 This handed
Stephen Kirwan 44 the lead to Lillis Brendan Fitzgerald, Barry Barrable, Mark Turley and Ulick Burke
Sean Lillis 44 who was kept Photo Michael Chester.
Barry Barrable 37 under a close watching brief from Burke Fitzgerald, Cullen and Denning and
who followed him home to the flag with Barrable rounding out the top 7, It again
Round 3 Kirwan,Fitzgerald, Denning and Cullen was literally bumper to bumper heading out
Fiesta Regular Sean Lillis returned after a rounding out the top 6 . into the country on the international track
year in Formula Ford and put his ST onto and Lillis putting a lot of pressure on Burke,
pole position in Qualifying on the Mondello Round 4 It remained like that with some very close
International Track, from Kevin Doran, Race 4 was a mixed grid with the top 6 racing all through the field.Lillis eventually
Ulick Burke, Graham McDonnell, Stephen from the first race going into a hat and Brian making the pass on the second last lap after
Kirwan and Brendan Fitzgerald. Kevin Mathews fro Patch Tyres the class Sponsor Burke missed a gear handing the victory
Doran got the Jump on Sean lillis when the drawing out the numbers,Ulick Burke Got to Lillis, Places remained unchanged with
lights went out, it was fairly fraught going the jump on everyone one and headed Barrable putting a move on Fitzgerald out
into the first corner as was to expected with into Mobil 1 corner with Lillis, kirwan of turn 2 to get up into 6th place, so the
all the cars evenly matched, but everyone finishing order was Lillis, Burke, Cullen,
got round without any major drama, Doran, Kirwan, Denning and Barrable rounding
Lillis, Kirwan, Fitzgerald, Denning and out the top 6...a new class lap record was also
Cullen where line a stern heading broken at 2.05.80 by Ulick Burke
out onto the interantional loop
for the first time. The places Rounds 5 and 6 will take place in July 9/10th
remained unchanged until where over 20 ST’S are expected to be entered
8News
MOTORSPORT IRELAND TRIBUNAL OF INQUIRY - DECISION
This Tribunal of Inquiry was race. After four attempts to start, The Tribunal decided that the REASONING:
convened in accordance with the Clerk of the Course (CoC) alleged breach of GCR 139.7 The evidence presented in regard to
General Competition Rules Garry Manning red flagged the against Darren Caldwell should be Garry Manning clearly established
(GCRs) Chapter 16 following race and addressed the drivers. He withdrawn, but the Inquiry should that his behaviour and handling
a referral by the President of penalised the front row drivers by proceed in respect of GCR 139.4 of all his duties in relation to this
Motorsport Ireland, to consider putting them to the back of the grid. as this article was not, and could event was able, competent and
certain matters arising from the This resulted in some complaints, not be, part of a Stewards’ Inquiry proper. The evidence presented
Munster KC Kart Race Meeting at but Darren Caldwell, the father of under GCR 129.15. In respect in relation to Darren Caldwell
Watergrasshill on 13.9.15. the pole sitter, objected vehemently of Fiona Caldwell, the Tribunal clearly established that he had used
to his son being penalised, and agreed with Mr Kelly’s submission extremely profane language and
The Terms of Reference of the
there was a confrontation between and withdrew the alleged breaches violent behaviour in front of a grid
Tribunal were:
him and Mr Manning. Mr of the GCRs against her. of Cadet drivers and was abusive
1 To inquire into a possible breach Caldwell used extremely profane DECISION: to the CoC, both on the grid and
or breaches of GCRs 139.4 and language and violently took his Having heard and carefully at the announcement of the CoC’s
139.7 by either or both of the son’s kart to the rear of the grid, considered all the evidence rejection of Mr Caldwell’s protest.
parents of the driver of Kart put it back to the front of the grid presented regarding the allegations Mr Caldwell and his wife made
no 55 in the Cadet class Final and finally returned it to the rear against Garry Manning, the unsustained and false allegations
2 at or within the grid area and of the grid. The profane language Tribunal is completely satisfied that against the CoC, that the CoC
subsequently during a Protest of Mr Caldwell was used in the he carried out all his duties in the had abused their son who was
hearing. presence of all the Cadet drivers running of the event in a proper, now very traumatised as a result
as was his abuse of the CoC. The able and competent manner. He of the alleged abuse. Although Mr
2 To inquire into the actions of race was eventually restarted did not in any way disadvantage Caldwell stated that his behaviour
the Clerk of the Course in relation successfully at the first attempt. or abuse any of the Cadet drivers was totally out of character and
to the management of the start Darren Caldwell then protested in the race and conducted the apologised to all for his behaviour,
procedure and instructing the the winner of the race on the basis hearing of Mr Caldwell’s protest evidence to the Tribunal showed
drivers on the grid for Final 2 of that he had allegedly jumped the correctly, and was not in breach of that Mr Caldwell was a repeat
the Cadet class. start, while his son had finished the GCRs in any way. offender and had been ordered to
3 To inquire into the complaints in second place from the back of leave another venue because of his
In considering the evidence in
by the parents of the driver of Kart the grid. A further confrontation behaviour. Abuse of officials will
relation to Darren Caldwell,
no 55 regarding the conduct of the took place between Mr and Mrs not be tolerated.
the Tribunal decided that his
protest hearing by the Clerk of the Caldwell and the CoC when the
behaviour on the grid in front
Course. CoC announced that he had RECOMMENDATIONS:
of the Cadet drivers, his use of
rejected their protest, again with As Fiona Caldwell now holds an
profane language, the violent
HEARING: liberal use of profane language, MI Competitor Entrant’s Licence,
handling of his son’s kart and
The Hearing took place on Tuesday banging of doors and threats to the the Tribunal recommends that
subsequent behaviour at the
23 February 2016 at 1.30 pm in CoC, with Fiona Caldwell telling MI exercises its right to consider
announcement by the CoC of his
Motorsport Ireland, 34 Dawson the CoC that she would make sure if she is a suitable person to hold
decision to reject Mr Caldwell’s
Street, Dublin 2. that he would never again officiate MI Licences, as the evidence
protest, and his entire behaviour,
at a Motorsport Ireland event. offered during the hearing clearly
The Tribunal Members were: Pat were very serious breaches of
She further accused the CoC of showed that her behaviour during
Fox (Chairman), Antony Conlon, acceptable behaviour and of the
mishandling the start of the race, the course of the race meeting
Richard Warbrick, Alex Wright. GCRs and the MI General Code
of shouting at the Cadet drivers, and her threats to the CoC were
of Conduct and of the Code of
In attendance were: Dermott and that his abuse of her son had unacceptable. These she repeated
Conduct for Children’s Sport.
Quigley, Presenter, Motorsport seriously traumatised him. in her evidence to the Tribunal,
Ireland; David Pain, Presenter, MI; During the hearing of evidence it stating that if she was not satisfied
Submission by Shane Kelly on
Paul Phelan, Clerk of the Tribunal; was revealed that the Tribunal and with the outcome of the hearing
behalf of Darren and Fiona
Mark Kelly, (Solicitor) representing MI had been misled by Mr Kelly’s she was going to take the matter
Caldwell:
Garry Manning; Shane Kelly, submission on behalf of Darren further.
Mr Kelly submitted to the Tribunal
(Barrister) representing Darren Caldwell in relation to the holding
that Darren Caldwell had already
Caldwell and Fiona Caldwell. of a Stewards’ Inquiry under GCR The Tribunal further recommends
been dealt with in relation to the
129.15. Thus the Tribunal revisited that the Kart Racing Committee
Evidence was heard from: Garry alleged breaches of the GCRs
their decision to withdraw the should have a long hard look at
Manning, Respondent; Darren and for his behaviour, which
alleged breach of GCR 139.7, and the behaviour of some parents of
Caldwell, Respondent; Fiona he admitted and for which he
decided to reinstate this alleged Cadet drivers, and furthermore
Caldwell, Respondent; Sinead apologised, by way of a Stewards’
breach against Mr Caldwell. that Cadet drivers should not be
Carey (by speaker phone); Conor Inquiry under GCR 129.15 and
sanctioned in any way for the
Crowley (by speaker phone); Brian had been sanctioned by them. As The Tribunal decided that Darren misbehaviour of their parents.
Kavanagh. a result, the alleged breaches of Caldwell was in breach of GCRs
GCRs 139.4 and 139.7 must be 139.4 and 139.7 as alleged. The This decision was laid down at 4.30
FACTS OF THE CASE: withdrawn. He further submitted Tribunal decided to impose a pm on Sunday 28 February 2016
At the Munster Kart Club Kart on behalf of Fiona Caldwell that fine of €1500 on Mr Caldwell and and all concerned are reminded of
Race Meeting on 13.9.15 at because at the time of the event she to suspend his MI Competition their Right of Appeal in accordance
Watergrasshill, during the Cadet was not an MI licence holder, the Licences internationally, for a with Chapter 16 of the GCRs and
Class Final 2, the pole position and Tribunal had no jurisdiction over period of two years and six months of the provisions of Article 12.2 of
off-pole position drivers failed to her. from 23.2.16. Chapter 16.
properly control the start of the
9Irish Tarmac
Championship
Words: Kevin O’Driscoll
Photos: Kevin O’Driscoll, Conor Edwards
and pwg.ie
ROUND 2 – Quality Hotel Clonakilty West Cork Rally Cronin’s retirement left the door open for his championship rivals
The second round in Clonakilty saw all of the main protagonists and they were in no mood to pass up the chance. Alastair Fisher
back in action and once again the main battle was between was more than keen to make up for his previous round retirement
Cronin and Fisher. Neither driver had a lot of experience on the and was the pacesetter amongst the Irish registered drivers holding
event, Cronin having only competed three times previously while a strong third overall on the rally. Desi Henry started well but once
Fisher had never been to the event. However both drivers settled again luck was against him when a puncture and then mechanical
in quickly and were only trailing the WRCs of Donagh Kelly and problems dropped him out having been as high as fourth overall.
Garry Jennings after four stages. Owen Murphy gave a debut to Sam and Josh Moffett were having their usual battle although
his new Skoda S2000 but was hampered by a lack of intercom over Josh had the edge in this encounter while Jonny Greer was going
the opening stages and a clutch bearing failed later in the first day exceptionally well and lying just outside the top ten overall.
forcing him into Rally 2. The Moffett brothers were also going well,
with Josh much more on the pace than he had been in Galway while
Stephen Wright was much happier with his car set up for this event
than he had been in Galway.
The afternoon stages saw the Cronin / Fisher battle intensify
with each one setting fastest stage times, until the final stage of
the day where Fisher crashed out heavily. This left Cronin with a
commanding advantage over his championship rivals. The Sunday
stages were more about holding position and this was achieved with
the minimum of fuss and finishing a fine second overall behind
Donagh Kelly. The Moffett siblings had their own battle all day Josh Moffet - Monaghan Rally 2016. Photo: Conor Edwards
on Sunday and this was resolved in Sams favour on the final stage
with less than four seconds separating them. Wright, McGonigle Over the second day Fisher took no chances at all to preserve a
and Greer were next up while Brendan Cumiskey, Aaron McHale fine third place and get his championship hopes back on track
and Tomas Davies had all increased their pace from the opening with a maximum points haul. Josh Moffett and Jonny Greer really
round to gain valuable championship points. Desi Henrys bad luck turned up the wick on the second day to finish fourth and fifth
continued though as a puncture caused a time loss of over three respectively, a result that gave Josh the championship lead. Sam
minutes early on and eventually differential problems forced him Moffett was forced out when he went off the road midway through
out with three stages left. Group N was won once again by David the second day, but such is the closeness of the competition ten
Guest to strengthen his championship lead. In the two wheel drive points separate the top six places overall. Newly registered Tom
category Callum Devine and William Creighton had a huge battle Cave and Rhys Yates also finished the event in their respective R5
all weekend and it was only on the final loop that Devine edged Fiestas to get points on the board. With David Guest not competing
ahead to take the category win with Fraser Mulholland finishing on the Circuit the Group N battle was between the Kearney siblings
third. Pat and Gus and after an event long dice Pat eventually came out on
top, but Gus moves into second place in Group N overall. The two
Standings after Round 2 wheel drive competition was strong as usual and a driveshaft failure
1 – Keith Cronin 32; on the first stage forced Callum Devine into Rally 2. This gave
2 – Sam Moffett 26; his rivals a chance to close the gap and William Creighton duly
3 – Josh Moffett 22 obliged. Both drivers now share the class lead after three rounds,
but Marty Gallagher and Fraser Mulholland are also still well in the
hunt having only scored in two rounds so far.
Standings after Round 3
1 – Josh Moffett 36;
2 – Keith Cronin 32;
3 – Alastair Fisher 30
ROUND 4 – Cartell.ie International Rally of the Lakes
Round four in Killarney saw some changes to the format from
previous years, especially on the opening day with two stages
tackled twice in the morning and a different pair tackled twice in
Sam Moffet Stage 4 Monaghan Rally 2016. Photo: KO’D the afternoon which cut down the road mileage dramatically. Most
of the top contenders were there, with Jonny Greer being the only
ROUND 3 – Circuit of Ireland Rally driver in the top six standings not to appear in Killarney and the
Some of the best talent in Europe were on display in the Circuit stage was set for another intense battle. For Keith Cronin on his
of Ireland as the Tarmac Championship, the British Rally local rally it was a disaster, with his Citroen encountering brake
Championship and the European Rally Championship all came related problems even before the start. By the time he got into the
together. While Craig Breen took his second win on the event, stage he was faced with what eventually amounted to 19 minutes
the real talking point was the opening up of the championship, road penalties and was completely out of the running.
with Keith Cronin a first stage casualty with a damaged radiator. Alastair Fisher & Sam Moffett were the standard bearers this time
10around as they exterted enourmous pressure excellent run in West Cork. Patterson (ECU), fine drive to second on his first appearance
on the WRC cars of Donagh Kelly and Garry McSweeney (Brake problems) and McHugh since Galway which was enough to move
Jennings and setting some incredible times (accident) all failed to score in this round. him into second in the championship. Philip
into the bargain. Josh Moffett had also been The Circuit of Ireland saw a much lower Wylie and Alan Watkins were retirements
going well but an accident on the third stage at turnout of modified contenders but a fine while James O’Mahony was forced into Rally
Gortnagane put him out of the event. Stephen drive once again gave Wesley Patterson 2 after mechanical problems but still scored
Wright was having one of his best outings of maximum points while moves him back into his first points of the season.
the year to date and wasn’t far behind the second place in the series just two points
leading pair. Joe McGonigle who was lying behind Marshall, while Davy Armstrong has Historic Standings after Round 4
seventh in the championship lost a lot of now moved into third place overall. Frank 1 – Frank Cunningham 42;
time on the opening stage with a puncture Kelly was forced out early on with engine 2 – David Goose 30;
and was later to retire after damaging the problems as he continues to look for his first 3 – Brendan McAree 20
radiator of his Skoda following a spin. Owen points of the season.
Murphy was much more comfortable with
his Skoda after his difficulties in West Cork
and was holding a top six placing.
The dry and dusty weather on the opening
day gave way to miserable foggy conditions
on the second day which included stages
such as Beallaghbeama and when rally
leader Garry Jennings the prospect of an
Seamus O’Connell, Historic Winner Donegal
R5 car winning the event became a distinct
Gary Kiernan a regular Mk2 contender. International Rally 2016. Photo: pwg.ie
possibility. However the pressure on Donagh
Kelly eased when Sam Moffett punctured Photo: pwg.ie Irish Tarmac Junior Championship
and lost over 40 seconds to Fisher. Fisher Only two rounds have counted towards the
only needed to keep a cool head and stay out Killarney saw a more depleted modified championship to date (Galway & West Cork)
of trouble to take another set of maximum field, but the results certainly threw things and it’s Justin Ryan from Galway in a Honda
points, and this he duly did. Moffett was wide open in championship terms. Eugene Civic who leads the series having taken two
very disappointed after a great drive but still Meegan scored his first points of the season maximum scores to date. Noel Murphy in
moved into second place in the championship while winning the National Rally and he was another Honda Civic is in second place while
with Wright now in third place. Keith Cronin pushed all the way by Jack Newman who was John O’Flaherty and Christy McCarthy
eventually finished 13th overall but dropped making his first championship appearance are tied for third place. An excellent drive
back to fifth in the championship behind of the season. Davy Armstrong took over from Kieran O’Donoghue saw him score
Josh Moffett. the championship lead when Ross Marshall his first points of the season while winning
Callum Devine took another R2 win with a crashed out on the second day, while the Killarney Junior Category. However
fantastic drive while there as disappointment Wesley Patterson remains in third and John Justin Ryan increased his lead at the top of
for Marty Gallagher as he crashed out O’Sullivan fourth. the leaderboard to twelve points over Noel
on the final stage while ahead of William Murphy who ran Ryan much closer this
Creighton who eventually was second in the Modified Standings after Round 4 time. Kevin Horgan collected second placed
class. Fraser Mulholland took third to keep 1 – Davy Armstrong 36; points to move him into third overall in the
his class hope alive while John Byrnes was 2 – Ross Marshall 34; series.
a retirement. David Guest took yet another 3 – Wesley Patterson 32
maximum score in Group N to extend his Junior Standings after Round 3
championship lead with Gus Kearney now in Irish Tarmac Historic Championship 1 – Justin Ryan 44;
a clear second place ahead of Peter O’Kane. The Historic Championship began in Galway 2 – Noel Murphy 32;
following the cancellation of the Historic 3 – Kevin Horgan 26
Standings after Round 3 Rally of the Lakes in December due to
1 – Alastair Fisher 46; flooding. David Goose took maximum points ROUND 5 - Joule Donegal
2 – Sam Moffett 40; in Galway to move into the championship International Rally
3 – Stephen Wright 38 lead, while none of those who scored points The fifth round in Donegal saw the closest
in Galway competed in West Cork. Philip finish to any Irish International Rally in
Irish Tarmac Modified Championship Wylie took maximum points in Clonakilty history. Donegal’s Manus Kelly took the
The opening round in Galway saw a close from John Coyne while Frank Cunningham overall win by just 0.5 seconds from Keith
battle between Wesley Patterson and Eugene who retired his Sierra in Galway switched to Cronin in his DGM run DS3 R5 Citreon
Meegan in difficult conditions with very an Escort in West Cork to move into joint with Sam Moffett finishing third in his R5
little to choose between the pair at the end of fourth. James O’Mahony had been looking Ford Fiesta.
the first day. However Meegans rally ended good to score well in both rounds to date
midway through the second day to leave but an accident in Galway and mechanical
Patterson to take maximum points after the failure in Clonakilty has left him without
opening round. Jason McSweeney (Lancer) points to date.
and Patrick McHugh (Escort) filled the top Cunningham took maximum points on the
three positions after the opening round. Circuit of Ireland to move into a clear lead
The second round in West Cork was in the series after three rounds with Brendan
unusual in that none of the top three in the McAree now in second place in his Porsche
championship finished the event as Brian 911. The Cunningham bandwagon was to
Brogan picked up maximum points to move roll on even further in Killarney with another
into joint second place behind new leader maximum points haul for Frank after several Manus Kelly - Winner Donegal International
Ross Marshall from Scotland who had an of his rivals hit trouble. David Goose had a Rally 2016. Photo: pwg.ie
11News
Suprise rain showers late on Saturday afternoon threw the cat among
the pidgeons with some very slippery-wet conditions. The rally leader
Declan Boyle got caught out with a heavy landing after a fast crest
resulting in a damaged gearbox leading to his retirement and Kelly
also had bad luck with an excursion into a field on the Gartan stage
leaving him 1 minute 40 seconds behind with a lot of work to do for
a victory on Sunday.
Sunday brought more rain and Kelly was left with only 5 stages to
overhaul the R5 leaders. Keith Cronin led the rally by 10 seconds going
into Fanad the final stage, but having some fuel pressure problems David Bogie National Winner Donegal Rally. Photo: pwg.ie
and in atrocious conditions, decided to give way to the hard charging
Donegal man in his WRC Subaru. Cronin still took maximum points Historic Championship:
for the TROA Championship and this has brought him right back Seamus O’Connell in his Mk2 Haynes-liveried escort outpaced the
into contention for the Championship as he now lies third and the historic field to a clear win of almost 2 minutes. Frank Cunningham
top five R5 contenders in the championship are now only separated also in a Mk2 Escort finished second and has extending his lead
by six points with two rounds remaining. The Ulster and Cork rounds even further in the Historic Championship. Andy Johnson followed
are bound to be interesting events bringing the Championship to an 30 seconds back into third position in his rare ex-works Vauxhall
exciting finale. Chevette HSR.
Provisional Standings after Round 5: Junior Championship:
1st – Alastair Fisher & Sam Moffett 54 At this stage, the Junior Championship could well be renamed the
3rd – Keith Cronin 49.5 “Honda Civic” Championship with a clear majority of Juniors
4th – Stephen Wright & Josh Moffett 48 preferring to use the front-wheel drive Honda Civic as the weapon of
choice. Sunday’s horrible conditions tested the ability and bravery of
National Rally all the junior crews with the pace being very fast indeed. There was
Scotish visitor David Bogie a regular visitor to Donegal beat off some consolation for the Boyle family after Declan Boyle’s retirement
strong opposition winning the Mk2 Escort rally by 22 seconds at from the main rally on Saturday, when his son Michael navigated by
the end of the rally. However runner-up Frank Kelly takes a full haul Dermot McCafferty managed a superb win in the Junior section by
of Championship points with Bogie non-registered for the Tarmac just 2.9 seconds from Paul Creamer and Patrick Durning in another
Championship. Civic.
Did You Know? feat not achieved on any other Irish
International Rally.
West Cork
• The 2016 West Cork Rally was only • Mike Marshall was Clerk of the Course
the second time in its history that the for Rally of the Lakes from 1979 to 2003,
event had run as an international, the a total of 24 events, a record which is
previous occasion being 1986. unlikely to be equalled or beaten.
• The 1978 West Cork Rally had a very
Circuit of Ireland
demanding first day with thirteen
• The Circuit of Ireland was once
stages to be tackled. Six stages took the
described as being the toughest Billy Coleman, Donegal-1977
crews from Clonakilty to Bantry where
event outside of the World Rally Donegal drivers have won their home
a lunch halt was had, and then the same
Championship; with Markku Alen of rally, Vincent Bonner (with Seamus
six stages were used in reverse bringing
the opinion it was tougher than some McGettigan) in 1983, James Cullen (with
the crews back towards Clonakilty
WRC rounds. Ellen Morgan), in 1991 & 1999, Declan
and taking in a spectator stage in
• Jimmy McRae holds the record number Boyle (with Brian Boyle) in 2014 and
Rosscarbery to finish up.
of wins on the event including two hat- most recently, Manus Kelly in 2016.
• Bob Fowden & Donagh Kelly are the
tricks. The wins came in 1980, 1981, • Achim Warmbold was the first foreign
only drivers to win West Cork three
1982, 1985, 1987, 1988 & 1989. winner of a Southern Irish International
times, but Kelly is the only one to win it
• The 2016 event which was won by Craig rally when he won in Donegal in 1975
three years in a row (2014-2016).
Breen was the first time since 1991 that in a BMW 2002.
Killarney the Circuit of Ireland had been part of Words: Kevin O’Driscoll
• The Killarney Rally of the Lakes was the British Rally Championship.
first run in 1979 and was part of the Donegal
National Rally Championship in 1981 • The only International victory achieved
& 1982. It became part of the Tarmac in Ireland by the Lancia Stratos was in
Championship in 1983 where it has been the Donegal International 1977 with
an integral part of the series since then. Billy Coleman & Austin Frazer as the
• Bertie Fisher holds the record number winning crew.
of wins in Killarney with six, including • Since the Donegal rally became an
five in a row from 1990 to 1994, a International event in 1972 only four Achim Warmbold. Photo: P Pyne
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