Sunseeker Rally - 25 Feb 12

Solid points haul for Tom Cave on BRC opener

Posted: March 13, 2012 1:21 PM

Welsh rally driver Tom Cave left Bournemouth with a solid points haul to begin his 2012 British Rally Championship season this weekend. The youngster, second on last year's event and partnered by Craig Parry, completed the 12-stage Rallye Sunseeker in 7th place overall after a gritty performance in a rented car.

It was a tricky day for Tom; while the weather was sunny and bright, he was driving the rented Ford Fiesta R2 for the first time, having completed just 20Km at the wheel at the event shakedown prior to the ceremonial start in Poole on Friday evening.

As tradition dictates, the start ceremony was incredibly well attended by fans and set the scene for another thrilling first round, with the BRC this year adopting 2WD cars only.

Tom and Craig began the day conservatively, keenly aware that they needed a solid points finish to begin their season. As they tackled the first loop of stages, their pace gradually improved and included a fourth-fastest stage time, arriving at the first of the event's three services in 10th place overall.

Several changes to the Fiesta's settings helped the car's performance but an overshoot on the next loop dropped the crew to 11th overall by the mid-point of the event.

By Tom's admission, the Fiesta performed better on the faster sections of the event than the slower and tighter ones and by the final loop of three stages, he and Craig were in a position to exploit mistakes made by other drivers. By the time the crews reached the finish ramp in Bournemouth, they had climbed to 7th place overall and third Fiesta.

Commenting, Tom said;
"I'm pretty happy with the result - we got a decent points haul for the first round and that's what we were looking for. We decided to drive our own rally and see where we were on pace and towards the end, found ourselves in a bit of a scrap with Matthew Cathcart, which was good fun.

"I think we adapted to the Fiesta reasonable well. It's a good, solid car but it doesn't seem to have the legs that the R3 cars do, such as the Citroen DS3, as we'll be using for the rest of this season. It was pretty good on the faster, more open stages but of course, struggled a lot compared to the 4WD cars I'm used to in the slower corners. It's been a while since I've driven 2WD!

"We made some changes to the car's set-up early on but I think that this didn't really help us and the overshoot cost us some time, which on this rally, is very difficult to make back up again. But we managed to get up to 7th and some decent points for that, so overall, I'm fairly happy."

There's little chance for rest for Tom though, as next weekend (2-4 March) he will be tackling the second round of the BTRDA series in his Subaru Impreza, one of the cars he used to clinch the 2011 Production Cup title. However, for this year, the car has been converted to closer to B13 specification, allowing Tom to challenge for the outright Gold Star title, rather than the Production Cup.

He, Craig and the Davies MotorSport Services team will travel north to Cumbria for the Malcolm Wilson stages rally on Saturday 3 March, before returning to Wales as soon as that event finishes, ready to compete on the Mid Wales Stages on Sunday 4 March. Tom and Craig won the Mid Wales Stages outright in 2011 and will be keen to defend that win next weekend.

He then plans to debut the Citroen DS3 R3T he has secured for the BRC at the second round, the Bulldog Rally in Welshpool at the end of March.

DUCKWORTH DOMINATES THE 2012 RALLYE SUNSEEKER NATIONAL IN HIS KUMHO-SHOD SUBARU IMPREZA WRC

Posted: March 12, 2012 12:14 PM

Partnered by Mark Broomfield, Roger Duckworth dominated the recent (February 24/25) Rallye Sunseeker National in his faithful Kumho-shod Subaru Impreza WRC, winning the event outright for the second year in succession.

By achieving the fastest time on every single stage, Duckworth finished the event a full 1 minute 12.7 seconds in front of Michael O’Brien and Paul Spooner in the former’s Ford Focus WRC. Duckworth’s victory not only netted him another trophy to add to his already vast collection, but also an expenses-paid trip to the 2012 Sol Rally Barbados. O’Brien’s son Daniel was third in another Focus which, like his dad’s, was running on Kumho tyres, leaving Kumho-shod cars an impressive 1st, 2nd and 3rd overall.

The Sunseeker is the biggest rally held in the South of England, and one of the most popular in the entire country. Its roots can be traced back to 1973. By 1986 it had moved from Surrey/Sussex to its current home in the Bournemouth/Poole area. Local company Sunseeker’s involvement began in the 1990s.

Duckworth was quick to praise his Kumho tyres, which he said were: “Perfect for the soft stages.
” Added Kumho’s European Motorsport Manager Steve Thompson: “It was clear from his victory on the very first stage that both Roger and the Impreza were firing on all cylinders, and intent on making the event their own once again – it was a joy to watch.”

DESI/BURNS DELIGHTED! - SUPERB SECOND PLACE ON OPENING BRC ROUND

Posted: March 1, 2012 11:56 AM

2011 Citroen Racing Trophy UK winner Desi Henry finished Saturday’s Rallye finished Saturday’s British Championship Rallye Sunseeker in a superb second place overall. The 22 year old from Portglenone in Co. Antrim, was co-driven by Sligo’s Niall Burns and was on his first proper drive in a newly acquired PRH Construction Citroen DS3 R3.

“Naturally I’m absolutely delighted” commented Desi. “We didn’t expect to finish there and it really helps us with the championship campaign.”
The Bournemouth based Rallye Sunseeker opened an all new BRC catering for 2 wheel drive cars, and the race at the front between Jarkko Nikara’s similar DS3 and Mark Donnelly’s Clio was hectic. But so were the battles all down the top ten, and on the early stages, Desi found himself towards the lower end of that leader-board.
“Before the rally we didn’t get to spend much time in the car, so our idea was to get points. The first loop of stages didn’t go that well either. I made a few wrong gear changes and a couple of silly mistakes.” Desi had the Mac Sport team busy in service as he made adjustments to tweak the rear of the DS3 which was moving around a bit on the Sunseeker’s sandy stages.

By the half way point of the twelve stage event the Woodland Furniture backed crew were lying in 8th place but with ambitions of higher.
“On the second loop I had an overshoot which put us back a bit, but the overall times between 2nd to 8th places were still quite tight. We made some changes including raising the car to help deal with the soft surface, and adjusted the dampers, and decided to have a go on the final two loops.”
And go they did up to 5th place by stage 9 having set two third fastest times. The John McKillop prepared DS3 was running perfectly and with a second fastest time on the penultimate stage, and a fastest overall time on the final test, Desi snatched second place from Elfyn Evans by just 0.2 of a second.
“Things just went well and I really enjoyed the car. The changes we made at service seemed to help and definitely we are looking forward to the Bulldog Rally on a more familiar gravel surface in the Welsh forests. The Citroen UK Trophy also begins there, so it would be nice to try and win some prize money too.”

With additional support from the PPP Group and thebathshack.co.uk Desi and the team are now preparing for the remaining five rounds of the new MSA British Rally Championship. Indeed the 22 year old Pirelli Shoot-out finalist could be in with a real shot of BRC glory in 2012.

FANTASTIC SHOWING FROM CITROËN RUNNERS ON RALLYE SUNSEEKER

Posted: February 29, 2012 10:53 AM

The Bournemouth based Rallye Sunseeker, round one of the MSA British Rally Championship presented the first chance for the Citroën runners to demonstrate their DS3 R3’s, and challenge for overall championship honors. They didn’t disappoint! Desi Henry and Niall Burns brought their DS3 home in second overall after a late charge and Oisan Pryce with co-driver Iestyn Williams claimed a fine fourth place. After this first round, Citroën UK are second in the Manufacturer’s Championship, just one point adrift of Renault. It could have been even better for Citroen as fast Finn Jarkko Nikara struck trouble on the penultimate stage.

Jarkko led the field into the twelve Saturday stages comprising 65 stage miles, and it was clear from the outset that the new two wheel drive focused BRC series was going to be a close fought one. Despite sampling the car for the first time on the pre-event shakedown, Nikara was second fastest on stage one, but took the lead on stage 2, with a time over four seconds faster than his nearest rival.
“The car felt quite a good car from the outset” commented Jarkko. “I was enjoying the car to drive, despite the lack of time in it. At every service I made small changes to the suspension to improve the car, and it was coming good.”

Fastest on stage 3 and 4 by just fractions of a second, Jarkko held a narrow 3.5 second lead after this test. The pursuer was Mark Donnelly in his Renault Clio. The former Citroën C2 Max driver put in two fastest times to take the lead after stage 6, as the battle continued. Just fractions of a second separated the drivers over the next two stages, with Jarkko snatching a valuable two seconds on stage 9. Amazingly this left the two front runners tied on time, with just three stages left to run. The new two wheel drive BRC certainly is encouraging close racing! On stage 10, Jarkko took 1.2 seconds off the charging Donnelly but a race to the finish was to be denied as Jarkko’s car ground to a halt on the very next stage.
“I’m not sure what happened yet, but the car started to lose power. There was a small fire and the engine cut out. I’m very disappointed, as we were battling with Mark for the win, and of course our chances were very good. Hopefully we can sort everything before the next one and get some more testing with the car also.”

The youngest of the Citroën runners, Osian Pryce from Wales, celebrated his 19th birthday on the eve of the rally, and he had much to celebrate at the end of the event with a fourth place finish.
“At the start of the rally we said we would be happy to finish in the same position as our seeding which was number 10. It’s our first rally in an R3 car, and we weren’t driving at 100%, aiming for a finish, so we were surprised to be third fastest on the two opening stages” commented Osian. Indeed Osian held third place until stage 5, dropping just one place to fourth on stage 7.
“I was really pleased with the DS3 on general, but we have some work to do to improve the suspension to my liking.
On stage 8 we came across Callum Black’s big accident and stopped at it. Thankfully they were ok, but we received a nominal stage time for the test which cost us a bit.” Nevertheless Osian and co-driver Iestyn Williams clawed their way back to a fine fourth at the finish. “We are delighted, and next week we have entered the Mid Wales stages, where I hope to further improve the suspension to my liking. We are really looking forward to the next round, the Bulldog Rally.”

2011 Citroën Racing Trophy UK winner Desi Henry from Northern Ireland started off steadily in his DS3 R3, but the Co. Antrim driver got to like his Citroën more and more as the event progressed and a fabulous late charge brought him right up to claim a magnificent second place.
“We hadn’t a lot of miles in the new car before the event, and the first loop wasn’t brilliant. I missed a couple of gears and made a couple of silly mistakes. On the second loop I had an overshoot which put us back a bit, but the overall times between 2nd to 8th places were still quite tight. We made some changes including raising the car to help deal with the soft surface, and adjusted the dampers, and decided to have a go on the final two loops.” Desi and co-driver Niall Burns were back in 8th pace at the half way point, but by stage 8 they were up to 6th and stage 9 up to 5th, with two third fastest times behind the battling leaders. But there was more to come with a second fastest time on the penultimate test and a fastest overall time on the final stage, Desi snatched second place by just 0.2 of a second from Elfyn Evans in his Ford Fiesta.
“I’m over the moon with the result. It’s very good for the championship race and we certainly didn’t expect to come out with this result.”

It all helps put Citroën UK into second place in the Manufacturer’s table with the next round of the MSA British Rally Championship, the Bulldog Rally on the 23rd and 24th March.

Success For Newby, Frustration For Korhonen on Rallye Sunseeker

Posted: February 28, 2012 11:51 AM

The Pirelli TEG Sport team kicked off their 2012 campaign with drivers Jukka Korhonen and Arron Newby enduring mixed fortunes on last weekend's Rallye Sunseeker.

Conditions were dry and the stages were the usual sandy, boggy type with long straights and tight corners which meant is was suited to the higher powered R3 cars but despite the handicap, 27-year-old Korhonen, who won last year's Pirelli UK Star Driver award, set a fourth fastest time and was first R2 on several stages, as he put in a strong performance against the R3s. The Finn battled with Elfyn Evans, swapping times and meaning it was very close all day, but as he went into the final stage chasing the Welshman for third place, the electronic throttle on the Pirelli-backed Skoda Fabia R2 failed.

17-year-old Newby, from Carnforth, had a good steady run, focusing on the finish rather than setting stage times but as the day progressed, he was setting more consistent times to bring the Robert Wiseman Dairies-sponsored Skoda Fabia R2 home in a fantastic 13th overall and seventh in class as well as scoring points for Pirelli TEG Sport.

Arron Newby:
"This is my dream to be able to compete on the MSA British Rally Championship, the whole experience from the start to finish was exceptional. It offers the whole package, from recce to the ceremonial start with thousands of people turning out to see the cars and teams. I really enjoyed the stages even though the aim is to get to the finish of events in my first year which I did, I am so grateful to my sponsors and to everyone at TEG Sport for their hard work."

Jukka Korhonen:
"I am very happy with the speed of the Skoda and its performance, we all know it's the first International gravel rally that it has been used on and it is very unfortunate we suffered a technical failure on the last stage with the electronic throttle pedal. I am looking forward to the Bulldog Rally as I feel our performance there will be very strong in this car. I am also grateful to Pirelli and TEG Sport, I have found it very easy in this country to work with such professional people."

Stuart Newby:
"Obviously I am a little disappointed that Jukka had a problem with the electronic throttle in sight of the finish line, as during the rally he set some top R2 stage times, was leading his class and was up at third overall during the day. We are really pleased with the Skoda Fabia R2 and the overall package it offers means it will be an exciting year ahead. Arron did exactly what he was asked to do and get to the finish of the rally, he has a lot of years ahead competing and we have told him it is extremely important in his first year to gain as much experience as he can on such a prestigious championship and to bring the car home in 13th overall and score team points was a bonus."

Further information and results from the event can be found at www.rallyesunseeker.co.uk and for information on the team, drivers and championship, please visit: www.tegsport.co.uk, www.arronnewby.com, www.jukkakorhonen.net and www.rallybrc.co.uk.

Pearson wins on Twingo Renaultsport Trophy UK's debut

Posted: February 28, 2012 11:35 AM

Garry Pearson and Craig Wallace took a well earned finish on the opening round of the Twingo Renaultsport R1 Trophy, Rallye Sunseeker International this weekend.

The young Scot had a challenging first event in the brand new car, deciding from the outset not to try and stay with the expected pace of double British Rally Champion Keith Cronin, who was driving an identical specification car.

Their steep learning curve on this, Garry’s first MSA British Rally Championship event, was further complicated by a car that had been finished just a day before the rally shakedown on Thursday.

However, despite having a loose rear beam axle at one point, he was encouraged by his stage times and set about learning the new car. But the loose surface revealed a rock, which added a bent steering arm to his learning experience.

After a great job by his team, ably assisted by Monster Sport Europe, the Twingo Trophy parts and technical partners, he went out again, only to have a water leak. He stopped three times in the final stage to top it up, but made the finish ramp in Bournemouth to take the champagne and maximum points in the Twingo Renaultsport R1 Trophy UK.

Their prize of a £750 parts voucher is added to a maximum haul of MSA British Junior Rally Championship points towards their hope to take the Rallye du Var prize drive at the end of the year.

Although nor scoring Twingo Trophy points, Cronin and Seb Marshall were indeed the pace-setters in their R1 Mantis-liveried car, even topping newcomers Chris Ingram/Joe Cruttenden and Nick Allen/Andy Bull in their R2 machines on the first loop of three stages.

Sadly Cronin and Marshall’s puncture and subsequent driveshaft failure sidelined the Irishman on stage ten of twelve, but their performance had put the little car midfield throughout the day, leading the class and proving that at just 133 horsepower, the entry-level Twingo can be a force to be reckoned with.

Despite the Twingo R2 Trophy kicking off on the Bulldog Rally North Wales in March, Ingram and Allen had opted to contest Rallye Sunseeker, adding some spice to the Renault contingent on the event.

It was 2011 Junior 1000 Rally Champion Ingram who was fastest Twingo on stage four, but the Cheshire lad had some bad luck on the very next test, becoming one of several crews throughout the field to retire with transmission problems on the slippery surface.

It was therefore the furthest travelled driver who was top R2 Twingo at the Bournemouth finish, Californian Nick Allen ably guided to an excellent twelfth place overall by Birmingham’s Andy Bull.

He and R1 Trophy winner Pearson were delighted at the finish; both commenting on how well the Dorset and Hampshire based event was run. Also pleased with the event and taking part as part of the official event team were Justin Dale and Andrew Bargery. They ran Renault Sport Technologies brand new Twingo R2 Evolution as a course opening car, ensuring that the stages were correctly set up, marshalled and that spectators were aware of the impending international rally.

The world public debut of the Twingo R2 Evolution was a great success, the car running faultlessly. Despite not appearing on the results of the event, three times event winning co-driver Bargery was able to feed back some competitive unofficial times to the French team for technical data.

The next round of the MSA British Rally Championship, Bulldog International Rally North Wales, will host both the Twingo Renaultsport R1 and R2 Trophies. But coverage of the series from Rallye Sunseeker will be part of the Sky Sports British Rallyzone programme, broadcast during the week preceding the classic March 23/24th Welsh rally.

Fisher starts WRC Academy preparations on British rally opener

Posted: February 28, 2012 11:30 AM

Alastair Fisher began his preparations for the upcoming FIA WRC Academy season with a return to the MSA British Rally Championship on Rallye Sunseeker in Bournemouth on Saturday.

Running in seventh overall after the first six stages, Fisher was forced to retire when his Ford Fiesta R2 was struck down by a mechanical fault.

The 23-year-old from Trillick, County Tyrone, is tackling the first two rounds of the BRC prior to the WRC Academy getting underway on Vodafone Rally of Portugal at the end of March. Unfortunately his outing was curtailed when his car became stuck in second gear after the 10th stage of the high-speed gravel event.

“I'm feeling a bit disappointed because it's not been the best day,” said Fisher, who was placed third in last year’s WRC Academy. “We had gearbox problems and really struggled with second gear. With only a 15-minute service there wasn’t much that our team could do in terms of getting the car fixed to allow us to push for a strong result. So we used the remaining stages as a practice until we had to stop for good when the car got stuck in second gear on stage 10 and there was no point trying to continue.”

Fisher, who is co-driven by Daniel Barritt from Burnley, Lancashire, will be back in action on the Bulldog International Rally North Wales on March 23/24, one week before WRC Academy season two begins in Portugal, an event Fisher led in 2011.

SUNSEEKER RALLIES ROUND UP

Posted: February 28, 2012 10:37 AM

Rallye Sunseeker International 2012

It was a very intense battle all day that was only really settled when Jarkko Nikara, retired on SS11 with an Engine fire that the victory went to Mark Donnelly / Dai Roberts in a Renault Clio R3 over Desi Henry / Niall Burns in a Citroen DS3 by almost 2 minutes. The battle between Donnelly and Nikara kept everyone entertained during the day and it was a superb battle that enthralled everyone. Equally impressive was the fact that Desi Henry then finished 0.2secs ahead of Elfyn Evans in a super finish in his Ford Fiesta. Mark Donnelly also went on to claim the Pirelli Star driver award at the finish ramp on the seafront finish ramp in Bournemouth.

1 2 Mark Donnelly/Dai Roberts 5 Renault Clio R3 1:07:06.0
2 9 Desi Henry/Niall Burns 5 Citroen DS3 R3 1:08:55.5
3 4 Elfyn Evans/Andrew Edwards 6 Ford Fiesta R2 1:08:55.7
4 10 Osian Pryce/Iestyn Williams 5 Citroen DS3 R3T 1:09:28.4
5 7 Peter Taylor/Andrew Roughead 5 Renault Clio R3 1:09:29.1

Rallye Sunseeker National 2012

The Spectators on Rallye Sunseeker National 2012 were treated to a great days rallying in the National category on this years event. Last years winners Roger Duckworth / Mark Broomfield in their Subaru WRC headed home the Ford Focus WRC of Michael O’Brien Paul Spooner by just overt a minute. Michaels son Daniel O’Brien, also in a Ford Focus WRC with Paul Morris alongside made it a family affair by making the podium in 3rd spot 58.4secs ahead of local crew Anthony Wilmington / Andy White in their Mitsubishi EVO6. Stuart Larbey with son Simon co-driving the Childrens Trust MG Metro6R4 finished behind them in 5th place.

1 35 Roger Duckworth/Mark Broomfield 4 Subaru Impreza WRC 0:53:22.7
2 37 Michael O'Brien/Paul Spooner 4 Ford Focus WRC 0:54:35.4
3 38 Daniel O'Brien/Paul Morris 4 Ford Focus WRC 0:56:02.5
4 36 Anthony Willmington/Andy White 4 Mitsubishi EVO6 0:57:00.9
5 42 Stuart Larbey/Simon Larbey 5 MG Metro 6R4 1:01:16.2

Rallye Sunseeker Challenge 2012

After a day of battles in the forests of Bournemouth and Poole, it was James Ford / Neil Colman who ran out winners of the Rallye Sunseeker Challenge 2012, in their Ford Escort MkII. They led home the Citroen C2R2 Max of Richard Sykes / Simon Taylor by 53.1 secs. Making the final podium place was another Citroen C2R2 of Gareth White / Matt Dickson just over a minute behind.

1 79 James Ford/Neil Colman RC5 Ford Escort Mk2 0:54:49.6
2 77 Richard Sykes/Simon Taylor RC5 Citroen C2R2 Max 0:55:42.7
3 89 Gareth White/Mike Dickson RC5 Citroen C2R2 Max 0:56:58.5
4 83 Mark McCulloch/Mike Curry RC3 Proton Satria 0:58:27.4
5 91 James Watts/Steve Hartley RC2 Volkswagen Polo 0:59:15.2

Rallye Sunseeker Historique 2012

After 8 Stages, and a finish at Somerley Park it was the Ford Escort MKII of James Potter / Nick Broome that finished in first place and came home ahead of the similar car of Robert Dennis / Bob Stokoe by just over two minutes. Southern Car Club member Matthew Fowle, with co-driver Elliott Edmondson in a Ford Escort Mexico finished in 3rd place, just under a minute ahead of Nick Danks / Martin Corbett again in a Ford Escort Mexico.

1 102 James Potter/Nick Broome H3 Ford Escort MK2 0:45:10.0
2 104 Robert Dennis/Bob Stokoe H3 Ford Escort 0:47:18.2
3 105 Matthew Fowle/Elliott Edmondson H1 Ford Escort Mexico 0:48:27.9
4 106 Nick Danks/Martin Corbett H1 Ford Escort Mk1 Mexico 0:49:23.8
5 109 Bob Gibbons/Stuart Cardell B3 Ford Cortina MK2 0:51:43.2

Donnelly/Roberts win thrilling first round of new-look BRC

Posted: February 28, 2012 10:10 AM

The new-format MSA British Rally Championship (BRC) got off to a stunning start on Rallye Sunseeker International, when an intense day-long battle between Jarkko Nikara/Petri Nikara in their Citroën DS3 R3T and Mark Donnelley/Dai Roberts in their Renault Clio R3 finally went the Northern-Irish driver’s way.

With the two crews never separated by more than four seconds throughout the 12-stage Rallye Sunseeker International – round one of the 2012 BRC – their neck-and-neck duel was finally decided when the Finnish crew retired on the penultimate stage after their car’s engine lost power.

Nikara’s exit, coupled with the accolade of setting the fastest time on the final stage, meant that Desi Henry/Niall Burns in their DS3 shot from fifth to second in the final loop of three stages, crossing the line just 0.2 seconds ahead of Elfyn Evans/Andrew Edwards in their Ford Fiesta R2. Their podium position established the Welshman as the first Class 6 car after they too were locked in a battle that saw no more than a hand-full of seconds spitting the top four cars in class for a large proportion of the event.

The 2012 Rallye Sunseeker heralded the start of a change for the BRC, the event marking the first time that only two-wheel-drive cars are eligible to score points since the nineties. And, if there was any question that this new formula might not be exciting, then all doubts were dispelled when one of the closest BRC rounds ever took place this weekend.

In keeping with the Poole and Bournemouth-based event’s tradition of being the best promoted rally in the UK, the ceremonial start on Poole Quay on Friday evening witnessed thousands of spectators watching the cars and crews ahead of the following day’s action. The competitive element of the rally on Saturday featured twelve stages in the Ringwood and Wareham Forests, with four loops of three stages punctuated by service halts at Canford Arena, located five-miles north of Bournemouth.

Stage one was to set the scene for the rest of the rally, with Nikara/Nikara stopping the clocks just 1.1 seconds ahead of Donnelly/Roberts. And, after the next two stages, the situation was little different, with the two crews separated by only 3.3 seconds in favour for the Finns as they entered the first service halt of the day.

It was much the same story in Class 6, with Jussi Kumpumäki/Jani Salo in their Fiesta just 0.9 seconds ahead of their fellow countrymen Jukka and Mikael Korhonen in the Pirelli Star Driver Škoda Fabia R2. But, with the first trio of stages held in Wareham Forest, where the sandy gravel roads have a reputation for becoming rutted in the corners, many of the competitors reported that it was difficult to gauge the level of grip. Indeed, the unpredictable conditions did not help Alex Parpottas/Chris Davies when a dislocated driveshaft brought their Fiesta to standstill on stage two.

The next batch of three stages took competitors into the Ringwood Forest complex, which included the familiar 5.7-mile run though the grounds of Somerley Park, where thousands of spectators came to watch the action. Throughout the trio of stages, the tussle at the top continued just as fiercely, with Nikara/Nikara booking into the next service halt a slender 0.6 seconds ahead of Donnelley/Roberts.

After a great start in their new Citroën DS3 R3T, Osian Pryce/Iestyn Williams were in third place, but an overshoot in the slippery conditions on stage five saw Korhonen/Korhonen slip past and hold a lead of 3.2 seconds ahead of Evans/Edwards in Class 6. Unfortunately for newly registered Christian South/Tomas Whittle, the failure of a clutch pedal clip meant that their rally was over on stage four, whereas for Chris Ingram/Joe Cruttenden, it was a driveshaft issue that forced them to sideline their Renault Twingo R2.

The third loop of three stages - that featured a return visit to Ringwood Forest and Somerley Park - were to be memorable for all the wrong reasons for Callum Black/Chris Williams, when their Suzuki Swift left the road at speed on stage eight, clipped a bank and launched itself into s series of rolls. Thankfully the crew emerged unscathed, but once out of the car flames appeared from underneath and, although the fire was eventually extinguished, significant damage had been sustained. With rescue crews having to attend, the stage was stopped and cars that had not been through the 10.4-miles of Ringwood North were diverted to stage nine and allocated a notional time.

As they booked into the third service halt of the day, the timesheets after stage revealed that Nikara/Nikara and Donnelly/Roberts were now neck-and-neck and on exactly the same time – to the tenth of a second! After a slower start than they would have liked, Evans/Edwards had picked up their pace and were now third overall and leading their class, albeit just 3.6 seconds ahead of the Korhonens.

Therefore, for the leading crews it was all to play for in the final three-stage loop. Nikara/Nikara edged ahead by 1.2 seconds on stage ten, only to have their car’s engine loose power on stage eleven and, not wanting to cause any further damage, had no choice but to stop.

This left Donnelly/Roberts in command and a steady run through the 12th and final stage saw them record their first ever outright MSA British Rally Championship victory and, in doing so, make history by being the first crew to win a round of the new look BRC.

“It’s absolutely fantastic to have won a round of the British Rally Championship”, said Donnelly at the finish. “We were flat out from the start and had a hard battle right up to the end.

“it was disappointing that Jussi and Petri (Nikara) had to retire, we would like to have beaten them on performance. The closeness of this event has proved that the two-wheel-drive format is the right way to go and I hope other events and championships take notice.”

A huge push in the closing stages saw Henry/Burns snatch second place ahead of Evans/Edwards by the most slender of margins, the Welshman eventually clamming Class 6 honours.

Exiting the rally in the closing stages were Alastair Fisher/Daniel Barritt, who’s excellent run in their Fiesta came to an end when their car got stuck in second gear on SS10, whilst Jack Rowe/James Aldridge’s similar car left the road on the same stage.

Another to fall at the final hurdle because with the curse of driveshaft failure were the Fiesta crew of Niko-Pekka Nieminen/Passi Haataja, the Finns disappointed not to make it to the end of their first BRC event with just one stage left to go, after successfully keeping out of trouble up to that point.

MSA British Manufacturers Rally Championship

With the news hours before the start of the event that Ford Motor Company was joining Renault UK and Citroën UK as registered manufacturers for this season, there is now a three-way battle between the brands.

Therefore, with scores calculated from the two leading cars from each manufacturer, it meant that with Donnelly/Roberts finishing first and Peter Taylor/Andrew Roughead fifth, Renault top the table with 34-points following the first round. Henry/Burns’ second place, coupled with Pryce/Williams’ fourth puts Citroën second on 33 points, whilst Evans/Edwards’ third and Kumpumäki/Salo’s sixth sees Ford with a score of 29 this weekend.

MSA British Junior Rally Championship

Class 10 and top placed junior was Garry Pearson with co-driver Craig Wallace. They hung on in their Renault Twingo R1 with some new car teething troubles, but were disappointed that the championship battle with Norwegians Steve Røkland/Dag Nordstrand didn’t materialise.

Pirelli Star Driver

After the podium presentations had taken place, it was announced that victor Donnelly had also won the coveted Pirelli yellow jersey and a nomination towards the end-of-season Pirelli Star Driver shoot-out for the top prize.

Reigning Pirelli Star Driver Jukka Korhonen was passed for the class lead on stage seven by the 2010 winner Elfyn Evans, but was another to be stopped by a driveshaft problem, frustratingly close to the finish on the final stage.

Citroën Racing Trophy

Maximum points in the Citroën Racing Trophy UK were awarded to Desi Henry/Niall Burns, their striking new DS3 R3T out-gunning Welsh pairing Osian Pryce/Iestyn Williams but two places in the event’s overall results.

FordFiesta SportTrophy

FordFiesta SportTrophy honours went to 2010 FST champions Evans/Edwards whose stunning performance put him on the overall podium’s second step. The Welsh pair overhauled Finns Kumpumäki/Salo half way through the day, never looking back.

Twingo Renaultsport R1 Trophy UK

Pearson/Wallace added to their tally at the finish of the single day event, becoming the first ever winners of the Twingo Renaultsport R1 Trophy UK. Their ‘hare’ in the guise of twice British Rally Champion Keith Cronin with co-driver Seb Marshall, was never going to score Twingo points, but nevertheless was disappointed to get a puncture, finally stopping on stage ten with a broken driveshaft.

BRC Teams Cup

Five teams have registered for this year’s BRC, with a maximum of two cars able to score points. Unfortunately for the Millers Oils 586 Team, with Callum Black/Chris Williams failing to finish due to an accident on stage eight, they come away from the event without any points.

Topping the Teams’ table in round one were M-Sport Ford with 20 points, after Evans/Edwards third place - and even taking into account their team mates’ Fisher/Barritt retirement. The Ford Finnish Junior Team comprised Kumpumäki/Salo and Nieminen/Haataja and, although only one of them finished, the team currently hold second in the standings with 20 points.

The points from Gethin Jones/Kevin Devine’s tenth place, added to the 12th of Matt Cotton/Glyn Thomas, sees the AVS Motorsport team in fourth on 16 points. As the oldest driver in the BRC this year, Jones proved a point with Class 8 victory after several years away from the championship. Arron Newby‘s excellent 13th place on his BRC debut with co-driver Julian Wilkinson in their Škoda Fabia, means that the Pirelli TEG Sport team hold fifth with 15 points – although it could have been more if it wasn’t for Korhonen/Korhonen’s 11th hour retirement.

BRC on Sky Sports

Catch up with the action from the BRC runners on Rallye Sunseeker International on Sky Sports this Tuesday (28th Feb) on Sky Sports 4 & HD4 at 8pm and if you missed the preview programme, it is repeated at 4.30pm on Monday (17th Feb).

Mike Brewer and Robbie Head present the Greenlight TV-produced programme with interviews from the buzzing Poole Quay ceremonial start, action from the stages and insight into the BRC's front wheel drive stars.

Next event

The second round of the MSA British Rally Championship takes place on 23/24 March, when competitors head to Welshpool for the start of the Bulldog Rally of North Wales.

Full Results

Posted: February 28, 2012 10:07 AM

Sunseeker Rally - 25 Feb 12 - FULL RESULTS (Zip File, All Sections)
Results on Line | Results by: Tynemouth Computer Services Rally Results
News/Photos British Rally Championship | Rallye Sunseeker
Podcasts: rallyfm.net

Pirelli TEG Sport Team Ready For 2012 Season

Posted: February 24, 2012 11:51 AM

Former MSA British Rally Champions TEG Sport kick off their 2012 campaign with drivers Jukka Korhonen and Arron Newby spearheading the challenge starting with this forthcoming weekends Rallye Sunseeker.

27-year-old Finn Korhonen won last year's Pirelli UK Star Driver award and will be joined by 17-year-old Briton Newby in the Carnforth-based team's Pirelli-backed Skoda Fabia R2s for the six-round British Rally Championship.

Korhonen is the first driver from outside the British Isles to win the Pirelli Star Driver prize and joins ex Pirelli TEG Sport drivers Adam Gould, Keith Cronin and Elfyn Evans on the roll of honour whereas Newby, son of TEG Sport proprietors Stuart and Lynn, will tackle the series following a successful season claiming fifth place in the 2011 Kick Energy Pirelli Formula 1000 Junior Rally Championship.

Newby, who will be co driven by regular Robert Wiseman Dairies competitor Julian Wilkinson in their cow-liveried car, contested his first gravel event only last weekend whereby he claimed a class award on the Procters Coaches Riponian Rally and also had a successful test earlier this week. Korhonen, from Siikajarvi, will be co driven by his namesake Mikael in the 170bhp, 1600cc car which will run with the striking black and yellow Pirelli livery.

Jukka Korhonen:
"I'm very grateful to Pirelli and TEG Sport for this fantastic opportunity and I fully intend to make the most of it. I really enjoyed my first taste of the Skoda Fabia R2 during the shoot-out and I think that we can fight for overall wins with this car. Coming to compete in Britain with Pirelli is one of my dreams and I am so happy to have achieved it."

Arron Newby:
"Naturally, I'm a little bit apprehensive about making the big step up to the British Championship but excited at the same time to be given such an amazing opportunity. We are treating this as a two year project with this year being one for learning and then hopefully pushing for some good results in 2013. I'm grateful to all of my sponsors, especially Robert Wiseman Dairies for their faith in me and hope to repay them over the next two seasons."

Stuart Newby:
"This year is going to be exciting for us as a team as it's the first time we have the opportunity to work with a flying Finn and I also have my son competing for the first time as well. We are looking forward to getting the season started and hopefully we can start the season well on Rallye Sunseeker this weekend."

BRC: NEW SEASON, NEW RULES

Posted: February 22, 2012 4:51 PM

It’s the dawn of a new era for the MSA British Rally Championship this weekend. Gone are the four-wheel-drive cars that have dominated top-level rallying for so long, to make way for a field of state-of-the-art two-wheel-drive machines that are driven by competitors determined to make a name for themselves in the sport.

Two-wheel-drive cars are now able to challenge for the coveted British title, in a move that is entirely in-step with current trends: establishing a cheaper cost of entry in these difficult economic times, together with a reflection of what people are actually driving today. And, with the cars’ performance more equal within the classes, the competition is going to be closer than ever.

This weekend’s BRC opener – the Rallye Sunseeker International - represents the first of the six-round championship that includes four gravel and two asphalt rallies – all of them top quality events and each with their own distinctive character. Although it’s only its second year in the UK ‘s premier rally championship, the event is certainly worthy of its inclusion: with its unique forest stages in Hampshire and Dorset, coupled with an incredibly high profile status - assets that saw the event win last year’s BRC Rally of the Year award.

The entry list sees a line-up of crews from previous years combined with a number of fresh faces making their British Rally Championship debut, with the average driver age of just 23. Therefore, organisers are confident that the BRC is achieving what it has set out to do - and that’s develop up-and-coming youngsters into future champions.

For decades, the BRC has been viewed as the world’s leading domestic rally championship and, to emphasise its international appeal, it continues to attract competitors from overseas. Perhaps unsurprisingly, there are a number of drivers from Scandinavia who will be gracing our shores this season and entertaining onlookers with their distinctive style of driving. However, they will have to call on their native skills if they want to beat the new breed of young Brits, many of whom have already proved their potential in the UK - and beyond.

The Rallye Sunseeker International commences with a ceremonial start on Poole Quay on Friday evening. And, if previous years are anything to go by, the spectator numbers are likely to run into the 1000s. The action gets underway on Saturday morning and sees 12 stages totalling 65 competitive miles in Ringwood and Wareham forests, with the finish scheduled from 17.45 at Bournemouth Pier.

MSA BRITISH MANUFACTURERS CHAMPIONSHIP

The MSA British Manufacturers Championship title will be fought out this season by privateer teams scoring points for the marque of car in which they drive. With most brands currently having homologated two wheel drive cars, this re-introduced category allows registered manufacturers and UK importers to become British Champions.

Renault UK returns to the BRC for the first time since taking the manufacturer’s title in 1998 and 1999. And, as recently announced, organisers are delighted to confirm that Citroen UK has also registered for this season.

MSA BRITISH JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP

Underlining the BRC’s commitment in rewarding its rising stars, a new-look Junior Championship has been introduced, which is open to drivers of 23 and under in Class 10 (R1) cars. This initiative sees the winner recognised with the title of MSA British Junior Champion.

PIRELLI STAR DRIVER

The Pirelli Star Driver competition will again see a winner selected from each round of the 2012 calendar. They will then go forward to an end-of-season shootout to win a Pirelli funded prize to help with their progression in the sport.

Jukka Korhonen won a Pirelli Star Driver nomination following his performance on last year’s Pirelli Rally and then went on to win the end-of-season shoot-out. His reward: a fully supported drive in a Pirelli TEG Sport-run Škoda Fabia in this year’s BRC.

BRC TEAMS CUP

The new BRC Teams Cup is aimed at professional motorsport teams running up to two cars. Drivers will be pre-nominated, but can change from event-to-event. All six rounds count towards the final Championship classification, but only the highest placed team crew scores. This year’s teams include: Ford Junior Team Finland, Millers Oils 586 Team, AVS Motorsport, Pirelli TEG Sport and M-Sport Ford.

FIESTA SPORTTROPHY

The Fiesta SportTrophy returns to the BRC for a fourth year, with Class 6 & 10 (R2 & R1) cars and the previous model ST (running all on its own in Class 8), which are all eligible to score points and win prize money - as well as the end-of-season winner getting an opportunity to test a Fiesta WRC car. www.fiestasporttrophy.co.uk

TWINGO RENAULTSPORT TROPHY UK

2012 marks the introduction of the Twingo Renaultsport UK Trophies, these two manufacturer-backed series’ providing a clear progression from the entry-level Class 10 (R1) through to the high-revving cars of Class 6 (R2). The winner from each series will be awarded a prize-drive on the final round of the French Rally Championship. www.renaultsport.co.uk

CITROËN RACING TROPHY

The BRC’s string of one-make series’ is bolstered once again by the Citroën Racing Trophy, with the C2R2 Max and front-running Citroën DS3 eligible to score points this season. www.citroenracingtrophy.com/uk

CITROËN’S YOUNG GUNS GO FOR MANUFACTURER GLORY IN BRITISH RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP

Posted: February 22, 2012 4:47 PM

With the announcement this week that Citroën UK is supporting the MSA British Rally Championship as an official manufacturer, the Citroën attack for this weekend’s opening round - Rallye Sunseeker International - is a strong one. Three young guns, Osian Pryce from Wales, Desi Henry of Northern Ireland, and the number one seed, fast Finn Jarkko Nikara will line up on Saturday in Bournemouth with their striking new privately run Citroën DS3 R3’s.

Nikara, the 25 year old from Saarijarvi in Finland has an impressive C.V. to date, as he switches to the 210bhp Citroën DS3. The former Finnish Junior Champion, and 2008 Pirelli European Star Shoot-out champion, has shone in the British Championship before, finishing sixth in the 2010 series using an R2 specification Renault. He has also been an extremely fast Group N driver at IRC and WRC level, and now relishes the chance to drive an R3 machine.
“It’s fantastic to be returning to the BRC with Autosport Technology and to be driving the Citroën DS3 R3T – I know this is a very good car and I’m sure we can be setting fastest stage times. We won’t have time to test the car before this event, but the plan is to find a pace we’re happy with.” Jarkko’s first opportunity to drive the car will be in the event shakedown.

At number 9, 2011 Citroën Racing Trophy UK winner Desi Henry debuts his recently acquired DS3 R3. Teamed with co-driver Niall Burns and run by John McKillop Motorsport, Desi will be one to watch. The 22 year old from Portglenone in Co. Antrim has only had a short gravel test to try and learn the very different characteristics of the turbo-charged DS3, which differs from his familiar Citroën C2 R2 Max. “The DS3 seems very good. It’s a very deceiving car at times, as it’s a lot quieter than the C2 Max, but it’s a fast car. We haven’t had that much mileage in the car, but certainly we will be trying hard at the weekend, and hopefully on Thursday’s shakedown we can settle in more. I’m definitely looking forward to it.”

The youngest of the Citroën runners is Osian Pryce from Wales, who will actually celebrate his 19th birthday on the eve of the rally! Seeded at number 10, Osian started his rallying career in 2008, competing in the Latvian Rally Championship from the tender age of 16. On his WRC debut on the 2010 Wales Rally GB, he took class honors by a staggering 22 minutes, before becoming the 2011 Fiesta Sport Trophy Champion. Now, however, he has switched to Citroën for 2012. Osian is happy after a test in the new car. “It’s a big step from last year’s R2 machine, but I could tell as a driver that Citroën Racing have put a lot of work into the car. We probably did 80 kilometers or thereabouts at Sweet Lamb and I really felt at home with DS3. It seems in some ways effortless to drive, and suits a smooth, tidy style. I am really looking forward to the Sunseeker and the BRC in the car. Our plan for the event however is to get a decent finish, as really it will be the first time we have measured ourselves against this line up of drivers.” Co-driver for the Welsh youngster is Iestyn Williams, whilst the car will be run by Andy Davies of Davies Motorsport.

Another young Welsh driver, Tom Cave has also taken delivery of a DS3, but he expects to debut it on round two of the British series, the Bulldog. With the possibility of another DS3 for that round and the fact a Trophy for the DS3’s will start on the Bulldog rally with generous prize money, things are looking good for the Citroën drivers in 2012. It all kicks off with the Rallye Sunseeker ceremonial start, at Poole Quay in Bournemouth where an expected 10,000 plus crowd will turn out to wave in a new era of the MSA British Rally Championship. Then twelve loose surface special stages on Saturday will decide the winners as Jarkko Nikara leads the field into the forests.

Fisher geared up for season opener

Posted: February 22, 2012 10:37 AM

Rising star Alastair Fisher will get his 2012 season underway when he contests Rallye Sunseeker, the opening round of the MSA British Rally Championship, in Bournemouth and the surrounding forests on Saturday (February 25). The 23-year-old from Trillick in County Tyrone is planning to tackle the opening two rounds of the BRC in his Ford Fiesta R2 prior to his second season in the WRC Academy starting on Vodafone Rally of Portugal at the end of March.

“We’re aiming to continue in the WRC Academy this season and we’re hoping to finalise our entry this week,” said Fisher. “However, before then, we’re doing the first two rounds of the BRC in order to get some time in the car and we will be aiming to hit the ground running when the WRC Academy starts in Portugal.”

Fisher will be a Rallye Sunseeker novice when the event begins with a ceremonial start in Poole on Friday evening. Despite his lack of knowledge of the 12-stage, 60- mile route, Fisher says he cannot wait for the event to begin.

“It feels like I’ve been out of the seat for ages so I’m really looking forward to the start of the new season,” said the Northern Irishman. “The entry for Sunseeker is really strong so it will be a competitive event. Apart from studying some on-board footage I don’t know much about the event, but the recce should cure that. The BRC is shaping up nicely for the new season and everyone will be pushing really hard as a two-wheel-drive car will be able to lift the crown.”

Fisher will continue his partnership with Burnley, Lancashire-based co-driver Daniel Barritt in 2012 following a successful maiden campaign together last year. Respected engineer Gerry McGarritty will oversee the running of Fisher’s Fiesta on the British championship events.

Fisher’s potential spotted by Autosport magazine
Alastair Fisher has been marked out as a star of the future by Autosport magazine. The esteemed weekly title featured an article in its February 9 issue titled Rallying’s Next Generation, which picked out 10 future stars of the World Rally Championship. Fisher was one of 10 drivers from around the world selected by Autosport’s rallies editor David Evans.

2012 RALLYE SUNSEEKER PREVIEW

Posted: February 21, 2012 1:40 PM

For the second year running, Rallye Sunseeker will kick off the MSA British Rally Championship in Bournemouth this Friday when Jarkko Nikara and co driver Petri Nikara will lead the field away at the now hugely popular ceremonial start alongside the event sponsor Sunseeker International Headquarters on Poole quayside. He returns to the championship this year at the wheel of an Autosport Technology run Citroen DS3 R3T.

Seeded directly behind him at No2 is Mark Donnelly from Omagh, with Dai Roberts from Carmarthen partnering him in the Renault Clio R3. Donnelly had several good performances last year, and is certain to be in the frame for a good result come Saturday evenings finish in Bournemouth.

Alastair Fisher and Daniel Barritt will run at No3 in their Ford Fiesta R2. Alastair began his rally career in 2005, and had some terrific runs last year, most notably winning the FIA WRC Academy cup section on the Rallye de France .

Elfyn Evans follows with Andrew Edwards in the co driver seat and they will compete in a Ford Fiesta R2.

2012 Pirelli UK Star Driver, Jukka Korhonen is up next in the TEG Sport run Skoda Fabia R2. The first ever non Great Britain winner of the award will have his Skoda Fabia carry a unique Driver livery for the whole of the British Championship.

Peter Taylor returns to the British Championship, this time in a Renault Clio R3. Partnered by Andrew Roughead, Peter certainly had people talking about some of his performances last year and will be one to watch out for on this years Rallye Sunseeker.

Callum Black, from Brackley in Northants, is back again this year for the BRC, and uses the Suzuki Swift S1600 that he campaigned last year. A lot of work has been done on the car in preparation for this year, and both he and co driver Chris Williams will start Rallye Sunseeker confident of a good finish in the Millers Oils 586 Team Suzuki.

2011 Citroen Racing Trophy UK winner Desi Henry is next at No 9 in a new car. Last years C2R2 has been replaced with a Citroen DS3R3. Niall Burns from Sligo will co drive and the pair should be seen as serious championship contenders for 2012.

No10 seed will be the 2300 Club John Easson Awards winner Osian Pryce in a DS3 R3T as well with Iestyn Williams co driving, the pair will be hoping for a strong performance in what should be one of the leading cars for victory.

Ford Junior Team Finland driver Jussi Kumpumaki will start Rallye Sunseeker at No 11 and have Jani Salo in the passenger seat for this year. Jussi is the 2010 Finnish Fiesta Trophy Champion and finished 3rd in the BRC Trophy last year behind eventual winner Osian Pryce.

Last year’s runner up, Tom Cave is back for more in 2012 and this time drives a Ford Fiesta R2 with Craig Parry in the co driver’s seat. Tom has bought a Citroen DS3 to rally this year, but sadly it will not arrive in the UK in time for the pair to compete on Rallye Sunseeker. With last years experience on the event, Tom should find this of benefit on this years rally.

No15 seed will be the second of the Ford Junior Team Finland drivers, in the shape of Niko Nieminen. Niko, from Loimaa has plenty of experience gained in campaigns on Finnish and Baltic rallies, and should not be discounted from a good result on Rallye Sunseeker.

2011 BRC Challenge winner Jack Rowe is up next, seeded 16th in his Ford Fiesta R2. Rowe stunned onlookers last year with his pace and ability, and will be aiming to repeat his feat again this year. James Aldridge will do drive for Jack.

Twice British Champion, Keith Cronin is seeded at No17 in what is reported to be a one off drive, in a Monster Sport Europe run Renault Twingo R1. It was a deal that all came about very quickly for Keith, who will be partnered this time by the very experienced Seb Marshall. He has registered for the BRC however, so don’t rule out further appearances this year.

Other notable entries include Ruary Macleod / Paul Beaton from Scotland who will drive a Ford Fiesta R2, Alex Parpottas / Chris Davies will compete in another Ford Fiesta R2, as will Matthew Cathcart from Northern Ireland with Aberdares James Morgan as co driver.

No22 and 23 seeds both make a welcome return to the BRC, and in Ford Fiesta ST’s to boot. Former National F2 champion Gethin Jones and Kevin Devine start at No22, and he is making a comeback after a 13 year absence. The car is run by AVS Motorsport who also run his No23 seeded teammate Matt Cotton. Glyn Thomas will co drive Matt who returns after a 3 year absence away from the sport. They also intend to contest the Teams Cup. A welcome addition.

With further entries from the likes of Christian South / Tomas Whittle in a Citroen C2R2, Nick Allen / Andy Bull in a Renault Twingo R2, Chris Ingram / Joe Cruttendon in a Renault Twingo R2, Not to mention Arron Newby / Julian Wilkinson in a TEG Sport run Skoda Fabia R2, as well as Steve Rokland in a Fiesta and Garry Pearson in a Twingo R1 the whole event is shaping up to be one of a serious competitive nature for those that not only are competing, but those who come to spectate.

Another major scoop for Rally fans is the fact that another former British Champion is set to grace the Sunseeker Stages. Former British Super 1600 Champion Justin Dale will drive an upgraded version of the Renault Twingo R2 on the south coast stages this weekend. As the car cannot be homologated untill March Justin and co driver Andrew Bargery will run as Course “0” car and will not be eligible for overall results.

Whatever happens, the quality in this year’s Rallye Sunseeker cannot be underestimated. The competitive edge of these cars is much closer now, so tight and ferocious battles will lie ahead over Saturday’s stages. The spectators are certain to be in for a treat, so the advice is get there early.

Cave aims to shine in the sun

Posted: February 20, 2012 12:31 PM

Tom Cave will start his 2012 MSA British Rally Championship campaign next weekend, when he embarks on the season opener, Rallye Sunseeker, for the second time. Cave and co-driver Craig Parry will be riding high after a stunning performance last year, where they ran winner and eventual BRC champion David Bogie a close second place on their first attempt of the event.

Cave has secured a Citroen Racing DS3 R3T for the 2012 BRC season but the car will not actually arrive in the UK until after the start of the Rallye Sunseeker. Therefore, he has decided to rent a Ford Fiesta R2 for the first round, to ensure that he stands a good chance of opening his 2012 account with a solid points finish.

The car will be run by Paul Benn Motorsport and while Tom has never driven the Fiesta R2 in anger, he did test the car when it was first launched, following its development by M-Sport. However, his flexibility, demonstrated last year when he drove no less than four different cars to the BTRDA Production Cup title, means that he hopes to be on the pace in the Fiesta quickly.

Although Tom already has one event under his belt and an idea of the nature of the rally, he realises that competition is likely to be fierce, with a crop of up-and-coming drivers choosing the two wheel-drive only BRC season to make their mark.

Commenting, he said;
"The Citroen doesn't arrive in the UK until the day of the Sunseeker, so clearly we have to rent a car for the event. The Fiesta should be a good option, as it is quick and well-developed, as drivers like Craig [Breen] and Elfyn [Evans] showed in last year's FIA Academy.

"I haven't driven the car in competition before but we'll see how we go and if we can find a good rhythm, then we'll push. The aim is to start the season with a solid result and while the Fiesta might not have the legs of say a Renault Clio R3 or the Citroen, the nature of the Sunseeker means the effects of this might be less than elsewhere.

"The stages tend to be quite short, so it's crucial not to have any problems. If you lose time on one stage, then it can be really difficult to make it back up again on the remainder, as they're all so short.

"We had a fantastic event last year, finishing second behind David and matching his pace. So of course, I'm hoping that maybe we can go one better this year. But there will be a lot of quick drivers on the event and a good, solid finish is essential to start the season."

The one-day event on Saturday 25 February begins with the traditional ceremonial start on Poole quayside and sees the crews tackle 12 stages covering 66 miles in and around the New Forest area. The first crew is expected to cross the finish ramp on Bournemouth seafront at around 6pm.

Seeded Entry Lists

Posted: February 19, 2012 1:59 PM

No Driver/Co-Driver (Car) [Class]
Rallye Sunseeker International 2012
SAFETY CAR
0 Justin Dale/Andrew Bargery (Renault Twingo Evo R2)
COMPETITORS
1 Jarkko Nikara/Petri Nikara (Citroën DS3 R3T) [5]
2 Mark Donnelly/Dai Roberts (Renault Clio R3) [5]
3 Alastair Fisher/Daniel Barritt (Ford Fiesta R2) [6]
4 Elfyn Evans/Andrew Edwards (Ford Fiesta R2) [6]
5 Jukka Korhonen/Mikael Korhonen (Skoda Fabia R2) [6]
7 Peter Taylor/Andrew Roughead (Renault Clio R3) [5]
8 Callum Black/Chris Williams (Suzuki Swift S1600) [5]
9 Desi Henry/Niall Burns (Citroen DS3 R3) [5]
10 Osian Pryce/Iestyn Williams (Citroen DS3 R3T) [5]
11 Jussi Kumpumäki/Jani Salo (Ford Fiesta R2) [6]
12 Tom Cave/Craig Parry (Ford Fiesta R2) [6]
15 Niko-Pekka Nieminen/Pasi Haataja (Ford Fiesta ) [6]
16 Jack Rowe/James Aldridge (Ford Fiesta R2) [6]
17 Keith Cronin/Seb Marshall (Renault Twingo R1) [10]
18 Ruary MacLeod/Paul Beaton (Ford Fiesta R2) [6]
19 Alex Parpottas/Chris Davies (Ford Fiesta R2) [6]
20 Matthew Cathcart/James Morgan (Ford Fiesta R2) [6]
22 Gethin Jones/Kevin Devine (Ford Fiesta ST) [8]
23 Matt Cotton/Glyn Thomas (Ford Fiesta ST) [8]
24 Christian South/Tomas Whittle (Citroen C2 R2) [6]
25 Nick Allen/Andy Bull (Renault Twingo R2) [6]
26 Chris Ingram/Joe Cruttendon (Renault Twingo R2) [6]
27 Arron Newby/Julian Wilkinson (Skoda Fabia R2) [6]
29 Steve Rokland/Dag Nordstrand (Ford Fiesta R1) [10]
30 Garry Pearson/Craig Wallace (Renault Twingo R1) [10]

Rallye Sunseeker Challenge 2012
75 Richard Archer/John Connor (Opel Corsa) [RC5]
76 Simon Moore/Emma Morrison (Renault Clio) [RC4]
77 Richard Sykes/Simon Taylor (Citroen C2R2 Max) [RC5]
78 Russ Thompson/Andy Murphy (Renault Clio) [RC4]
79 James Ford/Neil Colman (Ford Escort MK2) [RC5]
83 Mark McCulloch/Anthony Litchfield (Proton Satria) [RC3]
84 Steven Smith/Daniel Johnstone (Peugeot 206 RC) [RC4]
85 Tony Simpson/Stefan Arndt (Ford Fiesta) [RC4]
86 Adam Taylor/Loic Ditchburn (Ford Fiesta ST) [RC4]
89 Gareth White/Mike Dickson (Citroen C2R2 Max) [RC5]
90 Graham Roberts/Ryan Dooley (MG ZR Rover 200) [RC3]
91 James Watts/Steve Hartley (Volkswagen Polo) [RC2]

Rallye Sunseeker Historique 2012
101 Richard Lane/Frank Richer (Ford Escort) [H3]
102 James Potter/Nick Broome (Ford Escort MK2) [H3]
103 Peter Egerton/Alun Cook (Ford Escort) [H3]
104 Robert Dennis/Bob Stokoe (Ford Escort) [H3]
105 Matthew Fowle/Elliott Edmondson (Ford Escort Mexico) [H1]
106 Nick Danks/Martin Corbett (Ford Escort Mk1 Mexico) [H1]
109 Bob Gibbons/Stuart Cardell (Ford Cortina MKII) [B3]
110 Clive King/Bob Ward (Mini Cooper S) [MC2]
111 Eric Davis/Russell Joseph (Mini Clubman) [MC3]
112 Andrew O'Hanlon/James Crook (Austin Mini Cooper) [MC2]
114 Jason Thompson/Hugh Thompson (BLMC Mini) [MC2]
115 Gordon Cameron/Sheila Grimshaw (Morris Cooper) [MC2]
116 John Brooks/Phil Harvey (Austin Mini Cooper) [MC2]
117 Nigel Dutson/Keith Fellowes (Austin Clubman GT) [MC2]
119 Wayne Loveland/Michael Ellis (Fiat 131) [H3]
120 Peter Lansdale/Adrian Grinsted (Chrysler Sunbeam Lotus) [H3]

Rallye Sunseeker National 2012
35 Roger Duckworth/Mark Broomfield (Subaru Impreza WRC) [4]
36 Anthony Willmington/Andy White (Mitsubishi EVO6) [4]
37 Michael O'Brien/Paul Spooner (Ford Focus WRC) [4]
38 Daniel O'Brien/Paul Morris (Ford Focus WRC) [4]
41 Alan Carmichael/TBA (TBA ) [PBRC3]
42 Stuart Larbey/Simon Larbey (MG Metro 6R4) [5]
43 Shelly Taunt/Julie Murphy (Subaru Impreza N10) [PBRC3]
46 Matt Thorne/Les Harrogate (Ford Escort Mk II) [9]
47 Alex Hawkins/Bradley Down (Subaru Impreza) [4]
48 Simon Smith/Sylvia Earle (Ford Escort) [10]
50 Matthew Smith/Mike Singleton-Legg (Ford Sierra XR) [5]
51 Jay Wyatt/Sally Wyatt (Ford Escort MK II) [9]
52 Darren Jones/Paul Burley (Seat Ibiza) [9]
53 Gary Hayter/Richard Aitken (Peugeot 205) [8]
54 Rod Bennett/Henry Richardson (FIAT Stilo Trofeo) [9]
55 Mike Hall/Andy Hall (Ford Escort Mexico) [9]
58 Alan Paramore/James Sunderland (Land Rover Wolf XD) [6]
59 Tom Aldridge/Mark Brown (Land Rover Wolf XD) [6]
60 Curtis McKerlie/Ross Hunter (Land Rover Wolf XD) [6]
61 Ross Cookman/Malcolm Lofthouse (Land Rover Wolf XD) [6]
62 Peter Entwistle/Robert Birch (Land Rover Wolf XD) [6]

Rallye Sunseeker

RALLYE SUNSEEKER TO SAIL THE AIRWAVES WITH RALLY FM

Posted: February 19, 2012 1:58 PM

Rallye Sunseeker has once again joined forces with RallyFM.net to provide 24hrs non stop coverage leading up to, and for the duration of this years event, the opening round of the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship.

Used on last years event as well, RallyFM.net provided coverage to followers of the event from locations such as Australia, Barbados, Estonia, Japan, Canada and the USA to name just a few. The organisers received some superb feedback on the service after the event, and the fact that so many could keep in touch with the event Worldwide. RallyFM.net has previously been seen in service on the likes of Rally Yorkshire, the Tempest Stages, Shell V-Power King of the Hill and sol Rally Barbados

RallyFM.net is broadcasting live now and will again cover the ceremonial start in Poole on the Friday, and again throughout the Saturday of the event. It is RallyFM.net that provides all the Rallye Sunseeker commentators with the most up to date news, results and live reports as they take place, and so enable all the listeners, which include members of the Rally Organising team, to follow the action “live” as it happens.

The progress of modern communications means that RallyFM.net can now provide through several platforms access for those wishing to listen to event news and features as they happen, and they are available for iPhone, iPad, as well as via Windows Mobile, Real Player, Quicktime and also via, Tunein Radio and Reciva Radio (details at www.rallyfm.net).

It is not just Rallye Sunseeker that they broadcast from. Some of the events later in the year will include, every round of the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship whilst in early June they will broadcast live commentary from the Shell Vpower King of the Hill and Sol Rally Barbados.

The team behind RallyFM.net, also works in other broadcast fields, and are for example are involved in more avenues of Radio Media. Community Radio, Village Radio, and Hospital Radio all play a major part in what they can do, and is just a small example of the depth of experience that they have.

For more details of how to access the radio please visit www.rallyfm.net or by getting in touch on studio@rallyfm.net

NIKARA BACK TO MSA BRC WITH CITROEN DS3 R3T

Posted: February 19, 2012 1:57 PM

Jarkko Nikara will return to the MSA British Rally Championship behind the wheel of Autosport Technologys Citroen DS3 R3T.

The reigning R2 and Teams Cup Champions are excited by the project. Team spokesman said “ We certainly enjoyed working with Jarkko and Petri in 2010 so when the opportunity came to resume the partnership in 2012 we all worked really hard to make it happen. I’m sure with Jarkko, Petri and the DS3 R3T we have a winning combination and it will be a very interesting year.

Jarkko commented
“It’s fantastic to be returning to the BRC with Autosport Technology and to be driving the Citroen DS3 R3T – I know this is a very good car and I’m sure we can be setting fastest stage times.”

The first time Jarkko will drive the car in anger will be at the shakedown for Rallye Sunseeker.
“We wont have time to test the car before this event but the plan is to find a pace we’re happy with.”

Rallye Sunseeker is the first round of the MSA BRC. It starts with a ceremonial start on Friday 24th February before an action packed Saturday 25th in the forests around Poole and Bournemouth.

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY ON RALLYE SUNSEEKER

Posted: February 19, 2012 1:55 PM

It could well be a first next weekend on Rally Sunseeker in that Michael and Daniel O Brien from St Albans take to the stages. Normally when a father and Son compete, it is as Driver and Co-Driver but in this case it will be in two World Rally Cars. Having missed the Wydean Rally last week due to unforeseen work circumstances where a prominent member of the O Brien workforce was taken ill, Daniel and Dad Michael have decided to use the Rallye Sunseeker event as a competitive test in their P+R Benn run cars.

Daniel will drive the 2002 World Rally Car, which, was previously driven by Dad, Michael and will be co driven by Paul Morris. The car is an ex M-Sport car, previously seen in the hands of Roman Kresta and Francois Duval, and Daniel the 2008 British Junior Rallycross Champion and 2009 British Junior Rallycross Champion will be determined to grab a good result. The pair are contesting the BTRDA and Welsh National Forest Championships this year, and Rallye Sunseeker provided a good opportunity to have a run out in the car. Daniel told Rallye Sunseeker earlier this week
“After missing the Wyedean due to some last minute work commitments I wanted to be out in the car as soon as possible and get some mileage covered before the next championship round. Its a good rally, I did the Sunseeker last year in the Fiesta R2 and went well on the slippy stages, It should be even more fun in the Focus this year. I’m not sure how we’ll go this year on the rally, there are some quick drivers entered, including my dad, but we’ll have a push on and see where we end up”

Mick meanwhile is a stalwart of both British and Irish Rallying. Involved many years ago he took a break to concentrate on his successful Plant Hire business, and came back to rallying some years ago in a Peugeot, finding that the Rally bug never really leaves you.

Mick is scheduled to drive a 2006 Ford Focus WRC, and will be partnered by the experienced Paul Spooner. Michael’s car has previously seen service in the hands of Ken Block no less. Speaking to Rallye Sunseeker he told us
“This will be a good shakedown for me and the new car before the Malcolm Wilson rally, as I haven’t been in the rally car since early November. We may just have to feel our way into it in the morning and build on that through the day. Its good to see a few more 4wd cars putting entries in to support the rally, which is always a well run and enjoyable event” He added "I have done the event before, and Daniel did the event last year, so its good to get time in the cars for us, ahead of whats going to be a busy year"

Daniel and Michaels cars will be run on Rallye Sunseeker by Cumbrian Preparation Specialist P+R Benn and carry sponsorship from www.mobrienplanthire.co.uk www.willowhire.com www.discountbannershop.co.uk www.excasafe.co.uk Kumho and Competition car insurance

FORD JUNIOR TEAM FINLAND GOING TO SUCCEED IN BRC SERIES

Posted: February 19, 2012 1:52 PM

The international rally season 2012 has already begun but the British Rally Championship series will not start until next week in Rallye Sunseeker. Finnish drivers have always been successful in the British rallies and there is plenty of interest for the upcoming season too.

Totally new rally team, Ford Junior Team Finland, is coming to BRC with two drivers; Jussi Kumpumäki and Niko Nieminen. They are competing with Ford Fiesta R2's which both drivers are familiar with from last season.

22 year old Jussi Kumpumäki from Uusikaupunki is the 2010 Finnish Fiesta Trophy champion and since then he has been focusing on the international rallies.

"Last year was a big learning curve as I drove in many different events. I won on both gravel and tarmac. In BRC I was in 4th place in R2 class and 3rd in the Fiesta Trophy" Kumpumäki says.

"I am now confident about this upcoming season and have set my sights high I will be aiming for the victory in R2 class and the best possible overall results amongst the different two wheel drive cars. Experiences from the past season are a great help and preparing for the new season is easier. Apart from the opening rally, the rest of the events are familiar. I will be competing with two top co-drivers, Marko Salminen (Finnish Champion 2011) and Jani Salo (BRC R2 Champion 2011) this season" Kumpumäki continues.

19 year old Niko Nieminen from Loimaa has been busy competing in both Finnish and Baltic rallies. Many rally events and hard training have raised young man's speed to a competitive level this past season. Nieminen's car is provided by Katap Racing. The team owns a share of the Estonian MM-Motorsport who have experience of rallying at the World Champion level.

Nieminen who became 3rd in the 2011 Finnish Fiesta Trophy is pleased with the new challenges in the BRC series. His co-driver is experienced Pasi Haataja.

"This is an important step in my early rally career. I have noticed that all these different races have improved me as a driver. I think the British series is possibly the best option for me at this stage" says Niko Nieminen.

"The series is extremely competitive, so I get to test my speed against the other young drivers. I will learn a lot during my first season. So I am not quite dreaming of the victories yet."

TWINGO RENAULTSPORT R2 EVOLUTION TO DEBUT ON RALLY SUNSEEKER

Posted: February 15, 2012 4:24 PM

Former works driver Justin Dale and multiple Rallye Sunseeker winning co-driver Andrew Bargery will drive a Twingo Renaultsport R2 Evolution on the opening round of the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship.

The car, which is the latest variant of the successful 1.6-litre Twingo, will act as a course car ahead of the main international field and will be run by Renault Sport Technologies’ own engineers. The Twingo R2 in its existing form has already tasted success on Rallye Sunseeker International, a pair of Autosport Technology cars taking the top two podium steps in Formula 2 in 2011, the ultra reliable multinational team going on to take the British Teams Rally Championship at the end of last season.

Dale has already complimented the Twingo, having driven Pajunen’s car at a sponsor’s day last year and the R1 variant at this year’s BRC Media Day. He and Bargery will team up after last contesting the BRC in a Clio in 2006 to showcase the new Twingo R2 Evo, which will make its UK debut on the Dorset & Hampshire based event.

Renault UK’s recent registration to this year’s British Manufacturers Rally Championship and the new Twingo Renaultsport Trophy coupled with around a third of the entries on this year’s opening round, underlines the French marque’s commitment to UK rallying.

“We are keen to show off the new Evo version of the Twingo R2 and evaluate its performance on gravel. The British Rally Championship’s move to a two wheel drive formula is important to Renault and we intend to be at the forefront with our range of cars,” said Renault Sport Technologies Sales Manager Jean-Pascal Jocou, who will attend the event to keep an eye on not only Dale’s progress, but all the Renault competitors.

Rallye Sunseeker International starts on Poole Quay on Friday 24th February at 18.00hrs with stages throughout Saturday in the forests north of Bournemouth

RALLYE SUNSEEKER GETS THE THUMBS UP FROM THE BRC

Posted: February 15, 2012 4:17 PM

Rallye Sunseeker will next week kick off the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship in style when crews will set out on their 2012 campaign in and around the Forests of Poole and Bournemouth.

Organised by Southern Car Club, and winner of the coveted BRC Rally of the Year 2011 award the Organisers have a compact event planned for all the crews that will attend.

Speaking to Rallye Sunseeker Mark Taylor, Managing Director (UK Rally Limited) told us that
“It’s fantastic to be back in southern England for the first round of the new season on Rallye Sunseeker. The organisation here is first class, testament to winning the Best Event award in 2011. If there is one rally in the UK calendar which demonstrates to me the near perfect template by having a real buzz and regional presence, engaging with the local community, providing corporate opportunities and a dynamic public show worthy of a top class sporting event, then Rallye Sunseeker is it.”

With the scene all set for some frantic action next weekend, Clerk of the Course Rob Pike told us
“Its terrific that we are welcoming back the BRC crews to Southern England again this year. We had a good event last year and the weather was kind to us, and we are all looking forward to next week in Poole and Bournemouth where we intend to test the crews really well.”

BARBADOS TOURISM AUTHORITY TO CO HOST RALLY SHOW

Posted: February 13, 2012 3:16 PM

With Rallye Sunseeker, the opening round of the 2012 British Rally Championship, fast approaching, the latest news is that Barbados Tourism Authority has joined forces with the event to Co-Host the Scrutiny and Documentation Show held at the Bournemouth International Centre on Friday 24th February.

The Show will open to the public, and be held in the Purbeck Hall and will offer spectators the chance to see the Drivers and Cars who will compete on this year’s event up close. The Show will begin at 10.00am.

Speaking to Rallye Sunseeker Petra Roach, Barbados Tourism Authority’s vice president of marketing and sales commented:
“we jumped at the opportunity to co-host the Scrutiny and Documentation event at Bournemouth International Centre as we want to show all that our fabulous island has to offer motorsports fans and lovers of the good life. We intend to bring a slice of Barbados to the BIC so that fans can stop by and understand why people come back to Barbados again and again - once you’ve tasted paradise, nothing else tastes as divine! ”

Scrutiny in previous years has always attracted lots of spectators and the use of the Purbeck Hall will be of massive benefit to all those who attend this years event, as Screens2Go will have their large TV screen in the hall to provide rally features and interviews.

Rallye Sunseeker caught up with Steve Piper, Head of Venues for BH Live which is the Leisure and Cultural Trust that manages the centre and he told us “We are delighted to be welcoming the Rallye Sunseeker scrutiny team and participants to the Bournemouth International Centre. This is a really exciting event for everyone involved and demonstrates BH Live’s capacity to deliver a wide and diverse range of events.”

With Rallye Sunseeker being an important part of British rallying over the last number of years, Southern Car Club have striven to ensure that its high standards are maintained for competitors and fans alike and event director Rick Smith was delighted to tell Rallye Sunseeker that “the novelty of a holiday promotion, linked to the Rallye Sunseeker scrutiny & documentation at BIC, was immediately seized on by Barbados

Tourism Authority; their vision of cross- promotion was the same as ours, so it will be a partnership that benefits both parties. See the cars & crews and book a holiday!”

The Barbados Tourism involvement does not end there, as they are also supporting the Sunseeker National Rally and have offered a fabulous prize for the winner of this year’s event. This years winner will receive a prize worth more than £5,500 which includes free entry to Sol Rally 2012 (9 & 10 June), shipping the rally car to Barbados, flights accommodation and a rental car for the driver and co-driver when on the island.

Sol Rally Barbados 2012 is organised by the Barbados Rally Club and is a two-day tarmac rally, with 24 special stages run on the island’s intricate network of public roads which are ideal for a challenging and exciting rally.

Petra Roach, Barbados Tourism Authority’s vice president of marketing and sales commented:
“I love coming down to Poole and Bournemouth each year for the Rallye Sunseeker to be a part of this momentous event which is a wonderful build up to our own award winning Sol Rally Barbados in June.

Sol Rally Barbados already has over 60 entries and is the Caribbean’s biggest annual motor sport international. We have created something really special on our own slice of paradise - a world class event that attracts fans from around the globe and it is particularly apt in 2012 which is dedicated as our Year of Sport; from grassroots to world class. Away from the roads, there is as much fun to be had for spectators as well as drivers in Barbados from sailing to surfing, dining to diving and of course all whilst basking in glorious sunshine so we are sure to live up to the expectations of everyone involved in the Rallye Sunseeker – the winners are certainly in for a good time!”

Keith Cronin to drive Twingo Renaultsport R1 Trophy car

Posted: February 11, 2012 8:56 AM

Double British Rally Champion Keith Cronin will drive a Twingo Renaultsport R1 Trophy car on the opening round of this year’s British Rally Championship, Rallye Sunseeker International.

The 2009 & 2010 champion will be partnered in the Mantis Performance Car Care sponsored car by BRC and WRC Academy co-driver Seb Marshall (tbc)

Irishman Cronin’s appearance will be his second on the event, contesting it in 2008, three years before it debuted as the BRC opener, but Marshall has experience of the Dorset and Hampshire stages, finishing fourth alongside Adam Gould last year.

Having made a sensational BRC debut in 2009, winning at his first attempt, Cronin became the first Irishman to take the title since Billy Coleman in 1974 and the first from the emerald isle ever to win it twice.

“I have been working hard to get deal to compete at International level but so far I haven’t managed to secure anything. When the opportunity to drive the R1 Twingo came up, I accepted and I am really looking forward to driving the car. Let’s hope I can show what the car is capable of doing and provide a competitive bench mark for the other Twingo competitors.” said Cronin.

Cronin’s will be a one-off promotional appearance in the car which has been prepared and will be run by the official Twingo Renaultsport Trophy UK technical and parts suppliers Monster Sport Europe.

“The Twingo Trophy is new to the UK this year and this will be the first competitive outing for the R1 variant on gravel.” explains Trophy Manager Simon Moss, “So we wanted to make a bit of a splash and Keith kindly agreed to take the challenge. I’d like to thank Mantis for making this possible, as the car will run under its colours.”

Rallye Sunseeker International starts on Poole Quay on Friday 24th February at 18.00hrs with stages throughout Saturday in the forests north of Bournemouth.

Twingo Trophy UK
Rallye Sunseeker

THE WOLVES ARE BACK ON SUNSEEKER

Posted: February 9, 2012 12:34 PM

The Armed Forces Rally Team are delighted to be back in action at Rallye Sunseeker after missing the 2011 event. They are looking forward to opening this year’s 2012 Land Rover Championship with the challenge of the forest tracks that the Sunseeker has to offer. They have a strong team line-up of drivers and co-drivers, some experienced and some new, but all keen to demonstrate their skills with the Wolf and to gain the first points of the season. Thanks must go to all of the sponsors who have made this return possible.

Speaking of their return Rally Director Rick Smith told Rallye Sunseeker
“ We really missed the Armed Forces Rally Team last year, their professionalism, driving skills and friendly banter are a credit to all HM Forces, so it’s great to see them back in action; in conjunction with Army Recruiting and Rallying for Heroes who will be displaying at Somerley Park, venue for the Vale Motors Experience & Motor Fair”

RALLYE SUNSEEKER GETS NEW FAN CLUB

Posted: February 9, 2012 11:28 AM

Rallye Sunseeker has joined forces with national brand Spearmint Rhino to provide a new Rally Club for all those involved in this year’s event.

The first Spearmint Rhino club opened in 1989 in Upland, California and has to date 31 venues in the USA, but has progressed to venues worldwide as the success of its business keeps expanding. The UK sees clubs in Birmingham, Leicester, London, Sheffield and of course Bournemouth.

Speaking to Rallye Sunseeker John Specht, Vice President of Spearmint Rhino UK told us
"We're delighted to be an official partner of the prestigious Rallye Sunseeker this year. Look out for our Spearmint Rhino beauties at the race and may the best driver win! It's going to be red hot."

The Spearmint Rhino promotional girls are set to make their presence felt with appearances on the event throughout the weekend, a delighted Rick Smith told Rallye Sunseeker “Once again we are delighted to have an International brand such as Spearmint Rhino join us at Rallye Sunseeker to form a new Club for the event. It is a measure of the events success that we have high profile partners such as these, and their attendance can only add, to what is a superb event for the South of England”

More Details:

Rallye Sunseeker

BARBADOS RAISES THE BAR AT RALLYE SUNSEEKER

Posted: January 27, 2012 10:17 PM

Rallye Sunseeker, next month’s opening round of the MSA British Rally Championship, will be the focus of a major push for Sol Rally Barbados 2012 (June 9/10) and its island home. The organisers and tourism backers of the Caribbean’s biggest annual motor sport international will use the award-winning event for the third consecutive year as a key part of its overseas promotion, while stepping up the level of involvement.

Supported by the island’s private sector Tourism Development Corporation (TDC), the Barbados Rally Club (BRC) will reward the winners of Rallye Sunseeker National with free entry and shipping to Sol RB12, flights and accommodation for driver and co-driver, plus rental car, a prize valued at around US $8,500 (£5,500). In addition, the Barbados Tourism Authority’s (BTA) London office has this week signed an agreement to become a direct Marketing Partner of Rallye Sunseeker; key among a raft of value-added benefits is title sponsorship of an exciting new component of the event, a travel exhibition to run alongside Scrutineering, a first in UK rallying.

After 25 years as round one of the ANCRO National Rally Championship, Rallye Sunseeker became the opening round of the MSA British Rally Championship in 2011; it was voted ‘Rally of the Year’ by drivers, co-drivers and officials in only its first season in the UK’s leading championship. Based in the English south coast towns of Poole and Bournemouth, this year’s event is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, February 24/25.

The innovative ‘Rallye Sunseeker featuring the Barbados Holiday Show’ will be staged on Friday in the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC), which won the Outstanding Customer Service of the Year category at the Bournemouth Tourism Awards 2011. Among the best-known venues in the south of England and only a few hundred yards from the Town Square, the BIC is a big draw for local people, who have turned out in large numbers for an ‘up-close-and-personal’ look at cars and drivers at previous out-of-town scrutineering venues.

Once this new event has attracted the Friday shopping crowd in Bournemouth, attention will turn to the Ceremonial Start on Poole Quay, where thousands more families will gather for a further three hours of rally-themed entertainment after sunset. On Saturday, Somerley Park will host the keynote spectator stage, with one run each in the morning and afternoon, with the popular Motorfair to maintain interest throughout the day. Barbados and Sol RB12 will also be well represented at these venues.

BTA vice-president, marketing & sales UK, Petra Roach said: “Sol Rally Barbados is a key element of our sports-tourism product; there is great synergy between it and Rallye Suneeker – both earn vital tourist income in ‘slower’ months, winter in the UK and summer in Barbados, both are organised by really professional teams, and both attract huge crowds, so I am delighted to take our relationship to the next stage.”

Event Director Rick Smith said:
“Rallye Sunseeker has always been about innovation, so our plan to use the BIC as the venue for Scrutineering and Documentation was always on the wish list. Now that the Barbados Tourism Authority has continued - and increased - its support for 2012, we are pleased that the novel plan to link the two activities has culminated in a motor sport event allied to a holiday show."

Sol Rally Barbados 2012 entries double up

Sixty entries for the Caribbean’s biggest annual motor sport international have now been posted on the official Sol Rally Barbados 2012 web site (www.rallybarbados.bb), almost double the total at the same time last year. Of those 60, 21 are from overseas, including the prize packages offered to the winners of the 2011 Roger Albert Clark Rally and 2012 Rallye Sunseeker National in the UK.

Sol RB12 Chairman Barry Gale said:
“By this time last year, we had 32 entries – to be at a total nearly double that now is remarkable. What interests me is that there are nearly 40 local or regional crews who were entered last year, but are not yet on this year’s list. The ASRs explain in detail the order in which we accept entries, and the ratio of international, regional and local. What can I say, other than make sure you get your entry in fast!”

Sol Rally Barbados and Shell V-Power King of the Hill are organised by the Barbados Rally Club, which celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2007; Sol RB12 is the 23rd running of the Club’s annual International All-Stage Rally and marks the fifth year of title sponsorship by the Sol Group, the Caribbean’s largest independent oil company.

RALLY BARBADOS - 9-10 Jun 12

SKODA UK supports British rallying and renews official vehicle partner deal with Rallye Sunseeker

Posted: January 27, 2012 12:21 PM

After a highly successful joint venture last year, ŠKODA UK will continue as Official Vehicle Partner to Rallye Sunseeker (February 24-25), the opening round of the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship.

The highly popular Southern Car Club-organised event, which was voted BRC 2011 ‘Rally of the Year’, takes place in the forests near Bournemouth and Poole. Over the last 26 years it has grown into one of the best-loved and keenly contested events in the rally calendar.

Over the course of the event, rally officials will drive a fleet of award-winning four-wheel ŠKODA Yetis, which are ideally equipped for the slippery gravel forest roads.

ŠKODA UK will also loan the Dorset Police’s Traffic Division a Superb 3.6 V6 Elegance Estate 4x4 in police livery. This will be used before and during the event by Inspector Matt Butler (Dorset Police Rally Commander) and Neil Roden (Safety Manager, Rallye Sunseeker).

Rick Smith, Rallye Sunseeker Event Director:
“The feedback from our senior officials last year about the Yeti was phenomenal, they loved the car, so much so that I know one has recently brought a ŠKODA. We are therefore very pleased to retain ŠKODA as the official car.”

This year’s Rallye Sunseeker will feature a 10% increase in stage mileage, with 11 gravel speed tests for FIA homologated R1, R2 and R3 cars as well as Group A and N. The event will once again begin with a ceremonial start on Poole Quay on the Friday night (February 24), which last year attracted an 8,000 strong crowd, with the action taking place in forests near Ringwood, Ferndown and Wareham the following day. The event includes a stage and Motor Fair at Somerley Park and further information is available from:

Rallye Sunseeker

MIS MOTORSPORT TO SCREEN RALLYE SUNSEEKER

Posted: January 23, 2012 2:48 PM

With Rallye Sunseeker fast approaching Southern Car Club are working hard to increase the spectacle for both competitors and spectators, so the latest news to come from rally HQ is always awaited with bated breath!

The latest is that MIS Motorsport have teamed up with the organisers to sponsor a mobile TV screen provided by Screens2Go to transmit live footage of the event and interviews during the course of the rally.

MIS Motorsport is the leading global supplier of insurance products and services to the motorsport industry; they have clients in F1, DTM, NASCAR, GT1, GT3, WRC, IRC, Dakar and the BRC. Their Chief Executive Dermot Hanafin is no stranger to motorsport, and rallying in particular, when he occasionally gets behind the wheel. Dermot spoke to Rallye Sunseeker and told us
"although we are a global company, it makes sense for us to team up with Rallye Sunseeker and Screens2Go for this year's event. The rally is one of the best organised in the UK, and has a name for being well run and organised- for competitors by competitors. This matches our profile, as our company is not just about star names but about all that compete in any form of motorsport. Our collaboration with Screens2Go means that we can help bring a new form of rally coverage, and also get our message across to everyone involved."

The Screens2Go screen will be in Bournemouth and Poole and attend Scrutineering at the Bournemouth International Centre on the Friday, before televising the Ceremonial Start from the quayside at Poole Harbour live.

On Saturday Somerley Park, the venue for Motor Fair will see spectators viewing the stage live on the screen. Up to four cameras will be positioned on this stage so spectators will have plenty to entertain them.

During the two days of Rallye Sunseeker all footage will be transmitted live to the Rallye Sunseeker website in what is a massive coup for the event. Managing Director of Screens2Go, Charlie McGuckin spoke to Rallye Sunseeker and told us
"it's good to be coming back to Rallye Sunseeker, we were here a few years ago and it went well. We have a new smaller screen TV unit now so it means we can be mobile and access areas that we could not before. It's good that MIS Motorsport have joined us, as it means we can show to other organisers what can be achieved and how the rally, or any event for that matter can be screened back live through an event website" He went on to add
"we can attend any event at a minimal cost, but provide a service that adds to the promotion"

Rally Director Rick Smith was naturally delighted and he told us
"the whole deal came about very quickly at the Autosport Show and it's good to have Charlie back here in Bournemouth. When he was here a few years ago his service created huge interest. So with MIS Motorsport on board as a partner, it is shaping up to be a great addition for the rally. Dermot is well known in rallying and we are delighted to see him and his company join us."

MISS SUNSEEKER 2012 SET TO STAR AT BRC OPENER

Posted: January 23, 2012 12:45 PM

In conjunction with LMP Models, House of Fraser Bournemouth and A'courts Hair Salon the organisers of Rallye Sunseeker today announced a competition to find the Face of Miss Rallye Sunseeker 2012.

Following two 'Live' castings to take place on the 26th and 27th January at House of Fraser Bournemouth, 12 Finalists will be selected to attend a photo shoot, then their pictures will published on the Rallye Sunseeker website.

Once on the website, an on-line vote will be held between Friday 3rd and Friday 17th of February when the Top 6 will be chosen. These contestants will then be invited to the Final, which will held in conjunction with the Sponsors Welcome Reception at the Marriott Hotel on Thursday 23rd February. The winner will be chosen by a panel and be crowned the Face of Miss Rallye Sunseeker 2012. The winner will then attend several key events role, such as the Ceremonial Start in Poole, the Champagne Finish in Bournemouth and the Children's Trust Charity Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Saturday night.

Speaking to Rallye Sunseeker Alex Mellon, Marketing & Promotions Manager for the event told us "for many years now Rallye Sunseeker has been recognised as being one of the most professional events on the UK Calendar, breaking new ground in bringing rallying to the general public. The Face of Miss Rallye Sunseeker competition will not only bring glamour to the event, but hopefully launches a local girl into a career in modelling."

Kellyanne Morgan from LMP Models said "LMP Models is excited about promoting and finding the Face of Miss Rallye Sunseeker 2012 as the core of our business is to continually scout and train fresh new faces, we pride ourselves on investing in our models careers, guiding them through the fast-moving fashion and advertising industry. We ensure all of our models are of the highest standard, not only exceptional in looks, but also professional, reliable, and dedicated to our client?s needs and we look forward to ensuring the winner of this year?s competition meets the criteria."

VALE MOTORS SET TO STAR AT SOMERLEY PARK MOTORFAIR

Posted: January 23, 2012 12:18 PM

Announced today, is the news that Vale Motors of Wincanton will become the title sponsor of the traditional Motorfair at Somerley Park. The Vale Motors Extravaganza + Somerley Park Motorfair will run for the whole of Saturday 26th February at the expansive estate near Ringwood in Hampshire. A huge hit with spectators and competitors over the last 10 years it is envisaged that this year's Motorfair will be bigger and better.

Vale Motors will launch the NEW Subaru XV at the event, and with Subaru synonymous with rallying it was a natural connection for award winning Vale Motors. Sales Manager, Ean Jones told us
"Rallye Sunseeker is one of the biggest, if not the biggest events in the South of England, and it makes perfect sense for us to join them at Somerley Park. It is the perfect setting to market our company and launch the new Subaru VX to rally fans." He went on to tell us
"we intend to make this a big event and encourage spectators to come and see us at Somerley Park."

Somerley will of course host 2 high speed Rallye Sunseeker special stages, while Motorfair will feature various car displays and stands, coupled with entertainment for younger members of the family. There will also be a giant TV screen which will show live coverage from other parts of the special stage. Coupled with the innovative Buggy Raid and the awards ceremony for Rallye Sunseeker Historique, Somerley will offer a fantastic day out whatever your age. Entry is just £25 per car.

Vale Motors have been a franchised Subaru dealer in the South for over 30 years, and has award winning staff and Factory trained Subaru Technicians at the dealership. Five years ago it became part of the FJ Chalke group. One of the south west's longest established family owned motor dealers established in 1929. As well as main Dealer options they are also an approved PRO R supplier to Upgrade all Customer Vehicles.

Rob Pike, Rallye Sunseeker Clerk of the Course said "it is fantastic news that Vale Motors are joining us at Somerley Park and creating the Vale Motors Experience for everyone to enjoy and also launching the new Subaru too"

MIS MOTORSPORT TO SCREEN RALLYE SUNSEEKER

Posted: January 18, 2012 3:39 PM

With Rallye Sunseeker fast approaching Southern Car Club are working hard to increase the spectacle for both competitors and spectators, so the latest news to come from rally HQ is always awaited with bated breath!

The latest is that MIS Motorsport have teamed up with the organisers to sponsor a mobile TV screen provided by Screens2Go to transmit live footage of the event and interviews during the course of the rally.

MIS Motorsport is the leading global supplier of insurance products and services to the motorsport industry; they have clients in F1, DTM, NASCAR, GT1, GT3, WRC, IRC, Dakar and the BRC. Their Chief Executive Dermot Hanafin is no stranger to motorsport, and rallying in particular, when he occasionally gets behind the wheel. Dermot spoke to Rallye Sunseeker and told us “although we are a global company, it makes sense for us to team up with Rallye Sunseeker and Screens2Go for this year’s event. The rally is one of the best organised in the UK, and has a name for being well run and organised- for competitors by competitors. This matches our profile, as our company is not just about star names but about all that compete in any form of motorsport. Our collaboration with Screens2Go means that we can help bring a new form of rally coverage, and also get our message across to everyone involved.”

The Screens2Go screen will be in Bournemouth and Poole and attend Scrutineering at the Bournemouth International Centre on the Friday, before televising the Ceremonial Start from the quayside at Poole Harbour live. On Saturday Somerley Park, the venue for Motor Fair will see spectators viewing the stage live on the screen. Up to four cameras will be positioned on this stage so spectators will have plenty to entertain them.

During the two days of Rallye Sunseeker all footage will be transmitted live to the Rallye Sunseeker website in what is a massive coup for the event. Managing Director of Screens2Go, Charlie McGuckin spoke to Rallye Sunseeker and told us “it’s good to be coming back to Rallye Sunseeker, we were here a few years ago and it went well. We have a new smaller screen TV unit now so it means we can be mobile and access areas that we could not before. It’s good that MIS Motorsport have joined us, as it means we can show to other organisers what can be achieved and how the rally, or any event for that matter can be screened back live through an event website” He went on to add “we can attend any event at a minimal cost, but provide a service that adds to the promotion”

Rally Director Rick Smith was naturally delighted and he told us “the whole deal came about very quickly at the Autosport Show and it’s good to have Charlie back here in Bournemouth. When he was here a few years ago his service created huge interest. So with MIS Motorsport on board as a partner, it is shaping up to be a great addition for the rally. Dermot is well known in rallying and we are delighted to see him and his company join us.”

Entries Received

Posted: January 16, 2012 10:47 AM

Available at:

www.rallies.info/webentry/2012/sunseeker/entries.php?type=u&combined=1

RALLYE SUNSEEKER OFFERS CHANCE TO SPECTATORS TO WIN RALLY TICKETS

Posted: January 16, 2012 10:39 AM

Spectators are arguably the most important part of any Motorsport event. On Rallye Sunseeker this is no different and to this event the Organisers of Rallye Sunseeker 2012 are offering prizes of a AAA Car Pass and Programme worth £70.00 in two separate categories.

The prizes, awarded separately for both Photos and Videos are easy to access via Flickr and YouTube, and details are as follows.

Flickr
The first is for all the budding photographers out there, Rallye Sunseeker is giving away an AAA car pass & program worth £70 for the best photo taken on the event in 2011. Once you enter your photos will be put in a poll and the fans of the rally’s facebook page will pick the winner, which could even make its way into the Rally Programme. How to enter:

Join our group on Flickr
http://www.flickr.com/groups/rallyesunseeker2012/
Upload a photo to the group. Only one photo per person.

Upload your photo before 5th of February where they will be uploaded onto Facebook and a poll will be run to find the fans favourite photo of 2011

Entry closes at 23:59 on the 5th of February

This is for amateurs only, and is not open to Professional Photographers or Companies.

Photos will be uploaded on the rally’s facebook page and a poll will be set to find the winner.

Poll will run from 8th to the 15th of February.

The winner could see their photo in the event program

The facebook page can be found at http://www.facebook.com/rallysunseeker

Videos YouTube
Upload your videos to in the normal way and once you enter your videos will be put in a poll and the fans of the rally’s facebook page will pick the winner.

Subscribe to our channel on you tube here

http://www.youtube.com/user/RallySunseeker
Add a link to your video in the channel comment box. Only one video per person.

Upload your video to the group.

Upload your video before 5th of February where they will be uploaded onto Facebook and a poll will be ran to find the fans favourite photo of 2011

Entry closes at 23:59 on the 5th of February

This is for amateurs only, and is not open to Professional Video Photographers or Video Companies.

Videos will be uploaded on the rally’s facebook page and a poll will be set to find the winner.

Poll will run from 8th to the 15th of February.

The facebook page can be found at http://www.facebook.com/rallysunseeker

BILL GWYNNE RALLYSCHOOL REWARDS VOLUNTEERS ON RALLYE SUNSEEKER

Posted: January 10, 2012 2:17 PM

Marshals are an integral part of every motorsport event and are the unsung heroes of all those who compete. Rallye Sunseeker 2012 are therefore delighted to announce a partnership with the world-wide renowned Bill Gwynne Rallyschool, based near Silverstone, that will see 12 places offered, to those who volunteer their services on the opening round of the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship; a draw will take place at everyone of the venues used by the rally- including service and Scrutineering!

The Bill Gwynne Rallyschool has been in operation since 1982, and has been instrumental in the careers of several world famous drivers, Toshi Arai and Mohammed Bin Sulayem for example. There is wealth of experience too in their Instructors; Bill himself a five times British Champion, Paul who is no stranger to Rallye Sunseeker having competed on it , others include Martin Rowe, Nick Pollitt and Peter Bennett.

Speaking to Rallye Sunseeker Bill told us
"I am delighted to offer the twelve places to Rallye Sunseeker, because it's easy to forget that those who come and marshal are all volunteers. Rallye Sunseeker has been an important event in British rallying for many years now, and Southern Car Club have continually pushed the event upwards to where it is now as the opening round in the MSA British Rally Championship, no mean feat I can tell you. The event is a favourite with competitors, spectators and service crews so it was a natural thing to be involved"

Les Sansom the Chief Marshal told us
"what a wonderful prize to have, and be able to offer to those who will come and marshal on the event. Bill himself is very well known and the school he runs is held in very high regard so I am sure that the winners will have a superb day out.

Any volunteers are asked to contact 07778 805477 / +447778 805477 Preferred means of Contact, available up to 22.00hrs, or please leave a voicemail
volunteers@rallyesunseeker.co.uk or les.sansom@virgin.net

The announcement of this partnership between the Bill Gwynne Rallyschool and Rallye Sunseeker has delighted Event Director Rick Smith, who said "it's great news that my old friend Bill has come on board with this offer to the volunteers. He is so well known throughout the world (he has had drivers from 30 countries attend his school) and he and his team have taught drivers everywhere, that this can only add prestige to the event"

RALLY GUIDE No1 now available to download

Posted: January 1, 2012 7:04 PM

Organisers of Rallye Sunseeker 2012 would like to draw your attention to the fact that the RALLY GUIDE No1 is now available to download from the Rallye Sunseeker website.

Rallye Sunseeker

NGK Spark Plugs sponsors BRC Challenge

Posted: January 1, 2012 7:02 PM

Organisers of the successful BRC Challenge are proud to announce a new title sponsor in the form of NGK Spark Plugs.
NGK Spark Plugs has been a long term partner to the British Rally Championship and this move towards becoming the title sponsor for the BRC Challenge adds to the working relationship between the two parties.

Tim Howes, Technical Services Manager for NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd:
"NGK is heavily involved at every level of motorsport but I believe it is especially important to support the up and coming drivers of today to ensure a continued high quality pool of talent for tomorrow".

BRC Manager Mark Taylor added:
“It’s a great honour to have NGK come on board in a more formal capacity, they have been a long term supporter of the BRC and this just shows their continued commitment to rallying in the UK”.

With a prize fund worth £7000 on offer, the NGK Spark Plugs BRC Challenge has become the leading championship for young up and coming drivers, as well as established clubmen and women.

The NGK BRCC has gone from strength to strength over the past few years with increased entry lists and stage mileage, and 2012 is no exception. A new season opening event has been added to the calendar in the form of Rallye Sunseeker on the 24th February.

This hugely popular event gives the competing teams in the NGK BRCC the chance to gain maximum attention for their sponsors and sample new stages in the process.

The series also features within the MSA British Rally Championship’s British Rallyzone programme, produced by Greenlight Television for Sky Sports. Adding another incentive for prospective crews to highlight their talents and sponsors.

The NGK BRCC also welcomes back the Stars of the Future series that proved so successful last season, with Scotland’s Gary Pearson proving the class of the field.

Alongside the Fiesta SportChallenge and the Ladies award, the NGK BRCC is without doubt one of the best pound for pound rally series in the UK.

Competing crews get to sample both gravel and tarmac surfaces throughout the season on some of the best and well run events in Europe. From the forests of Kielder to the fast roads of Antrim, the NGK BRCC offers a fantastic opportunity for crews to test themselves.

The season kicks off in style in the south coast town of Poole for the eagerly anticipated Rallye Sunseeker.

IRDC and The Childrens Trust team up for Rallye Sunseeker Charity Dinner + Auction

Posted: January 1, 2012 7:01 PM

On the evening of Saturday 25th of February 2012, the IRDC (International Rally Drivers Club) and The Children’s Trust will team up to host a Charity Dinner and Auction at the event headquarters, the Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott Hotel. The aim is to continue to raise funds for this superb charity, one that has been synonymous with Southern Car Club, the organisers of the event for many years now. The relationship between Southern Car Club and The Children’s Trust stretches back many years, and over £80,000 has been raised to support the excellent work of the charity.

The Children’s Trust operates and runs the largest rehabilitation center for children in the UK, and works with, and aids children all across the country, as well as ensuring nursing and care services are available. The Trust firmly believes in an ethos that every child should have as much support and help to lead as normal a life as possible irrespective of their situation.

Speaking to Rallye Sunseeker Katie Roberts, Head of Community Fundraising told us
"we are delighted, that we have support from the IRDC for a Charity Dinner that will take place as part of Rallye Sunseeker, and we are delighted to team up with them to host it. For many years now Southern Car Club has supported us, and helped to raise funds for us. There will be a Charity Auction, on the Saturday evening with some brilliant items donated, and coupled with the fact that the IRDC are providing some VIP guests, it is all shaping up already to be one of our highlights of the year".

For the IRDC, it is a chance to support a worthwhile cause, while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere with those who are attending and IRDC Chairman Shaun Martin is really looking forward to the event and he told Rallye Sunseeker
"the IRDC are delighted to team up with The Children’s Trust and help host this Charity Fundraiser. I know that Southern Car Club and Rallye Sunseeker go back a long way in terms of their relationship, the amalgamation is another forward step and the IRDC are delighted to be involved for 2012. The IRDC will have members competing on the opening round of the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship anyway, so it will be good that they can then come and support the event on the Saturday evening and help us raise funds."

The IRDC was formed in 1969, with the idea of creating better communication between those involved in the sport of rallying to help improve and push the sport forward with competitors past and present. Its ability to work with, and encourage people to work together is in perfect accord with the principles of the Children’s Trust. Rally Director Rick Smith is delighted with the co-operation and he commented
"the connection between Southern Car Club and the Trust goes back quite a while, and following our inclusion into the MSA British Rally Championship, it was natural that the charity should join us. Our increased exposure to all forms of publicity should help raise awareness of the magnificent work they do.

For further details

Rallye Sunseeker

Regulations and Entry Forms now available

Posted: January 1, 2012 6:58 PM

Rallye Sunseeker will launch the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship, taking place through the forests in and around the Poole and Bournemouth area on the 24th / 25th February next year following its very successful inclusion in this years championship.

The Regulations and relevant entry forms can be found in the Competitor Section on the event website.

Here Competitors can access the relevant forms for Rallye Sunseeker International, Rallye Sunseeker Challenge, Rallye Sunseeker National and Rallye Sunseeker Historique events along with a comprehensive set of Rally Regulations.

The Organisers are acutely aware of the current climate we are in, and with this in mind, value for money has been foremost in their thoughts and the fees reflect this. Clerk of the course Robert Pike told Rallye Sunseeker
"The way things are at the moment, we have been keen to keep our event here in Poole and Bournemouth as cost effective as possible and I believe that we have managed to do this very well. We won the award for Rally of the Year 2011, and have been working hard in many areas to provide all the Competitors with the same standard, if not better on next years event that they experienced this year and ensure they enjoy a compact competitive event."

Regulations:

Rallye Sunseeker

Rallye Sunseeker International offers Festival of Speed Places

Posted: January 1, 2012 6:47 PM

The opening round of the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship season, Rallye Sunseeker International, has teamed up with the Goodwood Festival of Speed to offer some excellent incentives on next season’s event.

Organisers of the Dorset & Hampshire based rally, new to the BRC in 2011, are offering invitations to the world renowned motoring celebration for class winners on Rallye Sunseeker.

The fantastic opportunities don’t stop there though, as the overall winners of the British Rally Championship’s support series, the BRC Challenge, and the new Production BRC will also have the chance to attend the Goodwood event, which runs from 29 June – 1 July.

Rallye Sunseeker Manager Rick Smith and his Southern Car Club team have organised and run the rally stage at Goodwood for several years, previously offering a place to the highest placed junior or group N driver in recent years.

“After several ad-hoc BRC crews attended the Festival in 2011, we decided to organise something more structured for next year.” explains Smith. “Following discussions with the Goodwood organisers we have been able to secure these invitations and a specific British Rally Championship presence within the rally stage area.”

BRC Manager Mark Taylor added,
“This is a brilliant opportunity for the winners to showcase their talents in front of a massive audience. It will not only help to promote the individual crews, but it will further enhance the BRC’s worldwide status.” He concluded,
“With the average age of BRC drivers just 24 years in 2011 and more prominence given to the junior crews next year, Goodwood’s 2012 theme of ‘Young Guns – Born to win’ is also a perfect fit with Britain’s premier rally championship.”

Rallye Sunseeker International kicks off the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship on Poole Quay on Friday 24th February.

SANSOM VOLUNTEERS ON SUNSEEKER AS FOWLE BIDS FAREWELL

Posted: January 1, 2012 6:46 PM

There are some changes taking place at Rallye Sunseeker International, in the management team. Sadly 2011 was the last event for Matt Fowle who is stepping down from his role as Chief Marshall (Volunteers Manager). Having been present on the event in one form or other since 1986, Matt has been the driving force in coercing the massive team of volunteer marshals to turn out year-on-year.

Up until 2001 Matt marshalled at various points on the event, in those days the opening round of the National Rally Championship, and would have seen stars such as Richard Burns, Marcus Dodd and Kenny McKinstry compete. Then in 2002 he took over the role of Chief Marshal from Dave Walton and over the following 9 years has seen the rally grow to where it is today as the opening round of the MSA British Rally Championship.

Speaking to Rallye Sunseeker Matt said
"During my time as Chief Marshal the event has seen over 10,000 officials signed on, and over the course of the years many of these have now become very good friends. But don’t worry I will still be there in 2012, but this time I will be doing the event and taking part in the Historic Class in my Mexico. I know I will be in for a great rally, because I have seen at first-hand how hard the team behind Rallye Sunseeker work. Next year Les Samson will be taking over my role and having known Les for many years I know it will be safe in his hands and I wish him luck." When asked what he would see as his personal highlight he went on to add "I have seen the event change and grow over the years and it has been good to play a part in that. The stages at Avon Park were lost so the event took in the Wareham forests, and that was a success. The sea front stage moved from early Saturday morning to become a Friday night spectacular, and that brought rallying to the South coast public. This has now been replaced by the razzmatazz of the Pool Quay start, which was amazing last yea- over 7000 people turned up. All I want to do is thank EVERYONE who has helped me over recent years"

Les Sansom, is a well-known figure in the world of rallying in the southern parts of the UK. Les spoke to Rallye Sunseeker and told us
"the very first time I came out on the event it was called The Mazda Winter Rally and that was back in 19something or other! So when the team asked me to take on the post of Volunteer Manager (or Chief Marshal as I've always known it) I have to admit to some trepidation about following two masters of the role in Dave Walton back in the eighty’s and ninety’s and then my good friend Matt Fowle who has performed minor miracles for the last eight years. Certainly some large footsteps to follow I'm sure you'll agree and my grateful thanks go to both of them for the help and guidance they have given me over the years- my role in later years being a Stage Commander. Rallye Sunseeker has a superb team of people behind it who have ensured that it has reached the top, as round one of the MSA British Rally Championship."

Finally, Les said
"please thank the outgoing "Volunteer Manager" Matt Fowle, for all of his efforts by e-mailing me at marshals@rallyesunseeker.co.uk and at the same time volunteering your services once again; you can also mention which stage you would prefer to marshal. I hope you continue to support Rallye Sunseeker and make this best rally in the MSA Championship again. I really need your help in my new role and will try my utmost to manage the task as well as my predecessor, so please get in touch with me or your regular stage commander soon”

Rallye Sunseeker launches the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship

Posted: January 1, 2012 6:43 PM

Rallye Sunseeker International will once again host the opening round of the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship next year, when the competing crews arrive in Bournemouth and Poole on 24th and 25th of February 2012.

Recently awarded the prestigious title “2011 Rally of the Year” at the MSA British Rally Championship awards, held in Manchester and voted for by the Organisers, Crews and Competitors, this years event will be just as demanding as last years, with Southern Car Club promising a few changes along the way as well to keep all the crews on their toes throughout the event.

BR C Rally Manager Mark Taylor told Rallye Sunseeker at the awards
“This years championship started for us with Rallye Sunseeker, way back in February. We had never been there before as a Championship, so to a certain extent it was new for us, but on the other hand everyone has heard of the event as it had been one of the leading National events for years. It was a superb event, it really was, compact, demanding and slippery stages too, so it was a really good opening test for the crews to start with. Poole on Friday night was amazing with all the Spectators that were there, and there is no doubt that the Championship is looking forward to going back next February”

For next year though the MSA British Rally Championship, entering its 54th season, will be for 2wd cars only, in a move to generate closer competition and help cap the costs for those competing. This is endorsed by the fact the there are several one make Championships taking place within the confines of the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship as well, and these include the Citroen Racing Trophy UK, R2 Fiesta Sport Trophy*, Twingo R1 and Twingo R2 UK Trophy.

Once again the Championship is well covered in terms of TV, and Rallye Sunseeker International will be shown in a one hour programme on the Monday after the event on Sky TV, as well as repeated editions of the show through the week.

Rallye Sunseeker 2012 will feature a 10% increase in Stage Mileage, with 11 Gravel Stages for FIA homologated R1, R2 and R3 cars as well as Group A and N. Once again the event will begin with a Ceremonial Start on Poole Quay for all competitors on the Friday evening. Last years event attracted crowds in the region of around 8000 people, a fact that was not lost on Rallye Director Rick Smith who told us
“Although Rallye Sunseeker has been running for many years, as we all know, its was our first time in the MSA British Rally Championship, and in turn for them the first time they were here. Last year in Poole Quay was amazing and showed what the rally means to the people in this area, and it was not lost on the organisers of the BRC, who to be honest were impressed with it all and genuinely surprised to see so many people out and about on the Quay. Thing is too, that after the event we had so much positive feedback from the crews who thoroughly enjoyed the chance to meet the public and get time with them on the Friday evening, as the rally had begun for them, but in a relaxed and enjoyable way. It will be nice to do it again next year.”

Rallye Sunseeker is also the opening round for the new 2012 BRC Challenge for 2 Wheel drive cars up to 2000cc, which was won this year by Jack Rowe in his first year of Rallying.

The Rallye Sunseeker National Rally will take place as well, and will cater for Two and Four Wheel drive cars, all homologated R4, N4 and Super 2000 cars, Modified and the Military Challenge for the Armed Forces.

Returning once again to grace places like Somerley Park, are the competitors from the 2012 HRCR Stage Rally Challenge, and this year again has categories for pre-1968, pre-1975 and pre-1982 vehicles.

Once again the event will visit the fantastic Somerley Park on the Saturday for a morning and afternoon run around the Parks lanes and tracks for the drivers, but more importantly for the Spectators is that the Somerley Park Motor Fair will run once again to keep everyone entertained throughout the day with loads of activities for the whole family. Last year the crowds flocked to Somerley Park where they were treated to some superb entertainment a fact not lost on Clerk of the Course Rob Pike who told Rallye Sunseeker “Somerley Park last year for me was one of the highlights of the event. There were thousands of people there, who were kept fully entertained by the attractions that we had. Thing is too that, for the competitors who came here this was the first time they has been through the estate when it was busy, and they loved seeing the spectators lining the stage as they drove through. The water splash was a big hit too for the photographers and crews as well, and we are working just as hard now for next February to have a bigger and better Motorfair, for the whole family to come and enjoy”

This was borne out too, by the eventual 2011 British Rally Champion David Bogie and his co-driver Kevin Rae. On receiving their award for the Championship they were asked what for them was the highlight of the year and David said “Aye well for us it was winning Rallye Sunseeker to be honest. We sort of went down there unfancied as it were and came away with the win in really difficult conditions and it set us up very well for the rest of the year. Sunseeker was one of those short sharp events that really does test you and the car. The stages are different to what we would normally be used to, but it was so well run, y’know we really did enjoy it.” Co-Driver Kevin Rae added
“Yeah I agree, Rallye Sunseeker would be the highlight to me too. We went to a tricky and difficult event, but David and I came away with the win and that really did set us up to maintain our challenge for the rest of the events”

For this year Rallye Sunseeker organisers, Southern Car Club have increased the options for access to news and updates leading up to and on the event itself. As well as regular Press Release and Motorsport forum updates, for Fans, Spectators, and Crews Rallye Sunseeker now features on the likes of Twitter, You Tube, Facebook, etc and these can all be found on the event website

The event itself is one of the biggest each year on the South Coast of England, and it brings a lot of investment into the area at a quiet time of the year, an area that has outstanding natural Beauty and facilities. This has been taken on board by the local businesses and people of Dorset in their support of the event and the recent award picked up by Rallye Sunseeker has had huge benefits for those involved along the South coast that the rally brings to the area each year and speaking to Rallye Sunseeker, Bruce Grant Braham, Chairman of the Poole Tourism Management Board told us
"What a superb result, and it is super news for the Dorset Area to receive this award. Rick and his team put on a magnificent event, and Poole Tourism welcomed everybody with open arms, and we are delighted to be welcoming them all back again next February. We have a bigger welcome planned for 2012 and this award have given us the impetus to put on a good show in both Bournemouth and Poole when they come. I am delighted for all of those locally who are involved in the rally, and make the effort to support it, and this award is a really good reflection of that."

The name Sunseeker International is synonymous with the event, and the area and has been for many years so it was a delighted Stewart McKintyre- MD of Sunseeker International that told Rallye Sunseeker “With the success of last years event, we are looking forward to sponsoring the 2012 Rallye Sunseeker rally, with this being our 14th year as title sponsors. We are delighted to be involved in such a prominent motorsport event once again this year, as a local business it’s an important date for us in our event calendar - we are lucky to have it right on our doorstep!”

Once again the Media plays an important and pivotal part of any event, and Rallye Sunseeker is no different. We look forward to welcoming all aspects of the Media that wish to join us next year and the relevant forms can be downloaded from the Media section of the Rallye Sunseeker site. All news items will be listed on our website, but will also be distributed via the new Media outlets as shown on the website.

All that remains for now is for the Organisers of Rallye Sunseeker to say we look forward to seeing you all next February in Dorset where you can be assured of a warm welcome.

* - Awaiting Confirmation for 2012

Event Poster

Posted: October 26, 2011 12:16 PM

Event Website

Posted: October 26, 2011 12:15 PM

Rallye Sunseeker