Darren Moon and co-driver Dale Furniss (Ford Escort MkII) took a hard earned victory on the Rallee Classicagh section of Rally Isle of Man, powered by Microgaming, as the sun continued to shine on the rally for its final day.
It didn’t however come without its drama’s, the pair damaging the steering on heavy compression on Druidale late in the morning that led to frantic work in service to make repairs.
They achieved it, but left service late, and from then on drove immaculately to take a victory by just over a minute.
Before that there had already been plenty of action. Moon and Guy Woodcock (MkII) both went off the road on the opener at Snuff the Wind, Guy dropping over a minute.
Then on Tholt-e-Will Moon’s nearest challengers, Ryan Barrett/Paul McCann went off the road at the mill, suffering rear-end damage, while Will Onions hit the same wall head on.
On an incident-packed day Connor Corkill/Mark Perryman (MkII) crashed out at Ronague, and Shinobu Kitani at Kella in the Mini.
Derek Boyd/Simon Hunter won category one in their Porsche 911, with David Stokes/Guy Weaver securing the Water End Properties Asphalt Cup with their category two victory.
The Duke Stages Rally victory went the way of local Manx crew Steve Quine/Richard Skinner after a dramatic day with three lead changes.
As expected Paul Bird/Kirsty Riddick continued their push in their Ford Focus WRC 07, eventually overhauling overnight leaders Nigel and Michaela Cannell (Evo IX) on the second stage of the day, as the Cannell’s caught the last of the historic rally runners on the road and lost 25s.
It didn’t last long however, Bird sliding off the road and out of the rally in Kella at lunchtime to give the lead back to the Cannell’s.
They had a two minute lead with only the last loop to do and all seemed secure. However on the penultimate stage at Staarvey and intercooler came loose and wrapped itself around the driveshaft. They bodged a repair but were left to tackle the final 13 mile Classic stage with no turbo and a rattling engine. The lost 2 ½ minutes and with it the rally at the very end of three long days of see-saw leaderboards.
While the Cannell’s at least held on for second place, George Collister and Janet Craine set superb times around George’s home patch and finished on the podium, ahead of Sean Kelly and Emma Kennuagh, completing an all-Mitsubishi and all-Manx top four.
17-year old Arron Newby and co-driver Rob Fagg (Subaru Impreza) impressed many with fifth, holding off Andrew Leece/Graham Fargher (Evo VI).
Scots John Morrison/Peter Carstairs (Evo IX) were next up, with Davey Craine recovering from a Thursday nightmare start to take 8th in his Escort.
Kex Wlaker/Dannii Matthews, Eurocars Motosport Manx Rally Championship leaders, were best two wheel drive in 9th, ahead of the Nova of Stu Bainborough/Chris Heyes.
The Rallee Classicagh section of this weekends Rally Isle of Man, powered by Microgaming, has attracted an entry that is high on quality and should provide all the spectacular rear-wheel drive action that has made them the crowd favourites in recent years.
The event is the concluding round of the Water End Properties Historic Asphalt Cup and re-affirming the organisers intent to place Historic rallying at the very heart of Rally Isle of Man, the twenty one period cars will lead the field into competitive action and run first on the road throughout all three days of the event.
Omagh’s Ryan Barratt and local co-driver Paul McCann, the 2010 Historic Rally winners, head the entry in the ubiquitous Ford Escort MkII that dominates the top ten starters. They are unlikely to have it all their own way however, with six of the top seven Category 3 (Classic) drivers back for another tilt, along with the 2010 Category 2 (Post Historic) victor.
Leeds pilot Darren Moon was runner-up two years ago, and after a late drama to find a replacement co-driver for regular note-caller Graham Wild, will be aiming to go one better this time.
Will Onions completed the podium last time around and the Shrewsbury driver needs a good result after a quiet year by his own standards in a new car, second on the season-opening Mid Wales Stages his best result.
The local challenge is led by Connor Corkill, who has been concentrating on university studies rather than pedaling rally cars this year, but warmed up for this weekend with a comfortable two-wheel drive best on the local Pokerstars Rally in July.
Guy Wookcock is another top-flight driver who has turned to historic rallying in recent years and has a long knowledge of the testing Manx lanes…
…though few can out-do multiple former winner David Stokes on that score; David can recall using the Balladoole extended section to the Castletown stage back in the 1970’s! The MkI Escort man is tied for fourth in this years British Historic Championship along with island-based Derek Boyd, having taken a second consecutive Tour of Flanders victory just ten days ago.
Adrian Kermode, many times a former category winner on his home stages, heads the non-Escort’s in the glorious Porsche 911, with Rob Smith’s Vauxhall Chevette, Gary Edgington’s Singer Chamois, John Kirkpatrick’s Lotus Sunbeam and David Mylchreets MGB amongst those adding to the variety along with the Porsche of former Ulster Rally winner Boyd.
A little further down the start list are the twin visiting Japanese Mini Cooper S crews of Shinobu Kitani and Yoshinao Tscuchiya who are likely to attract much interest. Shinobu has competed on the event previously and had actually already shipped the car to the UK last year when the event was cancelled, so there is certainly some unfinished business. Yoshinao makes his debut on the island.
Rallee Classicagh tackles the entire route of the event, with the new made-for-spectators Douglas Promenade stage the highlight of Thursday, the extended Castletown tests the main draw on a long Friday and the now traditional finale on Saturday afternoon, the Classic stage with its run down the TT course to finish at the Grandstand.
In total crews will compete a 400 mile route, almost 180 of which are on the 26 special stages.
Group B cars join the party, and live streaming of the Douglas Promenade Stages confirmed
Posted: September 20, 2012 12:04 PM
This weekend’s Rally Isle of Man, powered by Microgaming, and Duke Stages Rally has been given a further boost with confirmation that four Group B cars, from the widely acknowledged golden era of the sport, will be performing demonstration runs across the event.
And for those unable to make it to the Douglas promenade stage (SS1 & 4) on Thursday evening, they can watch the action online via a multi-camera live web screening.
The Group B cars include a short Sport Audi Quattro and a Audi Quattro A2 in full works colours, and a Computervision Metro 6R4 as per the example driven to success on the 1986 Manx Rally by Tony Pond and Rob Arthur. Rounding off the party, John Midley is bringing his BRC class winning Toyota Corolla TE71.
They’ll take to the Douglas promenade stage shortly after 7.30pm, and will then continue on to the remaining stages of the opening night, including a further appearance on the promenade if time allows.
On Friday they’ll continue to run first on the road, ahead of the competitors in the Rallee Classicagh and Duke Stages events, including on the ever popular Castletown spectator stages in the evening.
If you haven’t seen them by Saturday, they’ll be worth the wait as they switch to run behind the competitors, following the one-day Trophy Rally crews and including the dash down the TT course to the finish of the final stage late on Saturday afternoon.
The live streaming on Thursday evening is being provided courtesy of local security firm Eye Spy, whom the organisers wish to thank. The stream can be found through the firm’s website at http://www.eyespywebcams.com/camera_manxrally.html or via the event website http://www.rallyisleofman.co.im/
Bird targets more Manx success on Duke Stages
Posted: September 20, 2012 11:55 AM
The Duke Stages section of this weekend’s Rally Isle of Man, powered by Microgaming, gives Paul Bird a chance to add another chapter to his success story on the Isle of Man.
On paper the Penrith driver and Kirsty Riddick have a huge advantage in their Ford Focus 07 WRC, a car that is worth several £100,000 more than any of their competitor’s.
The Penrith driver has known success on the island on two and four wheels, including twice landing the Manx National Rally, but that good luck has largely deserted him on Rally Isle of Man, and 26 stages and three days will be a tough challenge regardless of machinery.
Amongst those looking to take advantage of any slip is a gaggle of the islands top rally talent. In fact it is perhaps the strongest line up imaginable of local crews throughout the 45 strong entry, and the battle to be top home crew is a mouth-watering prospect.
Reigning Manx champion Nigel Cannell, with wife Michaela in charge in the Mitsubishi Evo IX, is the most likely threat to Bird, after scoring a crushing victory on July’s local Pokerstars Rally.
Andrew Leece and Graham Fargher were the nearest pursuers in their Evo VI, holding off George Collister’s Evo III. Both are likely to be in the mix this time too, especially with the length of the event offering time to get up to speed, a fact that should help George in particular who has done much less competitive driving in recent times.
Steve Quine is another for whom the seat-time could work wonders. His incredible fourth overall on the International in 2009 remains the highlight drive of locals in recent times and if he can get back in the flow with recent turbo problems solved he could be the man Cannell has to watch most of all of the local opposition.
That said you also can’t discount Steve Colley and Sean Kelly, again both in Mitsubishi’s. They each played their part in a stunning Chris Kelly Memorial Stages in February, when the top four were separated by five seconds, each missing victory in the narrowest of manners. Colley subsequently did win the Jurby Stages in June, beating Cannell, and fulfills a long-held ambition to compete on the islands main event this weekend, having made time in his hectic motorcycle stunt show calendar to do so.
Behind that scrap is the crowd pleasing ‘drive it on the door handles’ style of Martyn Jones’s Vauxhall Nova, a resurgent Dave Corris (Ford Escort WRC), and visitors John Morrison (Evo IX) and up an coming teenager Aaron Newby (Subaru Impreza), winner of two UK events outright in recent months and who has recruited top local co-driver Rob Fagg.
Challenging Jones in the two-wheel drive stakes is another Penrith driver, Stuart Egglestone (Vauxhall Astra), and locals Kex Walker (BMW 325), Andrew Holmes and Guy Simpkiss (Astra’s). Walker and Dannii Matthews lead the Eurocars Motorsport Manx Rally Championship, of which this is the penultimate round, while Simpkiss showed a real return to form with a top six finish on the Pokerstars event.
Other crews to look out for include Caernarfon’s Hugh Jones (Escort MkII), former Manx champion Pat Bettridge having his first run in a Subaru, and Belgian visitor Renaud Bronkart (Nissan Micra) who arrives here directly from completing last weekend’s WRC RallyGB.
The Duke Stages tackles the entire route of the event, with the new made-for-spectators Douglas Promenade stage the highlight of Thursday, the extended Castletown tests the main draw on a long Friday and the now traditional finale on Saturday afternoon, the Classic stage with its run down the TT course to finish at the Grandstand.
In total crews will compete a 400 mile route, almost 180 of which are on the 26 special stages.
Rally Isle of Man 2012 ready for the road!
Posted: September 18, 2012 12:00 PM
When Rally Isle of Man returns to the Manx and UK motorsport calendars on Thursday it will mark a statement of intent on behalf of organisers for a renewed future for the event.
Last years well documented cancellation could well have been a death knell, with many assuming that was the case, but instead over 70 crews are set to head into three days of action this week, and the event has a surprising amount of impetus, albeit that this year is in many ways a dry run ahead of the 50th anniversary in 2013.
A new organising team have joined forces with Druidale Motor Club and their Duke Stages event, bought in a new sponsor in the form of Microgaming, completely overhauled the route and initiated a purpose designed spectator stage to announce the return of the rally in the centre of Douglas promenade.
The efforts have not gone unnoticed, as last weeks decision that the event will return to the Irish Tarmac Rally Championship calendar in 2013 indicates.
There are three sections to the rally this year, with Rallee Classicagh the concluding round of the Water End Properties Historic Asphalt Cup and the Duke Stages the penultimate round of the Eurocars Motorsport Manx Rally Championship. Both of these events will tackle the full route, around 180 stage miles, the longest event in the British isles aside from the world championship section of RallyGB. On Saturday the Manx Trophy Rally also takes to the roads for those more suited by a single day run.
Omagh’s Ryan Barratt and local co-driver Paul McCann, the 2010 Historic Rally winners, head the high quality entry of period cars in the ubiquitous Ford Escort. Principal opposition will come from our own Connor Corkill, multiple former winner David Stokes and fellow Escort pilots Darren Moon, Will onions and Guy Woodcock.
Adrian Kermode heads the non-Escort’s in the glorious Porsche 911, and a little further down the start list are the twin visiting Japanese Mini Cooper S crews of Shinobu Kitani and Yoshinao Tscuchiya.
The star attraction of the Duke Stages element is undoubtedly Paul Bird in his Ford Focus WRC. He’ll be chased by a stellar line up of local crews, just about all of our leading crews taking up the challenge. Reigning Manx champion Nigel Cannell is joiner by former holders Steve Quine and George Collister as well as Andrew Leece, Steve Colley and Sean Kelly, all in Mitsubishi’s.
There are four stages on Thursday night, with two runs of the Promenade test the feature. Crews will tackle the stage in pairs, going head to head, with the Villa arcade and War Memorial areas available to spectators.
Friday is a 12-stage day, headlined by extended Castletown stages in the evening, finishing at the Southern 100 start/finish line and the Shore Hotel, Gansey respectively. Before that the 12 hour day starts with Tholt-e-Will down as a wake-up call! At lunchtime there’s a new side by side start line for two separate stages at St Marks, with one also featuring roads used more than once on a loop. The same stages complete the day, heading into darkness.
Saturday also has revisions, notably a Ronague stage that avoids the Round Table and Shoulder Road and instead has a double loop at Cringle, while both the Curraghs and Druidale feature twice. The rally concludes with the now traditional Classic stage, joining the TT course at Cronk-ny-mona and heading to the finish line to complete the gruelling event.
As ever, the action can’t happen unless the stages are sufficiently marshaled. If you can help, even for only a few hours please head along to the Rally HQ at the TT Grandstand (Monday 9am to 5pm/Tuesday & Wednesday 5pm to 7pm).
The Grandstand is also the sole service area throughout the event, and will host scrutineering throughout the day on Thursday. There is no shakedown stage this year, so it’s all geared up for the opening stage on the prom that evening.
Rally Isle of Man is back and organisers are determined it’s here to stay!
Extended entry offers for Mewla and Flanders competitors
Posted: August 28, 2012 11:31 AM
The organisers of Rally Isle of Man powered by Microgaming, and the Duke Stages, have agreed to make special offers available for crews contesting either this weekends Mewla National Rally or next months Tour of Flanders.
Early rate entries to the September 20th-22nd event closed on Friday, however that rate will be held for any team tackling the Epynt-based Mewla event that wishes to enter after this weekend, up until the formal closure next Friday, 31st August.
The Rallee Classicagh section of Rally Isle of Man is the final round of the Water End Properties Historic Asphalt Cup, following the Tour of Flanders. Therefore organisers are also offering a no-quibble refund to any driver tackling Flanders so that they can enter the event prior to the deadline without risk of losing the entry fee.
Entries deadline looms for Rally Isle of Man as launch event takes centre stage
Posted: August 23, 2012 10:08 AM
Entries for Rally Isle of Man powered by Microgaming, and the Duke Stages, close in the next ten days, with competitors urged to take advantage of this week’s lower rate.
Around sixty teams have already signed up to take on possibly the toughest challenge in British isles rallying…three days of flat out motoring (September 20th-22nd) covering almost 180 stage miles over roads renowned as amongst the most testing the sport has to offer for both car and crew.
To be eligible for the reduced rate, entries need to be submitted by 5pm this Friday, 24th August, with final closure at the standard rate the following Friday, 31st August.
The event is a round of the Water End Properties Historic Asphalt Cup and the Eurocars Motorsport Manx Rally Championship, with leading drivers from each already on the list. In addition there is also a single day Saturday option.
Regulations and entry forms, along with the online entry application are available on the event website.
On the website you can also find details of the stunning travel and entry package available from the UK, lauded in motorsport circles as ‘the deal of the year!’
Another key date falls between the two closures, when the event launch takes place next Tuesday evening.
The night, the first time a Manx rally has held a launch event, will be at the Mount Murray Hotel and will offer free entry to everyone in any way interested in the rally, media, competitors, officials, spectators, sponsors and general public alike.
It’ll feature an opportunity to meet the ‘new’ organising team, hear about the ambitious plans they have for the event, and perhaps all-importantly some of the gems of the ground-breaking route will be announced in detail for the first time, including the brand-new Douglas Promenade spectator stage that will open the event in style.
There’ll also be plenty of banter with some of the top drivers and pace-note callers, and a chance to hear from event sponsors.
So, if you haven’t entered and plan to, head over to the website now, and if you can make it to the Mount Murray Hotel next Tuesday, join us as we set the tone for a fabulous weekends rallying in just three weeks time…
..the countdown to the return of Rally Isle of Man is well and truly on!
Rally Isle of Man to host launch event - (Tue) 28 Aug 12
Posted: August 16, 2012 2:06 PM
Rally Isle of Man powered by Microgaming, and the Duke Stages, will be re-launched in style, with a new event at the Mount Murray Hotel at the end of the month.
It will take place on the evening of Tuesday 28th August and will offer free entry to everyone in any way interested in the rally, media, competitors, officials, spectators, sponsors and general public alike.
The night will start the build-up proper to the return of the event renowned as one of the greatest challenged in British isles motorsport, falling just three days before entries close and three weeks before the crews return to the Manx roads that the event has made famous.
The night will feature an opportunity to meet the ‘new’ organising team, hear about the ambitious plans they have for the event, and perhaps all-importantly some of the gems of the ground-breaking route will be announced in detail for the first time!
There’ll also be plenty of banter with some of the top drivers and pace-note callers, and a chance to hear from event sponsors.
“We are very aware that we have to work hard to re-establish ourselves”, says John Gill, Rally Chairman. “We’ve been blown away by all the positive support we’ve received since announcing that we would be reviving the rally after last years disappointing non-event, and this is part of the pay-back to all those who are behind us. Come along and join the fun!”
So put the date in your diary - 8pm on Tuesday 28th August is the chance to be a part of the new Rally isle of Man and Duke Stages. Consider yourself invited!
Early entries confirm international appeal of Rally Isle of Man
Posted: August 14, 2012 1:46 PM
With just three weeks to go before entries close for this year’s Rally Isle of Man, powered by Microgaming, and the Duke Stages, organisers are delighted with the initial uptake.
Following the event’s absence from the rallying calendar last year, partly through a lack of entries, over 30 crews have already submitted their paperwork this time around, ensuring that the event will run.
Particularly pleasing is that the early entries have confirmed the International appeal of one of the most respected events in British Isles motorsport.
Driver’s Shinobu Kitani and Yoshinao Tscuchiya are set to travel from Japan as a two-car Mini Cooper S challenge for the Historic Rallee Classicagh. Shinobu has competed in the event previously, but it’ll be a debut for Yoshinao. Another regular visitor is Renaud Bronkart from Belgium and he’s on the list for the Duke Stages section of the event.
Non-UK and Irish license holders are able to enter due to the events registration as a ‘National Event with Authorised Foreign Participation (NEAFP)’.
Also already entered is a three-time former winner of the Historic Rally, David Stokes in a Ford Escort and four-time former category victor Adrian Kermode (Porsche 911), and just received is the entry of 2010 Isle of Man Historic Rally victors Ryan Barrett and Paul McCann (Escort MkII). They’ll be joined by leading UK historic drivers Guy Woodcock and Adrian Seabridge (Escort). Rallee Classicagh is the final round of the HRCR Asphalt Cup.
Amongst those joining Renaud on the Duke Stages list are visitors Kevin Jeffray (Subaru), John Richardson (Ford Escort), Ric Wood (Evo IV), Kevin Charles (Ford Fiesta) and leading UK production category driver Tristan Pye. The event is a round of the Eurocars Motorsport Manx Rally Championship and leading lights Andrew Leece (Evo VI) and Sean Kelly (Evo VII) will be challenged by past champions Pat Bettridge (Subaru) and David Craine (Escort Cosworth).
Whilst those events will cover all three days of stages, there is also a one-day Isle of Man Trophy Rally for crews looking for the opportunity to take on the famous Manx lanes on Saturday 22nd September and it already has two entries, one from Pat’s son Matthew (VW Golf).
The full event will open on the evening of Thursday 20th with an all-new thrilling spectator-orientated stage along Douglas Promenade, in which the cars and crews will be pitched in a head-to-head race along the seafront. Friday’s action will culminate with four exciting night stages centred round Castletown, the Island’s ancient capital. Saturday is no straightforward run to the champagne either, almost 90 stage miles to be tackled before the final run down the TT course to finish at the famous Grandstand.
Entries remain open until 31st August (reduced rate until 24th August), with crews urged to avoid the expected final week rush.
Regulations are available for all events on the rally’s website
Rally Isle of Man 2012 to be powered by Microgaming
Posted: July 19, 2012 4:31 PM
Gaming technology industry leader Microgaming is to sponsor this year's Rally Isle of Man, which takes place in September 2012.
Following the event's absence from the rallying calendar last year, Microgaming has teamed up with Rally Isle of Man to ensure that this high profile motorsports event takes place on the Island due to popular demand. Entering what will be its 49th year, Rally Isle of Man, powered by Microgaming, will take place from Thursday 20th September to Saturday 22nd September 2012, covering the classic stages as well as introducing many new elements and exciting variations on the traditional rally.
The event will open on the Thursday night with a thrilling spectator-orientated stage along Douglas Promenade, in which the cars and crews will be pitched in a head-to-head race along the seafront. Friday's action will culminate with four exciting night stages centred round Castletown, the island's ancient capital.
There has already been a fantastic amount of enthusiasm for the event, with over 70 expressions of interest already registered and the organisers expecting the maximum of 90 entrants for the rally itself.
John Gill, Chairman of Rally Isle of Man, comments: 'To have on board a major sponsor like Microgaming will make a great difference to the rally ' it shows the high level of support for this event. People really enjoy going out and watching the rally cars, and Microgaming's sponsorship will really help the event to be something spectacular.'
Roger Raatgever, CEO of Microgaming, also adds: 'It is very exciting for Microgaming to be supporting Rally Isle of Man. As a company we are keenly into sport, so to be a driving force for an event of this magnitude is something that means a lot to us. We're sure that it will be a great success, and hopefully set a precedent for all future Manx rallies.'
Entries for the event are now open, with regulations available for all competitors on the rally's website, www.rallyisleofman.co.im, covering the three-day historic Isle of Man Rallee Classicagh, the Duke Stages Rally and the one-day Isle of Man Trophy Rally.
Rally Isle of Man organisers extend Historic appeal
Posted: July 10, 2012 10:37 AM
Rally Isle of Man’s organisers have announced two new elements to enhance opportunities for competitors to tackle this September’s event.
The rally, a round of the Water End Properties Historic Asphalt Cup and the Eurocars Motorsport Manx Rally Championship, has received dispensation from the sports governing body, the MSA, to allow FIA Appendix K-eligible historic vehicles to tackle what is renowned as one of the biggest challenges in the sport.
The move widens opportunities for crews to enter vehicles beyond those made eligible by the UK’s regulations and dovetails with the events registration as a ‘National Event with Authorised Foreign Participation (NEAFP)’, allowing Rally Isle of Man to accept entries from non-UK and Irish license holders.
In addition, within the Duke Stages Rally element of the event, it is planned to introduce two new ‘period classes’. With the official Historic Rally regulations limited to cars up to 1981 the rally will run exploratory classes for cars from the 1980’s.
The first will be for vehicle types that ran under homologation between 1st January 1982 and 31st December 1986, and the second will extend that to the period 1st January 1987 and 31st December 1991.
For the first time this provides competition classes specifically for this period, introducing cars such as the Vauxhall Nova and Astra’s, Peugeot 205, Ford Sierra, Toyota Celica, Mitsubishi Galant and Lancia Delta Intergrale, as well as many of the famed Group B machines that are able to meet today’s regulations.
“The organisers have said right from the outset that they intend to open up our classic event to as many competitors and competition cars as possible, and these announcements are part of that,” says Historic Rally Clerk of the Course Alan Teare.
“We have undertaken consultation, and competitors have very much driven this direction. It is a toe in the water with the 1980’s period classes, and it’s exciting to be at the forefront of the next natural progression. For many people, that was the golden era of rallying, and to have the sights and sounds back on the Manx stages is a wonderful opportunity.”
Regulations and entries are now available from the events website, and potential entrants under either of these clauses should contact the Rally Office in the first instance.
To help take the stress out of booking arrangements, the rally has teamed up with specialist trip planners Isle of Man Events Limited (iomevents.com). They’ll be only too happy to look after the planning for your entire trip, covering travel and accommodation, with great prices.
Entries open for Rally Isle of Man
Posted: July 9, 2012 3:04 PM
The rally organisers have today published the regulations for the three events that make up this year’s Rally Isle of Man.
Available for all competitors on the rally’s website www.rallyisleofman.co.im the regulations cover the three-day historic Isle of Man Rallee Classicagh, the Dukes Stages Rally, and the one day Isle of Man Trophy Rally.
The rally, a round of the Water End Properties Historic Asphalt Cup and the Eurocars Motorsport Manx Rally Championship, will take place over the traditional and classic stages made famous by this rally over the last 49 years. There is also the exciting addition of new stages and ‘concepts’ being introduced to spice up the event for regulars and newcomers alike.
The event is also open to competitors from Europe and Ireland as it is registered as a ‘National Event with Authorised Foreign Participation (NEAFP)’, allowing Rally Isle of Man to accept entries from non-UK and Irish license holders.
In addition, within the Duke Stages Rally element of the event, it is planned to introduce two new ‘period classes’. As Clerk of the Course Alan Teare put it, “there will be no classes for Historic cars in the Duke Stages, as these are catered for in the Rallee Classicagh, so we are taking the opportunity to run special classes for rally cars from the 1980’s.”
“It’s a period that has so far been neglected by the rally fraternity but contains such classic rally cars as the Opel Manta and Sierra Cosworth and even includes some of the awesome Group B cars which are still eligible for competition like the Metro 6R4, Renault Turbo, Lancia Integrale. If we can attract these cars out of their garages it would be a fantastic spectacle!”
Rally Isle of Man takes place on 20-22 September 2012.
To help take the stress out of booking arrangements, the rally has teamed up with specialist trip planners Isle of Man Events Limited (iomevents.com). They’ll be only too happy to look after the planning for your entire trip, covering travel and accommodation, with great prices.
Rally Isle of Man 2012 blends tradition and innovation
Posted: June 21, 2012 2:14 PM
Rally Isle of Man will be a mixture of classic and innovative stages this September.
The entire course and itinerary for the event has been extensively reviewed by the organising teams’ Route Committee. As a result the challenge for crews will be every bit as the tradition of the event demands, whilst offering a real spectacle.
Indeed striking the balance has been one of the key ingredients, as Kris Killip, Clerk of the Course for the Duke Stages Rally section of the event, suggests.
“We’ve not only looked at the overview, we’ve attempted to create a highlight within each section of each day, something that stands out for competitors and spectators alike.”
It was announced in March that the centre-piece of Thursday nights opening leg (20th September) would be a spectator super-special stage on Douglas Promenade, featuring side-by-side action with cars head-to-head. There will also be two other stages without going too far from the events TT Grandstand service area.
Friday’s eight day-time tests will take place across the island and will include more side by side action, with a plan in place for two of the tests to start on the same stretch of road, pitting crews against one another from the green light! It is thought it may be a first for the sport.
The islands ancient capital of Castletown, a long standing friend of the event for over 25 years, remains at the heart of Friday nights action that covers four tests, though the familiar stage from Hango Hill through the town has also received a makeover!
As throughout the route, long main road runs will be kept to a minimum to enhance the experience for competitors and fans but also reduce inconvenience for non-rally road users as far as possible.
To achieve this, Saturday morning will feature double usage of roads on two stages, another first for closed roads events on the island.
It all builds to a traditional fitting finale with a dash down Glencrutchery Road to finish at the TT Grandstand on Saturday afternoon. The crews will most certainly have earned any champagne and silverware that may be coming their way!
“Almost every stage includes an element of what competitors would describe as classic Manx rallying,” says Kris Killip. ”Druidale, The Mines, Castletown and the Classic for example are all included. Some of them may be in a different format, but the roads that give this island its unique place in our sport are still what present one of its ultimate challenges.”
Regulations are set to be published in early July as entries open, however a pre-registration facility has been made available at rallyisleofman.co.im for anyone planning to participate in whatever capacity.
Rally Isle of Man is able to accept entries from non-UK/Irish license holders as it is registered as a National Event with Authorised Foreign Participation (NEAFP). Competitors who make wish to take part on this basis should contact the Rally Office in the first instance.
To help take the stress out of booking arrangements, the rally has teamed up with specialist trip planners Isle of Man Events Limited (iomevents.com). They’ll be only too happy to look after the planning for your entire trip, covering travel and accommodation, with great prices.
Rally Isle of Man 2012 confirms timetable
Posted: May 25, 2012 10:35 AM
As the organisers of Rally Isle of Man continue their preparations to bring the event back to the rallying calendar this September, they are now able to announce outline details of the timetable to assist all potential participants and visitors planning.
Regulations are set to be published in early July as entries open, however a pre-registration facility has been made available at rallyisleofman.co.im for anyone planning to participate in whatever capacity.
“We’d urge everyone planning to be involved with the event, whether competitors, officials, media or spectators, to fill in the form” asks Rally Chairman John Gill. “It’ll only take a few seconds but will help us keep you as up to date as possible, and be of enormous benefit to the myriad of planning work that needs to be undertaken to give you an enjoyable a rally as possible.”
Both sections of the event, the Historic Rally and Druidale Motor Clubs Duke Stages Rally are set to run the entire three days under National B status, opening them up to as wide an audience as possible. The Duke Stages will cater for all MSA permitted vehicles. In addition a single day event is also planned, covering Saturday’s stages.
To help increase flexibility in opportunities to visit the island for reconnaissance, it will be permitted over the weekends of 8/9th and 15/16th September as well as on Wednesday 19th/Thursday 20th.
Scrutineering and documentation will take place during morning and afternoon on Thursday 20th September (Friday 21st for the one-day Saturday event).
The event then blasts into action that evening with a two-cars-at-a-time action stage on Douglas promenade, with stages moving through Friday day and evening and onto Saturday, with the finish due late afternoon.
Ferries to both the UK and Ireland embark on Saturday night, so presentations will be made at the finish, however for those staying for the night there will also be a rally party – you can’t have a Rally Isle of Man without a party!
To help take the stress out of booking arrangements, the rally has teamed up with specialist trip planners Isle of Man Events Limited (iomevents.com). They’ll be only too happy to look after the planning for your entire trip, covering travel and accommodation, with great prices.
Rally Isle of Man is also able to accept entries from non-UK/Irish license holders as it is registered as a National Event with Authorised Foreign Participation (NEAFP). Competitors who make wish to take part on this basis should contact the Rally Office in the first instance.
Rally Isle of Man 2012 priced to be a winner!
Posted: May 12, 2012 8:52 AM
Rally Isle of Man are delighted to announce a significantly reduced entry and travel fee package to make this September’s event as affordable as possible for competitors, officials and other visitors.
The entire cost base of the three-day event has been reviewed by the organising team, and with assistance from the main travel operator, the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, they are hopeful they’ve struck a price that will appeal to all potential visitors and local participants alike.
The package price of £699 includes return ferry travel for two people, van & trailer and the entry fee for either the Historic event, which is the final round of the Water End Properties Asphalt Historic Cup, or the Duke Stages Rally, a round of the Eurocars Motorsport Manx Rally Championship.*
“Right from January when the new Committee was formed, we’ve obviously been very aware that the cost of getting to the event needed particular attention”, says Board member David Thompson.
“Just about the first people we therefore spoke to were the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, who we must thank for their honesty and willingness to work with us to get the event back up and running. The price we’ve been able to announce today is only possible because of the move out of the summer season.”
“The operator has been, and still is trying to help us make arrangements for visitors coming from Ireland, and we hope to make a further announcement in due course.”
To further help take the stress out of booking arrangements, the rally has teamed up with specialist trip planners Isle of Man Events Limited (iomevents.com). They’ll be only too happy to look after the planning for your entire trip, covering travel and accommodation, with great prices.
In particular they already have Rally Isle of Man Special Spectator Packages available for just £195 per person, staying at the 4 Star Best Western Palace Hotel and Casino, and including three nights accommodation and return sea travel with a car.
“We have worked very hard to get the costs to an absolute minimum for all those who’ll be coming to the event”, admits Thompson. “We think that the price bears favourable comparison with almost all other major British isles rallies, and are especially pleased that given that we are going to be offering 180 stage miles, the cost per stage mile for competitors is probably the very best there is out there!”
Regulations are set to be published in early July as entries open, however a pre-registration facility has this week been made available at rallyisleofman.co.im for anyone planning to participate in whatever capacity.
*There will also be a one-day event taking in Saturday’s stages, with the entry/ferry package price of £499.
Douglas promenade spectacular to herald new era for Rally Isle of Man
Posted: March 26, 2012 11:20 AM
Rally Isle of Man will burst into fresh life this September with a spectacular night-time action stage on the iconic Douglas promenade.
Organisers today announced that discussions with relevant authorities have seen permission granted for a road closure on Harris Promenade on the evening of Thursday 20th September, and a special stage that is purposely-designed for spectators, and that will add a new dimension to the event, will form the opening action of the three-day closed-roads classic.
It’ll feature head-to-head action as two cars contest the stage side by side, something never before seen on a rally on the island.
The stage itself will take in the very heart of the Promenade with the area from Broadway across to the Rendezvous set to offer a real thrill for all motorsport fans. With the stunning background of Douglas Bay and the landmark Villa Marina and Gaiety Theatre complex as a further back-drop, it offers a wonderful viewing opportunity as well as a challenging route for crews.
Rally Isle of Man Chairman John Gill confirms the news. “The organising team has been working on this stage for several months after an initial idea that came from one of the new members, Adam Warburton. It’s great to be able to confirm that it has come to fruition. We have every reason to think it’ll become an instant hit with competitors and spectators alike and another element of the unique atmosphere created by our event.”
Rally Isle of Man wish to thank the Isle of Man Government Departments of Infrastructure and Community, Culture and Leisure for their support as well as the Villa Marina and Gaiety Theatre management, Sefton Hotel and Douglas Corporation.
The Villa Marina is in a position to offer hospitality opportunities for the event, with balcony viewing of the stage, and any interested parties should contact the complex management directly.
In addition event organisers would be delighted from any other groups or activities that may be compatible with the location and stages to compliment and enhance the entertainment factor for spectators, and help create a truly memorable night.
Put the date in your diaries now – get closer to Rally Isle of Man!
Rally Isle of Man to return as three-day classic
Posted: March 23, 2012 10:40 AM
Rally Isle of Man to return as three-day classic
When Rally Isle of Man returns to the calendar this September, it’ll do so as a three-day event.
Organisers have confirmed that they will run stages from Thursday 20th September through to Saturday 22nd, taking the event, which will incorporate Druidale Motor Clubs’ Duke Stages Rally, back to its traditional format and revered place as one of the biggest challenges in the sport.
Rally Isle of Man Chairman John Gill confirms the news. “The organising team is fully aware of this events standing at the heart of British and Irish rallying. Since the return of the rally was announced many competitors have told us they would like to see it come back as three days. We are proud of the fact that it has a heritage to live up to, and excited that we have been able to ensure that the first step towards that is to deliver a traditional style event.”
“Scrutineering has always taken place during Thursday, and since the cars and competitors are here let’s use the opportunity to re-launch Rally Isle of Man in style!”
The opening evening is set to feature four stages, before daytime and evening legs on Friday and daytime stages throughout Saturday.
The team is also mindful of the current financial environment, both within the sport and generally, and is working to offer the best possible value for money to competitors.
Rally Isle of Man was most recently a three-day event in 2008, when recently-announced event Patron Mark Higgins and co-driver Rory Kennedy scored the closest ever victory in the rally’s history, by just 11.6 seconds over Irish champions Eamonn Boland and Damien Morrissey.
The route for the 2012 edition is currently being confirmed with local authorities and organisers hope to announce further information in the next few days – and whether you’re a competitor, official or spectator, the exciting plans will have you chomping at the bit for the return of Rally Isle of Man!
Mark Higgins becomes first Rally Isle of Man Patron
Posted: March 7, 2012 10:00 PM
Mark Higgins, one of the foremost names in the world of rallying, has accepted an invitation from Rally Isle of Man to become the events first Patron.
Amongst his many claims to fame, Manxman Mark, now based in Wales, holds the record for most victories on the event, uniquely including wins in Formula 2, World Rally Car and Production era’s that helped land three British Rally Championship crowns.
His five victories started in 2000, but it was stellar drives on his home rally as far back as the early 1990’s that helped make his name and set him on the path that has seen him drive with factory teams for Vauxhall, Nissan, Renault, Ford, Volkswagen.
John Gill, Rally Isle of Man Chairman is delighted that Mark has accepted the role. “We are proud to have a Manxman accept the position as our first Patron, and it will be a huge boost for the event to have our own ‘local hero’, synonymous with this event, at the top of the letterhead.”
“More importantly Mark’s knowledge and experience will hopefully prove a terrific sounding board for the exciting ideas we are currently working on, and who knows, we may even encourage him into a car come September!”
“The Manx has always been a very special event for me and the reason I was lucky enough to fulfil my dream to become a professional drive.”
“This is a great honour and I hope we can all work hard to get the event back to where it deserves to be, as one of the most unique and best tarmac rally's in the world.”
The event returns to the famous Manx lanes on 21st-22nd September, allied with the Duke Stages Rally promoted by Druidale Motor Club, and further details will be announced very soon!
2012 Rally Isle of Man receives green light
Posted: January 12, 2012 11:41 AM
Rally Isle of Man, the Island’s premier four-wheeled motorsport event, will take place in 2012.
September 21st and 22nd are the planned dates, organisers have confirmed this week.
Much has been happening behind the scenes since the cancellation of last year’s edition, not least significant personnel changes.
The former Board of Directors of Rally Isle of Man Limited have chosen to retire in their entirety. As a result a new Board were elected immediately prior to Christmas; Chris Boyde, John Gill, Robert Graham and David Thompson. All have been part of the event organising team for many years and have a breadth of rallying experience.
Mr Gill is the new Chairman. “We have big shoes to fill, there’s no doubt about that!” he admits. ”On behalf of the new Directors I must place on record our appreciation of the work of our predecessors. Between them Brian Walton, Roger Barrs, David Gawne and Les Postlethwaite have played a huge part in making this event the revered spectacle it is. We are fortunate that they have all offered to continue to support us where possible.”
In addition the organising team has been strengthened with Robert Fagg, Kris Killip and Adam Warburton taking on new roles alongside Wendy Fargher.
“It is right foot firmly down”, confirms Gill. “We have accepted an approach from the British Historic Rally Championship promoters to form the final round of their Water End Properties Asphalt Cup, and we are also delighted to be joining forces with Druidale Motor Club to host the Duke Stages event that forms a round of the highly competitive Eurocars Motorsport Manx Rally Championship.”
Historic Rally Isle of Man will fall at the heart of the event, but running with the Duke Stages will be a National B status event that will be all-inclusive…there will be classes for all MSA eligible rally cars from 1000cc right through to WRC.
“We want everyone to get back to enjoying tackling the best rally roads in the world. Names like Druidale, The Mines, Curraghs and St Marks are famous because of this event, and we hope to welcome competitors, officials and spectators old and new alike to enjoy the thrill and challenge of this unique event.”
Druidale Motor Club Chairman Kris Killip is also pleased with the outcome. “The Duke Stages has been running for over a decade and both the club and our sponsor are delighted to partner our premier event with the re-birth of Rally Isle of Man, especially with the amazing heritage it has. Hopefully it is the start of a very successful association.”
The new Board also has an eye on the future. “There is a rapidly changing situation in international and national rallying”, admits Gill. “Along with our partners, including the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company and the Isle of Man Government’s Department of Economic Development, we are looking to create an enduring future for the event up to and beyond next years 50th anniversary. We are actively considering all options and ideas and would welcome approaches from those within the sport who may want to be a part of that.”
Further details of this September’s event will be announced shortly. For now though put the dates 21st-22nd September in your diary, Rally Isle of Man is back!
Manx Telecom Rally Isle of Man 2012 date under review
Posted: September 12, 2011 9:37 AM
The organisers of the Manx Telecom Rally Isle of Man are to review the date of the event for 2012 and beyond.
The news follows today’s announcement by the Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship that the rally will not feature in its calendar next year. Rally Isle of Man, formerly titled the Manx International and Manx Trophy Rally has been part of Britain’s principle series since the 1970’s.
This years event, the 48th edition, runs from October 27-29th, the first time that it has taken place in an autumn date, having moved to become a double-header finale to the British Championship, Dunlop/Wanago MSA British Historic Rally Championship and the BRC Challenge.
That move however left a mid-summer break in the BRC calendar, and organisers have declared they’d like to see Rally Isle of Man move back to its original date in order to re-enter the series.
Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship Manger Mark Taylor says, “We are keen for Rally Isle of Man to plug the gap in the summer calendar which left the championship feeling fractured this year. However despite the event being currently unable to commit to this return in 2012, we have agreed with the organising committee to leave the summer date available for a potential return in 2013.”
Event organisers, who last month announced Manx Telecom as headline sponsors, will now work with all their key stakeholders, including the BRC, British Historic Championship, Isle of Man Government and Manx Telecom, to find mutually acceptable dates within the local calendar that also meets the needs of the main championships.
Brian Walton, Chairman of the organising committee of the rally, acknowledges the disappointment.
“It is sad and quite strange to see a British Championship calendar that doesn’t feature our event, but we will now re-double our efforts to provide a sustainable future for Rally isle of Man.”
“In the immediate future that means focusing on delivering the best quality event we can next month. After that we will draw breath and look at all the options, and we will seek to provide a rally to live up to the unique challenge that the island is renowned for, in the best traditions of world class motorsport on some of the most famous roads in the sport.”
“We thank Mark Taylor and the BRC team for holding open a summer place in 2013.”
The Isle of Man Government has pledged to assist in the discussions.
Colin Kniveton, Chief Executive of the Department of Economic Development confirmed, “We will continue to work closely with the organising committee of Rally Isle of Man to maximize the potential of the event in light of the current difficulties that face the sport. The event requires significant funding to stage and we will fully explore all options with the committee for 2013.”
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