Trackord Rally Yorkshire - 24-25 Sep 10

Alastair Stars in New JRM Evo 10

Posted: September 29, 2010 4:49 PM

It was a weekend of firsts for Co. Tyrone’s Alastair Fisher on the Trackrod Rally, the final round of the Dulux Trade British Rally Championship. It was Alastair’s first time driving for a professional team, JRMotorsport, his first drive in the JRM National specification Mitsubishi Evo 10 and on this first appearance he picked up valuable points for the team, helping JRM secure the team prize in the BRC. The Team UK member drove a fabulous rally with regular co-driver Rory Kennedy, to finish second behind JRM team-mate the legendary Welshman Gwyndaf Evans. “It was an unbelievable weekend” said Alastair.
“I was really pleased with how we got on and to finish second to Gwyndaf was fantastic for us and the team. I enjoyed driving the car after adjusting my driving style to cope with the extra slippy conditions and working with the JRM Team was a great experience. JRM put a lot of effort in for the weekend and we did what we needed to do for the team. It was a tough event, very slippery but the power and torque of the new car was really impressive down the straights.”

Alastair was fresh from victory two weeks previous with his own Evo 9 on the Lakeland Stages event and before the Trackrod he had 50 miles to help acclimatise to his new mount for the weekend.
“On the test we changed the suspension and differential settings and found a positive set up. In saying that the test was dry and the event was wet and very slippery, as everyone found out.” Nevertheless Alastair was impressed with the JRM National specification Evo 10. “It was an enjoyable car to drive. It had good power and was very stable at high speed, a slightly different car in characteristics to the Evo 9 with more of a revving engine for example. It was fantastic also to work alongside Gwyndaf and on the test and rally we were comparing notes on the Evo 10. It was all great experience.”

The Trackrod got underway on Friday night with the 16 miles of Langdale in darkness. It wasn’t a perfect start for Alastair and Rory dropping 15 seconds with an over shoot, ending the stage and therefore the day in fifth place but much more was to come. On stage 3 Alastair took the JRM car to its first fastest time and by the end of stage 4 Staindale, they were up to second overall behind their team-mate Gwyndaf Evans, Craig Breen having rolled and lost time on that stage. It was a position Alastair was to hold and on stage 6 Staindale 2, he set another highly impressive fastest stage time as he built his confidence with the new car. The combination had started to gel on the often fast Yorkshire forest tests which saw the Evo hit 135 miles per hour at one point! However Alastair showed his maturity to finish a fabulous second and help wrap up the team title for JRM, Alastair also earned the Pirelli Star Drive yellow jersey for his efforts.
“It was job done for u, and I really enjoyed the event. There was a great team spirit within JRM and now we also have qualified for the Pirelli shoot-out.”

Now the focus is back to the Citroen Irish Tarmac Rally Championship with the final round in Cork this weekend. Alastair is already Irish Tarmac Group N Champion and the Evo 9 is currently being prepared at McGarrity Motorsport for this sixth and final round. Alastair still has a chance of the outright Irish Tarmac Championship title, and the young Team UK driver cannot be counted out, especially if the weather conditions play in his favour.

Barrable/Connolly take 2010 Citroën Racing Trophy

Posted: September 29, 2010 4:46 PM

Irish duo Robbie Barrable and Damien Connolly made it four wins from six events on International Rally Yorkshire this weekend to secure the 2010 Citroën Racing Trophy in style.

Their total score at the end of the Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship’s one make series for Citroën C2R2 Max pocket rockets, was just two points shy of perfect, taking 108 of a possible 110, having finished second to their rivals on the season opener back in March.

Such apparent domination of the series belies the level of competition between around half a dozen drivers for not only prestige and the champions’ trophies, but a share of nearly €120,000 in prize money across the six events.

Every one of the five regular drivers who contested the series took turns at setting fastest stage times, but the bulk were split between Barrable and main title rival Mark Donnelly. It was actually Donnelly who set most fastest times, he and his two co-drivers Paddy Robinson and Aidan Friel taking 36 wins to Barrable’s 32.

It was Barrable who dominated on the final round in Yorkshire from the start though, beating Donnelly by a full two seconds per mile on the opening sixteen mile night-time gravel test.

Donnelly’s fight-back next day was short-lived, the Ulsterman clawing six seconds back on Saturday’s opening stage, only to retire with transmission problems before he completed stage three.

This left Aussie Molly Taylor, who had re-united with 2009 championship-winning co-driver Phil Clarke, best of the rest in second. She led a trio of Citroëns all on the same minute from the finish of the stage, but by the start of the next test in Staindale, the procession was short by one.

The appalling luck that has dogged Richard Sykes and Simon Taylor’s season continued, their engine expiring before the stage start. Sykes was understandably numb as he waited for his team to recover the car, texting the championship media office with, “Unbelievable!!!! Another engine gone! Still nil points?”

He proved that despite the string of non finishes, the Englishman had maintained something of a sense of humour as he had joked at the start that some kind of “Best Non-Finisher” award would be appropriate if the worst happened – and it did.

Joe McGonigle and Niall Burns’ have also had a season of bad luck, but being quickest on stage four and staying close to Barrable’s times for the remainder of the event, it looked like being a good finish to the season for the eventual champion’s countryman.

Having passed Taylor for second on stage five, they had pulled nearly a minute clear by the final run through Givendale, but it was here that they would stay, a mechanical failure meaning they never made it to the teatime finish in Scarborough.

So the final winners of International Rally Yorkshire took their place on the top of the podium of both event and championship, Barrable and Connolly worthy victors of a great season in the Citroën Racing Trophy.

Video Clips

Posted: September 28, 2010 2:26 PM

BRC Video Report

Posted: September 28, 2010 2:22 PM

BHRC report, round eight: Trackrod Historic Cup

Posted: September 28, 2010 10:29 AM

David Stokes and Guy Weaver were confirmed as Dunlop/WONAGO.com MSA British Historic Rally Champions during a dramatic final round in the classic Yorkshire forests on Saturday (25 September).
The Escort Mk1 crew claimed maximum points to see off the challenge from the Sunbeam Tiger of Jonathan Gale and James Whitaker as the other title contender, the Porsche 911 of Dessie Nutt and Geraldine McBride, went out on the first stage with a damaged oil cooler.

Overall victory on the Trackrod Historic Cup went to local legend Steve Bannister, partnered by Louise Sutherland, in his Ford Escort Mk2, while second to Bannister was enough to seal the BHRC Gravel Cup for Nick Elliott and Dave Price in their Escort Mk2. In category two, victory on the event went to Belgian visitors Stefaan Stouf and Joris Erard in their Escort Mk1.

Category 1
The contest for the category one title was a straight fight between Gale/Whitaker and Nutt/McBride and both crews also had a shot at the overall title. But for the Porsche crew, it was all over on the first stage when they nudged a bale in the wood yard section. Damage was light, but the oil cooler had been split and less than a mile later Dessie was forced to park the 911.
That left Gale with a clear shot at victory, but the Tiger made a cautious start and it was Graham Waite and Gill Cotton who led after Housedale with an attacking run in the Volvo Amazon. Then, after the Givendale stage, Gale was back in third as Paul Mankin/Desmond Bell made a strong return to rallying in their Lotus Cortina. Unfortunately, that came to an end against a post in Staindale, so it was Waite leading Gale by 1.7s going into the final stage, 16 miles of Langdale.
Having been cleaned up by the BRC field on Friday evening, Langdale was less slippery than the earlier stages and Gale just managed to edge ahead of the Volvo to win by 1.8s, but it had been very close.
"I did just enough," said Gale. "I knew Dessie was out and I didn’t push stupidly hard." Waite, meanwhile, had starred once more in the spectacular Volvo. "It's wider than the track when you get it sideways," he said. Gwilym Roberts and Debby Myers took third in Gwilym's Lotus Cortina, but were only 15s up on the Volvo Amazon of Dave Reynolds and Cliff Doe.
Nick Pinkett and Richard Simpson took class B1 in Nick's Saab 96 after a trouble free day, while Mike Barratt and Jane Edgington were just happy to make the finish in their Sunbeam Stiletto after the gearbox jammed in reverse as they tried to leave service.

Category 2
To be certain of the overall title, Stokes/Weaver had to take maximum category two points and they faced a big challenge in the form of Steven Smith and John Nichols in their Escort Mk1. Sure enough, Smith flew through Housedale to take the lead, but lost it with an off on Givendale and then went out of the rally with a roll in Staindale.
Now the way was clear for Stokes to take a measured approach to the Langdale stage and he duly claimed maximum points and the overall title after a remarkable come back over the second half of the season.
"We just slowed up on the last stage. The car has been perfect; it was just very slippery," said the 2010 BHRC champion.
While Stouf/Erard went ahead in Langdale to repeat their 2009 Trackrod win with a fine run, Chris Browne and Liz Jordan took third in their Escort Mk1 after a strong run on gravel. "Very happy; Langdale is my favourite stage," said Browne after winning a battle with C3 pacesetters Andrew Siddall and Captain Thompson.
Once again, Siddall had been the C3 benchmark, despite struggling on the two Dalby stages. "The first two stages were treacherous, but the second two were great," said Siddall after another emphatic victory.
However, it could have been closer as James Slaughter and Phil Peak chased in their Escort Mk1. Unfortunately, James maintained his record of a first stage visit to a Yorkshire ditch and lost well over half a minute in Housedale. After that he kept Siddall in sight, but the damage was done.
With Tim Mason and Graham Wild out in Givendale after a strong first stage in their Porsche 911, class C4 fell to Peter McDowell and Derek Davies in their 911, while Nigel Godden and Ian Orford won C2 in their Escort Mk1.
Vince Bristow and Tim Sayer set a flying early pace in C2 and ran as high as fifth in category two before going off in Langdale and collecting a maximum.

Category 3
While Bannister dominated in his own backyard in category three, maximum points went to Elliott and Price who duly clinched the Waterend Properties Gravel Cup in the process. But it was not straightforward for Elliott, who went off twice in Givendale as he chased Bannister. Those moments convinced him to concentrate on the points for the Gravel Cup but on Langdale the car cut out three times with an electrical problems. "We had a chronic misfire and the car cut out; I thought we'd had it," said Elliott. But with Price kicking the ignition pack, the engine fired again and they survived to finish.
After a poor start, by his own admission down to the driver, Connor Corkill and Rob Fagg picked up their pace to take third in category three in their Escort Mk2 as 10 seconds covered three cars.
Into an excellent fourth, and class D4 victory, went Steve Magson and Geoff Atkinson in their Opel Ascona 400.
"It's been slippery but we had a good day," said Magson, while six seconds behind were fellow Yorkshire crew Roger Kilty and Lynette Banks in their Escort Mk2 after another fine run, albeit without an alternator for the final stage.
A giant-killing run secured class D3 for Richard Lane and Frank Richer, who put their Pinto-powered Escort Mk2 well up among the D5 cars.
"The car's gone very well," said Richard after another impressive performance. Shawn Rayner and Steve Dear took second in D3 by a margin of just three seconds from David Lloyd-Roberts and Dei Jones.

Lucky number seven for champion Evans

Posted: September 28, 2010 10:23 AM

2010 Kick Energy Fiesta SportTrophy UK (FST UK) champion Elfyn Evans (21), made it seven wins from sevens starts at the weekend on the Trackrod International Rally Yorkshire. For once, however, Evans and co-driver Andrew Edwards didn't have everything all their own way after an over cautious opening stage where the pair lost another four minutes after sliding into a hay bale on SS2. But problems for early leader John MacCrone allowed Evans to fight back claim his hardest fought victory of the season.

John MacCrone (21) from the Isle of Mull and Stuart Loudon (22), won the opening stage, Langdale, on Friday night to hold a 7.5 second advantage at the start of Day 2. Evans was second despite being overly cautious in the wet, muddy conditions. John Boyd (23) and Craig Wallace (25) made a welcome return to the championship after opting to skip the two 'away' rounds but lost over three minutes on the opening test after a brake line rubbed through and they lost the rear brakes.

MacCrone took the win on the opening stage of Day 2, Housedale, 25 seconds ahead of fellow Scotsman Boyd (23) from West Linton. Evans lost over four minutes after sliding into a hay bale and damaging the car for the first time this year. Boyd then took his first stage win of the season on SS3, Givendale, leading MacCrone home by just over two seconds. Evans got his event back on track with third, a further six seconds behind MacCrone.

SS4, Staindale, saw Evans take his first stage win of the event and begin eating into MacCrone's advantage. John Boyd put in an impressive drive to finish the stage just ten seconds behind Evans; Boyd was relishing being back in the Yorkshire stages where he scored his maiden Kick Energy FST UK success in 2009. MacCrone lost over a minute on SS4 after overshooting a junction due to a recurring problem with the gearbox.

Evans continued his fight back on SS5, Langdale, making amends for not pushing hard enough on Friday night, to win the stage with a time of 15 minutes 54 seconds to lead MacCrone home by almost 28 seconds. MacCrone's gearbox problems could not be cured during service and the Scottish pair was forced to try and make it through the event with a damaged gearbox. Boyd scored the third fastest time, a further eleven seconds behind MacCrone. Evans' third stage win in succession came on SS6, the second run through Housedale; MacCrone's gearbox trouble continued to worsen and he lost another 24 seconds to Evans. MacCrone's lead over Evans had been cut from over four minutes to a minute and a half in just three stages and with two more to go, Evans was in with a real shout of overhauling the Scottish Fiesta R2 pilot.

The penultimate stage, Givendale, saw MacCrone's gearbox trouble worsen, with it getting stuck in second gear and forcing him to drive the remaining two stages in just one gear. This cost he and co-driver Loudon four minutes on SS7 alone, dropping them behind both Evans and Boyd after having led the event up to that point. After a poor start, Evans headed into the final stage with a comfortable advantage over Boyd and could afford to take it easy and ensure he made it to the finish. This did not stop Evans claiming his fifth stage win of the event and claiming the Castrol Hard Charger Award as a result for the sixth time in 2010. Boyd secured second placejust seven seconds behind the Welshman. MacCrone made it through the stage in second gear to finish in third place, but was left to rue what might have been had it not been for the mechanical problems. Third was enough to secure second place in the final championship standings for MacCrone after what has been a season plagued with bad luck.

Evans' result of 13th overall was enough to also secure him the 2010 Dulux Trade British Junior Rally Championship crown after main rival Jarkko Nikara was forced out with a mechanical failure on SS7. Finn Mikko Pajunen won the R2 class on the event in his debut in the Ford Fiesta R2. Pajunen put in an impressive performance having only driven the car for the first time on the Thursday prior to the rally and was on the pace straight out of the box.

With the 2010 season now over, championship contenders can look forward to a well earned break before the 2011 season kicks off in February. Details of the 2011 series are yet to be finalised, but will once again run alongside the British Rally Championship and cater for both the Ford Fiesta R2 and the Group N Ford Fiesta ST.

Pos Driver/Co-Driver Time Behind
1 E Evans/A Edwards 1:32:05.4 -
2 J Boyd/C Wallace 1:33:37.7 1:32.3
3 J MacCrone/S Loudon 1:36:52.9 1:47.5

Jonny Greer becomes tenth UK Evolution Challenge Champion Driver / Asta Sigurdardittir becomes Champion Co-driver

Posted: September 28, 2010 9:58 AM

A dramatic sixth and final round of the Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge UK saw Alastair Fisher and co-driver Rory Kennedy record a resounding victory and, in doing so, ensured that Jonny Greer became 2010 Champion Driver. Second place went to Daniel Sigurdarson and Asta Sigurdardottir, who claimed the co-driver’s title.

The International Rally Yorkshire hosted the finale for the series’ tenth consecutive season in the UK, and, following the previous five events this year, the battle for the drivers’ title was between Jonny Greer and Daniel Sigurdarson. However, for the former Icelandic Rally Champion to claim the crown, he would have to win and Greer would have to record his first non-finish of the season.

Also the final round of the Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship, the event started on Friday evening from Marine Drive in Scarborough, the stormy conditions seeing waves crashing over the sea wall and into the service area which was based along the water front. For the 30-car BRC field, which included five Evolution Challenge crews, there was to be just one stage in the dark that night, a 16-mile run through Langdale Forest.

Coping well in the slippery conditions, Greer and co-driver Dai Roberts were fastest of the Evo Challenge competitors by 12 seconds ahead of Fisher/Kennedy, who were making their debut with JRM driving the team’s new ‘National’ specification Evolution X. Sigurdarson/Sigurdardottir were third, a further 30-seconds behind, but could have easily been leading had they not spun off the road and into a tree half-way through the stage. Luckily, the damage was purely cosmetic and, after getting back on the road and then turning to face the right direction, they were able to continue to the end of the stage and managed to get back to the service area in Scarborough.

Fourth place before the overnight halt were Ramona Karlsson/Miriam Walfridsson, the regular Swedish Evolution Challenge competitors experiencing their first taste of British rallying and pleased to get through the first stage. Returning to the series after his one and only previous appearance on the opening round in March, was Peter Horsey. This time with Welsh co-driver Chris Davies, the Kenyan driver was pleased to make it through his very first night-time stage, even though the intercom had stopped working.

With the blustery conditions continuing and rain falling intermittently during the day, grip levels during Saturday’s seven stages on the North Yorkshire Moors became even more unpredictable. Unfortunately for Greer/Roberts, they were the first to experience the treacherous nature of the changeable and slippery gravel roads when, towards the end of SS2, their car would not slow down enough to get round a down-hill right-hander. Their Evo launched itself off the road to become wedged on its side between the trees. And, although the damage was limited and the car would have been capable of continuing, it was stuck and the Champion elect would now have to spend the remainder of the event hoping that Sigurdarson would not overhaul Fisher.

Besides clipping a bale when negotiating one of the many chicanes designed to slow down competitors on the long straights for which the Dalby Forest complex is famous, Fisher/Kennedy extended their lead during the morning’s three stages. They consequently retuned to Scarborough for the service halt with a lead of just over two minutes ahead of Sigurdarson/Sigurdadottir, who had been slowed when their car’s power steering stopped working just a few miles into the first stage of the day. continued...
Karlsson/Walfridsson were a further minute behind having also suffered mechanical issues, their’s the loss of third and fifth gears due to a disconnected linkage. Fortunately, the Swedish pair were able to fix the problem and began to gather pace as they became more used to British gravel roads. Horsey was also familiarising himself with the UK forests, with he and Davies getting quicker as the rally went on.

Crews then embarked on the afternoon’s loop of four stages and, with all of them a second run through the previous four, the conditions were likely to be even more treacherous. Impressively claiming two fastest overall stage times during the course of the day, Fisher/Kennedy continued to extend their lead, whilst Sigurdarson/Sigurdardottir could only hope that luck would allow them to win and subsequently claim the series title.

Karlsson/Walfridsson started to feel more comfortable with their car and were pleased with their progress during the afternoon. However, on the penultimate stage they were caught out by a slippery section of road and slid into a ditch. Although the car was undamaged, they were unable to extract it from its predicament and retired – an unfitting end to a spirited drive.

Horsey was also of the opinion things were getting better, until a puncture at the start of SS5 forced he and Davies to stop and change the wheel in the stage. Then, just when the finish was in sight, a fuel problem brought their car to a halt on the road section after the final stage.

Back in Scarborough, the time sheets revealed that Fisher and Kennedy had won their second Evolution Challenge round of the season, their performance good enough to see them finish in second place overall. Sigurdarson/Sigurdardottir ended their drama-filled day in second and, in doing so, allowed Greer to become the tenth driver to become Evolution Challenge Champion. However, because Roberts had missed a round during the season, Sigurdadottir was confirmed as 2010 Champion Co-driver.

“This has been an excellent event. In fact it couldn’t have gone better”, said Fisher. “I am extremely pleased to round off the season with another Evo Challenge win and to finish second in the event overall.”

Although disappointed not to have retired for the first time this season, Greer was relieved that his three Evolution Challenge wins and two second places had been enough to secure him the title: “It was frustrating just to be watching what was going on, as I was powerless to do anything about it. I’m therefore pleased that Alastair won so I was able to come away with the Evolution Challenge title and add my name to the list with the nine other drivers.”

By winning the series, Greer was awarded a Pirelli Star Driver nomination. He joins Fisher, who was also awarded a nomination for his performance on the event, to go through to a final shoot out to win a fully-funded drive in 2011.

Added to this, Greer, along with the Evolution Challenge Champions in Sweden (Jimmy Joge) and Ireland (Brendan Cumiskey), will now have the opportunity to take a supported entry in the FxPro Rally Cyprus, the final round of the IRC (Intercontinental Rally Challenge). Then, whichever of the three drivers are first home on this event, will be crowned European Evolution Challenge Champion.

The 2010 Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge UK is supported by: Mitsubishi Motors UK, Pirelli tyres, Sunoco fuels, JRM, Cyprus Automobile Association, Fairways Mitsubishi, Speedline Corse wheels, Murray Motorsport, CL brake pads, Sparco racewear and PIAA lights - who sponsor the junior award for under 25-year old drivers.

Round six results
1 Alastair Fisher (Trillick)/Rory Kennedy (Letterkenny) 1:10:27.3
2 Daniel Sigurdarson (Iceland)/Asta Sigurdardottir (Iceland) 1:13:08.0

Retirements
SS2 Jonny Greer (Carryduff)/Dai Roberts (Carmarthen) Accident
SS7 Ramona Karlsson (Sweden)/Miriam Walfridsson (Sweden) Accident
SS8 Peter Horsey (Kenya) /Chris Davies (Rhondda Cyon Taff) Fuel

One-two in Yorkshire secures the British Teams’ title for JRM

Posted: September 28, 2010 9:56 AM

It was a perfect end to the season for JRM, with Gwyndaf Evans and co-driver Claire Mole winning the sixth and final round of the Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship, the International Rally Yorkshire. Team-mates Alastair Fisher and Rory Kennedy finished second in the first event for the team’s new ‘National’ specification Mitsubishi, this impressive one-two result enabling JRM to secure the British Teams’ title.

Fisher and Kennedy’s performance also saw them win the final round of the Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge and was good enough for Fisher to win the coveted Pirelli Star Driver Award. This is presented to up-and-coming drivers who go on to an end of season shoot-out for the chance to drive a Pirelli supported car in 2011.

A stormy Friday evening with waves crashing over the wall of the sea-front service area welcomed teams to the rally-start in Scarborough, where 100s of spectators braved the wind and spray to see the cars head off to the one, 16-mile Langdale Forest stage before the overnight halt. Evans/Mole posted an excellent time just 1.5 seconds behind Craig Breen who was fastest in his S2000 Fiesta, with reigning British Champion Keith Cronin in his Subaru a further 14-seconds down in third.

Having been brought in for the final round of the BRC to showcase JRM’s new ‘National’ (less modified) specification Group N Lancer Evolution, Fisher/Kennedy spent the first part of the stage building confidence with their new car. Besides one overshoot, they quickly acclimatised to the slippery conditions and ended the day in fifth place.

With blustery and intermittently wet conditions making grip levels in Saturday’s seven stages on the North Yorkshire Moors even more unpredictable, it was not surprising there were to be a few close-calls and incidents. However, this didn’t stop Evans/Mole consolidating their second place and, although they clipped a straw bale marking one of the event’s many chicanes, Fisher/Kennedy had moved up to fourth by the end of SS2 and were now closing the gap on Cronin.

With Breen rolling his Fiesta on the next stage, Evans/Mole went into the lead, whereas Fisher was now at one with his car and recorded the fastest time through the 10-miles of SS3 in Dalby Forest. Another good run by both JRM crews through SS4 meant that they exited the stage in first and second places, Cronin mindful of having to score a top-six finish in order to claim his second BRC Drivers’ title.

At the main service halt on a still windswept Scarborough sea front, both Evans and Fisher reported that their cars were running perfectly and therefore, only routine tasks had to be carried out by the JRM mechanics. The crews then embarked on the afternoon’s loop of four stages and, with all of them a second run through the previous four, they knew that the conditions were likely to be even more treacherous.

As it transpired, Evans/Mole were fastest on SS5, SS7 and SS8, whilst Fisher/Kennedy recorded their second stage win of the day on SS6. This impressive series of results provided a satisfying conclusion to the season for the JRM team - especially taking into account the difficult nature of the gravel forest roads in the Yorkshire forests.

As the cars and crews that had survived the day’s arduous conditions returned to Scarborough for the finish, the timesheets revealed that Evans/Mole had won by 41.5 seconds ahead of Fisher/Kennedy, with Cronin/McNulty a further 27 seconds behind in third. This outcome resulted in JRM claiming a string of successes from the day:

The securing of the British Teams’ title, the third win of the season for Evans, the first ever BRC victory for Mole, second place and victory in the final round of the Evolution Challenge for Fisher/Kennedy and the nomination of the Pirelli Start Driver Award for Fisher – a richly deserved accolade after a mature and well-delivered drive. The team was also delighted that Evans’ car performed faultlessly and that its new ‘National’ specification car proved to be competitive against the more modified ‘International’ specification Group N Machinery.

And, having battled against him all year, the JRM team would like to congratulate Keith Cronin for becoming British Champion Driver for the second time in succession.

Team Quotes

Gwyndaf Evans
“I am delighted to take my third victory of the season and to win this event for the first time. The weather made things very difficult, which makes this result even more satisfying. It’s just a shame about the off in Ulster, as if it hadn’t been for that, I would have been battling for the driver’s title today. I really have to thank JRM for bringing me in to contest a whole season and also for building me a car that I am unable to break! It’s been a fantastic effort by everyone in the team and I am therefore delighted to that we have been able to secure the team’s award. It’s certainly well deserved.”

Alastair Fisher
“This has been an excellent event and I am extremely pleased. In fact it couldn’t have gone better and I must thank JRM for giving me this great opportunity. The car has been fantastic and I’ve enjoyed the whole experience with the team. A day like today really helps increase confidence and I aim to build on this for next season.”

John Barnes – Team Manager
“I am over the moon with this result. First and second is exactly what we wanted to take away with us this weekend. It’s been a challenging year and, although I’m disappointed for Gwyndaf that the Drivers’ Title was just out of reach in the end, I’m delighted that we’ve recorded more wins that anyone else this season and were able to secure the Teams’ title. It’s also been a great debut for our new car and Alastair has done an excellent job for us.”

James Rumsey – Team Principal
“This year was all about putting JRM on the map and showing that we build some of the best Group N cars there is. I’m therefore delighted to be able to round off the season with a result like this and win the British Teams’ title. It’s a credit to everyone in our operation that has been involved with the rally programme. I would like to thank Gwyndaf, Alastair and in particular Daniel Sigurdarson for his consistently strong performances in the five previous rounds that have helped us achieve our goal. I now look forward to announcing details about our 2011 campaign in the next few weeks.”

STATEMENT ON BEHALF OF THE RALLIES COMMITTEE OF MOTORSPORT IRELAND BY CHAIRMAN JAMES COLEMAN

Posted: September 28, 2010 9:55 AM

"Congratulations to Keith Cronin who has made history by securing his second BRC Championship title yesterday. Third place on the International Rally Yorkshire was enough for Keith to retain his crown, his driving is a testimony to his talent and maturity in very difficult conditions. Congratulations also to his co-driver, Fermanagh's, Barry McNulty.

Obviously, we are disappointed for Craig Breen and Gareth Roberts, who led the rally initially but subsequently lost time with mechanical trouble and a brief off road excursion. Having won the recent Rally Northern Ireland, they were on course for their maiden BRC win in the forests until the fourth stage where they lost over eight minutes.

As both Keith and Craig are Billy Coleman Award winners, it gives us great satisfaction as a committee to be involved in helping them achieve the success they deserve.

I am sure that when the rest of the world look at these young drivers and their results and along with the likes of Daniel McKenna and other young drivers, it reflects well on our nation. "

James Coleman
Chairman Rallies Committee.

Craig Breen Rallying - Scarborough Fair: Trackrod Brings Curtain Down on BRC Season

Posted: September 26, 2010 8:41 PM

Horrible luck is the only way to define Craig Breen’s British Rally Championship season and during this weekends International Rally Yorkshire, the final event of this year’s series, the Kick Energy Fiesta driver was hit again with engine problems on only the third special stage and then on the following test Craig suffered a roll. At the finish Craig said, “I was very happy to lead the event over night. The first stage last night was very tough, 16 miles in darkness and wet conditions but I was happy with my pace. This morning on stage two to take 7 seconds from Gwyndaf everything looked good, but when the car began to loose power on stage three, I though here we go again. Conditions were extremely difficult and on stage four as I entered a five-left corner I could see a pothole on the inside which was full of water, what I didn’t know is how deep the pothole was and when the car slammed into it we were jolted around and onto our side. We lost a lot of time and this dropped us down the field. I’m disappointed to finish the season this way as we wanted to keep the run going after winning in Ulster”.

Breen who claimed his first rally victory on the last round in Northern Ireland taught he was after rounding the corner and could end the season on a high. This was not to be however! Craig, partnered by Gareth Roberts made the perfect start as the rally got underway in darkness on Friday night with stage one. Breen set the pace over the sixteen-mile opener and was 1.5 seconds ahead of Welsh driver Gwyndaf Evans. As the rally resumed on Saturday morning Craig again was the pace setter recording the fastest time on stage two and extended his lead to 9.7 second over Evans. Conditions were very difficult as a lot rain had taken its toll on the stages and as Craig traveled through stage three (Givendale 1) he began to notice the engine down on power and by the end of the stage the car was on three cylinders. Luckily Craig and Gareth were able to cure the problem by replacing one of the plugs. On the next stage Staindale 1 Craig season finally came to an end when after hitting a pothole, the Kick Energy Fiesta jerked around and onto its side. The time lost dropped Craig down from first overall to twenty-sixth and 7:46.5 off rally leader Evans. On returning to service Craig was devastated with his luck, stating, “First we had the engine problem and after solving that I hoped we could get to the end without anymore problems. That quickly changed only a few miles later when after hitting a pothole; we ended up on our side. By the time we got back to service I was so far down the field retirement would be the easy option but that’s not the way I want to close the season”.

After the disappointment of dropping out of contention Craig quickly showed his maturity by setting 14:02.1 on stage five, just 0:00.1 behind stage winner Gwyndaf Evans. Over the closing stages Craig drove at a controlled pace and by the finish he was back up to 9th overall.

Not the way Craig and the team wanted to bring the current down on their season but for the frustration of the mechanical gremlin it could have been a different story.

There won’t be much time for the S2000 driver to relax after his weekend in Scarborough as he and Gareth have the final round of the Citroen Tarmac Rally Championship in seven days as they make the trip to the Cork 20 International. Craig will need to put this weekend behind him as he faces into a four-way battle for the title in the Munster showdown.

Cookson/Wilkinson Takes Seventh on Season Finale

Posted: September 26, 2010 11:37 AM

Devon-based Yorkshireman Alan Cookson and co-driver Julian Wilkinson from Tunbridge Wells brought their distinctively liveried TEG Sport-prepared Subaru Impreza N15 home a personal best seventh overall on this weekend's International Rally of Yorkshire as the Scarborough-based event hosted the final round of the 2010 Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship.

After sitting out the recent International Rally of Northern Ireland after a crash on July's International Rally Isle of Man, the Robert Wiseman Dairies and Kick Energy-sponsored pair were reunited with "Moorial" for this high speed Yorkshire outing. After the opening leg, run in the dark of Friday night, the pair were twelfth overall, with Alan admitting to taking some time to adapt back to gravel as his last gravel rally had been the Pirelli International Rally, way back in April.

After making some changes to the set up of the car on Saturday the pair really picked up their pace, and despite the slippery road conditions, climbed the leader board with a string of top ten stage times and after 85 stage miles of rallying action the pair were pleased to finish seventh overall.

Alan Cookson:
"After our big crash on the Isle of Man it has been quite a drama sourcing bits for the car but TEG Sport have done a great job in getting the car ready. We had no time to test and it really showed on Friday night, but once we'd played around with the set up my confidence grew. This is a great way to end the year and we have really enjoyed our first taste of the British Rally Championship."

Payne/Thorley Perfect on Trackrod

Posted: September 26, 2010 11:33 AM

Ripon driver Charlie Payne and York co driver Craig Thorley performed faultlessly on this weekend's Trackrod National Rally to end the 2010 MSA National Gravel Rally Championship in fine style with a dominant victory.

The pair won all six Yorkshire stages in their Ford Focus WRC as County Durham's Stephen Petch and co driver John Richardson from Northallerton, driving a Hyundai Accent WRC, returned to Scarborough second overall.

Newly crowned champions, Yorkshiremen Jonny Milner and Ian Windress were chasing Payne and Thorley all morning but the pair retired their Toyota Corolla WRC with a damaged rear link arm two stages from the end of the event which allowed Petch, who had a relatively drama free rally, to inherit second overall. Jamie Anderson and Ella Flynn won the Production class on the event but by finishing fourth overall, Mancunians Alex Allingham and Mark Glennerster had done enough to be crowned Production Cup Champions.

Overnight rain made the stages treacherous, with a number of drivers reporting that the grip levels were virtually non existent. A high level of attrition saw less than half the field return to the new host town of Scarborough at the end of an action packed day of rallying on the final ANCRO-organised event of the season.

The result sees Petch and Richardson claim second place overall in the Championship, just ahead of Payne and Thorley with Allingham and Glennerster in fourth. Former ANCRO Champions Roger Duckworth and Mark Broomfield claimed fifth with Anderson sixth.

Other notable winners included Anderson who took the Junior Drivers Award, Bicester's Chris Wigmore took maximum points in the Viking Ford Escort Challenge to clinch the title and both Anderson and Allingham won the respective Subaru Cup and Mitsubishi Trophy.

Charlie Payne:
"Today was one great result for us, we had a good clean run with no real dramas. The weather made it very interesting and we survived a huge moment on the last stage so we were really lucky to make the finish!"

Alex Allingham:
"These stages don't really suit my driving style as I prefer more technical stages and so I drove like an old lady just to get to the end. We picked up a puncture in Stage 6 which cost us a little bit of time but otherwise we had no real issues."

Cronin/McNulty Crowned Champions Amidst Muted Celebrations

Posted: September 26, 2010 11:31 AM

Keith Cronin and co-driver Barry McNulty successfully defended the MSA British Rally Championship title, which Cronin won twelve months ago, with a controlled drive to third overall on this weekend's International Rally of Yorkshire.

Celebrations were sombre, however, as the pair dedicated their result to fellow TEG Sport competitor Jimmy Girvan who tragically passed away following an accident on the McRae Stages Rally earlier in the day.

Cronin, the 2009 champion, only needed to finish inside the top seven to be assured of the 2010 Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship title and the TEG Sport team had accordingly prepared the car with an emphasis on reliability rather than raw pace. At the end of Friday's action the Irishman was well placed in third overall with team-mates Adam Gould and Craig Drew in sixth position.

Overnight rain made the road conditions treacherous but Keith did everything that was asked of him to bring the Subaru Impreza N15 back to Scarborough unscathed. And by finishing third overall was assured of his second MSA British Rally Championship title in a row.

Keith also becomes the first Pirelli Star Driver recipient to be crowned champion but understandably, having spent a day testing with Jimmy Girvan on Thursday, was very subdued at the finish following the tragic news from earlier in the day.

Stuart Newby, TEG Sport Team Principal:
"Keith drove a fantastic rally with no heroics. We played it safe this weekend by running with a tool box and two spare wheels and even so he still finished third overall. We've finished second in the championship for the last three years and so it is nice to take the win this time. However it is devastating about Jimmy and all of our thoughts are with his family."

Adam Gould and Craig Drew played the perfect support role in their efforts to help TEG Sport clinch the team's title but ultimately the pair were forced to retire their Subaru Impreza N11 with a damaged bottom arm on the front suspension.

Adam Gould:
"It is gutting for my season to end this way but cannot thank everyone enough for all of their support especially TEG Sport, they have been absolutely fantastic!"

Results

Posted: September 26, 2010 11:16 AM

International
1 Gwyndaf Evans/Claire Mole (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X) 1:18:27.6
2 Alastair Fisher/Rory Kennedy (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X) 1:19:09.1
3 Keith Cronin/Barry McNulty (Subaru Impreza N15) 1:19:38.0
4 Daniel McKenna/Andrew Grennan (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX) 1:20:54.9
5 Jason Pritchard/Robbie Durant (Subaru Impreza N16) 1:21:43.6
6 Daniel Sigurdarson/Asta Sigurdardottir (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X) 1:22:12.7
7 Alan Cookson/Julian Wilkinson (Subaru Impreza N15) 1:25:10.1
8 Wug Utting/Bob Stokoe (Subaru Impreza N12) 1:26:13.5
9 Craig Breen/Gareth Roberts (Ford Fiesta S2000) 1:27:20.1
10 Mikko Pajunen/Janne Perala (Ford Fiesta R2) 1:27:39.5

National
1 Charlie Payne/Craig Thorley (Ford Focus WRC) 0:56:02.1
2 Stephen Petch/John Richardson (Hyundai Accent WRC) 0:57:03.2
3 Jamie Anderson/Ella Flynn (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 8) 0:59:19.5
4 Alex Allingham/Mark Glennerster (Subaru Impreza WRX) 1:00:31.1
5 Peter Stephenson/Jon Dunning (Ford Focus WRC) 1:01:41.6
6 Nigel Seabold/Tim Barton (Subaru Impreza N16) 1:02:22.7
Leaders After:
SS1-2 Craig Breen/Gareth Roberts (Ford Fiesta S2000)
SS3-8 Gwyndaf Evans/Claire Mole (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X)

Stage Winners:
SS1 Craig Breen/Gareth Roberts (Ford Fiesta S2000)
SS2 Craig Breen/Gareth Roberts (Ford Fiesta S2000)
SS3 Alastair Fisher/Rory Kennedy (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X) 1:19:09.1
SS4 Gwyndaf Evans/Claire Mole (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X)
SS5 Gwyndaf Evans/Claire Mole (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X)
SS6 Alastair Fisher/Rory Kennedy (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X) 1:19:09.1
SS7 Gwyndaf Evans/Claire Mole (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X)
SS8 Gwyndaf Evans/Claire Mole (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X)

Trackrod 2010 - Full Results - All Section (Zip File)

Results:
North East Rally Services | Tynemouth Computer Services Rally Results | liveresults.djames.org.uk

News / Photos British Rally Championship

Meet top British Rally Stars at Stoneacre Ford Rally Roadshow

Posted: September 23, 2010 9:33 AM

On Thursday 23 September, the general public will get a chance to meet the stars of the British Rally Championship (BRC) at the Stoneacre Ford Rally Roadshow.

The roadshow will be held at the Stoneacre Ford branch on Seamer Road in Scarborough prior to this weekend’s final BRC round, the International Rally Yorkshire, and will run from 5:30 – 8:30pm. Attending the three-hour event will be rally stars, Craig Breen and Elfyn Evans alongside a string of rally car displays and entertainment.

The event will be held in collaboration between Stoneacre Ford, Kick Energy Fiesta SportTrophy and the organisers of Rally Yorkshire and will showcase the latest Ford rally cars, including the Fiesta R2 and the exciting new Ford Fiesta S2000. There will also be exclusive rally merchandise on sale.

In addition, any customer who test drives a Ford on Thursday evening will be entered into a free prize draw with a chance to win a passenger ride in an M-Sport Ford Fiesta R2 with Elfyn Evans, the 2010 Fiesta SportTrophy UK champion.

There will also be a Question & Answer session with Craig Breen & Elfyn Evans where the public will get a chance to grill the crop of Britain’s rally talent. Visitors can also test their rallying skills on the official Ford Focus WRC Rally Simulator and the fastest time on the night will win BP Ford Abu Dhabi World Rally Team merchandise.

The roadshow is free for everyone and all ages are welcome.

Evans out for FST clean sweep in Yorkshire

Posted: September 23, 2010 9:17 AM

2010 Kick Energy Fiesta SportTrophy UK (FSTUK) champion Elfyn Evans will be aiming to claim a unprecedented seven wins from seven starts in the 2010 championship on this weekend’s Trackrod International Rally Yorkshire. The event marks the final round of the 2010 FST UK championship and the Dulux Trade British Rally Championship (BRC). With the FST title already secured Evans, 21 from Machynlleth and co-driver Andrew Edwards can concentrate on securing their second crown of 2010, the BRC Junior title, which they currently lead by nine points.

The Scarborough-based event takes place over eight all gravel special stages around the North York Moors and includes one stage in the darkness on the opening day of the event, Friday 24 September. The rally includes some of the most famous stages in British rallying including Langdale, which has featured on both Rally GB and the Roger Albert Clark Rally.

Although the championship title is already decided there is still a battle on for second place, with two Scotsmen, John MacCrone and John Boyd both in with a chance of claiming the runners up position.

Boyd, 23 from West Linton and co-driver Craig Wallace have missed the last two rounds in the Isle of Man and Ireland, and have slipped to third as result of MacCrone finishing second behind Evans on both the all Tarmac events. But with 30 points available for winning and having won the FST section of the Trackrod in 2009 the pair will be hoping for a strong end to the season to recapture second place.

Since joining the championship at the second round of 2010, the Bulldog International Rally, MacCrone and co-driver Stuart Loudon have steadily improved their pace and their confidence in left hand drive machinery. A strong showing on the three Tarmac rounds has boosted them to second in the championship standings a position they will be hoping to hold onto in their debut year driving the Rally Team Scotland prepared Fiesta R2.

Finnish sensation Mikko Pajunen makes his debut in the Fiesta R2 on the Trackrod Rally having already turned heads in the 2010 BRC driving a class R1 Suzuki Swift. Pajunen and co-driver Janne Perala step up to the faster R2 class machine to gain experience ahead of the 2011 season. The Finnish pair will be hoping to mix it with FST UK regulars despite having little time to get acquainted with the Fiesta R2.

Ahead of the Trackrod International Rally Yorkshire, FST UK organisers M-Sport will host a pre-event Rally Show in association with Stoneacre Ford.
The event will take place at Stoneacre’s Scarborough dealership on Seamer Road from 17:30 – 20:30, Thursday 23 September. The event is free to attend and open to all ages, whether interested in rallying or not.
The latest Ford Fiesta R2 and Super 2000 cars will be on display and members of the public will have the chance to prove themselves as a rally driver in a Ford Focus Rally Simulator.
The fastest guest on the night will win a BP Ford Abu Dhabi official jacket. There will also be the chance to take a test drive in some of the latest Ford road cars. Anyone taking a test drive on the night will be entered into a prize draw to win a passenger ride with 2010 FST UK Champion Elfyn Evans in a Fiesta R2. Finally guests will have the chance to quiz Evans and 2009 FST UK champion, Craig Breen at a Q&A session.

JRM aims for Teams’ title in final round of British Rally Championship

Posted: September 22, 2010 2:54 PM

This weekend’s Trackrod Rally Yorkshire, the final round of the 2010 Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship, will see JRM mount a final push for the British Teams’ title. Concluding a successful season, Gwyndaf Evans will drive JRM’s lead Group N Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, whilst – as announced two weeks ago - talented youngster Alastair Fisher will play a supporting role in JRM’s ‘National’ specification car.

With this the last event of the season, organisers have deemed that competitors will score one-and-a-half times the usual number of points. As such, there will be 30 points allocated for a win, rather than the usual 20.

Taking these points in account, in addition to the Teams’ title, Evans is also in with a mathematical chance of claiming the Drivers’ crown. However, if Jonny Greer, Keith Cronin and Jason Pritchard -who are ahead of him in the standings - all have a good run, his hopes of securing a second British title will be over.

After an outstanding performance so far this year in his own Mitsubishi Evolution IX, Fisher was invited to join the JRM team to demonstrate the potential of its new ‘National’ specification car. Although not as high-spec as the Mitsubishi Evans will be driving, the team predicts that he will still be quick and has the potential to win the event outright.

Evans will be co-driven this weekend by Claire Mole, who previously partnered him in the early-to-mid 2000s in the works MG S1600. Fisher will be joined by his regular co-driver Rory Kennedy.

Both Evans and Fisher will test their cars on Wednesday (22nd September) at a location in the North West. This will be the first time since winning the Pirelli Rally in April Evans has driven his car on gravel, whereas for Fisher, this will be his inaugural taste of the JRM Evolution X.

The Trackrod Rally Yorkshire is based in Scarborough this year, with all of its 85-mile competitive route and nine stages taking place in the forests over the North Yorkshire Moors. The action gets underway at 7.00pm on Friday evening with one stage in Langdale Forest. This is followed by a further eight stages on Saturday before the finish in Scarborough at around 6.00 that evening.

Team Quotes

Gwyndaf Evans
“If it wasn’t for the non-finish at the start of the year in Wales and the accident last month in Ulster, I would be in a great position to challenge for the Drivers’ title”, explained Evans. “There’s still a slim chance, but this weekend the goal really will be to secure the Teams’ title. JRM have put a lot into this season and therefore it would be great if we can achieve this. The whole team deserves it.”

Alastair Fisher
“I’m really looking forward to driving the JRM car this weekend. It will be the first time I’ve driven an Evo X in competition and the first time I’ve worked with a team such as JRM. It’s going to be a great experience and I hope to do deliver the best result I can to help them win the Teams’ award.”

John Barnes – Team Manager
“Even though its going to take a lot of luck to win the Drivers’ title, it would be good to get a third win under our belts this season. However, we have to get both cars to the finish to keep us in the frame for the Teams’ title, so we can’t afford to take any chances. I am also very interested to see how Alastair performs in our new ‘National’ spec car and will be watching his progress closely.”

James Rumsey – Team Principal
“It will be great if we come away with the Teams’ title this weekend. It would have been good to be competing for the Drivers’ title as well, but our focus will be to get both cars home in high points-scoring positions.”

Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge UK - Jonny Greer and Daniel Sigurdarson battle it out for the title

Posted: September 22, 2010 2:52 PM

The sixth and final round of the 2010 Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge takes place this weekend, the Trackrod Rally Yorkshire hosting the finale for the series’ tenth consecutive season in the UK. And, after the five events held so far this year - two on gravel and three on asphalt - the battle for the title is now between two drivers: Jonny Greer and Daniel Sigurdarson.

Taking place on Friday and Saturday, the rally also hosts the final round of the Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship and, with it being the last event of the season, organisers have deemed that competitors will score one-and-a-half times the usual number of points. As such, there will be 30 points allocated for a win, rather than the usual 20.

In addition to leading the Evolution Challenge field, Greer - who will be co-driver by Dai Roberts - also tops the British Championship Drivers’ standings. His successful season has included an impressive three wins and two second places in the Mitsubishi series and therefore, he is in pole position to claim the title this weekend.

The only driver able to spoil Greer’s aspirations is Daniel Sigurdarson. Having scored two second places, two third places and one non-finish, he and co-driver Asta Sigurdardottir have to be the first of the Evolution Challenge runners home and will need Greer not to finish if the Icelandic Champion is to lift the crown.

The event will also be the decider for the co-driver’s title, Roberts and Sigurdardottir the two in line for the trophy.

A driver that could so easily have been fighting for the title is Alastair Fisher. However, three non-finishes eliminated any chance he had of winning the 2010 series, although he’s shown he has pace to do it by winning on two occasions. For this event, Fisher and his co-driver Rory Kennedy have stepped out of their usual Evolution IX and into an Evolution X, having accepted to invitation to drive JRM’s new ‘National’ specification Group N car which makes its competitive debut this weekend.

Making a welcome visit to the UK is Swedish Evolution Challenge competitor Ramona Karlsson. She and co-driver Miriam Walfridsson are another who have swapped cars and will be driving an Evo IX on loan from Kick Energy boss and regular rally competitor Steve Perez. Although an experienced driver in her home country, this will be Karlsson’s debut in the UK.

The Trackrod Rally Yorkshire is based in Scarborough this year, with all of its 85-mile competitive route and nine stages taking place in the forests over the North Yorkshire Moors. The action gets underway at 7.00pm on Friday evening with one stage in Langdale Forest. This is followed by a further eight stages on Saturday before the finish in Scarborough at around 6.00 that evening.

The 2010 Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge UK is supported by: Mitsubishi Motors UK, Pirelli tyres, Sunoco fuels, JRM, Cyprus Automobile Association, Fairways Mitsubishi, Speedline Corse wheels, Murray Motorsport, CL brake pads, Sparco racewear and PIAA lights - who sponsor the junior award for under 25-year old drivers.

For the first time this season the winner of the Evolution Challenge in the UK, Ireland and Sweden, will win the same prize: A supported drive in the FxPro Rally Cyprus, the final round of the IRC (Intercontinental Rally Challenge). Then, whichever of the three teams are first home on this event will be crowned European Evolution Challenge Champions. Added to this, the winning driver in the UK will be a guaranteed nomination for the Pirelli Star Driver shoot-out.

Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge UK - Round six entries
4 Alastair Fisher (Trillick)/Rory Kennedy (Letterkenny)
6 Jonny Greer (Carryduff)/Dai Roberts (Carmarthen)
9 Daniel Sigurdarson (Iceland)/Asta Sigurdardottir (Iceland)
20 Ramona Karlsson (Sweden)/Miriam Walfridsson (Sweden)

Craig Breen Rallying: International Rally Yorkshire Event Preview

Posted: September 18, 2010 10:35 PM

19th in Finish Forests and Qualification for the Pirelli Star Driver Global Shootout served as appetisers as Craig climb the top step of the podium in Antrim after claiming his first rally victory on the Northern Ireland International Rally. Now as the Dulux Trade MSA British Championship draws to a close the Waterford driver wants to end the season on a high.

"I've now tasted success. Winning on the Ulster was fantastic but I want to keep the run going and win on the gravel surface of the Trackrod" are the thoughts of the Kick Energy Ford Fiesta S2000 driver as he prepares for the final round of the season. He also says
"We are down to the final event in the BRC and the Irish Tarmac Championship draws to a close only a week later, so a good performance is also required there. Then my focus will switch to the Pirelli Global Shootout so as the season comes to a climax I need to be on the top of my game".

International Rally Yorkshire (Trackrod Rally) brings the curtain down on the 2010 BRC season and will be a fitting finally with nearly 90 miles of classic North Yorkshire stages.

Scarborough is the brand new location for Rally Yorkshire's HQ, service area, start and finish. The start, finish and service area will be on the spectacular seafront Marine Drive. There will be a shakedown stage on Thursday, with the recce, scrutineering and documentation is held on Friday.

The rally will start from the town's harbour on Friday evening with an all new night stage in Langdale and a re-start early Saturday morning, finishing later that evening.

Rally Yorkshire is the only event allowed to utilise the famous, fast flowing stages in the Dalby complex and, as all other stages are nearby, you are promised a full and demanding days rallying.

BHRC preview, round eight: Trackrod Historic Cup

Posted: September 18, 2010 10:32 PM

Once again, the Trackrod Historic Cup (Saturday 25 September) brings the curtain down on the Dunlop/Wonago.com MSA British Historic Rally Championship season as the BHRC crews take the annual chance to tackle the classic Yorkshire forest stages. With a fine entry of 66 historics, it will be a great end to another superb season of historic rallying.

After another challenging season, the overall title race will be decided over four long stages in the famous Dalby and Langdale forest complexes and three crews remain in the running for the title. The strongest hand lies with David Stokes and Guy Weaver in their Escort Mk1 following another maximum score on the penultimate event in Belgium. If they repeat that result with another category two victory in Yorkshire, they will be confirmed as overall champions.

However, ready to challenge are category one crews Jonathan Gale and James Whitaker (Sunbeam Tiger) and Dessie Nutt and Geraldine McBride (Porsche 911). Gale/Whitaker start the final round with the upper hand, but need to win to make sure of the category title and have the best chance of the overall crown should Stokes/Weaver falter. Nutt/McBride, meanwhile, can only go all out for category one victory and see where their rivals have finished.

Category one
At the head of category one will be Gale/Whitaker and Nutt/McBride, as one of the strongest category one fields of the season includes contenders in the HRCR Stage Rally Challenge and HRCR Mini Cup.
The big rival to the Tiger and the Porsche will be the flying Volvo Amazon of Graham Waite and Gill Cotton. However, the long Yorkshire straights should favour the sports cars despite the spectacular efforts of Waite. Other quick cars in classes B4 and B5 include the Porsche 911s of Phil and Barbara Smith and Edmund Peel/Kevin Devine, while the Lotus Cortina of Paul Mankin and Desmond Bell makes a welcome return to the BHRC after an engine failure earlier in the season.
Among the Minis, Clive King and Bob Ward should set the pace, while class B1 will be contested by Nick Pinkett and Richard Simpson (Saab 96) and Mike Barratt and Jody Watson (Sunbeam Stiletto).

Category two
Despite starting the season with non-finishes on three of the first four gravel rallies, Stokes and Weaver have since had a fabulous campaign, topped by victories in category two on the Isle of Man, Ulster and Flanders. Now, another victory is the target to clinch the overall title.
However, the opposition in category two is strong and includes Steven Smith and John Nichols in the Escort Mk1 that Smith debuted in Flanders. Stokes knows that he must beat Smith in Yorkshire, while other challenges in class C5 come from Chris Browne and Liz Jordan (Escort Mk1) and 2009 Trackrod winners Stefaan Stouf and Joris Erard (Escort Mk1).
Another challenger for victory in category two will be class C4 leaders Tim Mason and Graham Wild (Porsche 911). Mason will be hoping for better fortune than a year ago when his run on his home rally ended less than a mile into the opening stage with driveshaft failure.
Mason and Wild go up against another Porsche 911 in class C4, the car of fellow Yorkshire crew Peter Smith and Russ Langthorne, while a welcome return to the BHRC is made by the glorious Lancia Stratos of Steve Perez and Paul Spooner.
Class C3 promises one of the best battles of the season, headed by Yorkshiremen Andrew Siddall and Captain Thompson in their Escort Mk1, who have already won the class title. However, on their home rally they face a big challenge, headed by Welshmen Tim Jones and Don James (Escort Mk1) and backed up by the similar cars of James Slaughter/Phil Peak, Guy Smith/Patrick Walsh and Robin Shuttleworth/Ronnie Roughead.
A fine class C2 field includes several championship newcomers, but it is the Escort Mk1 of Vince Bristow and Tim Sayer that it sure to set the pace as the Sussex crew battle to get up among the more powerful class C3 cars.

Category three
A superb entry of category three cars will deliver some spectacular action and with the category title already sewn up by the Vauxhall Chevette of Rob Smith and Shaun O'Gorman, there are no championship issues to be settled.
Leading the field away on his first run in the BHRC will be local legend Steve Bannister, partnered by Louise Sutherland in his historic specification Escort Mk2. Going up against Bannister will be Nick Elliott and Dave Price and Ulster Rally winners Connor Corkill and Rob Fagg.
Other rapid Escort Mk2s will be in the hands of Roger Kilty/Lynette Banks, Tim Pearcey/John McNichol, Charlie Taylor/Steve Bielby, Dick Slaughter/Geoff Dearing and notable dark horse Warren Philliskirk/Emma Slights. From Belgium comes the Escort Mk2 of Christophe Jacob and world-class co-driver Stephane Prevot. Lining up against the Escort pack will be the Opel Ascona 400 of local crew Steve Magson and Geoff Atkinson.
In class C3, Richard Lane and Frank Richer head the pack in their Escort Mk2, while class D2 will be a battle of the Sunbeams ass Ian Coulson/Joe Jones go up against Michael Kent/Miles Cartwright.

The Trackrod Historic Cup starts at 7.30am on Saturday 25 September from Scarborough.

Alastair Fisher joins JRM for final round of British Rally Championship

Posted: September 10, 2010 11:39 PM

JRM is pleased to confirm that Alastair Fisher will drive its new ‘ National’ specification Group N Mitsubishi Evolution X in the final round of the Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship, the Rally Yorkshire, which takes place on 24th & 25th September.

The 22-year old from Trillick in Northern Ireland will join the team to demonstrate its brand new ‘National’ specification car and will run alongside the team’s regular driver Gwyndaf Evans, who will continue to drive the same Mitsubishi in which he won the Jim Clark Rally in May. Together with Evans, the young Ulsterman will help the team in its quest to secure the British Teams’ title, JRM needing both cars to finish above its rivals to secure the award.

Fisher, who will be partnered by his regular co-driver Rory Kennedy, is delighted to be joining the JRM team for this one-off drive and is looking forward to the experience:

“JRM approached me following the Ulster Rally and asked if I would drive one of their cars and of course, I said yes. I was thinking of missing the Yorkshire Rally because the final round of the Irish Tarmac Championship is a week afterwards and therefore this is a perfect solution. I’m really looking forward to working with the team and to see how the Evo X compares to my current Evo IX. I think it will go well bearing in mind the fast stages in Yorkshire.”

John Barnes, JRM rally team manager, is pleased to be able to provide Fisher with the opportunity and said:
“Alastair has shown that he has the pace and ability to run at the front of the field. In fact, he has been one of our main competitors this year. We are therefore delighted to give him this opportunity and I’m sure he will deliver an excellent performance and demonstrate how competitive our new car is, even though it is not built to full International Group N specification.”

Team Principal and the company’s Executive Director James Rumsey explained why his company sees the introduction of the new Group N car as a significant addition to its line-up:
“Our ‘National’ specification Mitsubishi is designed to appeal to drivers who are looking to update from their existing Evo IXs and for those who want to move into a competitive and reliable four-wheel-drive R4 class car without spending a six-figure sum. The shell, safety cage, and all-round preparation are of an equally high standard to that of the full-specification version, with many of the same components used. The car comes with an option of dampers and all that’s needed for competitive rallying, but does not include items such as a dog-gear box or big brake kit.”

On sale from this week, JRM’s new Group N cars are available fully built or alternatively, can be purchased as a base RS model and kit of parts. Although the company offers its cars with a suggested level of equipment, it is possible for customers to specify additional modifications and components and to upgrade it to a higher-specification at a later date.

Fisher is due to test the JRM Mitsubishi in advance of the Scarborough-based Rally Yorkshire, where the car will make its competitive debut following its first public appearance at RallyDay on 18th September.

Unseeded List of Entries

Posted: September 6, 2010 8:43 AM

• Trackrod Motor Club

Rally Yorkshire is blue print for future of top level forest rallying

Posted: August 29, 2010 5:22 PM

The format of Rally Yorkshire, with international, national and regional championships all coming together under a single umbrella event is a blue print for the future of top level forest rallying in Britain, says event clerk of the course Rod Parkin.

Parkin, who has more than 40 years experience in the organisation of the sport, believes that major forest events will need to attract a wide range of championships if they are to survive.

"We need to bring events together to make them viable and ensure the future of forest rallying," said Parkin. "That's the only successful way of doing it and making sure we've still got a sport in 10 years. We're all got to work together and events can only continue by being part of several championships. However, I do acknowledge that both the MSA British Historic Rally Championship and the BTRDA Championship have successful formats and good support."

The Trackrod Rally, headed by the International Rally Yorkshire, the deciding round of the Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship, will be based in the resort town of Scarborough on Friday 24th and Saturday 25th September. In total, the event will be a round of no less than 15 championships.

Parkin is eager for rallying to have a clear progression for competitors and says that it is important to have an international status championship at the top of the sport. "It is important for the UK to have a progression to international level, and the work that the MSA is doing to mentor and support future rally stars through the MSA Academy is to be applauded," he said.

But Parkin also acknowledges that other competitors have different needs. "We need to put on events that people want to do, no matter what level of the sport they are at. All the championships we host are valuable and it is important how they come together as a whole. It certainly is a juggling act to fit in all the championships and give them value for money. We've never had a major title sponsor, though of course we are grateful for all the advertisers and supporters. Thus we have to rely on entry fees and cut out cloth accordingly. With the current spending cuts, it will be increasingly difficult to gain significant sponsorship - but we live in hope!”

Running alongside the Dulux Trade BRC contenders on Rally Yorkshire will be competitors in the Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge, Citroën Racing Trophy UK, Fiesta SportTrophy and Swift Sport Cup as well as the BRC Challenge and Fiesta Sport Challenge.

As well as the final round of the Dulux Trade BRC, the rally will also form the final rounds of the Dunlop/WONAGO.com MSA British Historic, MSA English and MSA Gravel Rally Championships. The range of individual events will vary from 45-stage mile rallies for the historic and clubmans contenders, to over 90 miles of action for the DTBRC competitors. The historic event will include rounds of the Motoscope HRCR Northern Historic Rally Championship, HRCR Historic Stage Rally Challenge, HRCR Mini Cup and the Association of North Western Car Clubs Historic Stage Rally Championship. Regional championships covered by the clubmans rally include those from the Northern, North-East Midlands and North West associations.

Entries are now open and, for the first time, entries and payment may be made online. For more details of the Trackrod Rally Yorkshire, please visit

• Trackrod Motor Club

Scarborough gets behind Rally Yorkshire

Posted: August 21, 2010 5:52 PM

A ceremonial start with autograph sessions and servicing on the famous Marine Drive will really take the 2010 International Rally Yorkshire into the heart of the resort town of Scarborough on Friday 24th and Saturday 25th September.

With regulations for the event now published and entries open, the organisers have released more details of how Scarborough is taking the rally to its heart, with the town’s newly re-generated harbour area featuring prominently in the plans for the rally. The rally is set to bring £3 million into the local economy at a time when the tourist season is heading into its closing stages.

The rally will have a high-profile ceremonial start in the town on Friday evening, with autograph sessions from 6.30pm to allow residents and visitors to meet the stars of the Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship. Then, on Saturday afternoon, the winners will spray the champagne on the sea front. Throughout the rally, Marine Drive will be host to the service area as the teams work to keep the rally cars in peak condition.

For the rally fans, the event offers a fabulous opportunity to see the best drivers in British rallying in action in the famous Dalby forest complex, where the cars will make two visits to the spectacular ‘wood yard’ section and fans can see a full day of rallying throughout Saturday.

Running alongside the Dulux Trade BRC contenders will be competitors in the Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge, Citroën Racing Trophy UK, Fiesta SportTrophy and Swift Sport Cup as well as the BRC Challenge and Fiesta SportChallenge.

As well as the final round of the Dulux Trade BRC, the rally will also form the final rounds of the Dunlop/WONAGO.com MSA British Historic, MSA English and MSA Gravel Rally Championships. The range of individual events will vary from 45-stage mile rallies for the historic and clubmans contenders, to over 90 miles of action for the DTBRC competitors. The historic event will include rounds of the Motoscope HRCR Northern Historic Rally Championship, HRCR Historic Stage Rally Challenge, HRCR Mini Cup and the Association of North Western Car Clubs Historic Stage Rally Championship.

Competitors can now enter on-line for the first time and pay by credit or debit card and the organisers are hoping to attract a capacity entry of 180 cars to take on the challenge of the gravel special stages of the fabulous Yorkshire forests.

Rod Parkin from Trackrod Motor Club said:
"We are delighted that Scarborough is embracing the rally with such enthusiasm and commitment. It is going to be a spectacular end to the Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship and Scarborough will be the perfect host and backdrop for this prestigious event."

Regulations available

Posted: August 19, 2010 2:52 PM

• Trackrod Motor Club

Rally Guide Available

Posted: July 22, 2010 12:43 PM

• Trackrod Motor Club

Scarborough hosts Rally Yorkshire

Posted: April 15, 2010 4:52 PM

Following enthusiastic support by the Borough Council, the 2010 International Rally Yorkshire will be based in the resort town of Scarborough for the first time in 25 years on Friday 24th and Saturday 25th September.  

Bringing an estimated £3m to the local economy over the weekend, Scarborough will host the rally’s start, finish, headquarters and service area, from where up to 180 competitors will head into the fabulous Yorkshire forests for a unique experience in British rallying. In addition to the boost to the local businesses, the event will portray the host town and region on television, which will broadcast around the world.  

"Scarborough is a very suitable location for an international rally and we wanted to expose rallying to a greater audience by bringing the show into town," said clerk of the course Rod Parkin from Trackrod Motor Club. "There will be a great atmosphere around the town, the service area will be based along Marine Drive and the ceremonial starts and finishes will be on the sea front."

  Rally Yorkshire will again be a round of many national and regional championships and will be the final round of the Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship. In a new development, contenders in the British Isles’ premier rally championship will tackle a 20-mile forest stage on Friday evening (24 September) ahead of the main competition on Saturday.  

Running alongside the Dulux Trade BRC contenders will be competitors in the Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge, Citroën Racing Trophy UK, Fiesta SportTrophy and Swift Sport Cup as well as the BRC Challenge and Fiesta SportChallenge.  

Mark Taylor, DTBRC manager said:
"The move is great news for everyone involved and I am delighted that Scarborough and the Council have embraced this world renowned series. Scarborough will provide a unique seaside backdrop for the final round of the Dulux Trade MSA British Rally Championship. This event will provide a major boost for businesses and hoteliers at the end of the holiday season. Discussions are now taking place to secure Scarborough as the host venue beyond this first year and if this comes off, it would be a major coup for the popular resort."  

As well as the final round of the Dulux Trade BRC, the rally will also form the final rounds of the Dunlop/WONAGO.com MSA British Historic, MSA English and MSA Gravel Rally Championships. The range of individual events will vary from 45-stage mile rallies for the historic and clubmans contenders, to over 90 miles of action for the DTBRC competitors. The historic event will include rounds of the Motoscope HRCR Northern Historic Rally Championship, HRCR Historic Stage Rally Challenge, HRCR Mini Cup and the Association of North Western Car Clubs Historic Stage Rally Championship.

  Brian Bennett, Head of Tourism and Culture said:
"Scarborough Borough Council is very pleased to be hosting the Yorkshire round of the British Rally Championship. This two-day rally is a superb addition to our diverse events programme and will look spectacular based on Marine Drive with its stunning backdrop. It will be great for Scarborough, as it will attract several thousand spectators and over 1000 drivers, crew, organisers and officials. We are now attracting a lot of exciting and varied sporting and cultural events to the area which demonstrates the value of the recent Urban Renaissance inward investment."  

Event Website

Posted: January 1, 2010 12:01 AM

• Trackrod Motor Club