The Kellys kick start their Championship

Posted: June 14, 2000 7:30 PM

The twelve stages of this two leg event provided plenty of entertainment for the brothers, who in spite of limited forest experience (this was to be Donagh's second gravel event) proved to be up to the challenge from the outset.

A number of minor difficulties over the two days - including a puncture and a broken rear torsion bar late into the second leg - did little to hamper the Emerald team's commitment to put in a solid performance. Leg one's Windy Hill (SS2 & SS6) seemed determined to make Donagh work hard though: he described the test as being "different!" after an initial run through and by the time he cleared the stage second time around, second gear was no longer an option.

A calculated and intelligent drive by the Donegal man was rewarded with a valuable Championship points finish. Donagh now looks forward to a return to the familiar territory of asphalt on the next round of the Puma Championship - the Duns based Jim Clark Rally (30th June - 2nd July).

The Emerald Motorsport team wish to acknowledge their commercial partner's continuing support for the 2000 season. Thanks to Ashbourne Communications Ltd., Tara Plant, 'A' Plant, Mintex and Champion Spark Plugs.