TRAVERS TRIUMPHS

Posted: August 14, 2000 8:11 PM

“It is a dream come true, it has been a really long tough year. I have had to battle very hard with John Carroll and John O’Dowd throughout the Championship. The competition this year has been extremely close much closer than last year. The Championship is a credit to Ford Ireland and Protec Promotions Ltd, who have put in so much hard work to make the Championship a success” said James.

John Carroll in the Dooley Motors Ford KA from Danesfort, Kilkenny, driving a text book rally, took a commanding victory leading from start to finish. John O’Dowd in the Sky Clad Ford KA challenged Carroll over the opening loop of stages, only 2 seconds separated them coming into the first service. On the second loop O’Dowd increased the pace but was caught out on slick tyres when it started to rain and was also delayed when a car in front of him crashed blocking him. The final two stages of the day were cancelled, denying any of the other crews the opportunity to challenge any further. James Travers in the Barry Pender Motors Ford KA drove a tactical rally, not taking any risks to secure second position and the Championship title.

“I am delighted to have taken my second win of the year today, John O’Dowd pushed me all the way but he was unlucky to finish in third position. Naturally I am disappointed on not winning the championship but I now want to secure second place in the Championship. Congratulations to James Travers his luck has held all year but he has also driven extremely well” said John Carroll.

“The closeness of the competition is a testament to all the drivers ability and the fairness of the competition. All the drivers competing under the same conditions in identical cars, means that the best driver has won” said Eddie Nolan, Chairman and Managing Director, Henry Ford & Son Limited.