Kris Meeke Rallying – Galloway Hills Rally 2001

Posted: December 4, 2001 8:42 AM

With only 10 miles testing in the car on Friday, Kris had not much time to adjust to his new machinery, and the change of driving position. “I just had enough time to find out what all the switches were for!”... commented Kris.

Together with Glenn Patterson, the Dungannon pair got off to a frustrating start with two spins and an overshoot on the first stage, as Kris had to try and come to terms with the lack of grip on the notorious Dalbeattie opener.

On the third and fourth stages, Kris was fastest by 15 and 16 seconds respectively, obviously settling into a rhythm on the fast flowing Glengap tests. “We made a pact that the stage times and overall result were of no importance. It was not until queuing for the final stage, that Rory Kennedy said we were actually leading the rally by 22 seconds”… commented Kris.

The last stage was a shortened version of the Dalbeattie opener, and Kris eased off to secure his first overall rally win.

After the event Kris said….“I really do not know where we managed to pull this result from. Once we cleared the first stage, the next three tests were a bit more open, and maybe suited my driving style. Even to have the chance to drive one of these cars was an absolute pleasure. Kenny McKinstry and his men turned out an immaculate car at short notice, and I’m just happy that were are able to hand it back to him in one piece”.

“We have had a lot of local support from back home for this event, and its thanks to those people that we have been able to end the season on a high note. As yet, we have no plans for next year, but I think we will have to get the wheels in motion before Christmas”.

Many thanks to our sponsors for this event : Pirelli Tyres, Micro-Cam, stagetimes.com, Stenaline, Norman Ferguson & Son, GMC Graphics, Gordon Glendinning Motosport, Ian Cuddy Motorsport.

Overall Results
1. Kris Meeke / Glen Patterson Subaru Impreza GpA 44:29
2. Dave Weston / Martin Forest Mitsubishi Lancer GpA 44:54
3. Dick Cormack / Micheal Gibson Subaru Impreza 45:14
4. Barry Johnson / John Bennie Subaru Impreza 555 45:14
5. Brendan Kelly / Rony Kennedy Mitsubishi EVO VI 46.03
6. Mike Stephenson / Andy Burnt Ford Escort Cosworth 46.18
7. Alan Barr / Bill Balantyne Subaru Impreza WRX 46.19
8. Quinten Milne / Duncan Mcintosh Vauxhall Nova GTE 46.30
9. Steve Bannister / Dave Robson Ford Escort 46.50
10. Willie Bonniwell / Allan MacDougall Ford Escort Mk II 46.58

• More info: www.krismeeke.com