2003 FORD IRELAND FOCUS RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP IS GO

Posted: April 24, 2003 8:10 PM

With ten Pirelli shod Ford Focus entered for the opening round of the series, the 2003 Championship promises to be one of the best ever. The reigning Ford Ireland Focus Rally Championship, Colm Murphy from Athea, Co. Limerick has returned to defend his crown. In addition the reigning Ford Ireland KA Rally Champion, Gerry Keyes from Limerick has moved up from the KA to the Focus series and will be doing battle with Colm and the other crews.

The 2003 Ordnance Survey Rally of the Lakes is based in Killarney, Co. Kerry and will be a supreme test of man and machine. This year's event will see competing crews tackle many of the familiar classic stages, such as Molls Gap, Healy Pass, Cods Head and Ardgroom. Nineteen stages, totalling just under 200 competitive miles, await an eager field on the May Bank Holiday Weekend.

"The Rally of the Lakes is one of Ireland?s Classic events and it will be a great test for all the crews. We are looking forward to some great competition and spirited rivalry between all the competitors.", Said Tom Collins, Championship Director.

"The inaugural rally for the Focus Rally Challenge 2003 promises to be a most exciting and enjoyable event. The cars are running better than ever with the uprated gearboxes and engine management systems which is sure to lead to an even higher level of competition. Add to this scenario the winner of the Ka Rally Championship joining the fray and you just know the feathers are going to be flying in Killarney for the weekend. I wish all the competitors an exciting, enjoyable and most of importantly of all a safe weekend of rallying" says Declan Foley, Focus Brand Manager.

• Rally of the Lakes Articles