Britton and Hull fly to class victory

Posted: May 8, 2003 6:40 PM

A new engine, which had been installed in the car during the interim period between Bishopscourt and the Easter event, helped to give them that extra edge on Easter Monday. Kenny commented that the difference in power was 'noticeable', but it wasn't all plain sailing.

The night before the rally was due to start, the Micra refused to fire up. Fearing the worst, Colin arrived at John Donnelly's door in an attempt to source the problem. By 1.30am, they came to the conclusion that it was a fuel pressure problem. The solution? Keep the fuel tank topped up and everything should be OK!

With that in mind, Colin continued to prepare the car throughout the night. He eventually managed to get some sleep at 5.30am but it wasn't long until the morning alarm bells were ringing and both Colin and Kenny were on their way to the first stage. The red Micra, which is also sponsored by Pacenotes - Ireland's Rally Newspaper, went on to set four fastest times in as many stages. It was an excellent display of controlled driving by Colin despite the lack of sleep.

With other stages being cancelled, four fastest times was more than enough to win the event. Co-driver, Kenny Hull, commented: "Thankfully the car didn't miss a beat all day. We are very pleased with the new engine and we didn't have any problems during the event, apart from a lack of stage miles."

Their victory has propelled Colin into an eight point lead in the class three championship standings while Kenny has a nine point lead in the co-drivers standings. It's an excellent position to be in so early in the season but a lack of funds has resulted in their decision miss the next round of the Championship, the Tour of the Sperrins. The Micra duo will next be in action at the Mourne Rally.

Colin said: "The car is working well on tarmac now so with a bit of luck we'll have another good result on the Mourne Rally."