Dublin Man wins Superdrive Rally Scholarship Final

Posted: November 30, 2003 7:16 PM

Throughout the year, talented drivers were picked to compete in a semi-final at the end of each month. The winners of the semi-finals were then invited to drive in today’s final for the penultimate prize.

Ecstatic Hackett said,
‘I felt confident with my driving today and I am excited with the prospect of representing Superdrive in the first round of the Northern Ireland Rally Championship next year.

‘The competition was tough. All the finalists were very talented drivers and I feel privileged to have driven alongside them today.’

Finalists came from all over Ireland including Kildare, Dublin, Donegal, Omagh, Downpatrick Ballinahinch and Killyleagh.

The Motorsports Centre in Portadown was alive with the fever pitch buzz of desire as ten Superdrive Scholarship finalists from all over the country went head to head on the centre’s own purpose built rally stage.

The Scholarship Final consisted of timed stages in Superdrive’s MKII Escorts and a face off between the two best drivers of the day, Bryan Hackett from Dublin and Joe Dolan from Donegal in the 4WD turbo-charged Mitsubishi Evo.

One of Superdrive’s instructors and three times Northern Ireland Rally Champion Mervyn Hill said,

‘The standard of drivers was exceptionally high any one of the ten drivers could have represented Superdrive in 2004, unfortunately there has to be only one winner and the winning margin couldn’t have been any narrower.

‘It was felt by both instructors on the day in the shootout, Brian had slightly more control of the Mitsubishi Evo meaning that he came out on top.’

Previous Scholarship winners Davy Graham (2000) and Colin Britton (2001) have gone on to win their classes in the Northern Ireland Rally Championship after training with Superdrive Motorsports Centre.

Superdrive Managing Director Brendan Crealey said,
‘It is important for a Rally School like us to encourage talented drivers and to provide a platform for them to progress from.’

‘The Superdrive Rally Scholarship is open to any novice driver who takes part in a Superdrive Rally Course throughout the year. When our instructors see a driver with potential they are picked out to return and hopefully to continue rallying.’ He said.

Superdrive Motorsports Centre is the first purpose built centre of its kind and provides the opportunity to participate in several exciting forms of motorsport - all at one central location.

Situated close to the M1 motorway near Portadown, Superdrive is easily accessed from all major routes, within easy reach of the main North-South railway line, only 35 minutes from Belfast and the International Airport.

Superdrive caters for all ages with karting starting at 8 years old and rally driving from the age of 17. There is no upper age limit - provided you have the energy, Superdrive has the facilities!

• Superdrive Motorsport Centre