Posted: November 13, 2017 3:42 AM - 10550 Hits
Posted: November 10, 2017 2:15 PM
Statement issued by Directors of Galway Motor Club
10th November 2017.
"The Directors of Galway Motor Club have announced that the Galway
International Rally will not take place in February 2018.
Galway Motor Club has been promoting the Galway International Rally as an
annual event since 1971. It is one of the longest running International sporting
events in Ireland, bringing a substantial tourism boost to County Galway each
February. It acts as the first counting round of the Irish Tarmac Rally
Championships, attracting the best rally drivers and professional and amateur
teams from all over Ireland, the UK, and beyond. The 2017 winner was Gary
Jennings from Fermanagh in his Subaru World Rally Car.
The decision not to run the 2018 event was a very difficult one
for the organisers. Despite enthusiastic and committed sponsors
being on board, a gap in finances still existed, which together with certain
logistical issues, meant that the decision to cancel at this point in time was the
right one. Announcing the decision at this stage will enable championship
organisers, loyal competitors and all stakeholders to make alternative
arrangements for 2018.
Pat Shiel, Galway Motor Club President said
“The decision not to run in 2018
was a very difficult one for the Directors. Running the first major rally event
each year brings added pressures. The event ran very successfully in 2017
despite a very uncertain environment prevailing. Not having a rally will be very
disappointing for hundreds of intending competitors and volunteers who start
their motorsport year in Galway each February. However, the club could not
carry the financial risk involved should key elements to its success not fall into
place in time. The club fully intends to have the event back in Galway in
February 2019”. Pat also complimented the team who have been working
tirelessly during the past year in planning for the event, but the club does not
have the necessary financial certainty that is required at this time."
Secretary Galway Motor Club.