Castleisland hosted first event under new Craig Breen Foundation banner

Rally driver Craig Breen was fondly remembered in Kerry this week as the first recipients of funding from the Craig Breen Foundation were selected.

The Craig Breen foundation aims to continue and build on the good work started by Craig in developing the path into top level rallying for young Irish competitors, while honouring his memory.

With support from Hyundai Motorsport, Sports & You Rally Team, Hyundai Portugal, Hyundai Spain, Motorsport Ireland and the FIA, the foundation has committed to supporting the J1000 Forestry Series for a minimum of five years period, starting this season.

The Killarney Forestry Rally took place on Sunday in Castleisland and was the opening round of the Junior 1000 Rally Series for 14- to 17-year-old rally drivers. The championship runs alongside the Sligo Pallets Irish Forestry Rally Championship and the Killarney and District Motor Club event was the opening round of the 2024 campaign.

A total of 21 junior crews (out of 24 starters) completed the six-stage event.

At the finish, the top four drivers received a fuel voucher worth €250 to be put towards the next event in Carrick-on-Suir in April

Danny Brady came out on top, followed closely by Tommy Cronin, Ryan Caldwell and Ross Ryan.

“It was fantastic to see 24 crews lined up for the start line on Sunday morning after a safety briefing on Saturday evening which included some wise words from World Championship co-driver, Paul Nagle,” said Foundation manager and former Rally of the Lakes podium finisher Andy Hayes.

“Following the briefing, all drivers were measured up for their Craig Breen Foundation coats, which will be issued at the next round in Carrick-on-Suir. We wish all crews the best of luck as they re-prepare their cars and get ready for the second round.”

Photos: Cian Donnellon

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