Clifford Thanks Team After Rally Masters Success

Clifford Thanks Team After Rally Masters Success

Killarney and District Motor Club clerk of the course, Tim Clifford, has thanked his team after last weekend’s Rally Masters event at Killarney Racecourse.

“I’ve tried writing this message about 15 times now, because every time I think of another person that I need to thank. So I’ve decided not to mention individuals — because the truth is, I just can’t thank everyone enough,” Clifford said afterwards.

“From start to finish, each and every one of you played your part in making this event such a success. I’m so proud of the teamwork, the spirit, and the effort that went in. Together we’ve shown what KDMC is all about. Thank you.”

The one-day event was a complete sell-out, with 50 rally cars and 50 drivers in action on a specially designed course at the racecourse. It was the first time in more than 20 years that rally cars tackled a stage at the venue.

The entry list featured some of the strongest names in Irish rallying alongside international stars. Machines from the Group B, Group A and World Rally Car eras were all demonstrated. Proceeds went to the Jack & Jill Foundation and LauraLynn Children’s Hospice, supported by event sponsor Eamon Long Plant Services.

Highlights included the MacHale family — Austin, Gareth and Aaron — sharing a Ford Focus WRC 06, their first joint appearance since 2009. Swedish driver Kalle Grundel reunited with the Ford RS200 he drove in Ireland during the 1986 Circuit of Ireland. Billy Coleman drove both a BMW M3 and a Metro 6R4, while Darren Gass, Andrew Nesbitt, Donagh Kelly, Eugene Donnelly, James Cullen and Patrick Snijers were also on the entry.

Local interest was provided by Thomas Fitzmaurice,

, David Randles and Mike Bucklet , while static displays featured cars with strong Kerry and Irish rallying history, including Denis Cronin’s famous BMW M3