Thomas Randles and Darragh Lynch became the first winners of the Carrig Cup at last weekend’s Killarney Historic Rally. The new award is presented in memory of the late Mike Gaine, a well-known and much-loved member of the Kenmare and wider Irish rallying community.
Darragh Lynch travelled home from Australia especially for the event, making the victory even more meaningful for the crew.
The Carrig Cup has been introduced by Mike’s wife, Janice, and will be awarded to a Kenmare driver at both the Killarney Historic Rally in December and the Rally of the Lakes in May. The presentation was made by Mike’s cousin, Eoghan Clarke, during Saturday night’s prizegiving at the Killarney Avenue Hotel.
Mike Gaine, who passed away in tragic circumstances earlier this year, was a familiar figure in Irish rallying.
He grew up at Carraig near Molls Gap, where his love for the sport began while watching stages pass his family’s land. He later competed in a Ford Escort Mk2 with several local co-drivers and remained deeply involved in the sport long after retiring from competition.
He was known for his knowledge of rallying, his humour and his willingness to help fellow competitors. His final journey last June saw friends and rally supporters come together to restore his Escort as a tribute to him.
The Carrig Cup ensures that Mike Gaine’s name and legacy will continue to be part of the sport he loved.
Kerry Motorsport News 