There is always a Kerry connection: From London to New York via Barbados

*Transatlantic partnership brings fresh dynamic to Rally Barbados*

A unique transatlantic rally partnership is set to make its debut at Rally Barbados this year, as New York-based Irishman Niall Moroney steps into the co-driver’s seat alongside experienced London based Irish man Mick Smith in a BMW Compact.  Mick has competed in the previous 3 Barbados rallies in the Historic class with his trusty Historic Hillman Imp finishing with class awards.
Mick commented  It will be fantastic to compete in a more powerful car this year.

At 30 years old, Niall brings 15 years of competitive rally experience — but this event marks a new chapter… swapping the driver’s seat for pacenotes for the very first time.

“This is a completely different challenge for me,” he said. “I’ve spent years behind the wheel, including in WRC-spec machinery, so to now be calling the shots from the co-driver seat is something I’m really excited about, albeit for the first time in a place i’ve never competed before!”

The pairing comes together through strong ties to the London Irish Motor Club, where Smith currently serves as chairman and Niall remains an active member.

“It’s a great connection,” Niall added. “Mick’s been a huge part of the club, and when he gave me the call, it was an easy yes.”

The duo will be tackling Rally Barbados in a BMW Compact — a new car for Smith — adding another layer of intrigue to their campaign.

“New car, new partnership, and a new role for me — there are a lot of unknowns,” Niall said. “But that’s part of the appeal. We’re looking forward to building a rhythm quickly and seeing what we can do.”

Niall is no stranger to the island, having attended Rally Barbados last year as a spectator, and was impressed by the way in which the island embraces motorsport.

“I came over last year and was blown away by the atmosphere — the fans, the stages, everything about it,” he said. “To now be competing here is something special.”

Despite being based in New York, with Smith in London, the pair have prepared remotely ahead of the event.

“It’s a bit of a global effort,” Niall said. “But rallying has always been about trust and communication — we’re focused on getting that right from the start.”

With experience, enthusiasm, and a shared club background, the pairing adds an exciting international dimension to this year’s Rally Barbados.

“We’re here to enjoy it, respect the event, and put in a strong performance,” Niall said. “If we can gel quickly, who knows what’s possible. And if things don’t go to plan, the social scene and “criac” on the island certainly won’t disappoint”

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