We Could Have A Busy Autumn Ahead!

At long last, we here in Northern Ireland might just be getting stage rallying back up and running later this year. While we are still in a lockdown situation until the NI Executive decides otherwise, a number of local clubs are planning events for October and November. This is great news! By that time most of the country will have received their complete set of vaccinations and life should be returning to something approaching normality. I have listed below a diary of proposed events, more May follow. Of course these dates are provisional and totally dependent on the the situation in Northern Ireland at that time with regard to COVID-19.

Rally Diary

Sat. 16th October  
The Tour of the Sperrins Rally

Organised by Magherafelt and District Motor Club this closed-road tarmac event takes place over six stages in and around Maghera in County Derry. Based at Walsh’s Hotel with a central service park nearby. BRMC members will be assisting with rescue, timing and other marshalling duties on the one-day NI Championship event.

Sat. 6th November  
Tyrone Stages Rally

Cookstown MC are running this event. Another closed-road tarmac rally, this time with four stages run twice in the Stewartstown/Newmills/Pomeroy areas of Co.Tyrone. We should be out in force again. A counting round of the 2021 McGrady Insurance Motorsport UK Northern Ireland Rally Championship and the Protyre Asphalt Rally Championship.

Sat. 13th November   
Forest Rally

This gravel stages event could be organised by as many as four Motor Clubs. No further details yet but we have been asked to assist with radio cover and possibly other marshalling duties.

Sat. 20th November  
Today’s Ulster Rally

The final round of the 2021 British Rally Championship. Organised by the Northern Ireland Motor Club the closed-road tarmac stages will be in the same area of County Down as the 2019 event, with a base in Newry. We will be marshalling as usual covering rescue, radio and timing as well as other duties. It must be said, if you are marshalling on any of these autumn events don’t forget your warm weather clothing. We could have rain, sleet or even snow on any of them!