England based Northern Irishman Ernie Graham will debut his recently built BMW M3 on this weekends Killarney Rally Of The Lakes. The car, a replica of the late great Bertie Fisher’s has been eagerly awaited by all rally fans on the island of Ireland. The sight and sound will surly be a delight for all in Killarney. Can Ernie take maximum points this weekend? We know that both driver and car are capable and if the reliability is there, then he will be there or thereabouts.
Ernie goes to Killarney leading the Clonakilty Black Pudding Historic Championship by two points from Welch driver Barry Jones.
Having had a fourth place finish in mini Killarney, Barry had a decent start to the Championship but mechanical problems in Galway resulted in a finish under rally 2 regulations and a mere 3.5 points. Jones then stormed to a brilliant win in West Cork with Ernie second and Owen Murphy third. Judging by his times in West Cork Barry will certainly be one favourites in Killarney.
Current App K leader Keith McIvor has entered in his iconic Porsche 911RS. Another beautiful sounding car and another real treat for the fans, Keith, after a non-finish in West Cork will be looking to consolidate his App K class lead. James Hall also heads for Killarney in his App K Audi Quattro.
Three competitors will travel across the Irish Sea to fight it out for D3 honours and of course for overall placings. IOM based Declan Jackson, Shropshire’s Duncan Williams and Alan Watkins all make the boat trip.
Also making the trip across the Irish Sea is David Goose. David currently lies sixth overall in the Championship with only two counting scores. David suffered mechanical problems in both the Mini Killarney and Galway and actually drove a full stage in Killarney with both front wheels pointing in different directions. He will be hoping for some reliability this weekend.
Overall the Historic rally should be a real battle and a massive treat for the fans. Who will be on the top step of the podium on Sunday evening? Its a long tough rally and reliability will be a big factor, but whoever sprays the winners champagne will know they have done a rally!