Rally star lauded in native Waterford

World Rally star Craig Breen has beaten the competition to be crowned Person of the Year in his native county of Waterford.

The 22-year-old, who has taken an 18-point lead in the Super 2000 World Rally championship after just two rounds, was presented with the award by Waterford mayor Pat Hayes at a ceremony in Tower Hotel.

Breen’s motorsport career began at the age of 13 as an Irish karting cadet.

After winning a string of events in that discipline he started rallying three years ago. He competed in the Irish, British and International Sporting trophies, winning all three championships.

In November, he was crowned World Rally Academy champion after winning the final round of the season in Britain.

The public voted on who would win the Person of the Year 2011. The other finalists were Ken McGrath, one of Waterford’s favourite former county hurlers; Des Whelan, chairman of the Waterford Tall Ships Race 2011; and Eamonn McEneaney, curator of the Waterford Museum of Treasures and Bishops Palace.

Breen said: “I’m delighted to receive this award; it is fantastic to know the people of Waterford are behind me. I love every minute of my job. As motorsport and particularly rallying is a minority sport, being presented with this award is especially great. I’d like to thank everyone who voted for me.”