Declan Boyle looks to defend title in Donegal

The Joule Donegal International Rally that begins this afternoon is the best-supported event within the Clonakilty Blackpudding Irish Tarmac Championship and also the only three-day event in Irish rallying.

Its popularity is built on tradition and the quality of the stages, and victory in Donegal is regarded as a major achievement.

Last year’s winner and local hero Declan Boyle wheels out his state-of-the-art Ford Fiesta WRC as he becomes the first privateer to drive the car in Ireland as he heads a capacity entry with several more crews on reserve.