Welsh duo seal historic title win

IT was a historic day for Irish rallying yesterday as the Welsh crew ofMel Evans/Patrick Walsh (Subaru) became the first overseas crew to win the Dunlop National Rally Championship.

Third-place on the Ennis-based Irish Court Hotels Clare Rally was enough to claim the Vard Memorial Trophy. The rally, that developed into an exciting contest between the Subaru WRC’s of Derek McGarrity and Tim McNulty was won the latter, who took victory by just seven seconds.

Somewhat uncertain as to whether he should prioritise his Dunlop title ambitions or have a battle with the opposition, Evans headed the pack after the opening stage close to Kilfenora. A two-second gain over McGarrity with McNulty a further five seconds behind proved he could do both.