Rookie of the Year Gallagher returns home
Tuesday, 9 October 2007 15:39Shaun Gallagher, who took the Rookie of the Year title in the World Rally Championship at Rally Catalunya this weekend, has arrived home to Sligo to a rapturous welcome from friends, supporters and local dignitaries.
Senator Marc MacSharry said: 'We're extremely proud of this great achievement for Shaun and World Rally Team Ireland in their first year in the Championship.
'We're putting the whole north-west on the map in global motorsport terms with this title win and with the upcoming Rally Ireland, which will give Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo and all the counties along the route unparalleled international exposure.'
Mayor of Sligo Jonathan McGoldrick, who was in Catalunya to witness Gallagher's victory was equally enthusiastic.
'The level of competition in the World Rally Championship is so high and so professional and the team have really excelled in the sport this year.
'I am confident that Sligo will be a wonderful host town for Rally Ireland and that the international competitors and spectators coming to the event will have an experience never to be forgotten.'
The World Rally Team Ireland competitor took six points in this weekend's event, confirming his place as Top Rookie with one round still in hand in the Championship.
