Motorsport Ireland, governing body for motor sport in Ireland presented two of its oldest and most prized memorial trophies on Monday evening, 30th April 2001. RTÉ's Michael O'Carroll, one of the best known figures in Irish motor sport, received the Ivan Webb Memorial Trophy for his contribution to Irish motor sport over almost 50 years. The second award went to a young man starting out on his motor sport career, Anthony Cross, who was presented with the Millard Memorial Trophy for the fine start he has made to his motor sport career. Both men were presented with their trophies by Cecil Sparks, Chairman of the Motorsport Commission at a function held in Motorsport Ireland headquarters on Dawson Street on Monday evening.
O'Carroll began his career in the sport by competing in various forms of both car and motorcycle sport, including the Circuit of Ireland. He is undoubtedly best known for his journalistic contributions to Irish motor sport over a long and distinguished career. Starting out as motor sport correspondent for a number of publications he has continued to produce his comprehensive Irish Motorsport Annual every year. Since joining RTÉ in 1962, Michael has been a driving force behind ensuring that motor sport, both domestic and international, has been well covered by the national broadcaster.
Meanwhile, Cross only began his Midget Car Racing career in 1999 when he finished fifth in the 850cc Trophy , winning the Wicklow Trophy along the way and finally becoming Junior Champion. Last season he again raced in the same 850cc car, which he had completely rebuilt during the off season. He finished runner up in the 850cc class, second in the Junior Class and again won the Wicklow Championship. After a season long battle for the Gellar Championship, he managed to win this coveted award by one point having come from behind to beat many more experienced drivers.
Filed by Shane Murray
