Current Irish Tarmac Rally Champion Andrew Nesbitt was the winner of the first-ever Punchestown Rally Masters today when he steered his Subaru Ireland World Rally Car to a four second victory over Kenny McKinstry. After the first run over the 2.5 mile stage it was McKinstry who led the way in his world rally car Subaru Impreza but on run 2 Nesbitt turned the disadvantage into a one-second lead. Entering the final run separated by this smallest of margins the battle was on and it was Nesbitt who responded best, posting a time three seconds quicker than that of McKinstry.
Frank Meagher's Ford Focus took the final podium placing of what was a hugely successful event while fourth spot went to five-times Irish Rally Champion Austin McHale, who was re-united with his Toyota Celica for the spectator orientated event. The Rathcoole legend finished ahead of the Impreza WRC of Derek McGarrity with Ollie O'Donovan in a Subaru Legacy rounding off the top 6.
Today’s event was a big hit with the large crowds who traveled to see the cream of Irish rallying compete in grounds of the award winning Punchestown Racecourse, The event was the brainchild of international co-driver Ronan Morgan who declared it a major success.
Final standings:
PUNCHESTOWN RALLY MASTERS (Sunday)
Punchestown Racecourse, Naas, Co. Kildare
1. Andrew Nesbitt/James O'Brien - Subaru Impreza WRC - 9.20
2. Kenny McKinstry/Mark Geraghty - Subaru Impreza WRC - 9.24
3. Frank Megaher/Dermot O'Gorman - Ford Focus WRC - 9.36
4. Austin McHale/Brian Murphy - Toyota Celica - 9.39
5. Derek McGarrity/Gary Lyons - Subaru Impreza WRC - 9.45
6. Ollie O'Donovan/David Moynihan - Subaru Legacy - 9.47
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
