Nicky Grist Stages Rally Report

It was a thrilling Nicky Grist Stages Rally in hot and dusty conditions, with temperatures quoted at up to 32 degrees C on the stages, even hotter for the drivers and co-drivers competing in the event!

Results overall, for the 2013 Nicky Grist Stages was victory for Euan Thorburn / Paul Beaton (Focus WRC) to add to their wins on the Malcolm Wilson and Plains. They really are on it this year, especially when you also consider their successes north of the border. Tough times for rivals Connor McCloskey / Francis Regan (Subaru WRC) who had a very fast roll to exit the event on Route 60. Meanwhile Gold Star leader Charlie Payne fought back after a self- inflicted puncture on Crychan to take the runners up spot and another good haul of points. Seb Ling and Aled Rees (Evo 9 N4) took 3rd overall and a maximum Production Cup points just 2 seconds ahead of Alex Allingham and Chris Williams (Subaru N4) after swapping times with them throughout the event.

The BTRDA Silver Star goblets were awarded to the reigning Champions Matthew Robinson and Nigel Hutchinson who were debuting their new Historic spec Mk2 Escort whilst James West / Steven Egginton (VW Lupo) were the leading BTRDA Rally First crew and they retain a very narrow lead in the Rally First Championship.

However perhaps the most satisfied crew at the end of the NG Stages were Dave Bennett and Alistair McNeil (Corsa) who finally did what many crews have being trying to do for more than a year (since Justin Lawson / Paul Hargreaves – Plains Rally 2012) when they finished ahead of Julian Wilkes and Pam Hilton.

After a 7 week summer break the championships will reconvene at Ludlow on Saturday 31st August for the Woodpecker Stages which is sure to be another popular event. Regulations and On Line entry forms will be available very soon on event website.

Thanks to the BTRDA and Dragon Media Photography for the images. For more information see BTRDA

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