Organized by the Wolverhampton and South Staffordshire Car Club, the Get Jerky Rally North Wales made a triumphant return to Welshpool for its second consecutive year on Saturday, 16th of March. Drawing in a sizable field of over 100 cars, the rally treated spectators to a day of action-packed motorsport across renowned stages like Dyfnant, Big Ray and Gartheiniog.
In the Motorsport UK Pirelli Welsh Rally Championship, Matthew Hirst and Declan Dear secured their fourth consecutive overall win at Get Jerky Rally North Wales. The pair delivered a strong performance, dominating all eight stages of the challenging event and leaving their competitors trailing behind.
Challenging Hirst and Dear's supremacy was Irishman Dan O'Brien, who ventured across the difficult stages with his Ford Fiesta WRC, accompanied by co-driver Mark Glennerster. Despite putting up a commendable fight, O'Brien had to settle for second place, unable to match the relentless pace set by the leaders.
James Giddings and Aled Davies rounded out the podium with a third-place finish in their Mitsubishi EvoIX. Despite their efforts, a setback in the Big Ray stage cost them valuable time.
Meanwhile, in the Fuchs Lubricants British Historic Rally Championship, Nick Elliot and Dave Price emerged triumphant, clinching their first victory since 2021 aboard their FIAT 131 Abarth. Their return to the top step of the podium marked a long-awaited achievement for the experienced duo.
Following closely behind in second place were Daniel Mennell and Richard Wise, representing Yorkshire with their Ford Escort MKII. Despite their recent entry into the championship, Mennell's impressive driving skills propelled them to a commendable runner-up position.
Completing the Historic podium were Seb Perez and Gary McElhinney, commanding a Porsche 911. Perez's remarkable performance, fresh from a rally victory in Mallorca the previous weekend, underscored his prowess behind the wheel, securing a well-deserved third place finish.
The Get Jerky Rally North Wales once again showcased thrilling competition against the backdrop of Wales' picturesque terrain, leaving participants and spectators eagerly looking forward to future editions of the event.
IMAGES COURTESY OF ALEX STEFAN
WRITTEN BY ALICE INGRAM
