Kev Monaghan had mixed fortunes on last
weekend’s Tour of Epynt rally when engine problems forced him to retire after
what had been a strong performance.
The event was the opening round of the MSA
Asphalt rally championship which Monaghan is contesting in his Pirtek Tyne
& Wear, Stauff, F&R Belbin, Bill Falconer and GB Lubricants-supported
Vauxhall Corsa S1600.
Bitterly cold conditions greeted the crews on the notoriously tough stages of the Epynt military ranges near Llandovery. With a new engine fitted and new tyres on the Corsa Monaghan made a great start to the rally, setting fastest time in his championship class on the opening stage.
Bitterly cold conditions greeted the crews on the notoriously tough stages of the Epynt military ranges near Llandovery. With a new engine fitted and new tyres on the Corsa Monaghan made a great start to the rally, setting fastest time in his championship class on the opening stage.
Monaghan maintained this position over the next four stages and going into stage 6 he was 35 seconds ahead of his nearest championship rival.
Sadly Monaghan’s victory hopes were dashed when the engine let go part way through the stage meaning he was unable to finish.
“The car was on the pace right from the off,” said Monaghan. “We were taking time off the local guys which is very encouraging and we had a large lead over the crew behind us so we were in a great position to take the championship class win but sadly it wasn’t to be.”
“The new tyres and engine plus having Chris Purvis back in the co-driver’s seat made the rally a joy to drive. We’ve already made plans for a replacement engine to be fitted in time for our next event so fingers crossed we can get it sorted in time.”
“Huge thanks to everyone that has helped me out and our sponsors Pirtek Tyne & Wear, Stauff, F&R Belbin, Bill Falconer and GB Lubricants.”
Monaghan’s next planned event is the Jim Clark rally at the end of May.
Image courtesy Martin Taylor
