Cork
20 International 1986
Billy Coleman
drove up the ramp at the finish of the Jury’s Cork “20”
International Rally and breathed a sign of relief after taking the laurels with
a fantastic win in the Rothmans Metro 6R4.
His victory was
won in style, although it was not without heart stopping moments when a
mechanical failure threatened his chances.
Twice victory nearly slipped away from Coleman but on each occasion he overcame it.
Coleman had to
have the electrical pack which controls the engine replaced after stuttering
through the first stage. McHale had
a fan belt and oil pump belt go and had to stop and replace them.
Briton Cyril Bolton inherited the lead in his Presspart
Metro but went out on the third stage with mechanical failure.
Carlow's Bill
Connolly in his Red-Mills Chevette then took over the running, but it was
Coleman and McHale who were setting the pace as they tore through the field. By
Saturday's end Coleman had
regained the lost ground, and was at the front of the pack after setting fastest
times on 11 of the 12 stages. McHale
was on his heels in the Manta but was unable to dislodge Connolly from second
spot. At this stage James McDaid, was in fourth in another Manta and
Tipperary's Frank Meagher in his Escort was suffering a variety of problems,
including a loose steering wheel.
Yesterday
morning's stages saw Coleman begin to apply the pressure as Connolly give him
the chance to gain some time on championship rival McHale.
This he did and his lead extended, but Connolly was unable to maintain
McHale's pace and the Dubliner was up to second place before long.