CLARE STAGES RALLY 1990

For the 1990 event it was renamed the Woodchester Bank Clare Stages Rally.  At this stage the rally was one of the best in the country.  It was again based in the West County Hotel and the start was from the O’Connell Square.  A brilliant entry was received with John Price the big name all the way from Wales in his immaculate Metro 6R4.  Also present was Frank Meagher, last years winner, Billy Connolly, Donie Keating, Ken Colbert and Joe McHugh. 

John Price set a blistering pace and built up a strong lead.  Second was Donie Keating on his first run in the Ascona 400.  Donie being very surprised to be so far up.  Colbert was third in his Peugeot Nissan but retired after leaving the road.  Billy Connolly was having trouble with tyre choice while Frank Meagher had gearbox trouble.  Des Moore hit a rock and got a puncture and had to stop to change.  Declan Wilmott was in third position with little trouble but Donie Keating retired on SS5 with an excursion.  Billy Connolly upped his pace and got ahead of Wilmott but it was too late to get John Price who had an impressive win.  Joe McHugh finished fourth with Brian McGrath fifth.  Pat and Jim Casey were the top locals in 8th after a brilliant run.  John Price paid great tribute to David Hogan and his team on a brilliant Clare Stages Rally.