CLARE STAGES RALLY 1997

The 1997 Fitzpatrick Hotels Clare Stages saw a new COC in Christy Carey.  He set out a challenging route in the Sixmilebridge area with a service in the local mart.  Top entries included Eamon Boland in his Escort WRC, Michael Barrable in his Celica, Frank O’Mahony and Niall Maguire in their Legacys and Ray Breen in his Metro.   

Eamon set the pace on the first three stages, getting testing in before the Ulster Rally.  But on the fourth, the engine gave up the Buzz.  Frank also retired, on the first stage, his Legacy sheading it flywheel.  George Cullen was setting a good pace but also retired in the sixth stage with steering rack trouble.  Michael Barrable was the driver of the moment, taking over from Eamon’s retirement to lead the rally.  He was setting a quick pace that others found hard to match.   

Next on the pace was Ray Breen who was having a battle with fellow 6R4 driver Hal Lewis.  But the retirements continued with local favourite Anthony O’Halloran retiring his Manta with a blown engine.  A similar problem put Ed Synan out also in his Escort.  Pat Casey and Mark Maloney were having a good run leading their class.  John O’Sullivan and Darren Hayes rolled their 205 but stilled continued and got a class award for the troubles.   

The rally, though, belonged to Michael Barrable and Joe Downey, who guided Michael to a good win with Ray Breen finishing a close second.  Niall Maguire battled all day and finished a strong third from Hal Lewis.  Dermot Kelly finished fifth with some quick times during the day.  Pat Casey finished the top local with a class win.  Michael Barrable paid tribute to Christy in his first year as COC.  They found the rally tough but satisfying after the win.