Stephen Wright began the defence of his Northern Ireland Rally title with victory on the Kirkistown Stages Rally based at the Kirkistown Racing Circuit. Wright was partnered by Gary McKenna for the event.
After 6 stages, Wright held off the Mini WRC of Derek McGeehan by 5.2 seconds to claim the win.
Wright/McKenna made a cautious start due to the slippery stages but nevertheless they moved into the lead on Stage 3. They continued to increase their lead to 7 seconds by Stage 5. There was late drama when they caught another competing car on the final test. They were relieved that they were still 3rd fastest and retained their lead. The father & son team of Derek & Mark McGeehan took 2nd place with former NI champion Derek McGarritty/Paddy Robinson in 3rd. Matthew McKenna guided Liam McFall to 18th overall.
County Monaghan Motor Club 