Kielder forest accident halts rallying charge by Welsh youngster Elfyn Evans
Rising Welsh rally star Elfyn Evans had mixed fortunes at the weekend as he ventured into the tough Kielder Forest Complex on the Scottish borders.
The 18 year old from Dinas Mawddwy set some of the fastest times in the UK Fiesta Sporting Trophy as he and co-driver Richard Edwards contested the Pirelli National Rally.
After finishing an impressive sixth in the first round of the championship, Elfyn went into the event in a buoyant mood, but aware of the tricky conditions in Kielder Forest, one of the toughest tests for rally drivers.
From the very first high speed stage the pair were among the top runners in this ultra-competitive championship, with Elfyn declaring himself happy with their progress over the first three of seven tests.
“We really got into a good rhythm from the very first section with the car performing faultlessly,’’ said Eflyn. “The stages were in good condition and everything was flowing well.’’
They were lying fourth in class in the Sun Virgin Money Fiesta heading into the final loop of stages when a tight corner caught out the pair bringing an abrupt halt to their challenge.
“We came over a crest a little fast for a tight right hand bend where another car had already gone off,’’ said Eflyn. “In trying to find a line around the corner I hit some big rocks which flipped us over and ended our charge.’’
Despite their spectacular exit Elfyn said the rally had provided the pair with valuable miles in the car. “We really wanted to finish the event but it was encouraging to be setting such good times in what is an extremely competitive championship.’’
Work is already underway at Gwyndaf Evans Motors to prepare the car ahead of the next round of the Fiesta Championship, the RBS International Manx Rally on the Isle of Man next month.
“This will be the first chance to rally the car on asphalt so another steep learning curve ahead,’’ said Elfyn, son of Welsh rallying wizard Gwyndaf Evans.
In addition to the Sun and Virigin Money, Elfyn is also backed by Mile End Service Station, Garwood Motorsport Services and Trefeddian Hotel at Aberdyfi while the car has been built and prepared by Gwyndaf Evans Motors.
