HERRINGTON COUNTRY PARK played host to a first for the Sunderland Festival (Saturday 15 June 2013), when high performance rally cars, driven by Britains top rally drivers, tore through the twists and turns of a specially created rally stage.
Led by Darlington and District Motor Club with the generous involvement of a variety of Motor Clubs from the North East, the backdrop of the Park was transformed into an adrenalin arena, for one day only. Crowds, basking in brilliant sunshine, gathered in the Parks iconic amphitheatre to get the best view of the rally action.
The mix of rally driving talent enthralled the large crowd. Mat Smith (27) from Thirsk currently second in the BTRDA (1400) Championships threw his pocket rocket Ford Ka around the tight Park course, whilst Miles Johnston (49), the ex-Race Champion turned Rally Champion kicked up the dust for passengers and spectators, in his sideways Mitsubishi Evo. Rally driver and falcon breeder Tommi Graham (52) from Bedale, Yorkshire was equally entertaining in his Mitsubishi. Chris Ingram (18) from Manchester showed why he was the MSA Young Driver of the Year 2012 and Formula 1000 Junior Champion 2011, as he danced his Renault supported Twingo around the park.
A lucky few, including media and competition prize-winners enjoyed the ultimate rally experience as passengers around the circuit; I couldnt believe how the drivers did it. Aiming at a gatepost at 60 or 70 mph, then flicking the car to miss it and get through! enthused Giles McCourt, who won his seat through a competition, hosted by Sunderland Live.
Leader of Sunderland City Council, Councillor Paul Watson commented "We are delighted with the day, it captured the spirit of the sport; showing the public and the media, what rallying is all about. The atmosphere and particularly volunteer support from the North East Motor Clubs was tremendous, and I thank all concerned for a great effort. Today the Council took another step towards bringing a major motor sport event to the region".
The incredible sight, evocative smell and undeniable sound of rallying left spectators and passengers wanting more. The event succeeded in giving people of the region, and motorsport fans alike, a taste of what may become a key future event for Sunderland.
Affectionately known as the peoples motor sport, rallying would highlight the automotive industrys importance to the North Easts economy, promote the region through sustained international media coverage and bring substantial economic benefits.
Building on Sunderlands reputation for delivering first class community events that capture the imagination of the people and stimulate the regional economy, the Sunderland Rally Experience follows the established and successful events, such as Sunderland International Airshow. It is now a fervent hope that Sunderland will embrace a full motorsport event in the region, in the near future.
