The Heat is on for the Manx International Rally
Halfway point for the thrilling 2004 Kwik-Fit Pirelli British Rally Championship

22 July 2004

Halfway through the thrilling Kwik-Fit Pirelli British Rally Championship and the excitement is building for the Gibbs Aquada Manx International Rally. This year has seen more spectators than ever turn out to support each event in the British Rally Championship and Championship Manager, Mark Taylor believes this has created an even greater competitive spirit with teams out to drive to the limit.

Mark Taylor, Championship Manager, comments, “We’re only halfway through the season and already competitors and spectators alike have been treated to the kind of drama only the best in rallying can provide. The Manx International is one of the fastest events of the season and promises to live up to the high standard that has already been set at this year’s Championship.”

Championship leader David Higgins will miss the Manx International, however his brother Mark will be taking his place in the Hyundai and will be aiming for the finish line in the quickest time to increase the lead. Reigning Champion Jonny Milner, will be also be looking for maximum points after his second none finish of the season after a fire brought his Subaru to a dramatic halt on the Jim Clark event.

In the British Super 1600 Championship, Guy Wilks will be looking to be the front runner of the field as he needs to leave the Island on Sunday with maximum points in the bag. Current Super 1600 and Junior series leader Jonnie Wigmore will also be pushing to maintain his lead in both categories. Gareth Jones will be hoping for better luck after his early exit on the Jim Clark and Welsh young gun Simon Hughes will be hoping for better reliability from his Renault.

Current Subaru front-runner and class leader Dorian Rees is about to start his second ever tarmac rally and after a steady run on the Jim Clark will be in confident mood to take the Production Cup battle to his nearest rival Seb Ling in the Mitsubishi.  

The Ladies Cup is really hotting up with Lorna Smith, Jennie-Lee Hermansson and Kate Heath all competing for the top spot. Both Lorna and Jennie will be looking to steal some valuable points off current leader Kate Heath in order to take the title.

In the Fiat Stilo Rally Cup, William Bonniwell and Chris Davies are currently both on equal points at the top of their respective table. The Manx International will see a battle of who takes the crucial lead with only 3 events left. The winner will then take the coveted prize of a full factory backed drive in the Super 1600 Fiat in the 2005 BRC.

The Kwik-Fit Pirelli British Rally Championship takes the teams on an adrenaline-fuelled tour of the UK, from Scotland to the Isle of Man and down to the south of England. The Manx International takes the competition right across the island, with 25 stages held over 3 days and with everything to play for the drivers will be giving it their all.

See 2004 series calendar for British Rally Championship

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