South Australian Rally Champions Guy Tyler and Steve Fisher set a good pace at the third round of the DMACK Junior British Rally Championship.
Held in the Kielder forest, east of the rally base in Carlisle, the rally was run over seven stages held on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. The pair got off to a quick start and at the midday service were the fastest Fiesta R2 1600 and only a few seconds off some drivers in the newer Fiesta R2 Turbo.
"It was a great feeling to finally get back into the car after our challenging run in Mid Wales. I really took my time to study this event and learn how to get the best out of the Fiesta, and I went out with a mature approach firstly to finish, but also to get the most out of the car, and not 'over drive' it," said Tyler who had only driven forty racing miles in the Fiesta prior to the weekend.
Tyler and Fisher took the same approach after service but unfortunately hit troubles on SS3 where a puncture slowed their progress over the last few miles. But never ones to give up, they kept their focus up for the day’s last stage.
"I was really starting to get into a very good groove and was finding more and more speed out of the Fiesta and the pace notes coming from Steve were spot on,” Tyler added. “But unfortunately, about midway through the 14 mile stage we slowed down for a junction and when pulling out of the corner the car lost all of its drive in all but first gear.”
The boys made the decision to park the car and minimize any further damage. Their team Major Motorsport tried hard to source a replacement but were unsuccessful in the limited time available.
"Sure it was disappointing, but these things happen in rallying and I am really thankful for all the hard work Major Motorsport put in to get us to the event and provide me with a car capable of setting some great stage times!"
The team is already looking forward to their next DMACK Junior British Rally Championship challenge, which will be the RSAC Scottish Rally, held on June 25, based out of Dumfries, Scotland.
Tyler and Fisher are also very thankful for all the support they have received from back home in Australia. They held a crowd funding campaign earlier this year which raised $2600 and combined with the support from close family and friends has made competing in the UK possible for the South Australian Champions.
You can keep up to date with Guy Tyler’s results via Twitter (@Guyrally) or on Facebook (Guy Tyler & Steve Fisher – DMACK Junior BRC).
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