Presented by Colin Trinder, Chairman of the Australian Rally Commission and one of Mike's most dearest friends the award epitomises the true spirit of classic rallying.
Many say the golden age of rallying was the mid 70s to the Group A era. In that time we saw many masters of the forest emerge, memorable rallies with tales of sensational speed and endurance.
Some of the stars from the period have come back to rally in ACRA's front of field ARC competition.
Older and wiser, some have not the lost the touch. Whilst the competition is just that, some fun at the ARC, one person moved heaven and earth to be there.
He took ACRA's plans on board, spent the spare cash he had on a display board and fronted to the first round in WA.
Struggling to find the cash in such a poor economy did not deter him. At Rally SA he suffered an engine failure and another competitor lent him an engine for Rally Australia.
Not wanting to let the Classics down and knowing he had a choice to compete in the Alpine, Barry found support from a fellow classic supporter, thrilling the crowds and wearing out tyres at Rally Victoria.
Winning the ARC in 1985 and 1986 was the highlight of a stellar rally career, but a deeply humble Barry Lowe is our first winner.
"I am deeply honoured to win this award," Barry said and his stoic efforts to compete when his resources were at an all time low proves that true champions will find a way to rally, even when the odds are against it.
Barry, you are an inspiration to us all.
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