THE Circuit of Munster Rally delivered another thrilling weekend of motorsport action as crews from across Ireland tackled the challenging roads of Limerick and Tipperary last weekend.
Organised by Limerick Motor Club, the event once again attracted large crowds of enthusiasts, with spectators lining the stages from early morning to catch a glimpse of some of the country’s top drivers in action.
Conditions remained largely favourable throughout the day, although the demanding nature of the roads ensured that competitors were tested from the opening stage to the finish.
Drivers faced a mixture of fast flowing sections, tight junctions and technical stretches, with little room for error. Several crews encountered difficulties along the route, highlighting the challenge presented by the Circuit of Munster’s renowned stages.
However, the overall standard of driving impressed spectators, with close battles taking place across a number of classes.
The rally also provided a welcome boost for local businesses over the weekend, as hotels, cafés, petrol stations and pubs benefited from the influx of competitors, service crews and supporters into the region. Marshals and volunteers played a vital role throughout the event, helping to ensure the rally ran safely and efficiently.
Organisers praised both competitors and spectators following the conclusion of the rally, with strong cooperation reported at viewing points and stage locations. Gardaà and local authorities also assisted in managing traffic diversions and temporary road closures during the event.
As another successful Circuit of Munster came to a close, attention now turns to the upcoming rounds of the National Championship.
For motorsport fans across the Mid-West, however, the weekend once again demonstrated why the Circuit of Munster remains one of the most respected and eagerly anticipated events on the Irish rally calendar.
by Elle McDonogh