In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Dan Mennell has carved his name into the annals of the British Historic Rally Championship. Competing in only his tenth rally, the Yorkshire driver achieved a resounding victory at the Riponian Stages Rally, a momentous occasion that marks a significant milestone in his rallying career. Teaming up with co-driver John Roberts in a classic Ford Escort Mk2, Mennell showcased his undeniable talent and potential, further establishing himself as a formidable contender in the world of historic rallying.
Conquering the Slippery Terrain
The rally took place in the picturesque forests of Yorkshire, where the aftermath of overnight rain created treacherous conditions for all competitors. Despite the challenging environment, Mennell demonstrated exceptional control and precision. His strategic approach to navigation and driving enabled him to avoid mistakes while tackling the tricky forest stages. With a victory margin of 20 seconds, he not only secured first place but also reinforced his status as a rising star among peers in the competitive landscape of the sport.
Interestingly, Mennell was not the only driver in pursuit of glory. Northern Irish driver David Crossen, partnered by Ben Teggart, presented a formidable challenge, pushing Mennell right from the start. While Crossen claimed the lead in the opening stage with a mere two-second advantage, it was Mennell who ultimately succeeded in maintaining an edge through the subsequent stages, showcasing his adaptability and driving prowess.
As the rally progressed, the fierce competition continually kept fans on the edge of their seats. Notably, Adrian Hetherington, despite a challenging start characterized by a rear puncture that set him back by nearly 20 seconds, displayed an impressive comeback. His ability to recover and secure two fastest stage times in the second loop and his drive to reclaim lost ground underscored the unpredictable nature of rallying. Ultimately, Hetherington’s grit earned him a commendable third-place finish, placing him on the podium alongside Mennell and Crossen.
Another competitor, David Henderson, faced his own tribulations, grappling with a clutch problem that hindered performance during the morning stages. This struggle, compounded by tire shortages in the final stretches, concluded his efforts in fourth place, a commendable feat considering the circumstances. Young Yorkshireman Matthew Stroud, partnering with co-driver Josh Carr, impressed viewers with his solid performance, rounding out the top five in his Escort.
The Riponian Stages Rally was not without its share of mechanical misfortunes. High expectations surrounded Matthew Robinson and Ben Friend, both driving Escorts, as well as George Lepley in his Mitsubishi Galant VR4, but engine woes curtailed their efforts early on. Their departures served as a sobering reminder of the unforgiving nature of motorsport, where technical failures can swiftly turn aspiration into disappointment.
That said, not all stories from the event were laden with struggle. Adam Milner and Roy Jarvis, participating with their 1600cc Escort Mk1, enjoyed a well-deserved seventh-place finish, marking a triumphant completion of the rally after two years filled with frustrating setbacks. Their journey underscored the essence of rallying; it is not merely about standing atop the podium but also about perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges.
As Mennell celebrates his hard-earned victory, the rallying community is reminded of the rich tapestry of stories that each event brings. With emerging talents like Mennell, Crossen, and Hetherington, along with experienced competitors facing both success and adversity, the landscape of the British Historic Rally Championship promises excitement and inspiration for years to come. With each rally, these dedicated drivers not only chase victory but also embody the spirit of competition, passion, and camaraderie that defines this exhilarating sport.
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