The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Tralee’s Talbot honoured for contribution to West Coast Rally
TRALEE man Richard Talbot was presented with inaugural Dougie Hughes Memorial Trophy at Saturday night’s Top Part West Coast Rally Championship.
Dougie, who passed away this time last year, was widely claimed to be the longest serving motorsport commentator in the world.
The Dubliner was a larger than life character and he was ever-present on Kerry rallies for the last 40 years.
Organisers of the locally sponsored Top Part West Coast Rally Championship created a trophy in memory of the popular commentator and would present it to the person who has made the biggest contribution to the series.
The organising committee selected Richard Talbot for his efforts in supporting the championship since its foundation in 1993. He was of the three founding fathers of the series and has acted in many capacities over the last 26 years including Clerk of the Course on the Circuit of Kerry and a competing co-driver.
In a social media post he said: “What an honour to receive this at the Top Part Awards Dinner. . Shocked surprised and humbled is the only way to describe the feeling and the unbelievable ovation from the floor.
To be the first recipient of this award is very much appreciated and something I will treasure for ever . A fantastic award in memory of a truly great friend and a gentleman. Thanks to all involved.”
Mike Quinn and Tony Healy picked up their overall trophies at the same do in Gort, County Galway on Saturday night. They won the popular regional championship for the second time.
Tralee’s John Liston finished second overall in the co-drivers section while Ger O’Brien won the Two-wheel drive championship. Other local winners include Danny Greanney (First class two navigator); Eddie Kennelly and James Murphy (Winner of class 11R); Sean Enright (First class 12) and Conor Murphy who finished second in the junior category.
The Circuit of Kerry is the second round of the 2019 Top Part West Coast Rally Championship and plans are at an advanced stage for the April 7 event.