JOHN EASSON AWARD WINNER LE P LE Y TARGETS JUNIOR BR C BID
New John Easson Award winner George Lepley has targeted an entry in the Junior British Rally Championship next year after winning the prestigious award.
Lepley won every round of the R2 Rallye Cup he entered in the BTRDA this year, and also wrapped up the Silver Star title becoming the first front-wheeldrive in over 10 years to do so.
The 2300 Club John Easson Award hands £5000 to Lepley for entry fees, and will add another £1000 if he wins his class next year. The award is named after regular rally competitor Easson who died in an air accident in 1999, and the award has been run since 2004.
Lepley beat BRC Cadet Class driver Finlay Retson and Fiesta ST Trophy frontrunner Ewan Tindall, who came close to the title in his first full year of senior rallying.
“We have a few different options open to us at the moment, but it’s looking highly likely we’ll step up to the Junior BRC and certainly now I’ve won the award,” the 21-year-old told MN. “Let’s see what the next few weeks bring with various prizes/ incentives being announced, but with university studies it makes sense to stay in the UK and with rallies that fit around exams nicely and the opportunity to do a recce.”
The Nottingham driver added that he has been inspired for next season looking back on those who have won the award before him, such as Osian Pryce and Chris Ingram.
“There are some big names on there and it’s clear to see the award has helped them progress when they’ve reached difficult financial stages in their careers,” he said.
“I am truly grateful to the 2300 Club and I am very excited already. I am confident we can achieve something special, like we did this year in the Silver Star and add it to the 2300 Club’s list of special achievements.”
On the importance of winning the award, he added: “It’s very important, competing on big events means big entry fees and so the entry fees certainly take up a large proportion of the budget required during a season’s rallying.
“It is the difference between a championship or select events. It will certainly help me.”