Rally mania to hit Sligo for 10th anniversary
ON Sunday next July 9th all the sporting focus is on the annual Sligo Stages Rally when a field of, in the region of one hundred crews depart parc ferme at Sligo Retail Park to take on a demanding loop of three stages run three times . In a year which celebrates the tenth anniversary of the first Rally Ireland in this region and a historical link back to 1980 when the first Sligo Stages Rally took place , its not surprising that rally weekend is an important part of the tourism calendar and a big attraction nationally and internationally
Firstly all of the crews spend Saturday traverse the loop of stages in normal road cars , documenting a comprehensive set of safety notes for the following day. The rally cars on the other hand will make there way to scrutiny ,which is again based at North West Business park between 14.30 and 20.00 hours, to undertake a stringent series of safety checks on all the features within the car including the safety cage , seats harness and helmets . This important operation is open to the public and an opportunity to view the cars prior to commencement of the event.
On Sunday morning the serious business begins , with first car away from Parc ferme at Sligo Retail Park at 9.45 am .Throughout the day the complete field of entries will visit service park located at Union Road Business park Collooney on two occasions , whilst on route they stop off at Sligo Folk Park in Riverstown. For enthusiasts not in a position to get out on the stages , both Collooney and Riverstown is a more relaxed opportunity to view the rally cars up close .
Spectators are encouraged to purchase a Rally magazine which are available at numerous outlets around the town and is a contribution to the running of the event . Detailed maps , time schedule and recommended safe viewing on the stages are published in the programme.
The first car is due back on the Finish ramp on the grounds of Sligo Park Hotel at 17.30 . Full updates are available at www. connachtmotorclub.com and on facebook ,twitter and Instagram.