Colin McRae Forest Stages Rally

[c4]

See that Pastrana and Block may do this as well as Sainz in a 555 Impreza as zero car.
Shaping up to be the rally of the year.
http://rallybuzz.stagetimes.com/travis-pastrana-ken-block-mcrae-stages/

[Zico]

This Imo was already rally of the decade when the 1st big names were anounced.

I bet Travis will be wanting to compete in his Subaru.. Travis in a MkII?.. then we'd see what he was made of... :D

[Zico]

This Imo was already rally of the decade when the 1st big names were anounced.

I bet Travis will be wanting to compete in his Subaru.. Travis in a MkII?.. then we'd see what he was made of... :D

[Rallyst3ve]

This will be a fantastic tribute to the great man great line up already. Jst wish it was on a different day to the Trackrod Rally as i want to go to both.

[ste898]

Who's Pastrana and Block never heard of them!!!

[Tomi]

Vatanen and Mikkola comes from Finland.

[Rallyst3ve]

ste898
Who's Pastrana and Block never heard of them!!!

There the USA's leading rally drivers. Pastrana began in Motocross but recently switched to rallying and is now competing in the PWRC with Derek Ringer in a Subaru Impreza GpN ;)

[wwbroe]

Looks like the entylist will be quite good. Looking forward to the event and the tribute to the greatest rallydriver in history. ;)

[BGilbert]

I really fancy this one, only problem is the 800 mile round trip. Not sure if the mrs would put up with that!!!

[c4]

Markku Alen appears to be confirmed
http://rallybuzz.stagetimes.com/latest-news-colin-mcrae-stages-alen/

[c4]

Looks like John Buffum will be joining in with perhaps a three car us team
http://rallybuzz.stagetimes.com/latest-news-colin-mcrae-stages-alen/

[TWIGLEES]

Jon Woodner would have been a welcome addition.

[c4]

Interview with John Buffum and he discusses his upcoming appearance on the McRae Stages plus plenty more besides
http://rallybuzz.stagetimes.com/john-buffum-interview-rallybuzz-rally-america/

[farquar wrc]

All Star Rally Tribute

Five World Rally Champions, four British Champions, three American Champions and at least six Scottish Champions are all set to contest the Colin McRae Forest Stages Rally, in association with Pirelli, on Saturday the 27th of September.

In a unique, national rally entry list, which will never again be repeated, this very special event will pay tribute to former World Rally Champion, Colin McRae who so tragically lost his life one year ago.

With the rally Regulations and Entry Form shortly to be available, the list of those who are determined to attend include five world champions: Bjorn Waldegard (1979), Ari Vatanen (1981), Hannu Mikkola (1983), Stig Blomqvist (1984) and our own Louise Aitken-Walker, the first Scot and first Briton, to win a world rally title when she won the Ladies World Rally title in 1990.

From America, the visitors include the country’s first national rally champion, John Buffum and its most recent, Travis Pastrana, with runner-up Ken Block also determined to visit Scotland. All three were firm family friends as well as rivals.

The line up of British Champions includes Jim McRae (1981, 82, 84, 87 and 88) and Alister McRae (1995) plus Russell Brookes (1977 and 85) and Malcolm Wilson, now boss of the Ford World Rally team who won the British title himself in 1994. And making their own personal tributes are English Champion Phil Collins and Northern Ireland’s Kris Meeke who won the British Junior title in 2002.

Topping the list of Scottish champions is Andrew Cowan who won his first national title in 1976, but he was also the first ever winner of the world’s first marathon rally when he won the London to Sydney Marathon in a Scottish built car (Hillman Hunter) in 1968.

Three times Scottish Rally Champion Ken Wood will be joined by more recent champions including Dave Weston, Jimmy Girvan and Michael Horne.

Organised by Coltness Car Club, the Colin McRae Forest Stages Rally will start from and finish in Perth with a lunch halt at Aberfeldy. The route will include five of the most evocative special stages in British rallying including three of Colin McRae’s all time favourites at Craigvinean, Drummond Hill and Errochty.

This year’s event is also the final round of the 2008 County Saab Scottish Rally Championship at which this year’s national champion will be confirmed.

Club President and Rally Manager, Jim Brown, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the level of interest and support for our event. This year’s rally will represent a fitting tribute to one of the sport’s most exciting drivers and a genuine personality. Coltness Car Club are therefore determined to put on a good show for competitors and rally fans alike. To us in this club, Colin wasn’t just a superstar and a hero, he was a club member first and foremost. Indeed, Colin took a personal interest in this rally ever since it started 14 years ago. He is still sorely missed.”

Joining Coltness Car Club for this unique event is tyre manufacturer and rally tyre specialist Pirelli Tyres.

[Rallyst3ve]

What a fantastic tribute to Colin!! this is going to be.....

.....Would have been Colin's birthday today still cant believe he's not with us.

A tribute to Colin by Travis Pastrana at this years X Games
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=yjelJeCjHKU

[farquar wrc]

What a fantastic tribute to Colin!! this is going to be.....

.....Would have been Colin's birthday today still cant believe he's not with us.

A tribute to Colin by Travis Pastrana at this years X Games
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=yjelJeCjHKU
That tribute is very touching,sure gave me a huge lump in my throat

[cut the b.s.]

What a fantastic tribute to Colin!! this is going to be.....

.....Would have been Colin's birthday today still cant believe he's not with us.

A tribute to Colin by Travis Pastrana at this years X Games
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=yjelJeCjHKU

A nice tribute. As you say, still hard to really believe he is gone

[Anderton]

I can't believe that it's almost been a year :(

[Vatanen]

Still difficult to believe it 12 months on,he should be with us down here now celebrating his big "40" birthday. Unbelievable talent. For me his first event in his beloved Mk2 over here in Ireland on the Rally of the Lakes will live long in the memory "God Speed"

[Doug Woods]

Jon Woodner would have been a welcome addition.

Jon Woodner died in 1988 in a plane crash.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Colin-McRae-Subaru-Impreza-555-rally-TRIBUTE-ART_W0QQitemZ120291923652QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item1 20291923652&_trkparms=72%3A984%7C39%3A1%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A12%7C2 40%3A1318&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14

http://madgraf.republika.pl/ColinMemorial.jpg

http://stores.ebay.co.uk/artrallyprintsmadgraf

[pino]

Amazing list (http://www.coltnesscarclub.co.uk/documents/entry_list_alpha.pdf) among them :

ANDREW COWAN IAN GRINDROD HILLMAN IMP
ARI VATANEN DAVID RICHARDS FORD ESCORT MK2
BJORN WALDEGAARD PAULINE GULLICK PORSCHE 911
DAVID BOGIE KEVIN RAE FORD FOCUS WRC05
GARY ADAM GORDON ADAM FORD ESCORT MK2
(src champion last year)
HANNU MIKKOLA NICKY GRIST Ford Escort Mk2
JIM MCRAE ANDY RICHARDSON PORSCHE 911
JOHN BUFFUM LANCE SMITH PORSCHE 911
KEN BLOCK ALEX GELSOMINO FORD ESCORT MK2
KRIS MEEKE GERRY MCVEIGH FORD ESCORT MK2
LOUISE AITKEN WALKER TBA TALBOT SUNBEAM
MALCOLM WILSON PETER MARTIN FORD ESCORT MK2
MATTHEW WILSON SCOTT MARTIN FORD FOCUS WRC
PHIL COLLINS DEREK BRANIGAN OPEL ASCONA 400
RUSSELL BROOKES NEIL WILSON FORD ESCORT MK1
STIG BLOMQUIST ANA GONI FORD ESCORT MK2
TRAVIS PASTRANA DEREK RINGER FORD ESCORT MK1

Looking forward to watch them "live" :D

[Tomi]

Yes a few impressing legend is present, thats nice.

[pino]

Yes a few impressing legend is present, thats nice.

Plenty of time to join us paisá ;)

[Tomi]

Plenty of time to join us paisá ;)

Dont try paisá, seen them all in their glorydays. ;)

[pino]

Dont try paisá, seen them all in their glorydays. ;)

So did I ;)

[turves]

Me too...

and all we need now is Pentti in a Chevette HSR...

[Tomi]

Yes Pentti get a car from somewhere, and was not the great Alen supposed to be present too.

[pino]

With Pentti, Alen, KKK, and Munari the entry list would be perfect :D

[Tomi]

A bit strange that McRaes recent team mates Markko, Loeb and Saintz are not present, those that have known Colin already from a small child are almost all there, nice reunion actually, paying respect to McRae family, a little show driving, and to spend some time with old friends.

[Buzz Lightyear]

Can we open a poll of the 15 Top Seeds in Historic? :)

[c4]

Article with a pre rally taster vid
http://rallybuzz.stagetimes.com/mcrae-stages-08-unseeded-list/

[6thgear]

A bit strange that McRaes recent team mates Markko, Loeb and Saintz are not present, those that have known Colin already from a small child are almost all there, nice reunion actually, paying respect to McRae family, a little show driving, and to spend some time with old friends.

Actually there was an arcticle somewhere (couple of weeks ago) that Markko will participate in this rally and drive Impreza 555.

[6thgear]

I found the arcticle in estonian saying that besides Markko (555 ex-McRae) there also will be present El Matador in his former 555. But both of them will run as a safety-car.

http://bike.motors24.ee/Default.aspx?page=articleview&article_id=2740

[Tomi]

Actually there was an arcticle somewhere (couple of weeks ago) that Markko will participate in this rally and drive Impreza 555.

ahaa thats good

[c4]

There will only be one "0" car at McRae Stages and that will be Colin's white Escort, don't know who's driving it though but Carlos and Markko wont be doing course car duties.

[J4MIE]

That entry list is the list of entries that have been accepted by the organisers. You won't see anybody else!! And as above there will only be one course car.

Can't wait though :up:

[farquar wrc]

There will only be one "0" car at McRae Stages and that will be Colin's white Escort, don't know who's driving it though but Carlos and Markko wont be doing course car duties.
John Allan owns the car now,beautifull sounding 2 litre BDX,the amount of very quick guys in RWD cars will make this THE event of the year to see

[c4]

Seeded entry
http://www.coltnesscarclub.co.uk/documents/final_entry.pdf

[L555 BAT]

I cant wait for it. This will be one hell of a rally! I was at it 2 years ago when the Mcrae was in his red mk2. Driving up from Glasgow in the morning but still not sure what stages to go see. Dont really know the area that well. Anybody got any ideas?

[Anderton]

Going to be a top class rally. Gutted i can't go really. I saw the cat that Hannu and Nicky will be in at Rally Day. Nicky said that the car is only 15 days old. It was made especially for the rally, as was Phill Colins' car (think this is the case with Phil)

[Zico]

I cant wait.. My bro (Steve Hope) finally got confirmation of his entry only on Tues!

Crowds are gonna be unbelievable.. make sure you all allow extra time for travelling to the stages. David Bogie (Focus WRC 05) for the win?

For the stage (Craigvinean) at the Hermitage, spectating- Walk up the hill take the right fork, quite a good spot for the reverse run of the stage (if they are doing that this year)
Can anyone recomend any more good spectating spots for the other stages?

[Zico]

I cant wait for it. This will be one hell of a rally! I was at it 2 years ago when the Mcrae was in his red mk2. Driving up from Glasgow in the morning but still not sure what stages to go see. Dont really know the area that well. Anybody got any ideas?

SS1 Fonab is a non-spectator stage.


My plans are to see..
SS2 Erochty 10:50am
SS5 Craigvinean (Hermitage) 2pm

planning to be up at Erochty for around 8:30-9am just to be sure of getting a parking space!



Full Rally shedule here.. http://www.coltnesscarclub.co.uk/documents/spectator_information.pdf

And Map.. http://www.coltnesscarclub.co.uk/documents/Spec_map.pdf

[Zico]

Rally schedule and SS start times here.. http://www.coltnesscarclub.co.uk/documents/spectator_information.pdf

and Map.. http://www.coltnesscarclub.co.uk/documents/Spec_map.pdf

[Rallytart]

Thanks for the spectator info.

[Rallytart]

Coltness Car Club's Website's playing funny buggers

[turves]

WRC.com will be broadcasting live with Rally Radio

[Zico]

Coltness Car Club's Website's playing funny buggers

Yep, I had to open with IE... doesnt like Firefox.

[c4]

Ken Block will be in an Eaton Yale Escort
http://rallybuzz.stagetimes.com/ken-block-eaton-escort-mk2/

Some preview vids
http://rallybuzz.stagetimes.com/mcrae-stages-08-video-preview/

[Rallyst3ve]

Im now going to the McRae Stages cant wait il try and get some good footage for those who arnt.

Just hope i can fit in two stages as theres not much of a gap between SS2 and SS5

[AndyRAC]

Im now going to the McRae Stages cant wait il try and get some good footage for those who arnt.

Just hope i can fit in two stages as theres not much of a gap between SS2 and SS5

I think you'll be lucky - the organisers are encouraging people to stay at one stage to cut down on traffic congestion. Must admit I would like to see more than 1 stage, but it might not be possible.

[Rallyst3ve]

Might have to leave SS2 bit early say after the top 4WD or hope theres a bit of delay during the day so can get to SS5

[J4MIE]

Looks like it will be proper Scottish rallying weather:

http://www.metcheck.com/V40/UK/FREE/dayforecast.asp?zipcode=aberfeldy&day=3

[sal]

Stig's entry has been pulled sadly.

[Daniel]

what a bugger. Is anyone planning forum get together? Would be nice to put some faces to names if people are up for it :)

[J4MIE]

Will be good to meet you Daniel :up:

[pino]

Will be good to meet you Daniel :up:

Same here...as long you don't talk too much :p : ;)

[Rallyst3ve]

Il be there too cannot wait :D

[Daniel]

Same here...as long you don't talk too much :p : ;)
Hey ;) I'm not the one who has had a video of themselves talking and talking and talking posted on the forum :p

Will be good to meet you again :up:

[J4MIE]

I have not been this excited about going to an event in a very very long time!! :bounce: Heading straight up to Perth after I finish work.

Hope everyone else that is going has a good day and hope the amount of people expected doesn't cause any problems.... :s

I think wrc.com are going to have live results but you can also get them on http://www.flyingfinish.co.uk if you can't make it there :up: And I'll have to try and get my brother to record the wrc radio coverage to see how different it is from a wrc event...

It's going to be MEGA! :D

[AndyRAC]

Can't wait - planning on watching in Errochty. Great entry list -pity about Stig, but it should be fantastic. Like the old RAC in days gone by.

[sal]

. Like the old RAC in days gone by.

Hopefully not from a traffic perspective!!!

Seriously though hope every one has a great time that the event runs smoothly and as Ari V was quoted as saying recently that competitors, speccies officials etc come together as one big family to celebrate Colin's life and legacy!

[pino]

I am very excited too, especially after listening Nick Grist interview on wrc.com, talking about all those great cars/drivers from the past which will be there, can't wait...can't wait :bounce:

[sal]

Apparantley Ken B rolled the Eaton Yale Escort on the test stage however they are hoping to have the car fixed for tommorow.

[turves]

Hey everyone. Sadly I cant make it, but I hope everyone who goes has a great time and it is a fitting tribute to the great man.

Look forward to seeing pictures...

[Daniel]

the exhaust has fallen off my 406 so count me out :bigcry: Was so looking forward to this event.

[J4MIE]

Running order:

1) Ari
2) Brookes
3) A McRae
4) Waldegaard
5) Buffum
6) Collins
7) Wilson
8) J McRae
9) Louise A-W
10) Meeke
11) Block
12) Pastrana
13) Mikkola
14) Cowan

[COD]

Any place to follow the results?

[Jordib]

Yes: http://www.flyingfinish.co.uk/

Also live radio in www.wrc.com (http://www.wrc.com)

[COD]

Yes: http://www.flyingfinish.co.uk/

Also live radio in www.wrc.com (http://www.wrc.com)

Thank You

[Shacki]

I heard about big crash of Jimmy McRae. Some news?

[sal]

I heard about big crash of Jimmy McRae. Some news?


Jim mcrae has rolled down a 100 metre ravine into a river. Both crew ok and out the car. Seemed a bit shaken but no injurys happened 1 mile from finish.

[Daniel]

I heard about big crash of Jimmy McRae. Some news?
I spoke to J4mie just before. Apparently someone called 999 and a firetruck went out on stage and got stuck in a ditch so the final stage was cancelled :mark:

He said Jimmy and co-driver walked out of the stage just fine.

[cosmicpanda]

Nice to hear the old drivers on rally radio :)

[pettersolberg29]

Daniel - you have a PM

[Zico]

Went to see just the last stage, Craigvinean but only saw the 1st 30 cars due to some pillock spectator phoning an ambulance, 2 Fire engines and a Firebrigade accident truck after Jimmys crash. One of the firebrigades got stuck in a ditch and the stage was eventually cancelled, I was a bit pissed at the newby speccy who made that call.

Still, at least I got to see the legends..


And my bro came 2nd in class.. :)

[COD]

Impressive drive by Jarkko Nikara. 11th overall, 1st in Fiesta ST by 50 secs in his first GB rally (remember no recce, only organisers notes).

Also nice to see, that many of the legends were doing good times taking into account their age

[raymiemack]

Hi Guys

Just got back from Mcrae stages and found out that Craigvinean was cancelled. My nose was bothering me to find out what happened and this is where i found it !! We chose to go to Errochty purely because i thought it gave us the best chance to see the big names incase some of them retired early as did Colin himself 2 years ago.

Stayed at Errochty for every single car, i feel sorry for you guys who chose Craigvinean , you must be gutted , i know i would have been .

all the best

[xroo]

:mad: Hi Guys, After spending hrs walking the hills of perthshire with my two sons aged 6 and 9 i was very pssssd off that ss5 was canceled due to the fire brigade getting stuck.One good thing boys are sleeping like logs.
I saw some of ss3 and got some good pics.But thats it till next yr now.

SEEN JIMMY WHEN HE CLIMBED UP HILL AFTER CRASH AND GLAD HE'S OK :)

[sollitt]

Any pictures anywhere?

[xroo]

SORRY
Not taken them off camara yet

[OldF]

Ken Block will be in an Eaton Yale Escort
http://rallybuzz.stagetimes.com/ken-block-eaton-escort-mk2/

Some preview vids
http://rallybuzz.stagetimes.com/mcrae-stages-08-video-preview/

What happened to Stig Blomqvist? Why didn’t he start?

Very nice videos C4. What a nice sound the cars had at those days. It was also nice to see Henri Toivonen in action. I just checked that I’ve VHS from RAC –84 and –85. I think I must watch them again.

[yodasarmpit]

What a great day, just going through the pics now.
Spent most of my time at SS3 and winners presentations in Perth.

[pino]

Just came back too, and it was an amazing day :up: eventhough we misses half of cars on stage 5 due to Jimmy McRae off...pity because where on a great spot, but glad that nothing happened to the crew.

[Buzz Lightyear]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-BYtirRrO9k

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dL7WynVhK5E

[AndyRAC]

Well, after just the 600 mile round trip I'm glad I went. Thanks to all the Organisers, Marshals, everybody involved in bringing everybody together for this probable 'once-in-a-lifetime' event.
Went to Errochty - the car park was just cars and campers everywere - great stuff. There seemed a real buzz while walking through the stage to get to my viewing point - like an old RAC Rally. Then the action started, who was driving the '0' car? Ari seemed 'muted' a car problem I think, but a priviledge to have seen him and DR with the Rothmans Escort.
Must say Alister, Kris, Callum and John Crawford were specially commited. Wouldn 't have missed it for the world, a chance to see legends driving iconic cars. Great stuff!!! http://www.britishrally.co.uk/forum/images/smilies/smiley20.gif
Would like to see a few enter the RAC in November - now that would be something!!

[PuddleJumper]

Fantastic event, spoilt only by the mess which put the mockers on SS5. Thankfully myself, pino and J4MIE got to see the whole field through SS1, so it wasn't as much of a disappointment for us that SS5 was canned after 30 or so cars. It was great to see some famous names rallying again. I never thought I'd get to see the likes of Vatanen, Wilson, Mikkola, Buffum, Waldegaard and Brookes competing, let alone on the same rally! Unfortunately, it must be remembered that this event only took place because of the tragic loss of the great Colin himself, and I would gladly forget this weekend to have him back with us. As things go though, this was one hell of a way to pay tribute to him, so I too thank everyone who worked so hard to bring it all together. :up:

[pino]

Fantastic event, spoilt only by the mess which put the mockers on SS5. Thankfully myself, pino and J4MIE got to see the whole field through SS1, so it wasn't as much of a disappointment for us that SS5 was canned after 30 or so cars. It was great to see some famous names rallying again. I never thought I'd get to see the likes of Vatanen, Wilson, Mikkola, Buffum, Waldegaard and Brookes competing, let alone on the same rally! Unfortunately, it must be remembered that this event only took place because of the tragic loss of the great Colin himself, and I would gladly forget this weekend to have him back with us. As things go though, this was one hell of a way to pay tribute to him, so I too thank everyone who worked so hard to bring it all together. :up:

When we'll see some pics ? :D

[Pinto]

i was spectating on stage 4 and car23 rolled next thing dumb spectators wanted to stop the stage car was badly damaged but driving 100% and the crew were sound the stage was partialy blocked but me and the gang of lads were with me unblocked the stage,but what realy annoyed me was many spectator stood there looking at us and whinging at not stoping the stage ,now were i come from when we are at drivers breifings before events we are told get the stage ublocked if it is possable.another car went off and there was lack of help again guys stud there laughing at it

[J4MIE]

Had a great day out, really disappointed that SS5 was stopped but I suppose even more surprised that was the only problem throughout the day despite the huge number of spectators.

Went to SS1 where Meeke was stunning, fully sideways and very fast well before the 90 right and went round inch perfect :up: Malcolm Wilson looked good as well. Got to Craigvinean in time to drive up to the midpoint, and I walked up the hill a bit from where pino and PuddleJumper were. Alister was amazing there, very commited!! When we were driving out of the stage it was extremely slippery but a fantastic looking stage, never had the chance to go round there before.

Does seem there were a few amateur speccies out there though, not sure why anybody would call 999 especially as I hear that they were shouting up that they were OK pretty quickly...

Anyway, really enjoyed it :up:

Few pics:

http://photos-611.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v360/125/80/529115611/n529115611_4423809_8460.jpg

http://photos-611.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v360/125/80/529115611/n529115611_4423782_9513.jpg

http://photos-611.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v360/125/80/529115611/n529115611_4423777_7946.jpg

[J4MIE]

http://photos-611.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v360/125/80/529115611/n529115611_4423786_709.jpg

http://photos-611.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v360/125/80/529115611/n529115611_4423799_5071.jpg

http://photos-611.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v360/125/80/529115611/n529115611_4423811_9130.jpg

[pino]

Nice pics J4MIE, especially 1st and last ones :D

[MJW]

Interesting silence from George Donaldson (Subaru STI Group N) who was acting as a reporter for WRC Rally Radio when talking to Russell Brookes about the "fantasic atmosphere and crowds on the event" & Russell turns to him and says "yes and people are wondering whats wrong with the wrc, here you have your answer, cheap cars that sound right, are spectacular to watch - get rid of turbocharging and 4 wd in the wrc and you will get a re-surgence" cue awkward silence and tactfull agreement from George Donaldson, probably doesnt want to upset his paymasters and the clique that run wrc.

[Rallyst3ve]

Got back from the rally yesterday evening what a weekend :D

Went up to scruiteenring on friday and watched most of the forum which was really good. Then on Saturday went to SS1 where A McRae, Kris Meeke were getting it nicely sideways and even Travis Pastrana tried a scandanavian flick.
Then it was off to SS5 where most of the guest drivers had picked the pace up just a shame the stage was cancelled as i was really looking forward to hearing Andy Horne's Dam 4100 as it was first time id ever seen the car at a rally. Next time a car goes off make sure the crew are ok first rather than just calling the firebrigade.

Then it was a night out in Pitlochry stayed a bit too long in the bar and got locked out of the Y Hostel :D


Thanks to the organisers for putting on a great event.

My video will be ready soon :)

[AndyRAC]

Interesting silence from George Donaldson (Subaru STI Group N) who was acting as a reporter for WRC Rally Radio when talking to Russell Brookes about the "fantasic atmosphere and crowds on the event" & Russell turns to him and says "yes and people are wondering whats wrong with the wrc, here you have your answer, cheap cars that sound right, are spectacular to watch - get rid of turbocharging and 4 wd in the wrc and you will get a re-surgence" cue awkward silence and tactfull agreement from George Donaldson, probably doesnt want to upset his paymasters and the clique that run wrc.

Hadn't heard that quote, but a few people I spoke to said similar things. Makes sense really - cheap, spectacular cars, which sound great. How difficult is it for F1A/ISC/Manufacturers to understand. S2000 is too expensive as well - use what most people drive on the roads.

Agree about the atmosphere & crowds though, fantastic stuff!! Just what Rallying should be like.

[Zico]

Hadn't heard that quote, but a few people I spoke to said similar things. Makes sense really - cheap, spectacular cars, which sound great. How difficult is it for F1A/ISC/Manufacturers to understand. S2000 is too expensive as well - use what most people drive on the roads.

Agree about the atmosphere & crowds though, fantastic stuff!! Just what Rallying should be like.

Totally agree with you both, can imagine the Dave Richards and Malcom Wilsons of the sport wouldn't be too happy about that, and the MSA seem determined to ruin rallying by banning 'specials' like Burtons 306 Cosworth. Seems like N/A is the most important ingredient thats missing from the sport, although S200 is a step in the right direction, I still dont think its enough.

I guess they will be forced to back track if rallying is to survive as a marketable form of motorsport.

[Ecosse Pix]

Had a great time in and around Perth at the weekend.

Managed to locate a test session on Friday and went along to find Ari, Louise and John Buffum in attendance as well as a few others. What a guy Ari is - only too happy to chat, sign autographs and pose for pics! Especially with his McRae tartan scarf

Then headed back for scrutineering at the race course. Great to see all those Mk2's and what a picture it would have made if we'd been able to get them all lined up!! Fantastic to mingle with the stars too and see them chat with Joe public in such a relaxed manner. Hung around to see some of the forum which was also very good.

Saturday morning up bright and early and into SS1. Went near the end of the stage and found a few interesting spots. Also good to meet Pino, PuddleJumper and J4MIE. Saw everyone through there before heading back down the A9 to SS5. Managed to get into the stage near Jn 9 - a lovely downhill section with lots of bends one after the other. Saw everyone through until the stoppage then went for a walk. Eventualy headed back to the car (considerably damper!) after we'd heard the stage was cancelled and followed the closing car out of the stage.

Here are some pics from the day...

The Stars

Waldegaard in full flight on SS5...
http://www.ecossepix.co.uk/Brit-Rally-Forum/McRae08-Stars1.jpg

Phil Collins at the end of SS1...
http://www.ecossepix.co.uk/Brit-Rally-Forum/McRae08-Stars3.jpg

Alister looking good on SS1...
http://www.ecossepix.co.uk/Brit-Rally-Forum/McRae08-Stars2.jpg

[Ecosse Pix]

...and some of the others...

An excellent result for Calum MacKenzie...
http://www.ecossepix.co.uk/Brit-Rally-Forum/McRae08-7.jpg

One from a SS1 sequence of Craig Whyte going over...
http://www.ecossepix.co.uk/Brit-Rally-Forum/McRae08-2.jpg

...and one from a sequence of a Martin McCormack off a bit further down the road on SS1...
http://www.ecossepix.co.uk/Brit-Rally-Forum/McRae08-8.jpg

Both Craig and Martin drove away and all involved were unhurt......

[COD]

Hadn't heard that quote, but a few people I spoke to said similar things. Makes sense really - cheap, spectacular cars, which sound great. How difficult is it for F1A/ISC/Manufacturers to understand. S2000 is too expensive as well - use what most people drive on the roads.
.


Funny to see these comments here now. I have read so many posts here that say how even the S2000 cars would be too slow and boring to watch...

[Rally_Rocks]

What a great event.

Amazing atmosphere, incredible action, a stunning location and a fitting tribute.

Coltness Car Club should be rightly proud of their tremendous efforts in organising such a succesful event.

The vast majority of spectators were impeccably well behaved and were rewarded with a memorable experience.

As one who heeded the organiseres instructions and treated SS1 as a closed spectator stage, it is a touch dissapointing to note that a number of supposedly knowledgable rally fans in this forum decided they were above this advice. Just a small point, but I think worth making, because that kind of arrogant behaviour can ruin things for all us genuine and respectful rally fans.

[pino]

As one who heeded the organiseres instructions and treated SS1 as a closed spectator stage, it is a touch dissapointing to note that a number of supposedly knowledgable rally fans in this forum decided they were above this advice. Just a small point, but I think worth making, because that kind of arrogant behaviour can ruin things for all us genuine and respectful rally fans.

Arrogant behaviour ? :confused: We were allowed into that stage because we had a media pass...sorry :)

[Daniel]

:rotflmao: That's hilarious.

[Ecosse Pix]

Arrogant behaviour ? :confused: We were allowed into that stage because we had a media pass...sorry :)
Likewise :) Checked at the stage start it was OK to go in. Showed media pass and was waved on. Had that not been the case I would have turned around and gone elsewhere.

[J4MIE]

And just as well people were in SS1 too as Colin's pic, the car was on its roof around a quick blind bend with the next car fast approaching and a drop on the outside where avoiding action would have been taken...

Great pics Colin :up:

[Zico]

Arrogant behaviour ? :confused: We were allowed into that stage because we had a media pass...sorry :)

Yep I had one too, these fake passes worked a treat.

[ryland.j]

some nice pics there,i liked the one of the red MK2 :D wish i could have been there :(

[PuddleJumper]

Can anyone help me with the following?

Driver and co-driver of car 0.
Driver and co-driver of car Inter 2.
Co-driver to Graeme Smith in car 111.
Driver of car 227. (Iain Macdonald or MacDonald?)

Thanks.

[Ecosse Pix]

Can anyone help me with the following?

Driver and co-driver of car 0.
Driver and co-driver of car Inter 2.
Co-driver to Graeme Smith in car 111.
Driver of car 227. (Iain Macdonald or MacDonald?)

Thanks.

Car 0 : John Allan/?
Car 111 : Graeme Smith/Fraser Smith
Car 227 : Iain MacDonald

Hope that helps a bit....

[farquar wrc]

Yep I had one too, these fake passes worked a treat.

Yip me to,got mine from ordnance survey

[Daniel]

farquar i'm fairly sure Zico was being sarcastic. Sneaking into a stage you're not meant to be on isn't funny or smart.

[AndyRAC]

farquar i'm fairly sure Zico was being sarcastic. Sneaking into a stage you're not meant to be on isn't funny or smart.

There is normally a good reason stages are 'Non Spectator' - limited access, parking, PR, etc

And while I'm not criticising people for going, if everybody had the same idea it could/would cause chaos.

[Daniel]

Lack of good access for emergency services for spectators can also be a reason sometimes. A good reason just to go to normal spectator points.

[raymiemack]

I cant understand why anyone would want to go to a non-spectator stage when the organiziers do such a great job in providing parking etc. still buzzing from Saturday and cant wait now til the Snowman !!

[Daniel]

Because particularly for photographers it's great to not have tape and spectators everywhere.

[J4MIE]

Believe the issue with Fonab is the lack of parking. We checked with the organisers well before the event to see if was ok to go into the stage and got the green light as long as it was ok with the marshals, which it was.

As for everyone else, well if you're out for a walk in the beautiful Perthshire hills and come across a rally, it'd be silly to leave wouldn't it ;)

The stage setup is the same regardless if it's non-spectator or not, the rescue/emergency services and tape etc shouldn't differ from a normal stage. And if the safety cars that drove through before the stage was live had any concerns, I'm sure they would have stopped and sorted it out and if necessary stopped the stage from running. But from what I saw everyone was well behaved, standing in safe places and enjoying themselves :up:

[Daniel]

What I mean is that on some stages there isn't space for spectators to park and for emergency services to get in quickly too if that makes sense.

[J4MIE]

Don't worry Daniel I know exactly what you mean ;)

[Pinto]

sure if you have an emergency route on any event you have to keep it clear you cant have some dope of a spectator wandering up the road with his rover and s the services trying to get in or out

[PuddleJumper]

Hope that helps a bit....
It does. Thank you.

[Rallyst3ve]

The main reason that SS1 was a non spectator stage is that there was no parking available in the area and the organisers didnt want cars being left on the side of the A9. I was staying just across the road in Pitlochry so i thought a would try and go to the 1st stage as i wasnt causing any problems by parking cars in stupid places etc
The marshals at the entrance and organisers we spoke to said it was ok to watch there if it wasnt i would have gone to SS2 so hope people dont think im an idiot.

[L555 BAT]

Although the event was generally well run I think the marshalling where I was spectating was poor. I was about half a mile into stage 2, as were another few hundred people. Some were being sensible and some were being complete twats and no marshal to be seen anywhere. The comedy factor was some loud mouth shouting and swearing at everybody.

[Rallyst3ve]

My footage of the Colin McRae Stages

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=3l4y5z8OjqI

[PuddleJumper]

Great video, St3ve. :up:

[Zico]

Video of Jimmys off..

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=rCFXfNrJlOc&feature=related

Interesting to also see Allister catching a rusty Ari on the clip.. Allister was the most spectacular from what I saw of him through Craigvinean yet the very neat Callum McKenzie was able to come out top... well exact same time actually, great battle.

[PuddleJumper]

Finished uploading my photos last night:
http://www.powerphoto.co.uk/rally/other/mcrae2008/ss1/012t.jpghttp://www.powerphoto.co.uk/rally/other/mcrae2008/ss1/030t.jpghttp://www.powerphoto.co.uk/rally/other/mcrae2008/ss1/038t.jpghttp://www.powerphoto.co.uk/rally/other/mcrae2008/ss5/013t.jpghttp://www.powerphoto.co.uk/rally/other/mcrae2008/ss5/049t.jpg (http://www.powerphoto.co.uk/rally/other/mcrae2008/index.html)

[yodasarmpit]

Some shots from the finish ramp.


#1. Left Hannu Mikkola , Middle Alister McRae, Right Bjorn Waldegaard
http://www.yodasarmpit.com/photos/McRae08/AM03small.jpg (http://www.yodasarmpit.com/photos/McRae08/AM03.jpg)


#2. Left, Dave Richards , Right Ari Vatanen
http://www.yodasarmpit.com/photos/McRae08/AV02small.jpg (http://www.yodasarmpit.com/photos/McRae08/AV02.jpg)


#3. Alister McRae
http://www.yodasarmpit.com/photos/McRae08/AM05small.jpg (http://www.yodasarmpit.com/photos/McRae08/AM05.jpg)


#4. Ari Vatanen
http://www.yodasarmpit.com/photos/McRae08/AV03small.jpg (http://www.yodasarmpit.com/photos/McRae08/AV03.jpg)


#6. Nicky Grist
http://www.yodasarmpit.com/photos/McRae08/NG01small.jpg (http://www.yodasarmpit.com/photos/McRae08/NG01.jpg)