WEATHER forecasts are being scrutinised closely and the debate around four or two-wheel drive is heating up, as one of the most competitive fields for a Jersey Rally prepares itself for this weekend.
Defending champions James Labey and Robbie Hannah return in their Ford Fiesta Rally2 at the head of the field.
Labey recently laid claim to the Junior Driver award in the National Asphalt Championship and will face stiff competition over the two days.
The Islander spoke ahead of his title defence, saying: “I’m feeling confident this year, even after limited experience. I feel like I’ve improved on my driving since last year.
“My two closest rivals have a lot more experience, however myself and Robbie are aiming to be consistent and have a good finish.
“Anything can happen in this rally, as we know, so hopefully we can be first across the line again.”
Friday sees the cars journeying to St Helier for the lunchtime ceremonial start at La Fregate, with a very exciting top 20.
The four-wheel drive fight will be close, with four modern cars in the top ten.
As anticipated, Sam Touzel and Max Freeman take number two seed after a highly successful campaign to fifth overall in the same National Asphalt Championship.
Touzel said: “Myself and Max are both super ready for this weekend.
“Personally, I’m really excited to be back racing on home soil and cannot wait for Jersey’s lanes to come alive.
“We’ll be pushing hard for the win and hopefully this year we can get across the line first and take the title.”
Mark Kelly with Will Atkins return as the highest placed visitors, determined to fight from the start.
Kelly has both local knowledge, having finished third in Jersey in 2019, and a championship car in the Skoda R5 with which he has won the National Circuit Rally Championship and second in the Asphalt Championship 2021.
The 4WDs may have an advantage if the forecast proves right, but that has never deterred the ultra quick Escorts of multiple CI rally winners Ross Le Noa and Domonic Volante, as well as Stevie Leonard and Sion Humphreys, both also former Jersey Rally champions and the highest two litre car, and Dave Oliveira and Victor Nobrega also.
Behind them, the rapid English team of Richard Fishleigh and Jason McCullough return, having come second overall in 2022.
The Escort theme continues with Jeremy Baudains and James Ollivro, another 2.5litre car and former Rally winner.
Rounding out the top ten are Darryl Morris and Steve Gully in their new acquisition, the exciting Skoda R5.
Morris “warmed up” for Jersey with Rally Barbados, finishing 20th on his first outing, followed by the Hills Ford Three Shires, finishing 25th and expectations are high for his seeding.
The first classic Escort sees Richard Manning and Simon Bonny seeded ten in their 2.4L model, another rapid crew who finished seventh last year, with this being only their third year of rallying.
Seeding indicates that Jersey crews will feature strongly, but Guernsey is also well represented, with Paul Trebert partnered by Jerseyman Kieran Gregory.
Ford is definitely the dominant marque, with the iconic Ford Anglia of Simon and Katie Le Noa no doubt thrilling the crowds.
The action moves on Friday night into Rozel and Archi Rondel, which both feature fast-flowing sections, tight lanes and hairpins.
There will be more rear wheel action from Jersey stalwarts Rob de Ste Paer/Sam Simon, Mark Syvret/Chris Fox and John Le Brun/Tim Hamon as the highest seeded BMW team.
This group also features the unusual Corsa Super1600 of Neil Weaver, the top seed in Class B up to 1600cc, who has recruited 2022 Jersey winning co-driver Jack Morton.
It’s evidence of the quality of the entry this year that Andy Corner and Ade Campo are seeded at 22 with their Ford Fiesta R200.
Saturday morning sees the Rally venture from classic western west to classic stages around Greve de Lecq and St Ouen.
With re-seeding overnight, the first stages are always fascinating for spectators watching the new running order.
Class A, up to 1400cc, sees visitor Simon Hunter/Howard Pridmore in the immaculate Corsa Super1400 arriving with four class wins to their credit this year.
The Rally also sees a record-breaking eight newly qualified Jersey drivers and one Guernsey driver taking part.
The karting family of Harry and Josh Torpy will be taking on their first major rally after months of preparation.
The final young local novices are Max Brochet/Charlie Norton in their Nissan Micra, and James and John Turmel in the VW Lupo.
By Saturday afternoon, the current weather forecast predicts slightly kinder weather as the field will head to Trinity and St Saviour.
Depending on performance, expect to see teams challenging for position as the event moves towards its climax – with the ceremonial finish back at the Rally HQ before the celebrations commence.
The organisation of such a major Island sporting event takes nearly 12 months and thanks are due to all the Island authorities who support an event that brings many visitors and supports local competition.
