MOTOR SPORT:Richard Lyons rather optimistically says, "I believe it's not out of the question to expect a top six finish from both races" - in the final rounds of the World Cup of Motorsport at Brands Hatch on Sunday.
The Ulsterman's prediction has to be rather tongue-in-cheek in lieu of such a dismal A1 Grand Prix campaign which sees Ireland down in 18th place on eight points, a long way behind winners Germany on 113, New Zealand (90), Great Britain (76) and 2005/06 winners France (60). Lyons is justifiably upbeat after his recent fifth place finish in China, and more points would be a much overdue boost for A1 Team Ireland.
Tomorrow's motor racing at Kirkistown features a return of the Scottish Mini Coopers, competing in a Mini Grand Prix over 30 laps of the Co Down circuit. Ray Moore, Paul Sammin and Ken Elliott and Shane Ringwood race for points in round three of the Formula Vee Championship. The Kirkistown programme also lists races for Formula Ford, Formula Sheane, Fiat Punto and Uno saloons, and sportscars.
The phenomenal popularity of Irish rallying is highlighted by fully subscribed entries of 600 competitors (plus reserves) for Sunday's stage rallies in Roscommon and Cork. Subaru WRC drivers Noel McCarrick and Jack Sleator, last year's winner and runner-up, top the Midland MC's event run over eight stages around Roscommon town.
Skibbereen and District C's event in the Rosscarbery- Glandore area is solely for two-wheel-drive cars (no WRC's). Heading the list are Paul Purtill in a a Ford Escort Mk.2, James Stafford in a Darrian T90 and Brian O'Mahony in a Renault Clio.
FIXTURES Sunday: Midland MC, Stages Rally, starts Roscommon, 10am; Skibbereen & District CC, Stages Rally, starts Rosscarbery, 12.15pm; Munster KC, Kart Racing, Watergrasshil, Co Cork, 11am.
