Keith Cronin wins third BRC title

The International Rally Driver's Club applauds a steady, consistent and intelligent drive from County Cork's Keith Cronin, co-driven by Yorkshire man Seb Marshall, which netted him third place on the International Rally of Yorkshire but meaning that he takes the prestigious 2012 MSA British Rally Championship title for a remarkable third time.

The crucial champonship-deciding event saw Welsh rally driver, and IRDC member, Tom Cave triumph over team-mate Osian Pryce to win overall. Cave and co-driver Craig Parry set the fastest time on four of the six stages making up the rally and by taking the win, Tom sealed the runners-up spot in the 2012 Championship.

Close competition throughout the 6-rally championship had ensured that there were four drivers in the running for the title, including Pryce. However, one, Jonnie Greer, went out of the running early on, when the wheel bolts on his car sheared off in the first stage. That force majeure left Cave, Pryce and double former champion Keith Cronin in the hunt. Cronin had to finish fifth or better to claim the title but that didn't stop Cave throwing caution to the wind and dominating the event.

Following on from his class victory earlier in the month on Wales Rally GB, IRDC member Steve Perez was once again in action in the Lancia Stratos, taking a class win in Yorkshire. Along with Welsh co-driver Paul Spooner, the pair were in action in the Amigos Tequila-flavoured beer liveried car and enjoyed a good run in the popular and spectator-pleasing car.

The seventh and most popular event in the series is the BRC Awards Ceremony on 17th November at Manchester's Hallmark Hotel. The MSA British Rally Championship, NGK Spark PLugs BRC Challenge and BRC one-make series awards evening is always a cracking event with the awards presented each side of a formal three course meal, culminating in the crowning of the 2012 MSA British Rally Champion driver and co-driver. Tickets for this popular event are open to anybody but are restricted to 250 on a first come first served basis.

For more information:- www.rallybrc.co.uk

30th September, 2012