Evo Challenge prepares for Ulster asphalt

The Ulster Rally has featured as a round of the Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge for the past three years, the popular International event providing a perfect addition to the championship, as it occupies a vacant slot in the calendar and offers a second asphalt rally in the seven-round season. For the many Ireland-based crews that support the Mitsubishi championship, it also provides the one opportunity of the year for them to compete without having to cross the Irish Sea.

Following the Swansea Bay Rally, the championship tables show David Bogie occupying the top spot, just one point ahead of Richard Cathcart, who has since withdrawn from the Evolution Challenge. However, even with the absence of his former close rival it will not be an easy run for Bogie, as he will be looking for better fortunes than on his last asphalt outing on the Isle of Man, when an accident put him out of contention.

Other drivers who are in with a shot at the championship who are competing this weekend are third-placed Nik Elsmore and fourth-place Neil McCance – the most local Evo Challenge driver to this event. Former championship leader Daniel Barry returns with a re-built car following a huge crash in round five, with another Irishman Keith Cronin hoping for better fortunes in Ulster .

This weekend’s event is based in Armagh and gets underway on Friday evening with six stages before the overnight halt. A further 10 stages follow on Saturday, the combined total of which provide the overall International field of 80 cars - which includes six Evo Challenge runners - with 134 competitive miles.

Announced earlier this month, the Evolution Challenge continues to offer its champion one of the best prizes in British Motorsport, the winner of the 2008 series being given an official works drive in this year’s Wales Rally GB in a brand new Group N Evolution X. The winning driver will also be considered for selection when details are announced about Mitsubishi’s 2009 works campaign.

The 2008 Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge is backed by Mitsubishi Motors UK and Ralliart, with support from its associate sponsors: Pirelli tyres, Speedline Corse wheels, Sparco racewear, Performance Friction Brakes, Sunoco Race Fuels, ADR Motorsport, Walkinshaw Performance and PIAA lights, who sponsor the junior award for under 25 year old drivers.