Isle of Man success for Suzuki

Dealer Team Suzuki’s Lorna Smith and co driver Joanne Oakey drove an almost faultless rally to bring their Swift Sport home on the Isle of Man International Rally, the 3rd round of the British Rally Championship and also a round in the Irish Tarmac Championship.

After completion of leg 1, comprising four stages totalling 24.54 miles, they finished the day in 18th position overall in the British Rally Championship, and in 6th position in Class R2 where they were up against the more powerful C2s.

Leg 2 consisted of 11 special stages totalling 93.04 stage miles and by the end of the day Lorna and Joanne had advanced to 11th overall despite a small off which required the replacement of two minor components. With the retirement of four competitors in Group R2 they were by now in 3rd position.

The final day saw seven further stages totalling 61.28 stage miles including the famous Brandywell Classic last stage finishing at the famous TT Grandstand.

Importantly 1st position in the Irish Tarmac Championship Class N2 was also achieved thereby increasing Lorna’s lead over her nearest rival in that Championship to 25 points with only the Ulster International and Cork 20 remaining.

Commenting on the result, Ian Robinson Team Manager said: “I am delighted for Lorna and Joanne and the entire Team with this success, particularly when our cars are the first two built to Group N2 standard by Suzuki Sport and there is still much potential for further development.”