Ballylickeys Keith Cronin and his Enniskillen co-driver, Barry McNulty, carved a little piece of motorsport history for themselves today as they joined a very elite group of Irishmen who have managed to win the International Rally Isle of Man or Manx International as it was formerly known.

The late Frank Meagher (in 1995)was the only other driver from south of the border that managed to win this highly prestigious event.

On last years event Keith, then with Greg Shinnors on the notes, took the rally to Manx man and eventual winner Mark Higgins, who admitted he had never before had such a hard battle for his 5^th event victory. This time around there was also a huge battle, but with Gwyndaf Evans losing about two minutes on Friday evening, the battle was primarily with the elements as the torrential rain and dense fog were two of the most difficult opponents for the winning Irish crew.

Following the rally, Keith commented that the conditions made it very difficult to pick a pace as one had to ensure that they made no mistakes and still be conscious that others had the same conditions to deal with.

The sixth stage of the 21 stage event proved to be pivotal as only two cars completed the stage. Having been fastest on the 4^th and 5^th stages Keith and Barry were again fastest on stage six with the only other person to complete the stage, Gwyndaf Evans, some 2m10s slower, following a slight accident.

Unfortunately the remaining cars failed to finish the stage as Alastair Fisher rolled and blocked the stage. All the following competitors were awarded the same time as Keith because Gwyndaf’s time was not representative, as he had been delayed with his accident. This promoted Keith to the lead of the rally whilst Gwyndaf dropped to 7^th place.

By stage 10 Gwyndaf had climbed back to second place however, this was where he was to remain as the Irish crew did just enough to retain their lead and went on to win the rally by 1m38sec.

This result opens up the British Rally Championship as until now the defending champion, Keith Cronin was not featuring near the top of the list. After this result however the possibility of retaining the championship is looking more likely.