Locals lead line-up for Down Rally

McKinstry, who has already been crowned 2011 Hankook MSA NI Rally Champion with six wins so far this season, returns to the Down Rally aiming to make it three wins in a row after his convincing victories in 2009 and 2010. However, he will face some stiff opposition this year from 2010 NI Champion Stuart Biggerstaff, from Dromara.

Biggerstaff comes to his local event after a fraught season so far, but with his pace steadily increased during the year he has been able to match McKinstry for outright speed recently and his first overall victory can’t be too far away.

James and Heather Kennedy lead the top two wheel drive challengers ahead local interest from Barry Savage from Ballynahinch.

The 2011 event, which is supported by Down District Councils Tourism Event Sponsorship Scheme, will follow a similar format to last year, with the start in Lower Square in Castlewellan at 10 am before 7 stages, including the McKinstry Motorsport Tollymore and P&R Motors Rostrevor tests before the champagne finish back at the Lower Square around 5pm. The cars will return service in Castlewellan Forest Park throughout the day.

The organisers have again produced a free Spectator Information Guide which is available from the Kings Inn, Lower Square, Castlewellan from Friday 21st October.

Followers can also download a Spectator Guide from Wednesday onwards from the event website atwww.rathfrilandmotorclub.com which will give them all the information they need to get to and safely watch the action.

The event will also enjoy regular radio updates, just after the hourly news on Downtown and CoolFm Radio, courtesy of Carsport Magazine and fans can also keep up to speed with the live results at www.rallyscore.net