On 13 September 2024, the Yorkshire Hill Rally hosted round five of the 2024 Defender Rally Series UK Championship, captivating motorsport enthusiasts with its blend of challenging terrains and fierce competition. Over three exhilarating days, crews tackled more than 150 kilometers of demanding stages on a former military proving ground, showcasing both skill and strategy in a true test of endurance.
Dominance of Thomas and Mackay
Mark Thomas and his co-driver Phil Mackay continued their reign at the top of the championship standings, clinching their fourth win of the season. The duo finished in first place, securing not only first in class but also an impressive ninth overall against a field of specialized vehicles. Their success can be attributed to a meticulously crafted strategy that emphasized lower tire pressures and softer damping, which proved crucial in navigating the varied terrain.
“It’s been a good but tough event,” remarked Thomas. “The contrast between the two days was significant, with the last day being treacherous. My navigator did a great job, and we didn’t pick up any penalties. The Defender 90 performed brilliantly, with only three punctures throughout the event.”
A Dramatic Finale
The event’s closing stages unfolded under dramatically shifting weather conditions. After two days of dry, sunny driving, torrential rains arrived on the final day, transforming the course and challenging competitors with drastically reduced grip levels. Despite the unfavorable conditions, Thomas and Mackay led the field by an astonishing 21 minutes, a testament to their skill and preparation.
Following closely behind, Nathan Burrell and Mathew Kirby secured second place, with only three minutes separating them from third place finishers Denis Ferry and Barney Gillespie. The intensity of the competition underscored the unpredictable nature of rally racing, where minor errors can lead to significant shifts in standings.
Championship Implications
With their latest victory, Thomas and Mackay extended their lead in the championship to 38 points, now sitting at 244 points. The pressure mounts for the chasing pack, as Ferry and Gillespie’s strong performance pushed them into second place overall, overtaking Richard Kingsley-Smith and Adel Tyson, who currently occupy third.
Calum McKechnie, General Manager of Bowler Motors, expressed his admiration for the competitors. “Mark and Phil’s ninth place overall finish in such a competitive field is a testament to their skill and the vehicle’s performance. The weather turned out to be more challenging than anticipated, demanding exceptional driving and teamwork.”
Looking Ahead
As the excitement of the Yorkshire Hill Rally subsides, the focus shifts to the next challenge on the calendar: the Clare Forest Rally in Ireland, scheduled for 4-6 October. Competitors of all backgrounds, from seasoned racers to complete novices, are invited to participate in the upcoming 2025 Defender Rally Series UK Championship, with entries now open.
The Defender Rally Series continues to evolve, welcoming a diverse array of drivers while promoting the spirit of competition and camaraderie. For those eager to join this thrilling journey, further details on registration and the upcoming season can be found at bowlermotors.com.
Defender Rally Series – Provisional UK Championship Standings
- Mark Thomas/Phil Mackay – 244 points
- Denis Ferry/Richard Mills/Barney Gillespie – 206 points
- Richard Kingsley-Smith/Adel Tyson – 204 points
- Nathan Burrell/Matthew Kirby – 198 points
- Shane Lynch/Harry Nicol – 184 points
As the series progresses, fans can expect thrilling showdowns, remarkable performances, and a celebration of the enduring spirit of off-road racing that the Defender Rally Series embodies.
