Familiarity goes out the window in Donegal International Rally  - David Moynihan

Experienced pace-notes caller David Moynihan says the Wilton Recycling Donegal International Rally is hard to get to grips with, even in the co-pilot’s seat. 

Moynihan calls the action for Welsh ace Matt Edwards in their Ford Fiesta and they go into this weekend as third seeds behind last term’s winners Callum Devine and Noel O’Sullivan (Volkswagon Polo GTI R5) and second favourites Keith Cronin and Mark Devine (Ford Fiesta). 

Clerk of Course Eamon McGee and his team have really shaken up the route this time out, with Friday seeing territory not visited in over a decade in Inishowen and Saturday and Sunday featuring traditional stages but not in the usual configuration.

So Mallow native Moynihan insists both his and Edwards’ recce work in the lead-in will be crucial to their success.  

“It’s a fantastic list - the most anticipated race of the year,” he said.  “We’re back in Donegal but it’s virtually a new rally besides Knockalla and Atlantic Drive, so it won’t be knowledge that comes into the reckoning. A good set of notes will be crucial.  

“In that sense, it’s neutral ground for everyone really. It’s a new challenge. The last time we were in Inishowen was over ten years ago - I was there at the time with Garry Jennings. 

“It just goes to show the scope Donegal has when they can go up to Inishowen and produce three more fantastic stages. We had that variety last year in Donegal Town as well.

“So the challenge is great but it’s one we’re really looking forward to”.