Scanning through the entry list of this year’s 2009 Western Australian Targa West tarmac rally, I was happy to see no fewer than 5 Mk1 Ford Escorts entered in the basic opposition group. Having owned and competed in this legendary marque, I can’t aid but admire the tenacity and devotion of the owners and motorists who continue to prepare and race these magnificent autos.
Given that their release in 1968, the Mk1 escort has consistently showcased in Rally competition around the world. For virtually 7 several years soon after it truly is release, the MK1 Escort dominated the international rally scene, ultimately passing on the mantle to it truly is similarly dominant Mk2 successor.
Even right now the Mk1 Escort is a well-liked selection for youthful motorists getting into Motorsport. Several renowned rally legends have manufactured their begin in an Escort. The late Colin McRae campaigned escorts for a lot of many years, no question motivated by his Father, five occasions British Winner Jimmy who can still be found campaigning Escorts in the Historic competitions close to Europe.
An additional very gifted McRae in the shape of Alister will be competing in this year’s Targa West in a Ralliart ready Mitsubishi Lancer EVO ten in the modern competition category. Alister dominated previous year’s Traditional group in a Porsche 911, I am predicting he’ll be incredibly tough to conquer.
Getting competed for the previous 2 many years in this function, I’ll welcome the prospect to take a step back and soak in the spectacle from a spectator’s point of view. Although taking https://thecherrytreegarden.com/ in the event from the confines of a TVR driven Triumph TR8, I constantly experienced one eye firmly mounted on the Mk1 Escort Mexico’s and RS2000’s in the levels & provider parks.
I will be watching Alister’s efficiency at the pointy finish of the subject with curiosity, but my heart will be nicely and genuinely mounted again in the basic competitiveness category, in which the backbone tingling throaty roar of twin weber adorned Mk1 Escorts in complete cry will actually be a sight to behold.
Alan Blackmore is a organization owner, motor activity fanatic and diehard Ford Mk1 Escort enthusiast.