05/08/2003

Thompson in Manx Rally roll

James Thompson’s latest outing in the British Rally Championship was brought to a premature, and somewhat spectacular end on Friday. Thompson, accompanied by co-driver Plug Pulleyn, rolled his Mitsubishi EVO 6.5 over a bank and in to a 20-foot deep ditch. A crane was duly despatched to get it out.

The Manx International Rally is regarded as probably the toughest of all the Pirelli British Championship events, and Thompson found himself in good company in ending the event in retirement. Fellow championship frontrunners Tapio Laukkanen, Kris Meeke and Gwyndaf Evans were all amongst the casualties.

Victory in the event went to Team Dynamics sponsored driver Jonny Milner, for the 3rd consecutive rally. Driving his Toyota Corolla, he has now extended his championship lead to 22 points, with three events remaining and 15 points available for a win. Thompson currently lies in 5th position with 17 points. The next Pirelli British Rally Championship event is the Ulster International Rally over the weekend of 5-6 September.

Useful Links:
BRCWeb.co.uk
Jakob Ebrey Photography