Circuit of Ireland Rally welcomes return of Porsche 911
Tuthill Porsche announces the return of the Porsche 911 to the Discover Northern Ireland Circuit of Ireland Rally (international competition) after almost thirty years away. Currently leading the 2015 FIA R-GT Cup and fresh from a dominant victory on the Monte Carlo Rally, Tuthill’s 911 enters the 2015 Circuit of Ireland as a European Rally Championship competitor.
Normally drivenby French rally legend and four-time WRC winner, François Delecour, Northern Ireland’s Robert Woodside takes the wheel for three days in April (2-4), alongside regular co-driver, Allan Harryman. Both follow in the footsteps of famous fathers who won the event.
After four stage wins and a trophy for first Irish team in a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X at last year’s event, including victory on the famous ‘Hamilton’s Folly’, Robert Woodside relishes the opportunity to bring a proven Porsche winner back to the Circuit of Ireland.
“I grew up watching Porsche 911s winning Irish rallies,” remembers Robert. “Who could forget Henri Toivonen and Billy Coleman in the Rothmans Porsche 911s of the 1980s, which Tuthill Porsche had a hand in building. Testing the latest incarnation – Tuthill’s 911 R-GT rally car – on Irish roads earlier this year, it soon became obvious why rally fans across mainland Europe have rejoiced in the car’s WRC appearances to date: it looks terrific and goes like a rocket!
“It’s a delight to bring our Porsche R-GT car back to Ireland,” says Tuthill team boss, Richard Tuthill. “Four decades after the most recent victory for a Porsche 911, we take inspiration from the spirit of St Patrick, bringing the excitement of sports cars in rallying to a new generation of rally fans.
“The Circuit of Ireland is one of the world’s greatest rallies, fully deserving of its European Championship status. As Robert and Allan have established a formidable partnership on this challenging event, we’re looking forward to a thrilling three days with the Porsche R-GT at our second home here in Ireland!”
Richard Tuthill offers special thanks to Bobby Willis, Circuit Event Director and to David Gray and the Irish Tarmac Rally Championship committee for their support and encouragement. “It’s third time lucky for Tuthill Porsche in Ireland,” says David. “We tried to bring the car to last year’s Ulster Rally, and then out to Cork, but it was not to be. Having it here for the Circuit will please many Irish rally fans.”
Circuit of Ireland Event Director Bobby Willis said, “This is fantastic news for the Circuit of Ireland and such an iconic car is sure to attract even more spectators to each of the stages. The sound of the car is unbelievable and is guaranteed to make the hairs stand on the back of the neck! This Porsche 911 has already proven itself in some of the greatest rallies around Europe. I’m delighted for Robert Woodside and his co-driver Allan Harryman.”
Learn more about the Tuthill Porsche 911 R-GT car and keep up with team’s latest news at www.tuthillporsche.com or via Tuthill social media channels.
