Scanning by way of the entry checklist of this year’s 2009 Western Australian Targa West tarmac rally, I was pleased to see no much less than 5 Mk1 Ford Escorts entered in the basic opposition classification. Obtaining owned and competed in this famous marque, I can’t aid but admire the tenacity and commitment of the owners and drivers who carry on to get ready and race these impressive automobiles.
Because their launch in 1968, the Mk1 escort has constantly highlighted in Rally competition around the globe. For virtually seven many years following it truly is launch, the MK1 Escort dominated the international rally scene, last but not least passing on the mantle to it really is similarly dominant Mk2 successor.
Even right now the Mk1 Escort is a popular option for youthful motorists coming into Motorsport. Numerous popular rally legends have produced their commence in an Escort. The late Colin McRae campaigned escorts for several many years, no question motivated by his Father, 5 instances British Winner Jimmy who can nevertheless be identified campaigning Escorts in the Historic competitions about Europe.
One more very talented McRae in the shape of Alister will be competing in this year’s Targa West in a Ralliart prepared Mitsubishi Lancer EVO 10 in the modern day competitors group. Alister dominated very last year’s Vintage group in a Porsche 911, I am predicting he’ll be extremely tough to beat.
Getting competed for the very last two a long time in this celebration, I will welcome the possibility to consider a action back again and soak in the spectacle from a spectator’s point of view. Even though experiencing the celebration from the confines of a TVR run Triumph TR8, I often experienced a single eye firmly fastened on the Mk1 Escort Mexico’s and RS2000’s in the levels & service parks.
Scottish escorts ‘ll be viewing Alister’s overall performance at the pointy finish of the area with fascination, but my coronary heart will be properly and genuinely fastened back again in the classic opposition class, where the spine tingling throaty roar of twin weber adorned Mk1 Escorts in entire cry will truly be a sight to behold.
Alan Blackmore is a enterprise proprietor, motor activity enthusiast and diehard Ford Mk1 Escort fan.