RallyConnection Rally Driving School

"Flat Out" at Rallyconnection

2012-01-17T21:00:00.007Z

JOE's day out at RallyConnection

Report by Oisin Collins from Joe.ie

22/12/2011 10:10 am

Last week, JOE’s resident petrol head, Oisin Collins, made his way down to Waterford to have a go on RallyConnection’s purpose built rally track. Here’s how he got on.

Recently I made my way down to Mondello Race Park, which saw me take to the track in a single seater Formula Sheane. The buzz and excitement was amazing and I haven’t shut up about it since. However, on Friday, I was silenced (just for a little while). I was silent because I had to navigate a super-charged Ford Escort around a series of hairpin turns as I tried my best to keep the car on the straight and narrow.

I had made the trip to Waterford to have a go on RallyConnection’s purpose built rally track and I have to say, if you’re looking for the excitement of tearing around a field without the hassle of having to evade a p***ed off farmer, you should look no further.

Before I set off I checked out RallyConnection’s website to see what I was getting myself into. One line particularly jumped out. It read, “You will experience a special rally stage on a circuit of roads designed to keep you 'busy' behind the wheel.” Busy was definitely the right word to use.

My rally experience actually began just outside the RallyConnection HQ when I managed to skid on a patch of black ice outside a small cottage and nearly found myself having breakfast with the neighbours. At least it gave me taste for what was in store. It was a clear day and the temperature had been moving between -3C and -1C all morning, so shaded areas were fairly icy.

Finally, I arrived at the track, which looked as though it had been painted white thanks to the frost, but thankfully it was a clear day and the sun was just breaking over the mountains.

When I walked into the main office I was greeted by four lads from Carlow – Adrian, Niall, Dave and Dwayne – who were also there to experience what RallyConnection had to offer. This meant, of course, that they were the competition. Though I tried my best not to show it.

After our instructor Tom, the head man at RallyConnection, got the Ford Escort warmed up we got in the passenger seat and took to the track as co-drivers for a lap. To "get to know" the course.

Tom’s experience as a competitive driver was clear from the off as he threw the car into a power slide with ease around tight corners and floored it on the straights – to speeds you wouldn’t believe – making sure to keep the car inside the lines with absolute precision.

We drove eight laps around the 1km course in a clockwise direction and eight laps anti-clockwise. After that, we drove another six laps clockwise, and it was these six that were the ones that mattered because the last lap was timed. No matter how well you drove all day, even if drove better than Tommi Mäkinen himself, a mistake on the last lap meant a decent time was out of the question.

The current lap record for the track stands at around 55 seconds, which might seem easily attainable to a novice with a lust for speeding around a track sideways, but believe me, it’s not. Seeing Tom tear around the track is somewhat misleading, as he’s a pro, so he really does makes it look easy.

When you get into the Escort you instinctively feel ready to race. The bucket seat hugs you closely and keeps you nicely centred, the clutch is heavier then an elephant holding a piano and the top of the windshield is covered in a massive decal, like the proper WRC rally cars. So before you even set off your heart will be pumping.

If you get there early and you don’t think you’ve quite woken up then just wait until the Escort’s engine is unleashed. As you stand on the sideline watching the other people in your group have their go on the track (two cars are allowed on the track at one time) you get a sense of how loud the cars really are. Mountains surround the track so the echo only adds to the aural ferocity.

When you’re inside the car, however, things change. You use proper rally approved helmets, so Tom gives you directions through a built in intercom. That along with trying your hardest not to crash, drowns out any other noise. You really are kept ‘busy’ behind the wheel, but Tom is always there to lend a hand if things start to go wrong, which they did for me. Twice.

My day at RallyConnection was truly a fantastic experience, one which I can't recommend highly enough. Both myself and the lads from Carlow had great craic and we’re sure to be talking about it for some time to come. In case you're wondering, I managed a time of 62 seconds. But it was a wet day so that alone easily adds an extra seven seconds. Ahem.

RallyConnection has the two things blokes look for in a car: speed and the ability to go sideways. Very sideways. If you’re looking for a last minute Christmas present for your brother, ideas for a stag party or even a lad’s office day out then look no further. If you want to check out more about RallyConnection's prices and the activities they have to offer then go onto their website www.RallyConnection.com or contact them on:
Telephone: 00 353 (0)58 47000
Mobile: 00 353 (0)86 2572302
Email: drive@rallyconnection.com

E-vouchers from Rallyconnection.

2011-12-19T18:41:00.001Z

For all last minute shoppers, we can send your gift voucher by email in time for Christmas.

Voucher discount at Rallyconnection

2011-12-19T18:37:00.002Z

10 % discount of Advanced rally course until Friday 23rd December.

Rallyconnection on Irish Examiner Weekend

2011-05-16T19:48:00.005+01:00

Having a shot at adventure
By Joe McNamee
Saturday, May 14, 2011

INITIALLY, it was very appealing: a whirlwind skite around the deep south, cramming a variety of adventure activities into just two days.

Who doesn’t love a bit of hillwalking? But there was also rally driving, shooting and a spot of extreme climbing. Hmmm. You see, I’d be more your cautious type: when the doodoo hits the fan, I’m leading the panic-stricken flight, trampling over women, wearing small children as body armour, screaming like a boiled hyena. So, frankly, I need a little ‘moral support’. And that can only be provided by one man, my old compadre, Blond, James Blond (JB). "JB! Me old segosha! How do you fancy a little hillwalking around the beautiful sunny south?" "Emmmm … ?" Says JB. "Good man!" says I, "See you Friday at the crack of dawn." A few days later we are driving through a misty, magical west Waterford, in the hinterland of Dungarvan.
We crest the brow of a small lane way, chuckling about souped-up Escorts. The chuckles vanish. Nestling in a bucolic vale is a tarmacadamed circuit, loops, dips, curves, 180-degree hairpin bends. It’s Rally Connection, one of only two Irish venues authorised to issue rallying competition licences. Screaming down the home straight is a souped-up 36-year-old two-litre Ford Escort. Our gulps are deep, simultaneous; this is no longer funny. Proprietor Tom Kenneally pulls off his helmet to reveal a shiny pate and a wicked grin, wrinkling his nose at the fresh waft of Sunday driver. "Who’s first?" he asks gleefully. I bamboozle the bewildered JB into jumpsuit, balaclava, helmet and passenger seat before he can work out what has happened. Tom takes off. Actually, Tom leaves planet earth, nought to sound barrier in three seconds, 70mph into the first hairpin. With the old Escort’s arse swinging wildly behind, Tom negotiates the bend, rearing up and off into the next straight, the next hairpin. Just over a minute, he completes a circuit with a handbrake turn. A brief glimpse of JB’s face, all eyes and terror tells too much. I grow progressively queasier as Tom hurls around the circuit 10 more times before screeching to a halt. JB staggers out. "Jesus," he gasps, "I’m like jelly. That was the most terrifying thing I have ever done in my life." We guffaw, me hysterically. Last year, JB knocked out a parachute jump and a paraglide in New Zealand with nary a bother. I break into a cold sweat if I see a kite. I am going to soil myself. I am going to cry. I cannot do this. I am doing it. It is a dream. Instructor Tony is strapping me into the hard bucket seat, belts over shoulders, chest, crotch, no give like a normal car. "Can you hear me, Joe?" shouts Tom over the helmet headset. "Yes," I whimper. He presses ignition. I am pinned back, we are heading for that first bend, for death. And then a strange serenity washes over me. I am floating. We slam through, Tom gunning out of the turn, shouting a running commentary. I take in nothing. I reconnect with the car. I am, I am … enjoying myself? "You’re very quiet, Joe?" "This is effing brilliant, Tom!" Ten circuits are done in a flash, and I am scrambling into the driver’s seat. I have become my own worst nightmare, Boy Racer. Tom howls instruction: "Brake! Gear down! Off the brake! Don’t accelerate, don’t accelerate, wait until you’re nearly through the turn. NOW, JOE, GIVE IT WELLY!" I hare down the straight and into the next bend. "Stay wide, Joe, stay wide! Off the effing clutch, Joe! !! Now go! GO!" It is a drug. I drive faster and faster as the Escort and I form a bond of thrust. Into a sweeping rising bend, ! I put the boot down, find the line and rise through the curve, bulleting out the far side like a stone from a slingshot, shimmy through gentle waves of the home straight and handbrake turn. Well, Tom pulls the handbrake. Out of the car, I struggle for a nonchalant swagger, but am fizzing with adrenalin. It’s JB’s turn to take off. Like an old lady looking for a space in a crowded car park, braking to a near halt at the first hairpin. I laugh the hysterical, cruel laughter of the survivor. He never tops 40mph the whole way round, struggling in vain to master the scrawny gearstick. "That’s an afternoon in the workshop for me," says Tony pleasantly after one grinding crunch of the gears. Tom cuts JB’s misery short a few laps shy of 10. We leave — me very reluctantly, promising faithfully to return — but the clock calls. Driving off, we laugh manically. No question, we’re awake now. Read more: http://www.examiner.ie/weekend/features/having-a-shot-at-adventure-154354.html#ixzz1MXi5C500

Pfizer's Team Building Day At Rallyconnection.

2011-02-28T18:47:00.002Z

Hi Tom,
Had to drop you a line to say thanks for hosting our Team building day out. We have done quite a lot of team building over the years trying out various activities. All on the day agree that this was the best yet, normally it’s hard to please everyone, but this time every man thoroughly enjoyed the rallying. What made it even more enjoyable was the extent to which you pushed us as we navigated the course, unfortunately we may have to come back to practice the hand break turn!!!.
Please pass on our thanks to your team.

Regards
Liam.

Road Safety Initiative.

2011-02-21T13:59:00.000Z

FIA PRESIDENT JEAN TODT LAUNCHES ROAD SAFETY INITIATIVE
Posted: February 20, 2011 12:48 PM
The President of the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), Jean Todt, today launched Motorsport Ireland’s new road safety initiative which is supported by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and aimed at young drivers, particularly those aged between 17 and 24 who are most at risk on Irish roads. The initiative is part of Motorsport Ireland’s activity for the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety which will be launched on 11 May and aims to save five million lives on the world’s roads over the next ten years. From today (16 February 2011), all participants in Irish four-wheeled motorsport will display the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety Tag which has been designed to encourage support for road safety. The tag, which has the message WEAR. BELIEVE. ACT., will reach an Irish audience of hundreds of thousands of motorsport fans with the clear message, ‘Motorsport supports safe driving’. Speaking at the launch, Mr Jean Todt said: “Our sport wants to do everything that it can to help spread the message about safe driving. Irish efforts to improve road safety have been most impressive, winning admiration around the globe. But we still believe that we can do more and that motorsport can help. Motorsport internationally has invested millions in safety. Indeed many key modern safety features like ABS brakes, tyre technology and crumple zones were developed in the crucible of motorsport before becoming standard on cars and saving many, many lives.” “This initiative is about declaring our support for safer roads and safer drivers, and encouraging our drivers, teams and thousands of fans to do the same.” Mr Alex Sinclair, Chief Executive of Motorsport Ireland said: “We know that in Ireland young people, and especially young males, are much more likely to be killed on the roads. We also know that motorsport is hugely popular, with fans turning out in their tens of thousands to support our national and international events. Motorsport Ireland is committed to promoting road safety in motorsports and this initiative will contribute to both the national and global campaigns to save lives on our roads.” Commenting on the initiative, Mr Noel Brett, Chief Executive of the RSA said: “Tragically, young men are over represented in road deaths in Ireland. In fact, young men aged between 17 to 24 years of age are five times more likely to die on the road compared to the rest of the driver population. We also know that Ireland probably has one of the highest numbers of rallying fans per head of population in Europe so it is vital that we engage with this group at their level and in their space to effect changes in attitudes and behaviour. We are delighted to support Motorsport Ireland’s initiative which will take the safe driving message straight to the most important audience. It will show that if you love driving and you love motorsport, then you should respect the roads and drive safely.” Motorsport Ireland’s message was supported by its two young Ambassadors for Road Safety, rally drivers Craig Breen (21) from Waterford, and Toni Kelly (22) from Donegal. Their messages to young drivers are simple:
o Taking risks on public roads isn’t cool. o If a young driver wants to practise their skill behind the wheel of a car, they can do so in a controlled environment through organised Motorsport events. All participants in Motorsport will now be encouraged to “Wear the TAG”, the metal badge that declares their support for the Decade of Action for Road Safety. The tag and further information on the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety is available at www.decadeofaction.org

Recent Rallyconnection Feedback

2011-02-02T23:17:00.003Z

Colin Gilsenan
Gas, Fear & Oversteer! Got up at 0530 on a rare Saturday off to make sure I'd be on time. T'was like first day at school. Only it was Rally School and I wasn't as scared and me mother didn't have to bring me. If I could have handed over more money straight after for another go I would have. It's probably only slightly ...less addictive than Crack. I've wanted to fling a Mk2 around since I was a chisler...The instructors, Tom and Tony (I think) are very laid back so don't fear a classroom heavy theory approach with fingers of warning being waved at you. They goad you in fact - power, power! Yet, keep you out of the trees. This is nothing like Playstation and all the better for it - proper noise, the smell of oil and smoking rubber (aaand occasionally clutch..). Worth it in every respect. Stunning location, nestling in the hills too as it happens. I'll be back to knock a second or two off my lap.
Peace!
Colin.

Colin O'Neill
Tom, just wanted to thank you all at Rally Connection for an awesome day last week, it was one of the best experiences ever and my Dad still cant stop talking about it, I will ensure to tell as many people who will listen to how great your course is. Thanks once again and i'll be back next time i'm home for a visit.

Adrian Twomey
Had a brilliant day down in the deise today,loved everything about the course and mark 2!Tom and all the troys,lovely people!will hopefully be back down with the brothers as soon as!petrol flowin through the veins all day!can't recommend it enough!

Helen Daly
Thanks Tom and the lads for a great day yesterday, Great instruction and encouragement to go faster and faster. Would recomend it to anyone who would like a taste of rallying in a very customer friendly environment. Thanks again.
Adrian Twomey
Had a brilliant day down in the deise today, loved everything about the course and mark 2!Tom and all the troys ,lovely people! will hopefully be back down with the brothers as soon as! petrol flowin through the veins all day! can't recommend it enough!

2010-12-01T21:19:00.000Z

NEW PRICES- on Rally driving courses for Christmas.
Prices from €99 for the Rally Taster Experience,
€199 Intermediate Experience,
€299 Advanced Experience.Gift vouchers available.
Phone today on 058-47000 or email drive@rallyconnection.com

Face-Off at Rallyconnection.-Cash prizes.

2010-08-17T20:34:00.007+01:00

Cash prizes! – 1st €200, 2nd €100, 3rd €50.
Announcing our most exciting challenge to date at a discounted price of €199 , -Save €46 off the normal Course A price .
Do you have what it takes to be the fastest driver of the day, if so contact us today on 058-47000 (9am to 5pm).
Maximum of 12 drivers per session and cash prizes every day!
First day Saturday 4th September.
058-47000.

Rallyconnection Rally Licence Course

2010-08-10T22:36:00.002+01:00

The next Introductory to Motorsport course -( Rally Licence ) will be held on the 20th August. Anyone interested please phone 058-47000 during office hours for details.

Another satisfied visitor to Rallyconnection

2010-07-28T22:25:00.002+01:00

Real People. Real Reviews.®
Hi, tom thought you would like to see this.

Rally Connection
Lyrattin, Millstreet, Co. Waterford
Reviewed by Ryan S.
FLOOR IT! Brake, release, turn, FLOOR IT!(rinse, lather, repeat)I'm sure you've seen Rally events on TV; you know, those crazy guys driving really fast down narrow roads and sliding through turns kilometer after kilometer?Well, if you ever thought that you would like to try your hand at driving in one of those cars, Rally Connection is the place to go. The had 2 cars out today: Subaru, and a Ford MkII. Both are rear-wheel drive and ready to go with all the trimmings. I was in the Subaru, a favorite of mine, and it was awesome to be able to slide through turns and really learn how to drive fast, and in control.The instructors are very good as well. My instructor, can't remember his name, was very patient with me and had lots of great tips during each turn. They guide you through the whole course and you have the same instructor the whole morning. While I had driven in rally events (mostly very amature) it was good to have someone show me the lines, tell me when to brake, and most importantly; WHEN TO SPEED UP!Will I go back: you bet your ass I will! There's nothing like feeling the rear end start to slide while you maintain control the whole way through.This place is great, and I suggest that everyone should check it out.
Bookmark
Yelp is the fun and easy way to find, review and talk about what's great -- and not so great -- in your area. Join Yelp!
To stop receiving Yelp messages, click here

Father's Day Special Offers at Rallyconnection.

2010-06-16T09:59:00.001+01:00

Save €50 on our rally driving courses for a limited time only. Call 058-47000 now for details.

Stag party at Rallyconnection

2010-05-03T16:14:00.009+01:00

Thanks to all the lads from Limerick who visited us on Saturday 1st May for Tommy Mulcahy's Stag party.

Tipperary Rally Sprint @ RallyConnection . 25 April 2010.

2010-04-29T08:23:00.006+01:00

Results

Michael Walsh
Ford Escort G3. 02:47. 02:45. 02:47. 02:47. 11:07.
Thomas Sheehan 3A
Nissan Micra .02:47.1 .02:47.5. 02:52.0. 02:45.5, 11:12.1
Niall Brennan, 3
Honda Civic. 02:46.2. 02:45.0. 02:46.9. 02:57.3. 11:15.4
William Lawerence. 4
Ford Escort MK11. 02:49.2. 02:49.9. 02:50.7. 02:47.5. 11:17.3
Michael Ormond. 3
Honda Civic. 02:54.9. 02:50.7. 02:48.5. 02:46.9. 11:21.0
James Duggan. 4
Honda Civic. 02:50.0. 02:45.0. 02:49.3. 02:57.5. 11:21.8
Damien Browne. 8
MG Metro 6R4. 03:15.9.. 02:43.0. 02:43.1.02:46.6 . 11:28.6
Liam Graham .3
Honda Civic .02:55.4 .02:54.2 .02:50.9 . 02:49.9 . 11:30.4
Seamus Anderson .4
Ford Escort MK11 . 02:53.4 . 02:55.7 . 02:54.0 .02:56.5 . 11:39.6
Johnny Kenneally .3A
Ford Escort MK11 .02:55.0 . 02:55.0 .02:54.9 .02:55.0 . 11:39.9
Kieran Hayes .3
Peugeot 205 Gti . 02:55.8 . 02:58.1 . 02:53.7 . 02:52.5 . 11:40.1
Michael Sheedy . 4
Ford Escort MK11 . 02:55.3 . 02:50.9 . 02:52.5 .03:05.7 . 11:44.4
John Harty . 3
Ford Escort MK11 . 02:57.4 . 02:54.6 . 03:00.4 . 02:54.9 . 11:47.3
Colin Roche .3A
Mini Cooper . 02:54.1 . 02:53.5 . 02:58.5 . 03:04.3 . 11:50.4
Sean O' Gorman . 3
Honda Civic . 02:58.0 . 02:55.0 . 02:54.2 ,03:03.9 . 11:51.1
Anthony Bulman .9
Subaru Legacy . 03:07.4 . 02:54.6 . 03:02.8 . 02:49.4 . 11:54.2
Mike Croker . 3
Toyota Corolla Gti . 02:59.7 . 02:56.2 . 02:57.0 . 03:07.8 . 12:00.7
Thomas Herbert .3
Honda Civic . 03:02.2 . 03:04.3 . 03:02.4 . 03:02.7 . 12:11.6
Neil McNamara .3A
Nissan Sunny . 03:02.7 . 03:01.7 . 03:03.2 . 03:11.2 . 12:18.8
Mark O' Mahony . 3A
Honda Civic . 03:07.9 . 03:06.7 . 03:04.3 . 03:01.4 . 12:20.3
Ray Heney . 8
Toyota Corolla Rwd . 02:52.8 . 02:58.1 . 03:37.0 . 02:53.0 . 12:20.9
Gemma Kerley .3
Ford Fiesta . 03:05.7 . 03:05.4 . 03:05.4 . 03:06.2 . 12:22.5
Paschal O' Shea . 3
Ford Escort MK11 . 03:02.0 . 03:17.9 . 02:58.6 . 03:08.6. 12:27.1
Paul Quinlan .3
Talbot Sunbeam . 03:14.8 . 03:07.4 . 03:10.4 . 03:08.6 . 12:41.2
Martin O' Keeffe . 3
Honda Civic . 02:52.3 . 02:51.9 . 02:48.3 . 02:46.5 .10:00.0 . 21:18.1 .
John Meade .2 .
Subaru. Impreza . 02:52.5 . 02:54.6 . 02:55.1 . 02:56.2 .10:00.0 . 21.38.3

Ladies Timed Lap Leader Board.

2010-04-22T22:52:00.036+01:00

Veronica Troy 58.38,

Kirstin Lock 58,73,
Ashley Boland 58.75,
Donna Troy 58.99,
Gillian White 59.30,
Caroline Mc Carthy 59.44,
Claire Corcoran 59.50,
Veronica Troy 59.87,
Megan Byrne 59.88,
Sam Duffy 59.97,
Susan Hannon 60.13,
Laura Brabizon 60.19,
Caroline Roche 60.36,
Liz Harmon 60.53,
Jennifer Kingston 60.70,
Claire Reilly 60.99,
Katrinia Murphy 61.03,
Jaime Mc Cann 61.03,
Angela Burke 61.04,
Anna Zottl 61.10,
Lorna Phelan 61.37,
Tara Cuskelly 61.60,
Geraldine Mc Manus 61.91,

Deirdre Mullally 61.92,

Fiona Brouder 61.93,
Terri Burke 61.99,
Donna Troy 62.13,

Martina McMahon 62.13,

Leisha Fahey 62.17,

Karen Colbert 62.19,

Ester O Sullivan 62.28,

Melanie Byrne 62.37,

Rachel Hendy 62.53,

Michelle Daly 62.63,
Martha Flanagan 62.64,

Ruth Kelly 62.69,
Catrina Pappalardo 62.83,
Gemma Dwane 62.87,
Michelle Mc Kennedy 62.90,
Bernadette Conroy 62.97,
Michelle Mc Kennedy 62.99 (Wet),
Brieta Power 63.15,
Vicky White 63.19,
Joanne Kennedy 63.87,
Daire Feehan 63.95,

Rachael Kelly 64.05,

Aoife Dunne 64.14,
Sarah Molloy 64.27,
Claudia Shanahan -O'Keeffe 64.30,
Therese Hughes 64.33,

Fiona Dennehy 64.43,
Emily Fitzgerald 64.62,
Alice Hegarty 64.99,

Rallyconnection Timed Lap Leader Board.

2010-04-22T21:07:00.036+01:00

Shane Hamilton 55.12,

Thomas Keyes 55.62,
Paul Mc Carthy 55.62,
Brendan Behan 55.99,
James Keane 56.16,
Steve Mc Carthy 56.29,
Neil McMahon 56.30,
Clive Braithwaite 56.47,
Cathal McMahon 56.48,
Dan Cronin 56.60,
Francis O Shea 56.60,
Kieran Sullivan 56.69,
Joey Power 56.69,
James Murphy 56.84,
Sean O Keeffe 56.98,
Paul Morrissey 56.99,
Tommy Ryan 56.99,
Declan Casey 57.07,
Mick Dempsey 57.08,
Seamus Cahill 57.09,
Richard Dalton 57.10,
Christopher Lawton 57.20,
Nigel Sheehan 57.22,
James Cassin 57.23,
Brian Aylward 57.23,
Gerard O Leary 57.28,
Colin McGrath 57.30,
Frank Mc Grath 57.30,
Clive Grace 57.33,

Richard Cremin 57.34,

Brian Morrissey 57.38,
Cormac Culloty 57.45,
John Troy 57.47,

Ian Lynch 57.53,

Billy Tarrant 57.54,
Barry Fitzgerald 57.54.

Michael Cahill 57.56,

Trevor Fitzgerald 57.59,
James Murphy 57.59,
Michael Mc Caffery 57.61,
Daniel Cullen 57.65,
Richard Hennessy 57.67,
Chris Mc Cusker 57.67,
Chris Benskin 57.68,
Thomas Tutty 57.69,
Danny Boland 57.70,
John Ryan 57.75,
Jonathan Hannon 57.77,
Martin Cahill 57.81,
Des Murphy 57.81.
Christopher Phelan 57.82 (wet)
Chris Barry 57.86,
Aidan O Sullivan 57.90,
Kevin O Callaghan 57.93,
Damien Houlihan 57.95 (wet)
Neil Phelan 57.98,
Alan Conway 57.98,
Derek Manley 58.03,
Nick Richardson 58.03,
Darren Bohanna 58.06,
Michael O Sullivan 58.12,
David Mc Cabe 58.14,
Stephen Mansell 58.16,
Rob O Donovan 58.17,
Martin Swanston 58.18,
Mark Brady 58.19,
Andrew Stokes 58.19,
Liam Daly 58.22,
David Geoghegan 58.28,
Chris Maguire 58.28,
Liam O Sullivan 58.28,
Con Healy 58.29,
Sean Moynihan 58.29,
Daniel O'Shea 58.29,
Tim Corcoran 58.31,
Ian O'Brien 58.34.
Declan Easterbrook 58.38,
Brendan Groake 58.41,
Paul Meagher 58.43,
Paul O Donovan 58.43,

Edmund Swan 58.44,
Patrick Looney 58.45,
Colin O Mahony 58.46,
Declan Fitzgerald 58.49,
Liam O'Brien 58.52,
Alan Sexton 58.53,
Eoin Rea 58.53,

Andrew Kennedy 58.59,
Dave Hannon 58.59,
Chris Kennedy 58.60,
Hugh O Brien 58.63,
Ron Woods 58.63,
Matthew Hutley 58.64,
Victor Ryan 58.64,

Richard Whearty 58.65,

Darren Sinnott 58.65,

Philip Martin 58.67,

Pierce Brosnan 58.69,
Stephan McCarthy 58.72,

Adam Wojnaromoz 58.76,
Martin O Connell 58.77,
Evan Kingston 58.80,
Liam Mc Carthy58.84,
John Mills 58.84,

Thomas Kelly 58.87,
John Lane 58.87,
Pakie Quinlan 58.91 (wet)
Keith Thompson 58.91,
Steve Mc Carthy 58.93,

James Crowley 58.94,

Richie Whelan 58.97,
Tom O Sullivan 58.97,
Kieran O'Sullivan 58.98,
John Barrett 59.05,
Ian Roche 59.07,
P.Murphy 59.07,
Kieran Cronin 59.07,
Brian Davis 59.11,
Paul Sheppard 59.13,
Paul Newman 59.18,
John Davenport 59.20,
John Fahey 59.21,
Tommy Lynch 59.23 (wet)
Joe Doyle 59.23,
Donnacha Minehan 59.24,
Brian Fahey 59.24,
Martin O'Shea 59.25,
Ray Betson 59.27,
George Doyle 59.29,
Paul Dineen 59.29,
Deaclan Moloney 59.30,
Martin O Connor 59.31,
Rob Coffey 59.32,
Niall Ivory 59.32,

James Prenderville 59.33,

James Griffin 59.34,

Adrian Boland 59.36,
David Walsh 59.36,
Niall O Donoghue 59.37,
Cyril O'Sullivan 59.37,
Sean Barrett 59.40,
Gearoid Lane 59.41,
Sean Cotter 59.41,

Paul Molloy 59.41,
John O Gorman 59.43,
Ross O Donovan 59.47,
Bernard O'Mahony 59.47,
Kevin Crean 59.49,

Robert Thompson 59.49,
Brian Swaine 59.49,
Ger O Donovan 59.52,

Niall Power 59.52,

Pat Kinlan 59.53,
Joseph Kelly 59.57,
George Walsh 59.57,

Darragh Connolly 59.60,
Pat Kelly 59.61,
Robert O Connell 59.63,
Gary Power 59.64 (wet)
Tommy Hayes 59.64,
Liam Brett 59.64,
Batty Mansfield 59.65,
Wayne Webster 59.66,
Tom Quigley 59.67,
Tadhg Corcoran 59.67,

Jamie Bray 59.68,

Dermot Harmon 59.72,

Paul O Brien 59.72,

Tom O Gorman 59.73,

Gary Colbert 59.73,

John Barrett 59.73,

Anthony Boland 59.77,

Daniel Nolan 59.79,
Emmett Kelly 59.80,

Dan Cronin 59.80,

Derek Synnott 59.80,
Tom Griffin 59.81,
Eoin Crowley 59.82,
Patrick Hennessy 59.83,
Stephen O'Keeffe 59.85,
Francis Breen 59.87,
Andrew Rudd 59.87,

Wesley Taylor 59.90,
Evan Kelleher 59.91,
Pat Mc Neely 59.92,
Paul Casey 59.93,

Jason Buckley 59.93,

David Corcoran 59.94,
Kieran Mc Mahon 59.97,
Jonathan Stringer 59.99,
Maurice Manning 59.99,

RTE's Lyric FM visit Rallyconnection

2010-04-16T21:41:00.004+01:00

RTE's Lyric FM joined us today to record the sounds of Rallyconnection for a new radio show called "Soundscapes of Ireland" to be aired later in the year. As soon as we are given the date for the show we will post it on line.

Great Reviews From Happy Clients Of Our Rally School

2010-03-31T11:10:00.002+01:00

Thank you for a really fantastic experience at RallyConnection on 2nd May, I thoroughly enjoyed the morning. Your course is excellently structured to allow anybody develop in short time while having some serious fun. Your facilities and equipment are top class and the tea on tap is always welcome especially first thing on a Saturday morning. Please pass my thanks and appreciation to your team especially Kevin who was a very patient instructor (the gearbox in your escort was definitely not designed to take the particular punishment that I gave it). I will be recommending your school to all, and will be planning my own return visit to Rally Connection if only to master that handbrake turn for once and for all. In short, an amazing experience all round.
Mattie Dwane, Cork

Everyone had a brilliant day, both yourself and your instructors are a credit to your business. I will be telling all my friends about it, my brother is already talking about doing it again!! Thanks again for a wonderful time.
Nora-Ann O'Callaghan, Tralee

Had a great day out on saturday the 22nd of Nov. I had the best day ever the whole experince was o god can't put it into words. So delighted with my time 1.07.06 on my time lap and bet some lads ha they got bet by a WOMAN. I will be talking about this for a long time. Thanks to every one their and to my instructer all i want to do now is go faster but not on the roads in westmeath, too flat!!!! Once again thanks for the best day hope to do it again some day.
Lorna Walsh, Westmeath

Anyway, my reason for going to Waterford was to go rally driving with www.rallyconnection.com - it was a FANTASTIC day out. I got to drive a Subaru Impreza and learnt to drift around hairpins ... what more could a girl want I'd highly recommend them if you wanted to do something different for a weekend, or alternatively, it'd make a great present. All in all, a great weekend!
From www.boards.ie

I did the rally driving course with you on Saturday the 28th of Feb. I would just like to say it was a fantastic morning an all the staff were brilliant. Thanks again and I'll be back down soon.
Darren Daly, Dublin

I was down with you Good Friday. I had a great time. I always thought I'd love rally driving, but never thought I'd get to give it a try... but then the opportunity arose to go with ye. And I did love it! I really did. And I was surprised at how fast I went. I know I'm a good driver, but usually I'm quite cautious/safe out on the roads. I found you a great teacher, and I had confidence in your instructions, and that gave me the confidence to just go hell-for-leather!! (I'm not sure why, but you seemed to have confidence in me too!). It was nice to beat the two fellas too - as a girl, it's nice to be able to show them that we can drive well too! So... thanks a million.
Maria Long, Charleville

Thank you so much for the thrill of my life (so far!) I thoroughly enjoyed the day, it was a first class event and probably the best present I have ever got! The instruction received from the two Mick’s was first class and the trip around the course afterwards was mind shattering! I never thought it possible to go so fast. I will be recommending you to my friends and hope to be back soon for another go!
Robert Pigott, Dublin

Just wanted to say thanks a million for Thursday last. I had an absolutely excellent time. I felt I went beyond my comfort zone although I know I have more to give. Whatever the outcome, I can safely say that I have had an awesome experience. You are doing a brilliant job down there. So thank you for providing me and lots of girls like me, the opportunity to step up to the challenging sport of rallying.
Amy Kirwan, Carlow

Just a few lines to say thank you for the best mornings fun, entertainment and education I have ever had, also many thanks to Kevin for his patience and excelent instruction also to tell him I am going to apply for the army deafness compensation as I could have swore he was telling me to go! go! when he was telling me to wo! wo! Yet again thank you very much and I look forward to visiting Rally Connection in 2008.
Kevin Matthews

Timed Lap Leader Board

2010-03-24T09:14:00.002Z

Shane Hamilton 55.12
Thomas Keyes 55.62
Paul Mc Carthy 55.62
Paul Morrissey 56.99
Christopher Lawton 57.20
James Cassin 57.23
Gerard O Leary 57.28
Colin Mc Grath 57.30
Brian Morrissey 57.38
Trevor Fitzgerald 57.59
Michael Mc Caffery 57.61
Chris Benskin 57.68
Thomas Tutty 57.69
Chris Barry 57.86
Neil Phelan 57.98
John Minehan 58.29
Con Healy 58.43
Paul Meagher 58.43
Declan Fitzgerald 58.49
Alan Sexton 58.53
Ron Woods 58.63
Kirstin Loch 58.73
John Fahey 59.21
Donnocha Minehan 59.24
Rob Coffey 59.32
John O Gorman 59.43
Kevin Crean 59.49
Martin Dunbar 59.49
Pat Kinlan 59.53
Pat Kelly 59.61
Jamie Bray 59.68
Tom O Gorman 59.73
Daniel Nolan 59.79
Emmett Kelly 59.80
Dan Cronin 59.80
Francis Breen 59.87

Veronica And Donna Troy Featured In The Evening Herald

2010-03-04T13:33:00.004Z

The Lismore duo of Veronica and Donna Troy are the first in Ireland to get their full rally licences on the same day. This feat (achieved at RallyConnection Rally Driving School) managed to get them featured in the Evening Herald. You can download the original article in .pdf format below.

Download: Rally Licence Holders Make It A Family Affair

Lismore Mother And Daughter Make Irish Rallying History

2010-02-21T14:33:00.002Z

After years of dreaming of being a rally driver, florist Veronica Troy of Bonnie's Bouquets, Lismore, Co. Waterford, finally fulfilled her need for speed when she visited Rallyconnection Rally School in Millstreet, Cappagh, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford in April 2008.

She and her daughter Donna were put through their paces in fully prepared R.W.D. Mk2 Escort rally cars. After a passenger spin with their instructor they took the wheel of a powerful fully-blown rally car and built up their pace and confidence and before long they were hand braking and power-sliding round acute hairpins and carrying lots of speed on flowing corners and flat-out straights.

The bug had bitten and 6 months later they returned with a larger family group of budding hopefuls where the competition was fierce but the craic and banter flowed amid the high revs and burning rubber. Totally addicted now, they returned a total of 3 more times until Veronica finally admitted that she and Donna wanted to go a step further and sit their rally licence test.

The faithful day finally arrived on Friday 22nd January 2010 and after a full days training at Rallyconnection, and 2 exams - (both theory and practical), Lismore and Ireland had 2 more fully qualified rally drivers. This is the first time in Irish rallying history that both mother and daughter have successfully sat and passed a rally licence test together!

A delighted Veronica said 'I have gone without holidays to fund the best buzz that money can buy, I can totally recommend this to anyone and can't wait for the next time'.' At the track you can get the speed out of your system in a safe and controlled environment and have the craic with the very patient and professional instructors, - roll on the end of March!'

'Rallying is not just for the lads and I would urge any woman to GO FOR IT,' said Donna, 'It really gives you more confidence driving on the road and I can't wait for the next day, I can't explain how good it is, you will just have to try it for yourself!

Timed Lap Leader Board

2010-02-21T14:28:00.000Z

Shane Hamilton 55.12
Christopher Lawton - 57.20
James Cassin - 57.23
Gerard O'Leary - 57.28
Colin McGrath - 57.30
Trevor Fitzgerald - 57.59
Michael McCaffery 57.61
Chris Benskin - 57.68
Thomas Tutty - 57.69
Chris Barry - 57.86
Neil Phelan - 57.98
John Minehan - 58.29
Con Healy - 58.43
Declan Fitzgerald - 58.49
Alan Sexton - 58.53
Ron Woods - 58.69
John Fahey - 59.21
Donnocha Minehan 59.24
Rob Coffey - 59.32
John O'Gorman - 59.43
Kevin Crean - 59.49
Martin Dunbar - 59.49
Pat Kinlan - 59.53
Pat Kelly - 59.61
Jamie Bray - 59.68
Tom O'Gorman - 59.73
Daniel Nolan - 59.79
Emmett Kelly - 59.80
Dan Cronin - 59.80
Francis Breen - 59.87

Prize Winners Of The Head To Head Final At RallyConnection

2010-02-21T14:25:00.000Z

September 2009: Rally Driving School, Waterford, Ireland Fastest Lap: 1st Alan Sexton 58.60 sec,
2nd Ricky McDonnell 58.88 sec, 3rd Dan Cronin 59.66 sec

Recent Improvements At RallyConnection

2010-02-21T14:20:00.000Z

July 2009

At RallyConnection we are committed to providing you with the best rally driving experience possible. We are constantly looking for ways to improve what we offer our drivers. In 2009 made the following improvements.

New tarmac surface laid down for a smoother, quicker drive.
New indoor elevated viewing area.
New outdoor viewing area.
New corporate meeting room with wireless broadband.
New RWD Subaru Impreza's.
New pit/service area for rally sprints and competitions.