By Paul Evans
It seems a while since stadiums have been able to welcome crowds, so allowing spectators back into forests to watch a rally is long overdue – and finally it’s going to happen in Wales as spectators will be allowed to watch the Visit Conwy Cambrian Rally on Saturday 30 October.
After months of talks with relevant bodies, the organising team at North Wales Car Club have reached an agreement which they hope will please rally fans who have been starved of live action during the pandemic.
And as the event hosts a round of several major rally championships – including the British, BTRDA and Pirelli Welsh National – a fantastic entry is guaranteed.
There is also a magnificent route, with around 44 stage miles through the classic Wales Rally GB forests of Gwydir, Penmachno and Alwen, together with the final challenge of a new asphalt stage which has only been used before on road rallies.
“Since early January this year we have been working with the Welsh Government, Conwy County Borough Council Safety Advisory Group, NRW and Motorsport UK to plan two events at the same time – one with spectators and one without,” says joint clerk of the course Alyn Edwards.
“Thanks to the current position with Covid-19, we are delighted to be organising an event fit to welcome spectators.
“To ensure the event went ahead and spectators can attend we have had to devise a track and trace system.
“However, this remains subject to the Covid situation remaining stable.
“We must also reiterate that everyone must adhere to any guidelines in place at the time and follow the marshals instructions at all times.”
Social distancing will be enforced to comply with Covid guidelines and agreements, but spectators will be more than happy to spread out a bit if that means that they’ll finally get to see rally cars in action!
Spectator tickets will be on a pre-sale basis, with spectators able to purchase a vehicle car parking ticket online via the event’s website.
At the car park entrance, in exchange for the ticket, they will be given an event programme.
The ticket will give access to one car park only.
“We must extend our thanks to all those in the Welsh Government, Conwy Council Safety Advisory Group, NRW and MSUK for their help and understanding,” adds Edwards.
And for those who can’t attend the event, there will be end of stage driver interviews and action from two stages broadcast live online, together with live timing and live tracking.
Additionally, media students from Coleg Llandrillo will be broadcasting from the service area throughout the day.