Next month’s eagerly-anticipated Dayinsure Wales Rally GB (26-29 October) will – quite literally – get off to a spectacular flying start.
As a dramatic curtain-raiser to four days of thrilling against-the-clock action in the legendary Welsh forests, this autumn’s FIA World Championship event blasts off on Thursday evening (26 September) with a new speed test, staged under the floodlights at Tir Prince Raceway in the seaside resort of Towyn.
And, to provide fans with some dramatic opening night entertainment, the Visit Conwy Tir Prince stage will feature two dramatic jumps. These will see the latest generation of more powerful World Rally Cars flying through the air as hard-charging drivers race to gain an early advantage over their adversaries.
As a mouthwatering taste of what is to follow, a crowd-pleasing one-mile course has been designed to include a slalom section and hairpin, as well as the two eye-catching jumps.
Competitors will first complete one high-speed lap of the Tir Prince trotting track – more traditionally used for horse racing – before tackling a tricky section set out in an adjoining area. Special viewing areas have been created and big screens installed, guaranteeing visitors do not miss any of the high-octane action.
“It’s going to be an absolutely amazing show,” predicted Ben Taylor, Managing Director of Dayinsure Wales Rally GB. “The presence of these incredible WRC cars will bring an altogether different level of horsepower than normally seen at Tir Prince Raceway. To witness these great drivers in their mind-blowing machines in high-flying action under the lights will be an astonishing experience that’s really not to be missed.”
Councillor Louise Emery, Conwy County Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy, Venue Cymru, Marketing and Events said: “It’s great that such a high profile and exciting event is happening in the east of the County. It’s an ideal opportunity, particular for families, to see rally cars in action up close and with the additional facilities at Tir Prince. It’s going to be an entertaining evening.”
With adult tickets priced at just £10 when purchased in advance (£15 on the day) and accompanied children aged under 16 admitted free, a large Thursday evening crowd is expected.
Gates will open at 15:00hrs and the on-track spectator show – which includes Supermoto bikes – will commence at 16:00hrs. All competing cars will be on public display in the WRC Paddock by 17:30hrs. Autograph sessions and team presentations will follow before the rally contest blasts off at 19:00hrs.
Adding further to the attraction, the popular Tir Prince funfair will be in operation and visitors will be treated to additional entertainment, trade stands and catering outlets.
Full ticket and event information can be found on the official www.walesrallygb.com website and via the event’s social media channels.