Eddie Doherty and Tom Murphy (Skoda Fabia) wrapped up victory on the FAAC Simply Automatic / Sligo Park Hotel Stages Rally after a day-long scrap with David Kelly and Shane Buckley (VW Polo) that ended in heartbreak for Kelly when he crashed out on the final stage.
Doherty had controlled the rally from second service onwards and despite the ever-changing conditions — dry in places, with standing water in others — he kept his nose in front to take his second win of the season after his Circuit of Kerry success in March.
Declan Boyle and Patrick Walsh (Skoda Fabia RS Rally2) finished second overall, Boyle’s best result in years and another strong run after his recent podium at the Raven’s Rock rallies.
Michael Boyle and Dermot McCafferty (Skoda Fabia RS Rally2) completed the top three, another solid drive from the Donegal man’s son who admitted he was cautious when the rain returned mid-loop. It was his first podium of the season.
Championship leaders Josh Moffett and Keith Moriarty failed to score after crashing out on the opening test.
Kevin Eves and Chris Melly, podium finishers in Cavan, also failed to finish after going off early.
With five rounds run, Doherty now heads the Triton Showers National standings as the championship heads for the ALMC Rally on August 17.
