Mark Gamble – Post Manx National Rally 2016
No Luck For ‘On The Race’ Swift Ace.
Mark Gamble & Co-Driver; Steve Link, had an awesome run, until it came to an abrupt end, holing the radiator on the second stage of the Saturday leg.
The Suzuki Swift duo set a blistering pace from the word go, with an 8th fastest time through the Ramsey stage, only 0.2 seconds off Damian Cole in his Fiesta WRC. The changing pace would continue with a string of top 10 stage times, including a 5th fastest time on the first stage of the Saturday morning; The Garth. Gamble’s speel binding run, came to a sudden end mid way through the second stage of the Saturday leg, holing the radiator, unfortunately forcing them to retire from the event. Luckily there was very minimal damage, so they can get back out on the stages very soon! Just before their Swift exit, the crew were lying an impressive 10th overall, and leading the Challenge Rally by over 39 seconds.
Both the crew and the cars’ capabilities were shown, and it’s very encouraging for the rest of the season. Beating much more powerful machinery including WRC & R5 cars is a great achievement going forward.
Mark’s comments:
“Just awesome, what a place. A well ran event, with great fast stages. The car was fantastic, we had very strong pace, and we even managed to beat several R5 & WRC cars. We will definitely be back in September to have another go, and swap some times with the BRC boys.”
The car ran faultlessly from the offset, with Mark saying it was a pleasure to driuve, which is all thanks to our sponsors; R3 Race & Rally Repairs, Kumho Tyres, Pro Fence, Cusco & Part-Box.
The Kumbo backed pair have unfinished business, and they plan to make a return trip in September for the Rally isle Of Man. Where they can really prove themselves and their strong pace, and compare times with the likes of Elfyn Evans & Matthew Wilson competing in the British Rally Championship.
Next up for the R3 Race & Rally Repairs driver will be the Mini Epynt Stages on the 5th June. He will be co-piloted by regular Co-Driver; Steve Link in the trusty Suzuki Swift S1600. Later in the year, Mark has also considered taking his first trip to Otterburn, for the Tyneside Stages, which would be a great test for the pair, as they both relish a new challenge.
Keep an eye on their Facebook Page for updates and news regarding their plans following the Manx, and the rest of their championship campaign. – http://www.facebook.com/SusukiSwiftS1600.
