Mewla Rally, Builth Wells, Wales, August 30th 2015
The Mewla Rally organised by Epynt Motor Club offers a unique experience with a German flavour.
The Old Forge Garage Mewla Rally offers some of the most iconic rally challenges in the UK as it takes in the unique setting of the Epynt military training base.There are wide open flowing stretches where we were able to crank up speeds of 120 – 130mph and also lots of more narrow stretches which are quite technical. The most surreal experience is driving through the streets of a ‘German village’ that was built on site there during World War Two – about 30 houses were constructed in the German-style to create an authentic training ground for troops before heading to Europe. You don’t get to drive through a mock German village anywhere else!
You are always up against the elements when you’re driving in Wales of course and we did not have a rain-free day here. We started in dry conditions and did the first six stages on slick tyres then switched to a Michelin Slick for the next loop – but then the rain came down and it was like driving on glass with no grip at all. So it was on with the wets for the final two stages. In the middle of all that we got a puncture on the road section which we changed without penalty.
Another highlight of the Mewla rally is the huge jump you have to tackle on the last stage. It must be one of the biggest hill crests on the national rally circuit; and it takes some nerve to approach when you are a new rally driver. No matter how many times you do it, it feels like you are flying through the air for a very long time and is a fantastic feeling. One of biggest ‘Wow moments’ possible for spectators to watch too. It’s a popular spot.
Finished 18th overall and 2nd in class – but more to the point, on completion of this event, we concluded the MSA Reis Tarmac Rally Championship and are delighted to report we have defended our title as winners of the Group N class for 2016.
All our thanks go to DAF, F&G Commercials, Mirage Electronic Cigarettes, Sheffield Rolling Road, Quidbake, Signs Xtra, KHA Business Solutions for their backing; and to Alex Taylor (Northern Body Shell Prep) on event servicing.
