Hamilton rally driver races to finish line

Mar 31 2008 By Carla Callaghan

Hamilton rally driver, Mark Wheeler made a triumphant return back to the sport after his impressive performance at the first round of the Scottish tarmac championships at Crail.

After a three year break, Mark made an impressive comeback by thrashing the first stage of the day and coming in 13th position.

Driving a MK2 Ford Escort with first time navigator, Neil Thompson, the duo notched up their time in the second stage clocking in 24 seconds faster than stage one.
The team crossed the finish line to a round of applause from the audience after they extended the class lead by a further eight seconds.

Stages three and four were dogged by tyre trouble, but despite this, Wheeler was determined to push for the best time possible.

Wheeler took 12th place overall and finished first in their class, shaving 22 seconds off rival, Alan Brodie in the eight mile stage.

Mark said: “It was a great event, my first for three years and Neil’s first ever event as navigator. I was surprised how well I drove having been away for so long.”

He added: “Hopefully, I can get some money together to compete in the rest of the championship.”

The next event is Howford tarmac stages at Ingliston near Edinburgh airport on 19th April.