Following two successful seasons at the helm, Fiesta SportTrophy UK and Ireland co-ordinator Richard Millener has announced that he will move on from the position ahead of the 2010 campaign. Richard will remain at M-Sport and move to the client support department with responsibility for the all new M-Sport Ford Fiesta S2000.
Replacing Richard as FST UK and Ireland co-ordinator is Motorsport Engineering graduate, Callum Craw. Callum (23), from Galashiels, graduated from the University of Central Lancashire, Preston in May 2008. He joined M-Sport just over a year ago. Having previously worked in Formula Ford, Formula Renault, Ginetta Juniors and karting, Callum brings a wide range of motorsport experience to the role. Callum will take over the day to day running of FST UK and Ireland from January 2010 and will attend all of the events next season.
The 2010 FST Ireland takes place over 6 single day events following the Irish Tarmac championship, beginning with the Galway International Rally on the 5th-7th February 2010. The FST events consist of the stages used on the first day of the international competition, with the competitors then having the option to continue on day two and score Irish Tarmac Championship points. The format gives competitors the chance to learn the daunting Irish stages in a cost effective yet competitive manner. Both the existing Group N Fiesta ST and the new Fiesta R2 are eligible to score championship points. All six scores count to the final championship standings, with the winner receiving a drive on Rally Condroz, Belgium, in a Fiesta R2.
For 2010, FST UK competitors will have the choice of two championships to compete in. The Fiesta SportTrophy, which is open to drivers in both the Fiesta ST and Fiesta R2, begins with the Malcolm Wilson Rally on the 6th March 2010. The championship then moves on to follow the entire British Rally Championship series with competitors getting the chance to compete the same legendary stages in the series, as well as competing at an International level. Competitors will count their six top scores from the seven events in the series. The overall winner will receive a supported drive in a Fiesta R2 on the Rally of Scotland, the final round of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge.
The second UK series, which is new for 2010, is the Fiesta SportChallenge. This is only open to the well proven Fiesta ST and also begins with the Malcolm Wilson Rally on the 6th March 2010. The championship then follows the first five rounds of the British Rally Championship Challenge series. Competitors will have the chance to compete on 45 to 60 stage miles of the full international rallies at a cost effective price. All six scores make up the final championship standings with the winner receiving a supported drive in a Fiesta R2 on the International Rally Yorkshire, the final round of the FST UK and British Rally Championship.
As well as the prize drives the three winners will gain an entry to the end of season FST “Shootout” and the chance of winning a years employment with M Sport.
Callum Craw said:
“I am really excited about starting my new role as FST UK and Ireland co-ordinator. It is a great championship and a cost effective way for young drivers to get started in rallying. I am looking forward to getting out there and meeting the competitors, most of whom I have already heard so much about. Richard has done a great job over the last two years and I am pleased to be given the opportunity to take over the role.”
For further information about the Fiesta SportTrophy UK or Ireland visit www.fiestasporttrophy.co.uk or www.fiestasporttrophy.ie