Manus Kelly on a viist to his old Glenswilly National School after winning the National Rally last year. Photo Brian McDaid
The Joule Donegal International Rally champion Manus Kelly has said the race was won “outside of the car.’
The well-known and very popular Glenswilly man thanked all those who helped himself and co-driver Donal Barrett win this weekend’s race.
“I’m lost for words to be honest. What I do not want to forget is the army of people outside of the car who won this race for us.
“The team led by Paul Crumlish were simply incredible and we would not have won this race only for them.
“We knew we didn’t want to go to hard on Knockalla so we saved ourselves for the final stage and thankfully that p[aid off. I’m speechless. I really don’t know what else to say,” he said.
His co-driver and close friend Donall Barrett said it was an even more incredible drive considering Manus had never driven their WRC vehicle in the rain ever before.
“What can you say about this man. He’s just incredible. I know him and I knew he was capable of this.
“But it was a super, super drive and I’m just so delighted for everyone on the team,” he said.
Manus was met by an army of family and friends from Glenswilly including his wife Bernie and their family when he finished the final stage in POrtsalon this afternoon.
His father Donal and mum Jackie, who have manned Manus’ Uptown Cafe all week, were amongst the first to greet their son.
The bonfires will be lighting in the Glen tonight!
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