They’ve been there and done it, yet they constantly strive to give something back to rallying – and in particular to give a helping hand to aspiring young rally talent.
And once again this is true of the reigning Protyre Motorsport UK Asphalt Rally Championship co-driver Dai Roberts and former WRC navigator Craig Parry, who have teamed up to offer an event-by-event prize to the top Junior co-driver on each round of this year’s sealed-surface series.
And rather than take personal credit for it, both Dai and Craig are running the promotion through organisations that are very close to their heart – the Gareth Roberts Fund and OnThePaceNote respectively.
So, starting on this weekend’s opening Protyre Asphalt round, the Reed Group East Riding Stages, the first placed Under 25 Junior co-driver will receive a discount on their route notes for the next round of the series.
And the prize will be offered after each round of the 2023 series, namely the Manx National Rally (12/13 May), Beatson’s Building Supplies Jim Clark Rally (26/27 May), Dunoon presents Argyll Rally (23/24 June), Carryduff Forklift Down Rally (22 July), Rali Ceredigion (2/3 September) and the Ford Parts Cheviot Stages Rally (22 October).
Furthermore, Dai and Craig have offered to give advice to the ambitious Protyre Asphalt Junior co-drivers whenever they need it.
“After being at last year’s Protyre Asphalt prize presentation, I noticed that there was nothing for Junior co-drivers, only Junior drivers, so approached the championship to try get something planned,” explains Dai.
“It’s something I thought about and it works with helping youngsters with funding for route notes through our fantastic partner on OnThePaceNote. I’m also available to help if anyone needs advice.”
“When Dai approached me with this it was a no brainer for us to support his idea,” says Craig.
“It can often be the case that the co-driver is forgotten about with regards to prizes so it’s nice that OnThePaceNote and the Jaffa Fund can give a little bit back on each round of the Protyre Asphalt Championship to help some Junior co-drivers save a few quid throughout the season.
“Also they will have a wealth of experience to tap into if they need it from either myself, Dai or Paul [Morris, Protyre MSUK Asphalt Rally Championship Co-ordinator and experienced special stage navigator].”
Be the first to comment