Following Jonathan Stepney and Aled Davies’ high-speed accident on the Reed Group East Riding Stages – which destroyed their home-built Peugeot 205 GTi, in which they had competed for several years, scoring many class wins and clinching the Protyre Motorsport UK Asphalt Rally Championship class B12 title last year – the remainder of this year’s season looked uncertain.
Having considered several options – and thanks to the enthusiasm, encouragement and support received from Gavin Griffiths of Griffiths Group to get them back into the Protyre Asphalt Championship this year – Jonathan decided to look for a car that was already prepared and ready for action, but still front-wheel drive.
“An opportunity to own a Renault Clio Sport 2.0 16v came along which would mean moving up a class, which we felt would be good for us competition-wise,” says Jonathan.
“The Renault finally arrived last weekend, and a test day was had at Pembrey Circuit. I was very impressed with the car and look forward to taking it to the Manx National Rally and then the Jim Clark.
“The Manx will be a learning curve and hopefully by the second day we’ll be putting in some competitive times.”
Jonathan would like to thank Jamie Jukes of Spencer Sport and Gordon Murray, Scottish Tourer, both of whom had offered their rally cars for him to continue in the championship, and the messages he received from fellow competitors following the accident.
There was also a call from defending Protyre Asphalt champion Steve Wood, which was very much appreciated.
“It proves that even though we are all competitors on the stages, we are one big community outside,” adds Jonathan.
Jonathan and Aled would like to thank the continued support of their main sponsors Gavin Griffiths, Griffiths Group and Motorhome Services Scotland.
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