Ashleigh Morris made a great start to her Protyre Motorsport UK Asphalt Rally Championship campaign, finishing second in the Ladies’ Challenge and fourth in class B10 on the Legend Fires North West Stages – and she is now looking forward to the rest of the season, including her first ‘bucket list’ appearance on the Isle of Man.
The former Scottish Ladies’ rally champion, who finished runner-up in the R2 class last year, has returned to the Protyre Asphalt Rally Championship this year in her Ford Fiesta R200, which received a gearbox rebuild over the winter as well as a new livery.
Ashleigh is co-driven by Emma Morrison, after they successfully did the TSH Stages and Jersey Rally together last year.
“I really enjoyed North West Stages, especially as it was a long winter without rallying,” says Ashleigh.
“It was my first time competing on the event – conditions were challenging but I really enjoyed the stages. It was obviously frustrating to lose so many stages, but I loved getting back out in the car. We had a steady run having been out of the car for a while, so I’m aiming to pick up the pace for the next one.
“I’m incredibly excited to be heading to the Manx in a couple of weeks. This event has been on my bucket list for years and I can’t wait to drive such iconic stages. It will be my first trip to the Isle of Man so a completely new experience. As the rally counts as two rounds of the championship, it’s important for me to get a finish, and I’m aiming to improve and build up the pace.
“I’m looking forward to Argyll. It was my first ever closed road rally in 2021 and I love the stages there. They are very challenging with no room for error but suit my car and driving style. I had a good result there last year finishing third in class, so I’m hoping for a strong result again.
“Looking forwards to later in the season, I’m excited for Rali Ceredigion. The stages look fantastic and with the rally a round of the ERC and BRC as well as the Protyre Asphalt Championship, there’s sure to be an incredible atmosphere.
“It’s great to have Emma Morrison co-driving for me this year. We did a couple of events together last season and work well together and have a laugh which is important! I’m also pleased to have G & M Mechanical Services running the car for a second year.
“Thank you to my sponsors for their ongoing support. I’m delighted to be entering my fourth year of partnership with Carbon Positive Motorsport, who carbon offset all my mileage for rallies, recces and travel. It’s important to me to do my bit to give something back and protect the future of our sport, and it’s been great to see Carbon Positive expand its offering over the last few years and working with more events.
“I’m pleased to also be working with Morris Lubricants again (no relation!). I’ve worked with Morris Lubricants for many years now, and really appreciate the ongoing support and supply of quality oils to keep my car JIG in good working order. I’ve also been accepted onto the Demon Tweeks sponsorship scheme for another year.
“I’m excited to announce a new partnership this year with PETROLHEAD perfume which is created by the company BYKATHRYN. BYKATHRYN redefines a PETROLHEAD as someone who writes their own rules and does things their way, living life to the full in the moment. I’ve been a fan of PETROLHEAD for years and I’m excited to be working with a female-led brand this year.”
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