Eniskerry rally driver Daniel Barry could not be better prepared for the start of his 2009 rally campaign, when he contests the highly competitive Mitsubishi Ralliart Evolution Challenge which kicks off in Bournemouth on Friday 27th February.

During the winter, Daniel and his team built a brand new Group N (production specification) Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX, to replace his similar but older car from last year. Wanting to give it a shake-down before the first round of the Evo Challenge, Daniel and co-driver Martin Brady from Navan got off to a near perfect start, when they finished an impressive second overall on the recent Wyedean Rally.

Taking place in the Forest of Dean on 7th February, the event was almost cancelled due to the heavy snow-fall the week before. Therefore, not wanting to be caught out by the conditions, Daniel opted to run on special ice and snow tyres, which even without studs, proved to be ideal for the conditions.

However, it was no easy drive, as one mistake on the ice could spell immediate retirement. Adopting a cautious approach and, with a lot of side-ways progress, Daniel and Martin made it through the stages unscathed and were delighted, if not relieved, to get to the finish ahead of many of the far more powerful cars.

“Even though we had the best tyres for the job, it was still extremely slippery”, said Daniel. “However, we were able to get grip where others didn’t and it was a case of going as fast as we could when the conditions allowed. Second overall was a great way to start the season and I’m also pleased that the new car ran perfectly throughout the event – and I really must thank the team for that.”

So, armed with his new Mitsubishi and a podium finish already behind him, Daniel gets set for what will be his third season in the Evolution Challenge and starts as one of the favourites. If he wins, he will be awarded a brand new Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, which can subsequently be exchanged towards a supported drive in the 2010 British Rally Championship.

The first round of the high-profile series for Group N Mitsubishis starts with two night-time stages along Bournemouth sea front on Friday evening, followed by a full-day of rallying in the forests north of the town.

Daniel’s 2009 campaign is supported by: Tech-Plus, Irish Shipping and Transport, BPI Telecom and SC Signs.