Any fans unable to attend this weekend’s Ulster International Rally can still keep across all the action as it unfolds thanks to a new streaming service.
Entirely free, coverage of the Ulster Rally, which is the last round of the British Rally Championship, will be broadcast on the event’s official website and Facebook page.
In total, there will be 10 hours of continuous coverage for fans to enjoy this Saturday when the destination of the British Rally and Junior British Rally Championship titles are decided.
Commentary and analysis is being provided by Xavier McCartan and Michael Patterson, with this accompanying footage captured during the course of the rally using a blend of in-car and fixed position cameras, Event Director Richard Swanston has said.
There will also be stage-end interviews with drivers and co-drivers, as well as reaction between each loop of stages from the service park back in Newry. The live streaming service will begin at 8.20am on Saturday and finish at 6pm.
“This announcement shows that the people involved with the Ulster Rally are always willing to introduce new concepts to enhance the event,” explained Swanston. “Live streaming is a great way for spectators to view the action from wherever they are, and to show the event to a truly global audience.
“Of course, with COVID-19 still very much here, we hope that by providing this service free-of-charge spectator travel is minimised and that it will benefit those who are unable to come along to the Ulster International Rally this weekend.
“A live streaming service is one way to broaden the reach and appeal of the Ulster Rally and if it proves successful this weekend then we will look to include it in the planning of future events,” he added.
Defending BRC champion Matt Edwards has it all to do heading into the Ulster Rally. He trails fellow Welshman Osian Pryce by 8-points and must finish top of the BRC pile to retain his crown for a record-breaking third campaign. Failure to do that assures Pryce of a maiden British title.
As for the Junior British Rally Championship, it is another two horse race. If Eamonn Kelly can manage a second win of 2021, he will collect 25 points plus five bonus points for playing his ‘Joker’ card. In that case, William Creighton – twice a JBRC runner-up – must finish eighth or higher.
“Whichever driver ends up being crowned British and Junior British Rally champion on the 2021 Modern Tyres Ulster Rally will have definitely earned it,” said Swanston. “The stages, the weather, and driving in the dark add up to make this the most difficult round of them all.”
