The Road Safety Authority (RSA), Motorsport Ireland and Limerick Motor Club have issued a joint safety message ahead of the Circuit of Muster Rally to remind fans to "Keep the Race in its Place".
This year's event, sponsored by the Woodlands House Hotel, is being staged on Sunday June 2 and is expected to draw a large crowd of predominantly young male fans. The RSA and Motorsport Ireland are running a safety campaign around the rally to convey life-saving road safety messages to the public, which includes the opening up the 'Roll-Over Simulator'. The RSA Roll-Over Car highlights the importance of wearing a seatbelt as people experience the car turning 360 degrees.
"The Rally enthusiasts are predominantly young men, and we want to talk directly to this 'at risk' group who follow the sport. Just like any other sport, there is a time and a place for Rally driving. These events are heavily marshalled and take place in a highly disciplined and controlled environment. The drivers are specially trained and must wear special personal protective gear. Along with this, the cars are specially prepared for the purpose of rallying. Trying this without all of these precautions would be extremely unsafe." explained Noel Brett, Chief Executive, RSA.
The "Keep the Race in its Place" campaign reminds people to only watch the Special Stages from safety zones, never to enter prohibited areas, and between stages and afterwards to follow the rally drivers' lead by staying within the speed limits, by staying belted-in, and by never ever drinking and driving.
"We're expecting thousands of fans to attend the Circuit of Munster rally," explained Alex Sinclair, Chief Executive, Motorsport Ireland. "And by teaming up with the RSA we want to emphasise the importance of safety, both on the rally course and on the open road. And anyone attending the rally will be getting the message that 'safety wins' loud and clear."
Leading by example will be well known rally driver Aaron McHale, Board Member of the RSA. Aaron is a successful rally driver and son of rallying legend Austin McHale.
"As a rally driver I am acutely aware of the need for safety. It is the top priority for all rally drivers and it should be the top priority for all road users. You simply cannot drive on open roads the same way that professional Rally drivers do on closed roads with a co-driver warning you of upcoming obstacles and hazards," explained McHale.
Fans travelling to and from the Circuit of Munster rally this June bank holiday weekend are urged to heed the message from the rally drivers - to 'Keep the Race in its Place', slow down, don't drink and drive and always wear a seatbelt.