Scanning by way of the entry list of this year’s 2009 Western Australian Targa West tarmac rally, I was delighted to see no less than 5 Mk1 Ford Escorts entered in the classic competitiveness classification. Getting owned and competed in this legendary marque, I are unable to aid but admire the tenacity and determination of the homeowners and drivers who continue to prepare and race these impressive automobiles.

Because their release in 1968, the Mk1 escort has persistently showcased in Rally opposition all around the globe. For nearly seven many years following it really is release, the MK1 Escort dominated the worldwide rally scene, lastly passing on the mantle to it really is equally dominant Mk2 successor.

Even right now the Mk1 Escort is a well-liked decision for youthful drivers coming into Motorsport. Bromley escorts of famous rally legends have created their start off in an Escort. The late Colin McRae campaigned escorts for several years, no question motivated by his Father, 5 occasions British Champion Jimmy who can nonetheless be located campaigning Escorts in the Historic competitions close to Europe.

Yet another incredibly talented McRae in the form of Alister will be competing in this year’s Targa West in a Ralliart geared up Mitsubishi Lancer EVO ten in the modern opposition class. Alister dominated previous year’s Classic classification in a Porsche 911, I’m predicting he’ll be very tough to defeat.

Obtaining competed for the previous two a long time in this function, I’ll welcome the chance to take a stage back and soak in the spectacle from a spectator’s point of view. While experiencing the occasion from the confines of a TVR driven Triumph TR8, I usually had one particular eye firmly fastened on the Mk1 Escort Mexico’s and RS2000’s in the phases & support parks.

I will be observing Alister’s performance at the pointy stop of the area with fascination, but my coronary heart will be nicely and actually set again in the traditional competition category, in which the backbone tingling throaty roar of twin weber adorned Mk1 Escorts in full cry will genuinely be a sight to behold.

Alan Blackmore is a organization proprietor, motor sport fanatic and diehard Ford Mk1 Escort fan.