Laser Tools Racing is currently preparing its Mk 2 Ford Escort in readiness for this weekend’s McRae Rally Challenge.
Laser Tools Racing’s BTCC driver Aiden Moffat is competing in the event, which is being held at the famous Knockhill Racing Circuit near Dunfermline in Fife.
This special rally festival takes place on the weekend of May 16/17 to mark the 20th Anniversary of Colin McRae’s 1995 World Rally Championship win, but touring car racing fans are catered for also, with fellow BTCC driver Gordon Shedden also invited to compete. Both Moffat and Shedden are driving Mk 2 Ford Escorts in what will be for both drivers their first ever rally event.
Aiden Moffat is enthusiastic: “Although this is going to be completely different to the BTCC, I’m really looking forward to it,” the young Scottish driver explained. “I’ve really got to thank the Laser Tools guys who are working hard to get the car ready for the event. It sounds fantastic and I’ve got the testing sessions this week to get to grips with it.”
Aiden Moffat’s navigator, Peter Outram is employed by Laser Tools’ manufacturing arm Eldon Tool & Engineering, based in Sheffield, and also owns the Mk 2 Escort. Peter, who has just finished the rally build, commented “It’s quite an honour to be involved in such a high profile event for the car’s first outing and I’m really looking forward to partnering Aiden and hopefully helping him with the finer points of rally driving!”
Laser Tools’ Tech Centre Manager Ryan Brookes has been assisting with the rally prep and the McRae Rally Challenge is close to his heart. “I was part of the Subaru World Rally Team when I worked for Prodrive and worked extensively with Colin McRae particularly during testing,” said Ryan. “The McRae Rally Challenge is going to be a terrific event and it’s great to be involved.”
The circuit looks forward to hosting the biggest single-venue rally event Knockhill has ever seen. As well as the 30 mile, 10-stage Rally, in association with Coltness Car Club, held over the Saturday and Sunday, the event will showcase some of Colin’s most iconic competition cars – including the 1995 Championship winning Subaru.
Stuart Gray, Knockhill Events Director added: “The McRae Rally Challenge has already exceeded expectations with the amazing entry list and content. There are so many ex World, British and Scottish champions entered, including Stig Blomquivst, Alister McRae and Kris Meeke, and to have to the added dimension of two Scottish BTCC stars in their Mk2 Escorts, it will be great to see who comes out on top.”
