Alastair Fisher and Gordon Noble are preparing to step back into a rally car together for the first time in two years. Seeded first for this weekend’s Galway International Rally, the pair begin their latest Irish Tarmac Rally Championship effort on an event which hosted their maiden Irish Tarmac win in 2020.
Fisher’s pace that Sunday in Galway was untouchable. After finishing second to Craig Breen on three events in 2019 and in turn second in the Irish Tarmac Rally Championship, 2020 got off to the best possible start.
We all know what happened next and 24 months on, Fisher’s dominant win is balanced by the fact he has been out of action while his rivals have racked up the competitive kilometres.
For the Fermanagh driver, however, it is all about getting ready for the job in hand.
“I have obviously very fond memories of the Galway win,” explained Fisher, “but we now have to focus on a fresh start in 2022.
“We need to do everything we can to hit the ground running and ensure a comfortable and strong start.
“I’m hopeful that a good recce and test will give us a good footing to drive with confidence. Hopefully the stage times will follow.”
The 33-year-old secured the ITRC event win on his debut behind the wheel of a Volkswagen Polo R5. It was definitely a positive experience for Fisher who has decided to stick with the Polo in 2022.
“It is always a compromise when deciding on what car to commit to.
“I have been studying the performance of the various options and having felt comfortable in the Polo previously, and feeling that I only scratched the surface of the car’s capabilities in 2020, the decision was made to go down the VW route.”
It is fair to say Fisher and Noble’s commitment to this year’s Irish Tarmac Championship is one organisers, fans, and maybe even rivals will welcome with open arms.
One thing you can’t forget though, Fisher will be as happy as anyone when he engages launch control on Saturday morning’s opening Galway stage.
“I’m really looking forward to getting back out on the events across the Irish Tarmac Championship.
“The excitement of competing is something I have missed.
“Gordon and I feel focused and ready to go with plans coming together in preparation for this weekend.”
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Cover photo by Kevin O’Driscoll