Mayor announces return of Ulster Rally to Derry and Strabane

By Richard O'Reilly

The John Mulholland Motors Ulster Rally will return to the Council area for a second successive year in August after Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Maolíosa McHugh, officially launched the event at the Guildhall this week.

The prestigious race will take place on the weekend of Friday 18th and Saturday 19th of August with Ebrington Square acting as the main base for competitors and an additional regroup event planned for Strabane town centre.

Speaking at Tuesday’s launch which was attended by race drivers, organisers and sponsors, the Mayor said he was delighted to be welcoming the rally back to the City and District.

“I am honoured to launch the 2017 John Mulholland Motors Ulster Rally which continues the Council area’s successful association with the event,” he said.

I was delighted to officially launch the 2017 @UlsterRally at the Guildhall today pic.twitter.com/RUP8cfbWCP

— Mayor Derry Strabane (@mayordcsdc) June 27, 2017

^{DC&S Mayor Maolíosa McHugh speaking at yesterday's launch Credit: @MayorDerryCityStrabane/Twitter}

“It is a race of international significance and attracts visitors from all over Ireland, the UK and beyond to our Council area, showcasing our tourism offering to new audiences.

“Motorsport enjoys a large following in the North West and I am delighted that local people will again have the opportunity to see some of the biggest names in the sport on their doorstep.

“The introduction of the Re-Grouping halts to Strabane Town Centre is also a welcome addition and will allow the public to get a close-up look at the cars as they prepare for the next stage in the race.”

Q&A with some of the drivers at the launch of this years John Mulholland Motors @UlsterRally pic.twitter.com/5EMELVlMW6

— What's on DS (@WhatsonDS) June 27, 2017

The John Mulholland Motors Ulster Rally is part of the Prestone MSA British Rally Championship, the Clonakilty Irish Tarmac Rally Championship and the FIA Celtic Rally Trophy. 

The event is being hosted by Derry City and Strabane District Council and Northern Ireland Motor Club in conjunction with with the Maiden City Motor Club.