Local rally driver Kevin Richardson and navigator Katrin Herold have returned victorious from the Jersey Rally, defying the odds to take home a class podium finish in their classic 1969 Mk II Austin Mini.
Starting at the very back of the field – seeded 78th out of 78 entries – the team faced a daunting challenge. The Jersey Rally is renowned for being long, demanding, and unforgiving, spanning 24 gruelling stages over 2 days and covering 90 competitive stage miles.
Despite the high attrition rate that saw nearly 30 competitors forced to retire due to crashes and mechanical failures, the Isle of Wight duo pressed on through dark-stage spins and roadside repairs.
Through sheer grit and perseverance, they carved their way up the leaderboard to finish 41st overall out of 50 finishing cars, and secured a impressive 2nd place in class out of 9 competitors.
Driver Kevin Richardson, said:
“We are absolutely chuffed to bits with what we achieved.
“Surrounded by modern, high-horsepower rally cars, our little classic Mini really stood out. Seeing the spectators clapping, cheering, and giving us thumbs-up on every single stage made us feel like crowd favourites.”
Article continues below this advertisement “We can’t thank our sponsors and supporters enough for making this dream trip possible”
The campaign was made possible through extraordinary support from local businesses and the Isle of Wight community. To cover event entry costs, the team ran a crowd-funding campaign where supporters who donated £10 received their name printed on the Mini’s roof, as well as an entry into a prize raffle.
Key sponsors included:
- Kerry’s Vinyl Creations (Isle of Wight) – Roof layout and graphics
- Marvin’s Estate Agency (Isle of Wight) – Stage pace notes
- Claymore Racing – Boot section
- Fleet Mobile Auto Services Limited – Bonnet section
- PRL Auto Parts – Front wings
- Pink Beaver – Rear quarter panels
Supporters on the roof donation list are now entered into an upcoming raffle featuring prizes kindly donated by local island businesses, including Arsonfire (Adgestone Vineyard), Solent Marine Services (East Cowes), Mac Tools Isle of Wight, and local author J.C. Wood (author of The Tales of Zard).
