2017 update

2017 has seen a different start to a year than normal for Matthew. After finishing Wales Rally GB at the end of 2016 in a superb 11th overall in his four wheel drive debut, Matthew has started a part time master’s degree in Automotive Engineering at Loughborough University. Whilst this is only part time, due to the commitment required for a full time job also, Matthew’s focused time on rally car preparation is minimal. With the key to success being meticulous preparation, Matthew has opted to concentrate on his studies for the first half of the year. With the all-important deadlines being in August, Matthew then plans to get back out onto the stages and get the feel of the car back before 2018.

However, things haven’t stopped there. With no competing being in the equation, Matthew has still been very busy in the rallying world by taking the opportunity to not only help fellow competitors on events but to also put back into the sport, pulling on the tabard and marshalling on a number of events.

Matthew has put his knowledge and experience too good use by being part of the service crew on 4 rallies so far this year including the Manx National Rally on the Isle of Man as well as the world famous Rally Ypres, all of which with a 100% finishing record.

There has been some action in the driving seat however. Winners Garage rally team kindly asked Matthew to shake down their new creation, the Skoda Citigo junior rally car at Shropshire rally school. This was a very good experience for Matthew, taking him right back to the stat of his rallying journey competing as a junior.

The decision to not compete in the first part of the year was not taken lightly. Matthew would like to thank all those who have supported him over the last few years. Be rest assured, we will be back on the stages a little later in 2017, continuing to put our mark on UK rallying.