 |
| Derek Tohil in action during the year |
The highlight of the ceremony is marked by the presentation of the Manley Memorial Trophy to the International Driver of the year and the awarding of the Billy Coleman and Sexton Trophies to two of Ireland’s greatest prospects for future success.
Joe Corcoran, President, Motorsport Ireland, commenting at the awards, said “2013 has been an amazing year for Irish Motorsport. We have had champions crowned in Europe, drivers becoming internet phenomena because of spectacular finishes in the USA; brothers battle it out for national championships and the list goes on.” He said, with the talent they were celebrating on the day, he felt sure that the future for Irish Motorsport is looking very secure.
The Manley Memorial Trophy, awarded to the driver who has not only proven to be a success on the track, but also has acted as a positive role model and ambassador for the sport, went to Derek Tohill, the current FIA European Rallycross Champion in the Touring Car category, was named Driver of the Year at the awards.
The Billy Coleman Award for the Young Rally Driver of the Year went to Monaghan’s Stephen Wright ahead of runners up Robert Duggan and Josh Moffett. Wright was a runner up in the award last year. He now receives €50,000 worth of support for the 2014 season when he intends to compete in the Belgian Rally Cup.
The Dunlop Sexton Trophy for the Young Racing Driver of the Year went to Niall Murray ahead of runners up Stephen Daly and Jonny McMullan. The Dublin driver excelled in his début year in Formula Ford, with a victory in the internationally recognised Formula Ford Festival at Brands Hatch when he defeated a top class field from many countries to win the final.
The Ivan Webb Memorial award for Most Outstanding Contribution to Irish Motorsport went to Ann FitzGerald from Carrick-on-Suir Motor Club who has been an integral part of the Irish motorsport community for many years. The JC Millard Memorial Award for Clubman of the Year went to Marty Kinsella from Wexford Motor Club for his contribution both as an organiser and as a competitor.
