Small But Strong Irish Brigade0

by Linda Keen - Brands Hatch Official Programme - 24th – 25th October 1998

Win or lose the Irish have traditionally made an impression at Brands Hatch, during the Formula Ford Festival – If not on the track certainly in the Kentagon. An Irishman’s name has graced the magnificent trophy on several occasions. Derek Daly (1976), Michael Rowe (1978), Tommy Byme (1981), Eddie Irvine (1987)and Kevin McGarrity (1995).

Since Zetec started in Ireland last year, the Emerald isle has produced some talented young chargers and none more so than 19-year old Dubliner, Neil Shanahan, this year’s Ford of Ireland Formula Ford Champion and one of the Irish World Cup squad this weekend. Supported by PaIfinger. BIaupunkt and Stena Line.

Neil won six out of the 12 rounds in his Mick Merrigan-run Van DIemen RF98. Very much a thinking young driver, Shanahan dominated the DHL Star of Tomorrow FF1600 series last year and was also the Dunlop RIAC Sexton Driver of the Year. Intent on a season out of Ireland next year, Shanahan is expected to make a strong showing at Brands this weekend.