Pearson Makes His Point

Words and Photography by Gary Fothergill/GF Rally Media

Garry Pearson and co-driver Hannah McKillop made a triumphant return to gravel over the weekend, taking overall victory at the RSAC Scottish Rally—despite claiming pre-event that they had no ambitions of winning.

Another impressive performance from Garry Pearson/Hannah McKillop

The Dumfries-based event, run through classic Scottish forest stages, was intended as a warm-up for the pair’s upcoming Probite British Rally Championship campaign. But once competition began, any thoughts of a low-key outing were left behind.

After a steady start through Glengap, Pearson and McKillop found themselves within striking distance of leaders David Bogie and Kirsty Riddick—the local favourites and reigning champions—in their Skoda Fabia. Sensing the opportunity, the Ford Fiesta Rally2 crew pushed hard, going on to win the next three stages and build a lead that Bogie couldn’t claw back.

David Bogie and Kirsty Riddick could do nothing about Pearsi this time…

Although Bogie and Riddick responded by taking the final two stages, it wasn’t enough. Pearson and McKillop crossed the finish with a 15-second advantage to seal the win.

Third Overall were Mark McCulloch/Michael Hendry in the Proton Satria.

Fourth overall, Scott Beattie and Peredur Davies were the third Scottish Championship crew home, delivering a solid performance in their Ford Fiesta R5.

Despite a reduced entry list, the RSAC Scottish Rally proved a success, with competitors and fans alike praising the smooth running of the event and the quality of the stages. The rally overcame early concerns to deliver another memorable chapter in its long history.

Mark McCulloch and Michael Hendry were third overall in the Proton Satria