2014 Black Bear Rally Recap – Gilmour, Ontario

Under the leadership of Coordinator, Derek Vincent, the 2014 Black Bear Rally took on a new format with Registration, Technical Inspection & two pass Recce all on Saturday and the competition on Sunday. This had a number of pluses to it, probably the biggest one being less time required off work for competitors, crews and workers. Derek changed the traditional post-rally awards banquet to a BBQ for all on Saturday evening. That proved to be a big hit with a much more relaxed, social atmosphere to it.

A disappointing low entry of 14 cars turned up, but those who came had a great day with strong competition.

Early in the day it rained heavily making the Egan Creek stage roads (made famous by the Tall Pines) even more challenging than usual. Later in the day the sun came out and it became a pleasant summer afternoon.

Competition was hot right from the start. As expected Martin Donnelly/Angela Cosner set the pace in their Subaru, winning five of the six stages. Unfortunately due to a timing miscalculation, they took a 10 minute penalty, dropping them to 4th Overall. We were running a radar at the Flying Finish of the final stage and they blew the previous speed record into the weeds with 167 kmh.

The anticipated challengers to Martin & Angela, Ian Crerar/James Drake were plagued with a persistent and elusive mechanical (engine) issue and DNF’d in Stage One. However young U.S. hotshoe, Will Hudson with co-driver John Hall, were flying all day in their Team O’Neil Fiesta setting fastest pace in one stage and second fastest in four stages. However they also suffered a mechanical issue in the final stage and DNF’d. Turned out a suspension bolt had fallen out allowing the driveshaft to disengage. Interesting rally story here – after they were DNF’d they managed to limp back to Rally HQ by inserting a screwdriver through the bolt-hole and duct- taping it in place.

That allowed Eric Vlasic/Chris Pye, who drove fast and clean all day to claim first Overall in their Subaru Legacy. Second O/A first 2WD went to Andrew Kulikowski/Kelly Mathew in their Focus and Alan Ryall/Bruce Leonard claimed third Overall in their Subaru.

Thanks to the committee who put many hours into the preparation into the event and to all the workers for their contribution on Saturday and Sunday.