Evans: Coronavirus break a shock to the system

Welsh rally driver Meirion Evans has admitted that life in lockdown is proving to be a big shock to the system. Despite the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, to both his business and rallying ambitions, the Irish Tarmac Rally competitor is trying to remain positive.

“The past few weeks have been hard,” said Evans. “My life is usually busy between work and rallying so the weeks usually just disappear between everything.

“I’m just trying to get on with things. I live by the saying, ‘If you don’t laugh you’ll cry!’

“I’ve spent loads of time watching old videos and onboards already. I actually started watching RPM’s review of the 2004 Irish Tarmac Championship last night.

“Now that I have done the championship, it’s nice to look back and notice how much has changed and actually how much hasn’t changed over the years.”

Evans’ family business, which prepares and manages rally cars, has also suffered during the lockdown period. Motorsport Ireland has suspended events until the beginning of June while Motorsport UK events won’t take place until July. With the situation constantly evolving there is every possibility these dates could be pushed back even further.

“We’ve all but had to close our workshop. We’re still doing odd jobs for customers but with suppliers closing we’ve had no choice but to cut back a lot.

“Hopefully it won’t last too long as it will have a pretty big knock-on effect on businesses.”

Like many others, Evans has resorted to the virtual world of Dirt Rally to keep his driving up to speed. Coupled with maintaining his training programme, the 24-year-old is hoping it will all help him stay sharp during the unforeseen break.

It’s still hard to offset the disappointment of missing out on a large chunk of his plans for the season. Evans was hopeful of continuing his form on the Galway International Rally to the ITRC’s second round but the West Cork Rally was the first of a string of events to be postponed.

“I was really disappointed about West Cork. We had recce’d some stages on the Thursday morning before we found out the rally was postponed.

“I had a really good feeling about the Polo in West Cork.

“It’s the type of rally that I like with its high-speed nature.

“After a solid run in Galway I was looking forward to taking it up a notch in West Cork but I’m sure there will be another day for it.”

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