While he was a notable absence from the recent Rally of the Lakes, local driver Colin O’Donoghue is set to make up for lost time by contesting two of the biggest Ford Escort Mk2 events of the summer.

His campaign begins this weekend at the Seven Oaks Hotel Carlow Stages Rally, the third round of the Triton Showers National Rally Championship.

The rally hosts the long-running Ford Escort Mk2 Challenge, where O’Donoghue is the only Kerry driver in the field.

This is his first outing since he won the modified section of the Killarney Historic Rally last November.

He will be up against several top Escort drivers, including the current champion Mk2 Challenge, Frank Kelly.

The event serves as a warm-up for O’Donoghue’s planned trip to Belgium later this year. He will compete in the Escort Rally Special in Chimay in September, an event he won in 2021.

Other local competitors are also heading to Carlow. Killarney co-driver Ger Conway is back with Welsh driver Meirion Evans in a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2.

The pair last competed together when they finished second overall at both the Donegal International and the Rally of the Lakes last year.

In the modified classes, several Killarney and District Motor Club navigators are on the entry list.

John McCarthy from Currow is pairing up with Meath’s Peter Wilson in a Ford Escort at car 48.

At car 78, Sean Nolan joins Tipperary’s Jason O’Brien for the first time. Niall Myers also travels to Carlow following a successful weekend at the Manx National last weekend, where he took a class podium alongside Gary Healy in a Honda Civic.

Gallivan Financial has announced its new sponsorship of Killarney Valley Athletics Club, marking a commitment to local sport and community health initiatives.

The partnership aims to support the club’s efforts in providing an environment for athletes of all ages and abilities.

Founding Director Tadgh Gallivan highlighted the club’s role in promoting teamwork and healthy living within the town.

“Killarney Valley Athletics Club plays such an important role in our community, bringing people of all ages together through sport, teamwork, and a shared sense of ambition,” Mr Gallivan said. “We are delighted to support a club that encourages healthy living, inspires young athletes, and contributes so positively to life in Killarney.”

Chief Financial Officer Niall O’Mara added that the company believes in supporting organisations that have a lasting local impact.

He noted that the club has created a fantastic environment for athletes and families alike.

The sponsorship is part of Gallivan Financial’s ongoing investment in the local community, focusing on initiatives that promote participation and wellbeing. The support will assist the club in its continued development and help foster new opportunities for athletes across the region.