Story Highlight
– Paul Woodford prepares for UK’s largest road rally.
– First East Yorkshire driver since Ron Shipp in 1974.
– Rally known for technical challenges and big crowds.
– Training involved local events and navigational challenges.
– Promotes rallying’s accessibility through Motorsport UK’s campaign.
Full Story
A motorsport enthusiast from South Cave is set to compete in the UK’s largest road rally, following in the footsteps of a celebrated local figure from over half a century ago. Paul Woodford, renowned in rallying circles as both a presenter and advocate for the sport, describes his participation in Rali Cilwendeg as a “dream come true.” The event is known for its rigorous and intricate format, challenging drivers and navigators with various tests on private roads and farm routes, alongside navigational courses on public highways.
Taking place in West Wales, the overnight rally is expected to attract significant crowds, reminiscent of the sport’s peak popularity during the 1970s and 80s. At 40 years old, Paul is believed to be the first driver from East Yorkshire to enter this prestigious competition since Ron Shipp, who famously achieved a fourth-place finish in 1974 with his Vauxhall Firenza, backed by Thompsons of Hull. “It’s been a bucket list item for such a long time and I never thought it would quite happen,” Paul commented, acknowledging the challenge posed by the event’s complexity, primarily undertaken by local Welsh competitors.
Paul aims to match Ron Shipp’s impressive legacy, as recalled by his brother Alan Shipp, who highlighted Ron’s multifaceted skills as a driver: “The rallying was only part of his expertise.” Ron was not only known for his local rally successes but also participated in notable events including the RAC Rally alongside rallying legend Roger Clark. His achievements extended to completing the Land’s End to John o’Groats challenge in a motorhome and contributing to the world record for towing a caravan.
“The Cilwendeg is kind of the ultimate road rally,” Paul noted, showcasing his enthusiasm for the sport, which he describes as offering an accessible entry point for newcomers. He has been preparing over the past year with the backing of Motorsport UK, building a road rally car to participate in smaller navigational events organized by local motor clubs, as well as autotesting—activities that are cost-effective and designed to hone skills.
Not long ago, Paul, a member of the North Humberside Motor Club, entered Rali Bro Teifi, another event incorporating navigational elements similar to those found in Cilwendeg, in the same Welsh region. His journey has also involved several regional events across North Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire. Unlike stage rallying, which occurs on fast, closed courses, road rallying requires crews to navigate and drive without helmets or overalls, resulting in a unique blend of concentration and car control.
During the Cilwendeg, Paul and his navigator, Joanna James, will engage in ten hours of rallying, commencing at 10 pm on Saturday, October 18. They will undertake controlled speed sections on public roads interspersed with tests in rural areas. “You get to about 2:30-3 am and everybody is absolutely wiped,” Paul described, highlighting the communal atmosphere at fuel stops where competitors bond over their shared experience. “I’ve never seen that on a road rally before,” he added.
Upon reaching the finish line, participants experience a vibrant atmosphere, celebrating their endurance through the night over breakfast as tired crews gather to review results. Paul, who works as a commercial director at an IT firm, champions the diverse forms of rallying, recalling how the sport attracted larger audiences than the English Football League in its prime.
He advocates for increasing awareness of rallying’s accessibility, stating, “It’s certainly gaining in popularity… and I think it needs a bit of an injection of information because people don’t realize how much is going on around them.” Paul hopes to highlight this aspect of the sport through his participation, encouraging more individuals to engage with local rallying events, particularly through initiatives by the Beverley and District Motor Club and North Humberside Motor Club. Those interested in tracking Paul’s journey ahead of the Cilwendeg can follow his updates on his YouTube channel.
