Welshman Dewi Williams is enjoying a strong start to the 2009 205challenge rally series with three wins on three very different events in the first half of the rally season at the wheel of his Gwynedd Environmental Waste Services backed Peugeot 205 GTi.

Dewi, who only made the switch to stage rallying in 2008, has been the class of the field so far this year.

The season began with the Rdp Welsh International Rally over the notorious Epynt Military Ranges in Mid Wales. Dewi and co-driver Aled Edwards were on fine form, dominating the 205 modified class to take the win by over four minutes.

Next up was the Plains Rally in Welshpool and using some of the best forest stages in Mid Wales. Despite having to contend with badly dug up and rutted roads the Pwllheli resident returned to the ceremonial finish with another victory in the class.

Round three saw the competitors head to the Midlands to tackle the two day long tarmac based Rally of the Midlands. After overcoming power steering and alternator problems the young Welsh duo staged a great fight back to top the podium once more, extending their lead in the 205 modified class even further.

“The first half of 2009 has exceeded our expectations,” said Williams. “We were hoping to be near the pace of the front runners but to take three victories from our first three events is incredible!

“The pace in this series is really close and reliability has been our key. I have to thank Arwel Parry Motorsport for doing a fine job of looking after us.

“I would also like to thank both Sbardun Motorsport of Pwllheli and Harlech and District MC for all their support. Obviously none of this would not have been possible without the continued support of Dafydd Thomas of GEWS of Penrhyndeudraeth.”

Dewi and Aled will conduct a test at the Sweet Lamb test venue ahead of their next outing, the Swansea Bay Rally on the July 18.


by Geoff Mayes