Two men have died during a rallying event in County Sligo at the weekend.
Driver Gene McDonald (35) from Cootehill in County Cavan and his co-driver Daire Maguire (46) from Lisnaskea, County Fermanagh died after their Ford Escort Mark 2 hit a wall at Carrowcushcly in Ballymote during the sixth stage of the Sligo Stages Rally on Sunday.
Both men died at the scene.
Motorsport Ireland and the Garda have launched two separate investigations into the accident. The rally was immediately suspended following the crash.
Both men were experienced competitors. Art McCarrick, sporting manager of Motorsport Ireland, said Gene McDonald had 15 years’ experience while Daire Maguire had been involved in motorsport for over 20 years.
“They had driven that stretch once already in the competition but the previous day they would have driven it three times doing reconnaissance of the stages and making safety notes.”
In a statement, Motorsport Ireland extended its “deepest sympathies” to the families and friends of the two men.
“Motorsport Ireland also extends its sympathies to the members of Connacht Motor Club and everyone involved with organising today’s event who reacted so quickly and professionally to the incident.
“Motorsport Ireland and its affiliated clubs are recognised internationally for operating to the highest standards of motorsport safety for competitors and spectators in line with the best practice of the FIA.
“Motorsport Ireland has begun a full investigation with the relevant authorities into the events at today’s event to establish how this accident occurred.”
Motorsport Ireland has also set up a book of condolences online for those who wish to pay their respects for the two men.
In a statement, Mr. Maguire’s employer Cadco NI said: “Daire was one of life’s true gentlemen, a highly respected member of staff by both customers and colleagues and will be missed immensely by all.”
Jim Reilly, chairperson of the County Cavan Motor Club, said Mr. McDonald was a member of the club for the last 17 or 18 years.
“He was a very experienced rally driver, and his co-driver, Daire Maguire, was also a very experienced navigator.”
