1981 Galway International Rally

Action from this traditional early-season event, a round of both the Irish Tarmac and European Championships, which attracted a strong entry including Jimmy McRae (in his first ever outing in an Opel Ascona 400) and Billy Coleman, driving a Lancia Stratos.
Originally produced by Irish state TV channel RTE, with commentary by Bill O'Herlihy.
Converted from VHS TV recording. There are occasional image glitches in this footage. For VHS Rallies' exclusive range of classic rallying t-shirts, hoodies and mugs, visit vhsrallies.teem...

[@eamonnmckeown6770]

Nice to see all the Chevettes as well as the Sunbeam and Avenger.

[@minibus9]

awesome video

[@christiandesayes4718]

thanks from france for your channel i was 17 years old and stole the r 5 alpine at my father the night to burn gas!!!

[@minibus9]

bet that went down well with your dad he he

[@abelisraelcruzayuso4682]

I got in the Chequered Flag Stratos, years ago…

[@gowesht9695]

Commentary is by legendary Cork presenter Bill O'Herlihy RIP

[@VHSRallies]

Many thanks. Updated accordingly.

[@stephenwilliams926]

Stuff health and safety for the spectators back then .😮

[@leandrosomvintageconsertos]

❤❤❤❤

[@GsCConcrete123]

hmm I was in 160 cars+ in the UK. night rally's open roads at night. 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣. back in the day 1980,s and yes I have seen it all.

[@Joop.23-2-63]

Competing in a Stratos on #23? Not one of the top driver, I assume.

[@ianpawson1356]

Probably the best Irish driver ever irrespective of number on the car

[@eamonnmckeown6770]

Towards the end of the video Coleman mentioned not being in a competition car for nine months. Might have had something to do with it.