Meeke edges closer to his 'dream' Scots finale

Published on Sunday 23 August 2009 23:27

MOTORSPORT: Colin McRae protege Kris Meeke took another step towards clinching the Intercontinental Rally Championship at the inaugural RallyScotland in November by extending his lead following his second-place in the Czech Rally.

Meeke, who dropped a massive 31 seconds on the field when he suffered a puncture on the first stage relegating him to 33rd, battled his way back despite suffering from a severe head cold and raging temperatures.

The Irishman now leads the championship by three points from Czech driver Jan Kopecky, who won his home event by 64secs as Meeke backed off towards the end of the rally.

"Of course there's a long way to go before we get to the season's finale in Scotland," said Meeke.

"We've rallies in Spain and Italy next month, but we've put ourselves in a strong position.

"I've always said it would be a dream to win the IRC championship in Scotland where I spent so much time with Colin."