Rally Jamaica 2015: Worth the wait!

I am forced to think that the planning for Rally Jamaica begins immediately at the conclusion of the event in the current year. It must be a monumental task, which if orchestrated properly and utilizing NASA-type precision, will result in the gastronomical meals we were served on Saturday and Sunday.

Rolex could not deliver the ‘clockwork’ pace at which the rally ran. An organizer commented that while at the service halt, a navigator approached him and asked with uncertainty in his voice – “What’s wrong?”. The organizer said he was at a loss and did not understand the question. When he queried why the question was asked, the navigator stated – “Everything is on time!”

The stages ran without much delay, a fact which was confirmed by several competitors. But, on the final stage in Bogwalk, before the Downtown stages, nature threw a freak storm in the mix! The horror stories the brief, torrential shower sparked, could be heard being retold with traces of fright and latent fear! But they survived, except Kyle Gregg, whose top five finish was felled by a tree!

I am stating that Rally Jamaica – the 2015 edition – was worth the wait for this simple reason – we were feted by world class machines and world class drivers, which allowed us to experience an elevated degree of blended pleasure and wholesome satisfaction.

Rally Jamaica 2015 had numerous talking points and a few will be explored – obviously – but from my perspective, commendations are in order, first, for the team of organizers who made the event possible. We thank you!

Everything else will be said later. But this has to be said, here and now- remember what I told you the outcome would be? Well, at times I do get it right. Congratulations to Jeffery Panton and his team, Champions – Rally Jamaica 2015! I am burdened by a single grouse though- the typical Jeffery Panton flamboyance at the close of the rally was somewhat subdued. But an individual who needs no invitation filled the Superstar/Showman slot.

Doug ‘Hollywood’Gore seized the moment. He chose to use the asphalt as the canvas, the Evo X as his brush and tyres as his paint! Bank of Jamaica is still quivering!

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer