Thousands mark 20th anniversary of McRae world title

Thousands of fans flocked to the Fife circuit to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Colin and co-driver’s Derek Ringer’s World Rally Championship title victory, the first ever for a UK crew.

Current stars such as former British Touring Car champion Gordon Shedden and World Rally star Kris Meeke, who drove Colin’s former Citroen Xsara works rally car, were there as were rally legends Stig Blomqvist and Hannu Mikkola.

Colin’s dad Jimmy and brother Alister also participated during the packed weekend and it was fitting that Alister took the victor’s spoils.

And there were plenty of other drivers throughout the weekend who took on Colin’s mantra of “if in doubt - flat out” to thrill the fans who had turned up in such huge numbers.

Northern Irishman Meeke, fresh from his maiden World Rally victory in Argentina, said: “It’s been a very special weekend.

“Number one, it was great to remember and commemorate Colin and the 20th anniversary of his title. So many people turned out.

“I have to say a huge thank-you to Citroen Racing for supplying Colin’s Xsara WRC; what a mega, mega car to drive.”

Alister continued: “It was just so good to see so many people here and so many cars, but the main thing is the number of fans and spectators. I hope we gave them something to remember.

“I HAD to win this, otherwise I wouldn’t have anywhere to sleep tonight.

“I’m staying with my parents in Lanark before flying back to Australia on Wednesday.”