Q&A with Robert Barrable before Barum Rally

Robert Barrable The 24-year-old Irish ace on his hopes for more Intercontinental Rally Challenge progress on Barum Czech Rally Zlín and his event preparations.

How have your preparations gone for the rally?

“We didn’t do a test because the engine for our ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 was still being rebuilt. But we did International Rally Northern Ireland and we have shakedown on Friday to get back into it. We also did Rally Bohemia [in Czech Republic] during the summer. Although that was cancelled quite early it was still good practice.”

You showed a lot of pace on your debut in Zlín last year. What can you do this time?

“We simply want to improve on last year, do a solid drive and finish inside the top 10. It’s going to be tough because there are lots of good locals but we’ll be doing our best.”

Is it working out with your new co-driver Stuart Loudon?

“Stuart’s level is very high to be fair to him and his preparation and dedication are really good. It started well in Ypres and it’s also helping that he’s doing the WRC Academy.”