Pierre Ragues returned to the seat of the Alpine 110 RGT in this weekend’s 26th Rallye Regional de Basse-Normandie, taking a strong second place overall and victory in the RGT category. 

 

The event began with an initial super special on Saturday evening, Pont St Yves, before six stages were held throughout Sunday. Three loops of two stages – Le Mesnillard – Chasseguey (5.54km) and Grand Parigny (6.2km) – made up the itinerary to take the rally’s total competitive distance to 39.34km

 

Alongside co-driver David Fortin, Pierre scored two fastest times overall in the seven-stage rally, tackling tricky and slippery conditions during the event. Heavy rain in Sunday’s second loop, especially in SS6, made life difficult for the participants with grip levels at a premium. 

 

For Pierre, taking second overall, 15.7-seconds from the outright win, was a fantastic result and also enabled him to take top honours in the RGT class. The rally provided Pierre with an excellent opportunity to prepare for the forthcoming RGT World Cup round, Rally di Roma Capitale, taking place from July 23-25.

 

Pierre said: “The Rallye Regional de Basse-Normandie has been useful preparation for me ahead of the RGT World Cup round in Rome in a few weeks’ time. Thanks to David for jumping into the co-driver seat, and to Racing Services for providing the usual levels of support that allowed us to tackle the rally with full commitment. The Alpine 110 RGT was a joy to drive, and it was wonderful to get back behind the wheel. The Michelin tyres performed fantastically, and we were able to negotiate the damp and slippery conditions well. I am pleased to finish as the top RGT competitor and to take second place overall; this will set us up nicely for Rome. Thanks also to First, Yacco, Sparco and Alpine MSA Deauville for their partnership, as we continue to find a good rhythm and celebrate solid rally results together.”

1. S Alemany / C Bigot (R5) 

3. E Lemaitre / S Lebourgeois (R5) +27.1s