JRM rounded off their 2014 FIA ERC campaign with an impressive performance from Keith Cronin in the Group N Subaru WRX STI as he lead a majority of the Production Car Cup class through the season finale.
Cronin built up a lead of 1 minute 34 seconds at one point and was looking to take a dominate win before an error on a right-hand corner saw the car slide off the road.
“We’re disappointed that Keith’s rally ended the way it did because the car was running perfectly and he’d used it to build a comfortable lead. He was driving within himself and enjoying his first event on Corsica,” JRM executive director James Rumsey explained.
While the only damage on the car was a broken front bumper Cronin was unable to reverse the car back on to the stage.
“As frustrating as that is, we have to be immensely proud of the Gp N car that we’ve developed and built for international competition. It’s set fastest stage times and led in all three ERC events we’ve contested at Barum Czech Rally Zlin, Rallye International du Valais and Tour de Corse. It’s shown itself to be a formidable package and we’re pleased to have brought something fast, fresh and new to Gp N.”
Cronin was obviously disapointed that the way the rally had come to an end. “It’s been nice to hop into a Gp N car after four years and be quick straight away, but I’m frustrated we couldn’t finish the job.” he said.
“The grip levels on that stage were changing all the time. There were some damp patches in places and I think we just got caught out on the turn in for the corner. Once we touched the gravel on the outside, there was little we could do.
“The team at JRM have been fantastic and I really enjoyed the Subaru,” he added.“It was working perfectly and I felt very comfortable in it from the first stage. It’s a serious Gp N car and I’d jump at the chance to drive it again.”
