Nicky Grist Rally Circuit Wales: What To Expect

Posted on 6 July 2023

What to Expect from Nicky Grist in the Rally Circuit for Bowler Motorsports Team in July 2023

The Bowler teams are excited to be returning to Wales for round 4 of the Tata Elxsi Defender Rally Series by Bowler. Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Powys, the Nicky Grist Rally Circuit stands as a testament to the region’s rich rallying heritage. Named after the legendary Welsh co-driver, Nicky Grist, the rally circuit pays homage to his remarkable achievements in the world of motorsport. Grist, renowned for his successful partnerships with iconic drivers such as Colin McRae, Juha Kankkunen, and Richard Burns, helped pave the way for the circuit’s establishment. His experience and expertise in navigating treacherous rally stages played a significant role in shaping the circuit’s design and characteristics.

Situated near the town of Builth Wells, the Nicky Grist Rally Circuit is blessed with a diverse and challenging natural terrain. The circuit is surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Welsh countryside, offering a truly immersive experience for drivers and spectators alike. The undulating landscape, combined with the twisty forest tracks, presents a thrilling and demanding environment for rallying enthusiasts.

In an era of increasing concern for the environment, the circuit remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainability and adheres to eco-friendly practices, implementing measures to minimise its impact on the natural surroundings – including a strict policy on spectator areas to protect the Sites of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI) along the route, as these areas are the most important sites for Wales’s natural heritage. Efforts such as waste management, energy conservation, and ecological preservation initiatives contribute to the circuit’s responsible stewardship of the environment, something Nicky Grist Stages take very seriously.

The route itself will offer 44 miles of rally action on the gravel roads of Llyn Login, Crychan, Halfway and Monument – with a 22-stage mile loop run in the morning and repeated after midday service in the afternoon.

For our Bowler teams, fresh from the Scottish Hill Rally just a few weeks ago, a return to a gravel circuit but an unfamiliar route will offer new challenges to test their skills and confidence. Now with a few months of experience and training under their belts we’re sure to see some faster times from our drivers as they find themselves back on familiar territory.

Fancy getting up close to the Bowler action? Spectator areas are easily accessible, have dedicated off-road parking and give some of the best rally viewing locations in Wales.

More spectator information is available on nickygriststages.co.uk