TRINTY Saint David’s (UWTSD) Rally Team, based at the University’s Swansea Waterfront campus, had a successful first outing with its newly Motorsport UK log-booked BMW 130i, owned by Martin Gibson. This marks the university’s return to rallying for the first time since 2008, when a student team competed with a donated Volkswagen Lupo.
The team travelled to Trac Môn, Anglesey, for the 6th round of the Circuit Rally Championship, the Lee Holland Memorial Stages Rally 2025, and delivered an impressive performance despite competing in the highly competitive Over 2000cc 2WD class.
Martin Gibson, an experienced circuit racer with a background in the Fun Cup Endurance Championship and the BTRC Truck Championship, showcased his skill behind the wheel with a clean and composed drive. His efforts, combined with the teamwork of the UWTSD students, resulted in a remarkable 8th in class and 19th overall finish—a fantastic achievement for the team’s first competitive event.
The UWTSD Rally Team consists of around 25 motorsport engineering students, with a rotating group of six students attending each event to gain hands-on motorsport experience.
Senior lecturer Abi Penny, speaking on behalf of the team, emphasised the significance of this opportunity: “The UWTSD Rally Team is made up of around 25 students, but due to the nature of rallying, we can only take around six to each event. As a result, we alternate students so that they all get to gain this invaluable experience, undoubtedly one of the biggest selling points of our degrees.
“Being part of a rally team and competing at national events provides university motorsport students with invaluable real-world experience, bridging the gap between theory and practice. It enhances their technical skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities in a high-pressure environment, preparing them for successful careers in the motorsport industry.”
The team’s next competitive outing will be at the Dukeries Rally at Donington on March 16, which will be live-streamed on Special Stage Rally Video on YouTube.
