Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast

Kevin Glendinning

Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast is an Irish based podcast. We interview guests from the world of rallying, promoting local rally talent and bringing you a wide range of Irish and International rally news. Follow on Facebook & X @KrunchingGears

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130 episodes
Updated Thursday

Episodes130

Newest first

Thursday · 1 hr 55 min
🎤Jon Armstrong, catchup. Rallye Lecale Review & Monaghan Stages Preview🎤
🎤Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 32🎤 On this episode, we catch up with Jon Armstrong to discuss his World Rally Championship campaign with M-Sport, reflecting on the highs, challenges, and what it's like competing at the very top level of the sport. We also hear from Jonny Greer after securing an incredible sixth Northern Ireland Rally Championship title, looking back on another successful season and what the achievement means to him. Hugh Hunter and Andy Marchbank join us to share their experiences from Rallye Lecale, discussing the event, the competition, and how their rally unfolded. Finally, we turn our attention to the upcoming Monaghan Rally as Sean McCaffrey previews one of the highlights of the Irish rally calendar, discussing the stages, the expected competition, and what fans can look forward to. Chapters Start 00:00:00 Jon Armstrong on his season to date 00:02:45 Jonny Greer - 6 times Northern Ireland Rally Championship, 00:41:45 Hugh Hunter & Andy Marchbank on Rallye Lecale 01:03:05 Sean McCaffrey - Monaghan Rally Preview 01:29:18 End 01:55:47
July 21 · 1 hr 20 min
🎤Matt Edwards talks Rally 2. Plus Preview Rallye Lecale Preview🎤
🎤Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 32🎤 In this episode, we’re joined by three-time British Rally Champion Matt Edwards to discuss the current state of Rally2 machinery and its future as the incoming top-tier category in the FIA World Rally Championship. Matt shares his insight into the performance, appeal and challenges of Rally2 cars. We also catch up with Gavin Campbell, Clerk of the Course, and Brian Crawford, Deputy Clerk of the Course, for a preview of this weekend’s BADMC Rallye Lecale. As a brand-new event taking place on 25 July and based in Downpatrick, they take us behind the scenes to explain what competitors and fans can expect, the work involved in launching a new rally, and why Rallye Lecale promises to be an exciting addition to the Northern Irish motorsport calendar. Chapters Start 00:00:00 Matt Edwards 00:03:45 Rallye Lecale preview with Gavin Campbell & Brian Crawford 00:47:20 End 01:20:54
July 16 · 1 hr 14 min
🎤Nicky Grist Stages Review, Catch up with Jason Black & Karl Egan. Plus Stonethrowers Rally News🎤
🎤Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast | 2026 Season, episode 31 | 🎤 This week on the podcast, we look back at an action-packed Nicky Grist Rally with the event's overall winners, Jordan Hone and Sion Williams. They join us to reflect on their standout performance and what the win means for the rest of the season. We also catch up with Jason Black and Karl Egan after a busy weekend behind the wheel. The pair discuss competing on back-to-back events, tackling the Loughgall Rally before celebrating victory at the Kerry Mini Stages, and the challenges of maintaining momentum across two demanding rally's. Finally, we hear from the Stonethrowers Rally Clerk of the Course Susan Sheehan and Deputy Clerk of the Course Declan O'Keeffe, who explain the difficult decision to cancel this weekend's event. They share the factors behind the call, the disappointment for everyone involved. Chapters Start 00:00:00 Nicky Grist Stages Review with winners Jordan Hone & Sion Williams 00:03:45 Catchup with Jason Black & Karl Egan 00:28:08 Stonethrowers News with Susan Sheehan & Declan O'Keefe End 01:14:20
July 9 · 1 hr 33 min
🎤Reviews of: Loughgall Rally, Rally Di Roma Capitale & Kerry Mini Stages🎤
Krunching Gears - |The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 30| This week on the podcast, we catch up with Jonny Greer and Niall Burns following their victory at the Loughgall Rally the latest round of the Northern Rally Championship. We also catch up on the latest round of the FIA European Rally Championship (Rally di Roma Capitale) with Craig Rahill, Conor Smith, Casey Jay Coleman, and Killian McArdle who bring us up to speed on their ERC3 and M-Sport Fiesta Trophy campaigns, sharing the highs, challenges, and excitement from a demanding weekend of international competition. Rounding off the show, we hear from the crews who finished second and third overall at the Kerry Mini Stages, Chris O'Callaghan and Coleen O'Brien, along with Johno Doogan and Paul Lennon, as they reflect on their performances, fierce competition, and memorable moments from an action-packed event. Chapters Start 00:00:00 Loughgall Rally with Jonny Greer & Niall Burns 00:03:15 Rally di Roma Capitale - Craig Rahill, Conor Smith, Casey Jay Coleman & Killian McArdle 00:25:58 Kerry Mini Stages - Coleen O'Brien, Chris O Callaghan, Johno Doogan & Paul Lennon 00:54:50 End 01:33:24 #rally #podcast #motorsport #autopodcast #irishrally #PaddyPower
June 18 · 56 min
🎤Donegal Rally Preview🎤💚💛
🎤Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 29🎤 On this episode of the Rally Podcast, we look ahead to one of the biggest and most anticipated events on the Irish rally calendar, the Wilton Recycling Donegal International Rally. We catch up with Josh McErlean and Eoin Treacy, who have been released from their World Rally Championship duties with M-Sport to tackle the famous Donegal hills in a Rally2 Fiesta. They discuss the opportunity, the challenge of competing at home, the quality of the entry list, and the excitement of taking on one of Irish rallying’s most iconic events. We’re also joined by Clerk of the Course Eamon Magee, who gives us an insight into the preparation, organisation, and challenges involved in delivering the legendary Donegal stages. Event sponsor and competitor Rodney Wilton shares his thoughts on supporting the rally and taking on the roads himself. Plus, Eugene Ferry joins us to talk about the Rally Stages App which is working in partnership with the Donegal Motor Club to help competitors and spectators stay informed throughout the rally weekend.
June 16 · 37 min
Return of the Pink Panther 🩷🎤
🎤Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 28🎤 🩷 On this special episode we celebrate the return of one of the most iconic cars in Irish rallying history, the legendary “Pink Panther” Ford Sierra RS Cosworth that carried James Cullen and Ellen Morgan to victory on the Donegal International in 1991. We speak with Paul Murphy and Declan McBrearty, part of the dedicated team behind the painstaking restoration of this famous machine, as they reveal the work involved in returning the car to its original 1991 specification as part of The Stables Motorsport Centre collection. We’re also joined by James Cullen and Sinead Canny, who look ahead to their special appearance on the Donegal stages as they mark the anniversary of that unforgettable victory and honour the legacy of Ellen Morgan, James’ co-driver for 14 remarkable years. The return of the iconic pink Sierra RS Cosworth to the 2026 Wilton Recycling Donegal International Rally.
June 11 · 1 hr 4 min
From BTCC to Rally. Plus Toyota Gazoo Racing, Test Team Lead Engineer.
🎤Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast 2026 Season, episode 27🎤 This week, we get under the bonnet and take a look behind the scenes of rallying with three special guests who bring unique perspectives from the sport. First we catch up with Colin Turkington, four-time British Touring Car Champion and BMW’s most successful racing driver, following his recent venture into rallying at the Tyrone Stages Rally. Alongside him is co-driver Rory Kennedy, who shares his experience of guiding one of touring cars’ most decorated drivers through the challenges of special stage competition. Together, they discuss the transition from track to rallying, the demands of the sport, and what they learned from the experience. We also follow up on the recent Toyota Yaris Rally2 test in Donegal with Lewis Allen, Lead Engineer on Toyota Gazoo Racing’s Rally2 project. Lewis provides a fascinating insight into the development of the Toyota Rally2 programme, explaining how Toyota supports its customer teams around the world. From continuous development to delivering the latest upgrades, he reveals how no expense is spared to ensure competitors have access to the very best package available. Chapters Start 00:00:00 Colin Turkington & Rory Kennedy 00:06:15 Lewis Allen - Gazoo Lead Engineer Rally2 Programme 00:35:00 End 01:04:00
June 4 · 1 hr 19 min
Circuit of Munster Review, Cookstown Motor Club Youth Development & Killarney Classic Tour.
🎙️ Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast 2026 Season |Episode 26| In this episode, we look back at an action-packed Circuit of Munster Rally with Daniel Breslin and Damian Doherty, the leading rear-wheel-drive crew, who chat about their impressive run. We also hear from second-place overall finisher Keelan Grogan, who reflects on a strong result against tough competition. Rally4 winner Oran England joins us to discuss his class-winning performance and his plans for the season ahead. We also shine a spotlight on the future of motorsport with Reanna Gillis and Erin McKenna from Cookstown Motor Club. They share their experiences of getting involved in rallying and discuss what clubs and competitors can do to encourage more people—particularly newcomers—to take their first steps into the sport. Looking ahead, Mike Marshall joins us to preview the inaugural Killarney Classic Tour, a brand-new event celebrating the rich heritage of rallying in Killarney and the stunning Beara Peninsula. Tune in for rally insights, competitor reactions, grassroots motorsport discussion, and a look ahead to an exciting new event on the Irish motorsport calendar. #KrunchingGears #TheRallyPodcast #CircuitOfMunsterRally #IrishRallying #MotorsportPodcast #rallying Chapters Start 00:00:00 Circuit of Munster Daniel Breslin & Damian Doherty 00:05:2 Circuit of Munster Keelan Grogan & Oran England 00:27:55 Cookstown Motor Club, Youth Development Erin McKenna & Reanna Gillis 00:53:20 Killarney Classic Tour - Mike Marshall 01:02:55 End 01:19:46
May 29 · 1 hr 39 min
Jim Clark Rally Review, Toyota Test thoughts - previews of Circuit of Muster & Tyrone Stages.
Krunching Gears ┃The Rally Podcast 2026 Season┃ Episode 25. On this week’s podcast we’re joined by the top two finishers from the recent Jim Clark Rally. Winner Max McRae reflects on a standout victory, while Meirion Evans looks back on the challenges of one of the UK’s most iconic events. We also discuss the recent Toyota Gazoo Racing test session in Donegal with Eamonn Kelly and Rory Kennedy, who give us the inside story on the visit and what it means for Irish rallying. Looking ahead, Circuit of Munster Clerk of the Course Kieran Ambrose joins us to preview this weekend’s action, key stages and leading contenders. Plus, the team from Cookstown Motor Club, led by Clerk of the Course Simon MacRory, chat about preparations for the upcoming Tyrone Stages Rally and what competitors and fans can expect from the event. #rallying #irishrally #rallypodcast #brc #gazooracing #rallychat #goodtotalk Chapters Start 00:00:00 Jim Clark talk with Max McRae & Meirion Evans 00:00:45 Gazoo Toyota Racing Chat with Rory Kennedy & Eamonn Kelly 00:34:40 Circuit of Munster Preview with COC Kieran Ambrose 01:02:20 Tyrone Stages build up with Simon Macrory, Sean & Barry End 01:39:06
May 21 · 48 min
Review of the Carlow Stages Rally
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast [2026 Season] episode 24. Fresh from their impressive victory at the Carlow Stages Rally, Michael Boyle and Dermot McCafferty join us to break down their winning performance along with Cathan McCourt and Barry McNulty, who secured an excellent second place as they reflect on a hard-fought battle at the front of the field and the pace needed to challenge for victory and looking forward to the Donegal International Rally. Rounding out the episode is Jonathan Pringle, winner of the ever-competitive MKII Challenge (and over all two-wheel-drive winner) talks about his event. From dramatic stages and tricky weather conditions plus plenty of rally insight, stories, and analysis from a memorable weekend in Carlow. #motorsport #rallying #carlowrally #podcast #irishrally Chapters Start 00:00:00 Michael Boyle, Dermot McCafferty, Cathan McCourt & Barry McNulty 00:04:05 Johnny Pringle 00:32:20 End 00:48:21
May 17 · 59 min
What makes WRC Rally de Portugal so Special?
Krunching Gears – The Rally Podcast | 2026 Season - Episode 23 Sean Moriarty joins Kevin and Conor for a deep dive into why Vodafone Rally de Portugal remains one of the most iconic rounds of the World Rally Championship. An experienced automotive journalist and founder of Kerry Motorsport News, Sean shares first-hand insight into the culture, history, and atmosphere surrounding Rally Portugal. From the legendary Fafe jump (Pedra Sentada) to the carnival energy of the gravel stages, the trio explore why the event holds such a special place in rallying folklore. They discuss the passion of the fans, the spectacle of Pedra Sentada, and the electric atmosphere created by flares, fireworks, chainsaws, and packed spectator banks. If you love rallying at its rawest and most atmospheric, this episode shows why Portugal remains the beating heart of the WRC. #WRC #RallyPortugal #VodafoneRallyPortugal #FafeJump #PedraSentada #Rallying #Motorsport #WorldRallyChampionship #kerrymotorsportnews #podcast #rallypodcast
May 14 · 1 hr 17 min
Rally of the Lakes & Manx National Reviews. Plus Junior ERC & Carlow Rally Previews
Krunching Gears – The Rally Podcast | Season 2026 | Episode 22 This week on Krunching Gears – The Rally Podcast, we recap a dramatic Killarney Rally of the Lakes, with Rob Duggan joining us after clinching victory in the Modified category. We revisit the Manx Rally, with overall winners Ryan Loughran and Robb Fagg recalling their standout performance and claiming victory on the iconic island stages. Rising Irish talent Kyle McBride joins the show to discuss his exciting announcement for the 2026 Junior European Rally Championship and what lies ahead for the season. We preview the upcoming Carlow Rally with Clerk of the Course Michael Comerford, who gives insight into the preparations, stages, and what competitors and fans can expect from one of the most anticipated events on the national rally calendar. Plenty of rally chat, analysis, and behind-the-scenes insight throughout the episode. Chapters Start 00:00:00 Rob Duggan - Rally of the Lakes - 00:03:35 Ryan Loughran & Rob Fagg - Manx National 00:24:40 Kyle McBride - JERC announcement 00:49:52 Mick Comerford - COC Carlow Rally 01:05:05 End 01:17:46 #KrunchingGear #RallyPodcast #IrishRallying #RallyOfTheLakes #KillarneyRally #ManxRally #CarlowRally #ModifiedRallying #JuniorERC #EuropeanRallyChampionship #ERC #Motorsport #Rallying #IrishMotorsport #KyleMcBride #RyanLoughran #RobDuggan #RobbFagg #BehindTheStages #NationalRallying
May 5 · 39 min
Escort Rally Special
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast 2026 Season, episode 21. In this episode, we’re joined by Christophe Jacob, one of the organising team and Frank Kelly, MKII Escort hero, to talk about The Escort Rally Special in Chimay, Belgium, on 11th –13th September. A rally that delivers a pure, no-compromise celebration of Ford Escort rallying on fast, technical asphalt. Designed exclusively for Escort machinery, this niche event has quickly become a focal point for iconic Ford Escort enthusiasts. This rally caters for all types of RWD Escorts, but FWD or 4WD cars may also be considered. Set across demanding stages in the Hainaut region, the rally promises close competition and a strong community atmosphere. Frank and Christophe offer firsthand insight into the challenges and charm of competing in a single-marque rally. Whether you’re a driver, fan, or historic rally devotee, this is one you won’t want to miss. #FordEscort #rallyfans #onebrand #irishrally #motorsport #fastford #FrankKelly #babyblue
April 30 · 1 hr 21 min
WRC - Season Review to date. Preview of the Rally of the Lakes.
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 20. Luke Barry, award-winning journalist with DirtFish, joins us to break down the WRC season so far, covering the standout performances, surprise results, and key storylines shaping the championship battle. With expert insight and behind-the-scenes perspective, Luke helps us unpack what’s happening across the WRC. We also turn our attention to the Killarney Rally of the Lakes, as Sean Moriarty from Kerry Motorsport News previews the action. From local contenders to event atmosphere, Sean sets the scene for a thrilling weekend in Kerry. Chapters Start 00:00:00 Luke Barry on the WRC Season 00:00:55 Sean Moriarty talks, Killarney, Rally of the Lakes 00:51:20 End 01:21:11 #WRC #WorldRallyChampionship #Rallying #Motorsport #DirtFish #LukeBarry #RallyFans #RallyLife #KillarneyRally #RallyOfTheLakes #KerryMotorsport #IrishRally #MotorsportIreland #SeanMoriarty #RallySeason #Podcast #MotorsportPodcast #RallyNews
April 23 · 1 hr 13 min
Review of Moonraker and Sierra Morena Rallies
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 19. This week’s episode takes a look back at an action-packed Moonraker Forest Rally, where standout performances defined the weekend. We are joined by Andy Hayes (who claimed top honours alongside Josh Moffett) and 3rd placed co-driver Martin Brady (who sat with Mark Donnelly). In the two-wheel-drive battle, Jack Harris emerged victorious after a fiercely contested event and talks to us about his run on the Moonraker. We also shift our focus to the international stage, as we’re joined by William Creighton (7th overall) and Casey Jay Coleman (winner of the Fiesta Rally3 Trophy) fresh from their campaign at the opening round of the European Rally Championship, the Sierra Morena Rally. They share insights from their experience competing against top-level European talent, the challenges of adapting to new conditions, and what this means for their season ahead. Chapters Start 00:00:00 Moonraker talk with Andy Hayes & Martin Brady 00:03:00 More Moonraker Chat with Jack Harris 00:33:48 ERC Sierra Morena chat with William Creighton & Casey Jay Coleman 00:47:00 End 01:13:04
April 19 · 56 min
Krunching Gears - Lets talk rallying with Aaron Johnston
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season Episode 18. Fresh off an extraordinary double victory on two of the toughest rounds in the World Rally Championship, Aaron Johnston returns home to celebrate in style. In this special live episode, recorded in Omagh, we capture an unforgettable evening with Aaron alongside his family, friends, supporters, and sponsors as they reflect on back-to-back triumphs at the legendary Safari Rally and the demanding Croatian Rally. From Kenya’s unforgiving terrain to the tricky Croatian asphalt stages, Aaron shares insights into what it took to conquer both events. A sincere thank you to Ian Johnston and family, Matthew Alexander (Traction Media), Michael Devlin (the Adrian Newey of sound), and Darren Boot Music for their invaluable support in making this recording possible.
April 16 · 58 min
Rally Croatia & Severn Valley Rally Reviews. Moonraker Rally Preview.
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 17. Guests this week bring a packed rally roundup and preview. We kick things off with Conor Edwards as we dive into Rally Croatia, breaking down the key moments, standout performances, and what it all means for the championship battle. From high-speed asphalt to dramatic stages, there’s plenty to unpack. Next, we shift focus to the opening round of the British Rally Championship, the Severn Valley Rally, where Damien Tourish & Kevin Duggan, and Ben McFall join us to share insights, stories from the stages, and their experiences tackling one of the most challenging events on the calendar. Finally, we look ahead to the Moonraker Rally with Gavin Walsh, previewing what to expect, whether you're following every stage or just catching up, this episode has everything you need to stay in the loop. Chapters Start 00:00:00 Croatia chat from Conor Edwards 00:01:10 Severn Valley Rally - Damien Tourish, Kevin Duggan & Ben McFall 00:16:45 Moonraker Preview with COC Gavin Walsh 00:43:10 End 00:58:20
April 9 · 54 min
Circuit of Ireland Review & Monaghan Stages Preview.
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season Episode 16. We’re fresh off the stages of the Circuit of Ireland with a full breakdown of all the action. We’re joined by overall winners David Kelly & Shane Buckley as they talk us through their performance, the key moments of the rally, and what it took to come out on top in their stunning Skoda Fabia RS Rally 2. We also catch up with Barry Morris and Dylan Doonan, who claimed victory in the 2WD category in the awesome Darrian T90 GTR+, to hear about their impressive run and the challenges they faced along the way. Looking ahead, we turn our attention to the upcoming Monaghan Stages Rally. Local radio star Sean McCaffrey joins us to share his insights, expectations, and what fans should be watching for as the rally rolls into town this weekend. Plenty of stories, analysis, and rally chat as always—so buckle up and enjoy the ride. 🎧 Don’t forget to follow and share Krunching Gears – The Rally Podcast. Chapters Start 00:00:00 David Kelly & Shane Buckley 00:02:20 Barry Morris & Dylan Doonan 00:15:55 Sean McCaffrey, Monaghan Rally chat 00:31:50 End 00:54:41
April 8 · 44 min
Young Guns prepare for the ERC Fiesta Rally3 Trophy
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast. 2026 Season Episode 15 In this episode, we sit down with Craig Rahill, Casey Jay Coleman, Cian Caldwell, and Kalum Graffin to discuss their upcoming campaign in the European Rally Championship Rally3 Trophy, a five-round, M-Sport Poland–run competition kicking off at Rally Sierra Morena in mid-April. Craig and Casey Jay return for their second season in the championship, bringing valuable experience and insight, while Cian and Kalum prepare to take on the challenge for the very first time. The crews share their expectations, preparations, and what it means to compete across some of Europe’s most iconic and demanding rally stages. From the gravel of Sweden to the asphalt of Spain and Italy, and on to Poland and the Czech Republic, the 2026 Fiesta Rally3 Trophy promises a true test of skill, adaptability, and endurance. With a Ford Fiesta Rally2 prize drive at JDS Machinery Rali Ceredigion awaiting the overall winner, the stakes are high. Tune in for an inside look at the drivers, the competition, and the road ahead.
April 2 · 1 hr 19 min
Review of North Wales & Birr Rallies, plus preview of Circuit of Ireland.
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast. 2026 Season, episode 14. This week’s episode features a conversation with North Wales Rally Historic winners Marty McCormack and Barney Mitchell, who reflect on their performance and what it took to secure the victory in their stunning Mats van den Brand-prepared BMW M3. We also catch up with Shane Quinn following his impressive second-place finish in his Rally 2 Fiesta at the Birr Rally, discussing key moments from his event. Two-wheel drive category winner Aaron McIntyre joins us as well, offering insight into his winning drive in his 2.5 Starlet. Looking ahead, we preview the upcoming McKinney Competitions Circuit of Ireland in the company of Graeme Stewart, in what promises to be some enthralling battles for the weekend. Chapters Start 00:00:00 Marty McCormack & Barney Mitchell 00:03:15 Shane Quinn 00:36:23 Aaron McIntyre 00:54:25 UAC with Graeme Stewart 01:06:26 End 01:19:48