Patrick O’Brien from Mountfield, an NVQ Level 2 Motor Vehicle student at South West College Omagh Campus is taking the Rally world by storm as he continues to break records at junior and senior level. Even though Patrick is just 16 he was recently crowned the Junior and Overall winner of the Irish Rally Sport Association Championship after his latest win in Aghadowey. Patrick has lifted the Junior title three years in a row, which is a first for any driver. To add to his notoriety Patrick is also the first Junior to ever win the Overall title which is open to all ages.
Patrick’s said; "I really enjoy the sport and I am delighted with my achievements to date and I am extremely grateful to my sponsors DJ Rally Hire, Glendale Filling Station, Campsie 24 Hour Service Station and McAree Engineering." Paul O’Loughlin, Patrick’s lecturer said; "Patrick is a very talented driver, his achievements to date are unheard of at this age. He is passionate about all things ‘cars’ and I have no doubt that he will achieve many more accolades in the future. His ultimate dream is not just to be an exceptional mechanic, but also to race professionally and all his lecturing team and classmates are is behind him all the way."
Patrick is now gearing up to compete in the British championships when he turns 17 and will undoubtedly have another great year ahead of him on the track.