Dalton and Knox ready for a ‘rally’ good season - Kilkenny People Sport Podcast

Rallying events across the island of Ireland rank among Europe’s most iconic motorsport experiences, with high-performance cars, fearless drivers, and some of the finest driving routes in the world. - FULL AUDIO INTERVIEW HERE

Now in 2026, the engines are still running - not only nationwide but here in Kilkenny.

Richie Dalton (Chancellor’s Mills) and Pat Knox have travelled the country together, taking part in rallies near and far.

Currently the pair are looking forward to a packed schedule of meetings in the National Rally Championships, the second biggest competition in Ireland.

LISTEN: Kilkenny duo Dalton and Knox on getting behind the wheel - The Full Interview

Events in Monaghan (April 12) and Carlow (May 17) are fast approaching in the eight round competition, with both men relishing what’s ahead.

The duo will be keen to build on their impressive showing in Mayo three weeks ago, coming third in the class.

That weekend was particularly special for Richie, who is dipping his toe back into rallying waters again after time away from the sport.

Though both are accomplished drivers in their own right, they’ve settled into a strong partnership, with Richie at the wheel and Pat navigating, roles that play to each of their strengths.

"The National Championship is run on the Sunday, but we recce on the Saturday. So we go over the stages, buy the notes and we go over the stages," Pat explained, noting that evenings are spent adding in their personal notes.

From Sunday morning it’s showtime, with meticulous timing expected on raceday, while regular practice all year round is a must.

"It’s like if you’re doing your driving test - there’s no point in going out every six months and driving. You don’t become a good rally driver by doing two events a year. You have to get seat time," Richie commented, stressing the trust the two men have in each other inside the car.

Although both men were latecomers to the sport, this proved no handicap, unlike in many others.

"My father brought me to my first event, it was out in Nine Mile House but I was a late bloomer I suppose, 35 or 36 when I started," Pat said, swapping the soccer balls and hurls for a helmet and steering wheel.

For Richie, the thrill of adrenaline fuels his and other drivers’ passion for the sport.

"There’s lads even older than me that are like young lads going around, we all like to think we’re young, but they’re all great drivers too. Lads say 'we’re only out for the spin' but once they get behind the wheel, they’re great drivers," he said.

"I probably would only do about three to four rallies a year," Pat said, stressing their eagerness to perform when they do take part.

"Once the helmet goes on that’s it. It’s down to business for the day.

"I’d love to see Kilkenny have their own club, there’s a heap of lads that are involved in rallying or go watch rallying from Kilkenny," Pat added.

FULL INTERVIEW BELOW: