“Maybe rallying can never be completely safe for the competitor but for spectators there are some simple personal safeguards which you can follow so that you are not putting yourself at risk. I ask you, for your own sakes, please think where you watch from, do not take risks to get the best view or the best photo. Listen to the marshals and never argue with them. Follow paths that have been made for you and don’t please wander about in the stage and try and get out of the way just as a car is coming. I know you love our sport, and our sport would be nothing without you, but do not put yourself and our sport at risk. Use that British common sense!”
Ari Vatanen, 1981 World Rally Champion
Spectator Safety
Watching a live motor sport event is a thrilling experience and one of the best ways for fans to get close to the action, experiencing the sport’s sights, sounds and smells first-hand.
The MSA, event organisers and venues strive to keep spectators safe but ultimately all spectators are responsible for their own personal safety.
Here are some tips that spectators should remember at live events:
- Always keep your own safety in mind
- Park in a safe place
- Follow marshals’ instructions
- Observe and obey all event signs
- Stay within the official spectator areas
- Do not enter any prohibited areas
- Keep off the road or track
- Listen to official announcements
- Expect the unexpected.
On rallies in particular, remember:
- Cars may run wide on corners
- Cars may cut corners
- Cars may throw up stones
- Cars may overshoot junctions
- Cars may leave the road.
So, have fun but keep safe!
Accommodation
All of our events take place in our local town’s and villages in and around Omagh, Castlederg and Cookstown. If you would like to book accommodation for attending any of our events, there are numerous hotels and B&B’s available. Make the most of your visit and see what the wonderful county of Tyrone has to offer whilst enjoying our great stages!
Silverbirch Hotel
Gortin Road, Omagh, BT79 7DH
The family run Silverbirch is the home of the Bushwhacker Rally. The club has shared a great relationship with the hotel over the years and its stylish environment provides excellent space and facilities. The hotel is less than 5 minutes drive into the town centre or a 15 minute walk. The stylish and spacious bedrooms all have a private bathroom and colourful decor. All rooms have a flat-screen TV, free toiletries and tea and coffee facilities.
The Silverbirch Hotel Restaurant serves traditional Irish cuisine and fine wines. There is also a well-stocked bar and lounge area. The hotel provides breakfast, lunch and dinner options to suit a wide range of dietary needs.
Mellon Country Inn
134 Beltany Road, Omagh Co. Tyrone BT78 5RA
Privately owned and family run, The Mellon Country Inn is a newly refurbished 3 star hotel situated on the Beltany Road between Omagh and Strabane. With a bit of traditional Irish flair and a touch of New York, The Mellon Country Inn guests will enjoy the comfort and elegance of an era long establishment complemented by the most modern of facilities.
Fir Trees Hotel
Dublin Rd, Strabane, BT82 9EA
The Fir Trees is a three star family run hotel nestling at the foot of the scenic Sperrin Mountains on the outskirts of Strabane, County Tyrone. The hotel has 23 beautifully decorated bedrooms, on-site parking, and is widely recognised for its highly acclaimed food and home from home experience.
Glenavon House Hotel
52 Drum Road, Cookstown, BT80 8JQ
Set in nine acres of mature grounds, the Glenavon House Hotel, Cookstown, Co Tyrone, is a 3 star hotel offering first class comfort. Renowned for it’s relaxing atmosphere and luxurious facilities this 62 bedroom hotel boasts a state of the art conference centre, private leisure complex and magnificent wedding facilities. It has, over the years built up an excellent reputation with both the locals and those from further afield. The hotel’s central location within Mid Ulster makes it an ideal base as it is only one hours drive to anywhere in Northern Ireland.
Greenvale Hotel
57 Drum Road, Cookstown, County Tyrone, BT80 8QS
When you’re planning your Northern Ireland breaks, the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown Tyrone is perfect central location. There are few hotels in N. Ireland better suited as your base to explore Northern Ireland because you can reach any place of interest, in any direction, in less than 90 minutes.