Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast
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Description
Krunching Gears was an idea I had in the back of my head. Allowing rally crews the chance to tell their stories. Thanks to the encouragement of some good people, I took the plunge and started to produce a podcast to record some great stories The stories I’ve heard over the last few months have been funny, others heartfelt, and fascinating. I think you’ll enjoy hearing them.
263 Episodes
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Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 11.
In this episode, we look back at the opening round of the Northern Ireland Rally Championship in Bishopscourt with Jonny Greer and co-driver Niall Burns, who join us to reflect on their winning performance and a strong start to their championship campaign.
We also catch up with Osian Pryce to discuss his outing at Rally Costa Brava in the FIA European Historic Rally Championship, where he piloted a Ford Escort RS1800 run by Wales Motorsport.
Plus, we look ahead to round two of the Irish Tarmac Rally Championship, the iconic West Cork Rally, as Clerk of the Course Steve Davis joins us to preview what competitors and fans can expect.
Chapters
Start 00:00:00
Race & Rally Stages with Jonny Greer & Niall Burns 00:03:20
Costa Brava Historics chat with Osian Pryce 00:29:50
West Cork Rally Preview with COC Steve Davis 00:56:20
End 01:15:23
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 10.
In this episode, we’re joined by Jon Desborough, the original "voice of rally". Jon is a prominent sports journalist, veteran WRC commentator and author. Jon has spent years immersed in the highs, heartbreaks, and characters that define rallying.
In this episode, he shares insights into his time commentating on the WRC for Channel 4 and ITV, as well as what led him to transition into writing rally fiction novels during the COVID lockdown. From behind-the-scenes stories to reflections on rallying’s greatest eras and personalities, this episode offers a fascinating look at the sport through the eyes of someone who has dedicated his career to telling its story
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast. 2026 Season, episode 9.
In this episode, we’re joined by Niall McGonigle to reflect on his victory at the Fivemiletown Spring Stages Rally.
We also review the Mayo Stages Rally with overall winner David Kelly, plus the two-wheel-drive victors Brian Lavelle and Jack Kelly.
Finally, we look ahead to the upcoming Northern Ireland Rally Championship season with Championship Coordinator Gavin Campbell, discussing what competitors and fans can expect in the months ahead.
Chapters
Start 00:00:00
FMT with Niall McGonigle 00:02:20
Mayo - David Kelly 00:19:50
Mayo Brian Lavelle & Jack Kelly 00:28:50
NI Championship - Gavin Campbell 00:45:40
End 01:02:09
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 8.
In this episode, we’re joined by Rich Millener, Team Principal of the M-Sport Ford, to discuss the team’s start to the 2026 World Rally Championship season and the challenges and opportunities that have emerged in the opening rounds. We’re also chat to Jon Armstrong and Shane Byrne to reflect on their transition into Rally1 machinery and how they are settling into life at the top level with two rounds of the championship now complete.
Chapters
Start 00:00:00
Rich Millener 00:02:15
Jon Armstrong & Shane Byrne 00:37:50
End 01:13:56
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 7.
In this episode, we sit down with William Creighton and Liam Regan to discuss their major announcement for 2026. Backed by the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy, Creighton will step up to contest a full campaign in the European Rally Championship with Tagai Racing Technology, representing Stellantis Motorsport across the seven-round series. The reigning British Rally Championship winner reflects on the significance of his first full ERC programme, as the long-standing partnership with Regan enters its 13th season. The pair will begin their campaign on the first round of the ERC in Spain, competing in a Citroën C3 Rally2 before transitioning later in the year to the all-new Lancia Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale.
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 6.
In this episode, we look ahead to the Fivemiletown Spring Stages Rally, organised by Omagh Motor Club and forming a round of the NI Gravel Rally Challenge. We’re joined by Clerk of the Course Ronnie McAleer and Deputy Clerk of the Course Lewis Boyd to discuss the event preparations, the stages and what competitors can expect.
We also preview the Mayo Stages Rally, the opening round of the National Rally Championship, with insights from Clerk of the Course Stephen McGing, Event Secretary Ruthann O’Connor and PRO Andy Walsh as they outline plans for the season curtain-raiser.
Chapters
Start 00:00:00
Ronnie McAleer & Lewis Boyd from Omagh Motor Club 00:02:10
Stephen McGing, Ruthann O'Connor & Andy Walsh 00:21:40
End 00:54:00
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 5.
We look back at the opening round of the Irish Forestry Championship, the Yeats Ridge Forestry Rally, with winning co-driver Martin Brady, 2nd placed Keelan Grogan (competing for the first time on gravel in a Rally2 Fiesta), and 3rd placed Jordan Hone, who debuted his Skoda Fabia RS Rally2.
We are joined by Declan O’Keeffe, Carrie Ryan, Lauren Doherty, Evan Stapleton and Eddie Byrne to reflect on the recent Dacia Sandero Challenge Cup open day at Mondello Park and to discuss how you can get involved as we look forward to the 2026 championship getting underway on the Mayo Stages Rally.
Chapters
Start 00:00:00 Yeats Ridge review with Martin, Keelan & Jordan 00:03:00
Dacia Sandero Challenge chat with Carrie, Lauren, Evan, Eddie & Declan 00:35:45
End 01:16:04
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 4.
In this episode, we look back at the dramatic Corrib Oil Galway Rally with overall winner Callum Devine, who shares his thoughts on the season opener. Galway has definitely set a high bar for the first round of the NAPA Irish Rally Tarmac Championship.
We are also joined by second-placed co-driver Tom Murphy and winning two-wheel-drive co-driver Killian McArdle, as they reflect on their rallies and key moments from the event.
We also chat to RallyTV commentator Mike Chen, who gives his expert analysis of the opening round of the World Rally Championship in Monte Carlo and the stories that shaped the season opener.
Chapters
Start 00:00:00
Callum Devine 00:04:25
Tom Murphy & Killian McArdle 00:18:40
Mike Chen 00:44:05
End 01:18:20
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 3.
Helen Tait Wright and Marcella Kirk talk to us about their recent exploits on the 2026 Dakar Rally, taking on more than 8,000 kilometres of punishing terrain, extreme temperatures, and relentless navigation challenges, against a field dominated by seasoned international teams, they secured an impressive finish in their class in their specially modified 1988 Land Rover Defender 110, affectionately known as “Purdey.”
Helen and Marcella wanted to thank: Chris Stodel, Felix Prendergast, Jonathan Lane, family & friends who have lived the adventure from Day 1 and the staff at Marcella’s business who kept things running while they were away.
Their sponsors include: Eurospare parts, Allisport Ltd, Exol Lubricants, Teng Tools, Giti Tire, Santana Trophy, World Storytelling Café, RJ Auto Electrical, 4 x Proyect, Flarespace, Mahker, Red Canoe Brands, Exmoor Trim, Deja Vu Bar and Tapas, Solihull Sisterhood, Safety Devices, Empire Tuning, Demand Engineering, Arrow Precision Engineering, Marsland Chassis, Blue Lizard Signs, Stauff UK, Coburn Fasteners, TM Pearson, GTF Automotive.
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast. Season 2026, Episode 2.
In this episode, we look ahead to an exciting 2026 WRC season with Hyundai driver Hayden Paddon as he makes his return to the World Rally Championship after an eight year absence.
We also hear from award winning motorsport journalist Luke Barry then we speak to Hyundai Chief Engineer Jamie McMillan, each offering their unique insights as the season kicks off with the iconic Monte Carlo Rally.
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast. Episode One
The 2026 season kicks off with a celebration of European Historic rallying. In episode one, we turn the spotlight on the FIA European Historic Rally Championship alongside father and son Ernie and Will Graham, Fintan McGrady, Barney Mitchell, Tim Metcalfe, Dean Beckett, and Alan Bolton. Our guests share their experiences of competing on some of Europe’s most iconic historic rallies, reliving unforgettable events, cars, and the adventures that come with them. Beyond the machinery, the conversation captures the spirit of a different era of rallying — one defined by camaraderie, shared stories, and a service area where competitors socialised long after the stages were finished.
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast. 2025 Season, episode 54.
We sit down with Josh McErlean, Eoin Treacy, Jon Armstrong and Shane Byrne following their confirmation as part of the M-Sport World Rally Team’s 2026 WRC line-up. The lads share their initial reactions, discuss what the opportunity means for their careers, and outline the preparation and expectations as they look ahead to the challenges of the 2026 World Rally Championship.
As we close out the year, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to all of our guests who have been so generous with their time and insights on the podcast.
We are equally grateful to our listeners and viewers for joining us each week and for the continued support and encouragement. We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Special guest appearance by Ollie Glendinning on the tin whistle.
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast. 2025 Season, episode 53.
Craig Rahill and Conor Smith talk to us about their exciting announcement to step up to the Junior World Rally Championship for the 2026 season in a Fiesta Rally3. Craig & Conor’s rookie season in this year’s Junior European Rally Championship saw them finished third overall, voted FIA ERC Rookie of the Year, and also secure the first international win for the Lancia Ypsilon Rally4 HF.
Also on this episode, we are joined by the renowned motorsport journalist Tom Howard to review the 2025 World Rally Championship. Tom is best known for his coverage of the WRC for Autosport magazine and Motorsport.com.
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2025 Season, episode 52.
A special episode this week as M-Sport confirms its driver line-up for the 2026 World Rally Championship. Josh McErlean and Eoin Treacy return to the team following a breakthrough season, underlining M-Sport’s confidence in one of the championship’s most promising partnerships. We also look ahead to an exciting new chapter as Jon Armstrong and Shane Byrne step up to contest all 14 rounds of the WRC with the M-Sport squad. We chat with Rich Milliner, John Coyne, Josh McErlean, Eoin Treacy, Jon Armstrong and Shange Byrne to explore the implications for M-Sport, the drivers, and the future of Irish talent on rallying’s biggest platform.
We are also joined by Motorsport Ireland President Aiden Harper to look back on the 2025 season for Motorsport Ireland and touch on the future of rallying in Ireland.
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2025 Season, episode 51.
Part two of ‘In conversation with Gerry McGarrity’.
We continue our deep dive into the career of one of Irish rallying’s most influential figures. In this episode, Gerry reflects on his work with emerging talent and the pivotal role he played in the development of drivers, including Kris Meeke, Garry Jennings, Gareth McHale, Alastair Fisher, and Sam & Josh Moffett. He also discusses his involvement in the Northern Ireland Sprint Championship and the special place that competition plays in Gerry’s life. Recorded in front of a live audience, this conversation offers unique insight into Gerry’s contribution to Irish motorsport beyond the driver’s seat. With thanks to everyone who helped make this special evening with Gerry McGarrity possible.
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2025 Season, episode 50.
In conversation with Gerry McGarrity, part one.
Gerry is known for his dedication, skill, and tenacity. Based in Fermanagh, he has spent decades earning respect as a rally driver, a motorsport preparation expert, and a mentor for young talent. Among the many drivers he guided, none felt his influence more strongly than Mark Fisher. Gerry played a quiet but significant role in shaping Mark’s early approach to the sport—helping to refine his technique, build his confidence, and instil the discipline that would eventually carry him onto the international stage. He has tutored young drivers all the way up to competing in the World Rally Championship, and Mark’s rise remains one of the clearest examples of Gerry’s ability to spot potential and nurture it with care. Whether he’s competing or working behind the scenes, Gerry truly represents the spirit of grassroots rallying.
Kruncing Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2025 Season, episode 49.
Winners of the Killarney Historic Rally, Donagh Kelly & Rory Kennedy, join us to talk about their win in the BMW M3 – a poignant victory for Rory, who won the Killarney Rally of the Lakes 35 years ago alongside Bertie Fisher in a similar BMW M3.
Modified winners in Killarney, Colin O’Donoghue & Kieran O’Donoghue chat about their MKII adventures at the event.
Joining us to relive the recent Roger Albert Clarke Rally (RAC) is second-place finisher Paul Barrett, and sharing their RAC experiences in a classic Morris Mini are Colin McDowell & Geraldine McBride.
Chapters Start 00:00:00
Donagh Kelly & Rory Kennedy 00:05:08
Colin & Kieran O'Donoghue 00:30:55
Paul Barrett 00:51:20
Colin McDowell & Geraldine McBride 01:05:30
End 01:37:46
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2025 Season, episode 48.
We look back at the recent Roger Albert Clark (RAC) Rally with Gordon Noble, who finished 2nd overall.
Marty McCormack, Barney Mitchell, and Mats van den Brand chat about their tilt at the 2025 RAC crown in the Mats Performance-built BMW M3.
Allen Treacy, Mark McCaffrey, Richard Hogg and Mark Hanna join us to chat about their exploits over the five-day RAC adventure.
Chapters
Start 00:00:00
Gordon Noble 00:02:34
Marty McCormack, Barney Mitchell & Mads van den Brand 00:26:30
Richard Hogg, Mark Hanna, Allen Tracey & Mark McCaffrey 01:00:40
End 01:53:00
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2025 Season, episode 47.
We catch up with Jordan Hone and his co-driving father, Paul, to talk about winning the Brown & Brown NI Forest Rally Challenge.
Shane McGirr & Denver Rafferty tell us about their Fivemiletown Rally exploits and taking the 2-wheel drive win at the event.
We look forward to the Killarney Historic Rally, featuring two stalwarts of rallying in the Kingdom, Sean Moriarty and Rory Kennedy.
Chapters Start 00:00:00
Jordan & Paul Hone 00:05:40
Shane McGirr & Denver Rafferty 00:22:50
Rory Kennedy & Sean Moriarty 00:45:00
End 01:22:13
Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2025 Season, episode 47.
We look back at the Dacia Sandero Cup with Cillian Doherty, Tommy Cuddihy, Leah Doherty, Art McCarrick, Denis Ferry, Trevor Toner and Declan O’Keeffe. For more about the Dacia Cup, visit the website. www.daciasanderochallengecup.com
We catch up with Ben McFall to chat about his year-to-date and his exciting plans for next year.
Ronnie McAleer and Lewis Boyd from the Omagh Motor Club talk to us about the upcoming Fivemiletown Rally.
Chapters
Start 00:00:00 Dacia Sandero Cup Chat 00:04:33
Ben McFall 01:00:40
Samsonas Fivemiletown preview with Ronnie & Lewis 01:14:02
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