The organisers of the Pirelli International Rally, who are more used to a vastly different type of horsepower, are joining forces with Carlisle Racecourse, the headquarters and base for all the rallies activities, to sponsor the first race of the March 18th meeting at the historic horse racing venue which has hosted the "Sport of Kings" since the 16th century.

The Pirelli International 21st Anniversary Novices Hurdle Race will feature a "Special Stage" over a two mile distance and will be for novice horses which have not previously won more than three hurdles races. Speaking about this innovative new venture, a spokesman for Cumberland Sporting Car Club, the Pirelli International Rally organisers, said, " This is a new and exciting venture for us and we are pleased to be engaging in a sport that is very much a part of Carlisle's community and culture. It is a unique way to celebrate the 21st anniversary of our event. However, having attended several meetings at Carlisle and watched the horses careering over the jumps, I have come to the conclusion that you are a lot safer sitting in a rally car".

It will be business as usual for the Pirelli International Rally organisers when they return to Carlisle Racecourse for their big event which this year runs on April 27th/ 28th.