ORGANISERS have announced that the second Aberystwyth-based Get Connected Rali Bae Ceredigion will take place over the weekend of 3 and 4 September 2022.

It is the only closed road stage rally in Wales and is set to make its welcome return in 2022 after a three-year break, due to the coronavirus pandemic.

After making a highly successful debut in September 2019, the rally was intended to be an annual occasion. But like many others, restrictions surrounding the pandemic mean the event cannot take place until 2022.

The organisers said that, at a time of continued uncertainty, this announcement is an “extremely positive move that establishes a realistic date”.

“We are delighted to announce what we consider to be a target we can work towards with confidence”, said Phil Pugh, chairman of the Get Connected Rali Bae Ceredigion Organising Committee.­

“It’s always been our intention to organise the rally when the time is right and not before.

“The event was so well received when it was held in September 2019, we intend to build on that reputation for 2022. Of course, we cannot achieve this without the support of the local community: residents, businesses, authorities, emergency services and the general public.

“Therefore, we’ll be using this period of lead-time to good effect. It will enable us to provide a fantastic experience for competitors, spectators and commercial partners, as well as create another weekend to remember for everyone involved!”

As it did in 2019, the 2022 event will start and finish in Aberystwyth and continue its close associations with the town’s award-winning university. Organisers promise an extended route that like before, will feature a series of challenging and inspiring timed special stages on closed roads over the Cambrian Mountains.

Machynlleth driver Osian Pryce and co-driver Dale Furniss made history by claiming victory at the inaugural event, taking the lead on stage two, after a day-long battle with Tom Cave and Dale Bowen, eventually finishing with a 7.7 second gap to their rivals when they crossed the line.

Further news and details surrounding the 2022 Get Connected Rali Bae Ceredigion will be announced over the coming months.