Fred Gallagher

Chairman, Endurance Rally Association

Fred Gallagher grew up in a part of Northern Ireland where those noted for a passion and love of pure motor sport lived. Paddy Hopkirk was a near neighbor, and the likes of John Watson and Eddie Irvine were raised just a handful of miles away. Despite studying at University, rallying was to be the major career path he pursued, eventually competing as co-driver for many top names in the sport, in many factory-based teams and winning a number of WRC events. With his wealth of experience, when he hung up his helmet more administrative opportunities opened for him, including Clerk of the Course for the UK’s RAC Rally. Gallagher also became Vice-Chairman of the Endurance Rally Association. Following the sudden and tragic loss of the ERA’s founder, Philip Young, at the beginning of 2015, Fred has stepped up to take on the responsibility at the top of that organization. VR’s European Editor, Mike Jiggle, sat down to ask Fred how these first months have been, as he adjusts to his new position.