Michael Park (rally co-pilot)

Michael Park (June 22 1966 - September 18 2005) was a rally co-driver from Newent in Gloucestershire.

Related Topics:
June 22 - 1966 - September 18 - 2005 - Rally - Newent - Gloucestershire

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One of the top co-drivers of his generation, Park died as a result of injuries sustained in an accident on the final leg of Wales Rally Great Britain. As co-driver to Markko Märtin, 'Beef', as he was affectionately known, enjoyed considerable success with the Estonian during three seasons at Ford before joining Peugeot for 2005.

Related Topics:
Accident - Wales Rally Great Britain - Markko Märtin - Estonia - Ford - Peugeot

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Park, a rally enthusiast since the age of ten, gained experience with some of Britain's top talents. He worked with former world champions Richard Burns and Colin McRae as a gravel note expert while co-driving for both David Higgins and Mark Higgins in the British national series. His big break, however, came when he teamed up with the emerging Estonian talent Markko Märtin as a privateer pairing in a Toyota Corolla for the 2000 World Rally Championship season.

Related Topics:
Britain - Richard Burns - Colin McRae - David Higgins - Mark Higgins - Estonia - Markko Märtin - Toyota Corolla - World Rally Championship

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After a string of impressive performances, the pair were signed up by Subaru for 2001, before moving to Ford, where they evolved into one of the leading driver/co-driver combinations in the WRC. In 2003 they took two rally victories, in Greece and Finland, and improved on that figure with three wins in 2004.

Related Topics:
Subaru - Greece - Finland

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Perhaps known best for his keen sense of humour and his distinctive St George's Cross helmet, 'Beef' Park became a fan favourite, especially in his native England and (nearly-adopted) Estonia.

Related Topics:
St George's Cross - England - Estonia

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The pair were lying fourth in this season's title race after securing four podiums in a season dominated by Citroën's Sébastien Loeb. Their performances had been instrumental in Peugeot's challenge for the manufacturer's championship, with the team lying six points behind French rivals Citroën.

Related Topics:
Citroën - Sébastien Loeb - French

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Park is survived by wife Marie and children William and Victoria.

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