Barry O’Neill awarded 2010 JLT MSA Marshal of the Year

The Motor Sports Association (MSA) recently awarded Barry O’Neill, Vice Chairman of Northern Ireland’s Motorsport Marshalling Partnership (MMP) and a member of Omagh Motor Club as 2010 JLT MSA Marshal of the Year.  Barry works as an Employment Liaison Officer at the Omagh Campus of South West College.

When did you begin marshalling and why?

A few friends and I used to spectate at some of the bigger motor sport events in Northern Ireland. One of them knew a marshal who needed some extra hands to man a junction on the Donegal Rally about 10 years ago. That was my introduction, after which I became more heavily involved.

What do you enjoy about marshalling?

It’s a chance to become more closely involved in the sport, and to become part of a community of like-minded enthusiasts. For me, the job is a reward in itself.

What did you get up to in 2010?

I’m Vice Chairman of Northern Ireland’s Motorsport Marshalling Partnership, and last year we launched a cadet marshals scheme that attracted almost 100 recruits to the first training event. I was also Chief Marshal on the Ulster International Rally and started producing a quarterly marshals’ newsletter.

How did it feel to be named the Marshal of the Year?

At first I felt a sense of shock, as I didn’t start marshalling to win prizes and never thought that my efforts would be recognised in this way. But it was a privilege to win and to collect my award at the Night of Champions, and I want to dedicate it to all of volunteers who take the time go get out there and make the sport happen.

What do you do away from the track?

I work as an Employment Liaison Officer at South West College, where I developed a motor sport division that runs automotive engineering and event stewarding courses. I also compete in club rallies using a Skoda Felicia ex-Skoda Challenge Car prepared by students at the college.