Pioneering motorsport legend Rosemary Smith dies aged 86

Irish motorsport legend Rosemary Smith has died at the age of 86.

Etched in the annals of motorsport history as a pioneering rally driver from Dublin, with a career spanning decades, Smith's journey is a testament to her skill, determination, and groundbreaking achievements on the racing circuits and rally stages.

Smith's initiation into rallying began as a co-driver, but her love for the driver's seat led to a pivotal role change, catching the attention of the Rootes Group's Competition Department, which offered her a coveted works drive.

Having clinched the ladies' prize at the Circuit of Ireland Rally in 1964, the year 1965 marked a significant milestone in her career when she, alongside co-driver Valerie Domleo, secured victory in the four-day Dutch Tulip Rally, manoeuvring a factory-entered Hillman Imp through 1800 miles of challenging terrain.

Despite facing controversy and disqualification in the 1966 Monte Carlo Rally, Smith's resolve remained unbroken, leading to a series of triumphs, including an outright win in the 1969 Cork 20 Rally and multiple victories on renowned stages like the Scottish Rally, the Alpine Rally, the Canadian Shell 4000, the 1968 London to Sydney Marathon and the 1970 London to Mexico World Cup Rally.

Beyond the racetrack, Smith's life story is a narrative of resilience and passion.

Born in 1937, she defied societal norms, learning to drive at 11 under her father's guidance and obtaining a driving license at 16 through resourceful means. Her foray into fashion design, including setting up a boutique with her mother, added another layer to her diverse persona.

Smith went on to drive for many of the leading motor manufacturers of the time, including Ford, BL, Porsche, Opel, Lancia and Chrysler