Robin is a stalwart of the Ulster Automobile Club and was an acknowledged competitor. Initially, he became involved in the sport as a competitor, and won the Circuit of Ireland Rally in 1955 and 1956. He later concentrated on the administration side, and went on to become an accomplished club and event secretary, International Clerk of Course and Steward. Impressively, it was Robin who was instrumental in introducing special stage rallying into Ireland in the '60s.

"Receiving the award was a great honour," McKinney said afterwards, "especially as this was first time the award had been given. It's also very nice to see Ronnie receive the same. He's an old friend and we go back a long way, back when the ANICC was formed."

Ronnie Trouton has also enjoyed many years of involvement within the sport, and was present at the formation meeting of the ANICC in 1963. He has represented Dungannon Motor Club, North Armagh Motorcycle and Car Club and more recently the Autotest Drivers' Club during the intervening years.

However, it is through the ANICC that Ronnie has become best known, and he has held the posts of Secretary, Chairman and President over the years. He also represented ANICC at the Royal Automobile Club and Motor Sports Association (MSA), spending many years as Chairman of the MSA Autotest Committee, and was also elected to the Board of MSA during this time.

Formerly a member of the Sports Council for Northern Ireland, Ronnie also chaired their Lottery Committee and currently keeps up to date with all things motorsport in his role as an active International Steward.

"It was a complete surprise!" Trouton said after receiving his award. "I knew Robin was receiving a lifetime achievement award but I had no idea that I was also going to receive one. I have spent many years involved in motorsport so it was a lovely surprise and very much appreciated."

Five competitors also claimed Special Achievement Awards for the outstanding success that they enjoyed further afield during the 2009 season.

Receiving these special recognitions were Dungannon's Kris Meeke (Intercontinental Rally Champion), Portadown's Adam Carroll (A1GP Champion), Portadown's Colin Turkington (British Touring Car Champion), Draperstown's Martin McCormack (British Citroen Racing Trophy champion, British Junior champion) and Maghera's Eugene Donnelly (Irish Tarmac Champion for a record equalling fifth time).

Kris Meeke also collected the ANICC Northern Ireland Motorsport award, which is regarded as the number one prize in Northern Ireland motorsport. Members of the media, motor clubs and ANICC council members had all been given the opportunity to nominate a competitor who they considered worthy of the award. And after all votes were counted, Kris emerged as a very worthy winner of the 2009 award.

Londonderry's Robert McDaid received the ANICC Clubman of the Year award. He was Head of Communications and Assistant Clerk of Course at last year's Rally Ireland. He still competes regularly, usually as a co-driver, and finished third overall with Sean Devine at the 2009 Topaz Donegal International Rally.

Speaking on behalf of the ANICC, Chairman Henry Campbell, said: "This has been a tremendous evening for Northern Ireland Motorsport. This small country has the ability to produce some exceptional driving talent and in 2009, many achieved their personal goals and have been recognised on the International stage."

"Whilst I also congratulate Kris Meeke on being selected for the 2009 ANICC Motorsport Award, I feel it is important to offer support and congratulations to all of our award winners, and especially to each of the winners of our Special Achievement Awards. They represent the 'icing on the cake' in terms of our very talented drivers and co-drivers. I wish everyone a safe and successful year's motorsport during 2010."

With the triumphs of 2009 behind them, competitors are gearing up towards another successful season. Many championships are already underway, and there are sure to be some tight battles in all disciplines. More details about all forms of four-wheeled motorsport in Northern Ireland can be found online at www.anicc.org.uk.

ENDS.

Photograph: Attached photograph depicts Dungannon's Kris Meeke, the reigning Intercontinental Rally Champion, and winner of the prestigious ANICC Northern Ireland Motorsport award. Image may be used free of charge for editorial use providing credit is given to the photographer, John O'Neill/SPERRINS PHOTOGRAPHY. Image may not be sold, resold or used for commercial purposes. Copyright remains with the photographer.

Regards,

Jonathan MacDonald
MediaJAM Communications