Elena to receive inaugural Michael Park Trophy

MICHAEL PARK "BEEF" TROPHY

On September 18th 2005, Michael PARK ("Beef"), Markko MARTIN's co-driver, was killed in a tragic accident during the Wales Rally GB.

The WRC world misses his honesty, simplicity and his joy for life.

A group of his friends and colleagues have decided to perpetuate his memory by creating the Michael Park "Beef" Trophy.

Many individuals and teams associated with WRC have financially supported this project and helped make it happen.

The trophy is a bronze bust which has been created by the French artist Francois Chevalier well known for his painting and sculpture in the historic sport cars' world (and also for his work as former director of the Paul Ricard Racing Circuit). It will be awarded at the end of each WRC season to the co-driver who has best shown the overall qualities associated with Michael through his sports results, general attitude, or a specific action.

A jury composed of WRC personalities (a retired professional co-driver, a member of an official team, a journalist, etc--) will be selected each year to select the prize winner.

For 2006, this jury was composed of:
* Denis Giraudet (Prodrive)
* Michel Lizin (Auto-Hebdo)
* David Richards (ISC)
* Malcom Wilson (M Sport)

They had to choose between six nominated co-drivers:
* Carlos Del Barrio (E)
* Daniel Elena (MC)
* Jarmo Lehtinen (FIN)
* Philip Mills (GB)
* Ilka Minor (A)
* Timo Rautiainen (FIN)

We are pleased to announce that in 2006 Daniel ELENA has been chosen as the first winner of the Michael Park "Beef" Trophy.

His achievements include;

* Loyal co-driver of Sebastien LOEB

* World Rally Champion for co-drivers in 2004, 2005 and 2006.

* Has become the most successful co-driver in the history of the WRC with 28 victories to date.

* Along with Sebastien Loeb they forfeited their win at the 2005 Wales Rally GB to avoid becoming World Rally Champions that fateful day.

* Has always shown great modesty, good humour and respect for the Sport and his colleagues.

The prize-giving of the Michael PARK "Beef" Trophy to Daniel ELENA will take place on Friday December 1st in the Service Park at Swansea Felindre, around 16h45/17h00 at the Press Conference at the end of 1st leg of Wales Rally GB, in the presence of Michael's widow, Marie Park and his two children William and Victoria. Other members of Michael's immediate family, including brothers and sisters, along with other close friends will also attend.

-credit: ford