Terry Harryman Obituary ,Cause Of Death, Six-Time WRC Rally Winning Co-Driver Terry Harryman Dies At 87
The world of motorsport is in mourning following the passing of Terry Harryman, a celebrated Northern Irish co-driver who etched his name into the annals of the World Rally Championship. Harryman, aged 87, died peacefully after a period of illness, leaving behind a legacy of six WRC victories and nine podium finishes across a career that spanned an impressive five decades.
Harryman was a master of the pacenote, his calm and precise calls guiding some of rallying’s most legendary drivers through treacherous stages. His notable partnerships included names like Paddy Hopkirk, Vic Elford, Malcolm Wilson, Jimmy McRae, Tony Pond, Michele Mouton, and the iconic Ari Vatanen.
His journey in rallying began in Ireland, where he tasted early success, including three victories in the prestigious Circuit of Ireland. Harryman’s transition to the WRC saw him debut in 1974, but it was his later collaborations that truly defined his career. A partnership with Ari Vatanen proved particularly fruitful, accounting for all six of Harryman’s WRC wins. Their triumphs included a memorable victory in the brutal Safari Rally Kenya and a string of wins with the formidable Peugeot 205 T16 Group B car, including a remarkable hat-trick in 1984.
Beyond his victories, Harryman is also remembered for a viral moment during the 1983 Manx Rally. Navigating a particularly challenging section, his spontaneous “dear god” exclaimation as Vatanen wrestled with the Opel Manta became a beloved piece of rally folklore.
Terry Harryman was more than just a co-driver; he was a consummate professional and an integral part of the sport’s golden eras. His dedication, skill, and enduring presence will be deeply missed by the rallying community worldwide.