Jimmy McRae was at the peak of his powers in the 80s and headed an impressive entry for the 1981 Donegal International Rally. However, it was the unassuming bank clerk from Castlederg, John Lyons, who stole the show. Lyons launched into an unassailable early lead and controlled the event from start to finish to take his maiden international win in his Sydney Meeke prepared Ford Escort RS1800.