The Dunoon Presents Argyll Rally was halted temporarily on Friday night following a serious crash involving one of the competing crews on SS3 – the Tarsan Dam stage.
Michael Moates and driver Justin Gunning were involved in the high-speed incident just before 9.40pm, prompting an immediate response from rally rescue teams and emergency services.
No other competitors or spectators were involved in the incident.
The stage was quickly red-flagged as marshals, event paramedics, and the Scottish Ambulance Service’s trauma team attended the scene.
An air ambulance was also dispatched, airlifting Michael Moates to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow for further treatment.
A Scottish Ambulance Service spokesperson said: “We received a call at 9.36pm on Friday to attend a road traffic collision at the Argyll Rally.
“We dispatched two ambulances, our trauma team and an air ambulance to the scene.
“We airlifted one patient to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.”
The organisers of the Argyll Rally also released a statement the following day, adding: “On Friday night, a crew competing in the Dunoon Presents Argyll Rally was involved in an incident on the third stage of the event, Tarsan Dam – no other cars or persons were involved.
“The stage was stopped immediately, and event rescue crews were dispatched to the scene.
“One crew member was taken to Glasgow hospital to receive further treatment.”
Over the weekend, Michael Moates shared an emotional update on social media, thanking all those involved in the rescue and medical response.
He said: “Just wanted to say I’m very grateful to all who’ve been checking in following Friday night’s accident.
“Long story short, it’s going to be an extremely long road to recovery, but I’m grateful to be here.
“Big thanks to the spectators, event paramedics, and Glasgow’s air ambulance for doing all they could and more in the situation — can’t thank each and every one of you more.
“Thanks again for all the calls and messages — I will get back in due time.”
Organisers and fans alike have sent their best wishes to Michael and Justin.
A post from the Argyll Rally team read: “We are pleased to hear that Justin Gunning and Michael Moates are on the mend after their incident on SS3 Tarsan Dam.
“Get well soon, guys.”
As the community rallies around the pair, thoughts remain with them and their families as Michael begins his long road to recovery.
