A TEENAGE driver who blocked traffic and revved his car during this year’s West Cork Rally has been convicted and fined €150 for careless driving.

James Maguire (19), of Church Town South, Clonakilty appeared at Clonakilty District Court where he was charged with dangerous driving.

However, the State agreed to reduce the charge from dangerous driving to one of careless driving.

The court heard that at 11.10pm on the first day of this year’s West Cork Rally in March the defendant was driving a red Toyota Corolla on the N71 and was observed by gardaí exiting a petrol station.

He was seen stopping on the road and blocking traffic at The Miles. A large crowd came close to the car, shouting and jeering before he put on the handbrake, revved the engine producing black smoke, before speeding off.

Gardaí stopped his car and found three other people inside along with Mr Maguire, who was the driver and they arrested him for dangerous driving and seized his car.

The court heard that he has no previous convictions.

Defence solicitor Conrad Murphy said his client was very cooperative with gardaí and had passed his driving test in November 2025.

‘That has ramifications in relation to his points,’ said Mr Murphy.

He described his client as a diligent young man who had completed six driving lessons in Midleton and six in Mallow.

The defendant is starting an apprenticeship as a mechanic in May, and also works as a kitchen porter.

He added that Mr Maguire would not be able to start his apprenticeship, if he got disqualified from driving. The court heard that the accused’s vehicle was fully insured and that he had paid €200 to get his car back from gardaí. ‘He did not come out of his room for a few days after the incident,’ said Mr Murphy.

‘He has got his driving test and is in a novice driving situation,’ said Judge Joanne Carroll. ‘This was a significant error of judgement. He has pleaded guilty and accepted responsibility.’

Judge Carroll warned him that he will get five points on his licence as a result of the incident.

She convicted and fined him €150 for careless driving giving him four months to pay the fine which was immediately paid into court.

Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme.