While the distinctive purple and yellow of Wexford will be flying high at the All-Ireland hurling semi-final at Croke Park on Sunday, talented New Ross driver Philip Kehoe will be flying the Model County's flag a little earlier around the Phoenix Park in his Formula Ford Zetec car. Twenty three-year-old Kehoe was awarded the Rothmans Driver of The Meeting last year for his exceptional performance in winning his heat and final of the Formula Vee class and his challenge for honours this year begins at 12.0 p.m. when he is hoping he can start the Wexford victory trail at the wheel of his Van Dieman RF97.

Other prestigious awards won by the Co Wexford farmer include the Emerson Fittipaldi Trophy and the J C Millard Trophy. But motor racing is expensive and Kehoe admits to be "struggling financially" to keep his car competitive.

"The Zetecs are very expensive to run and sponsorship is vital. At the moment, unless I can find more money, I won't be out at Kirkistown (in a championship race) at the end of August." A Phoenix Park win is vital for Kehoe.