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Old pleasures surface in Athea Sunday July 27th 2008 Sunday's vintage day in Athea, organised by the Athea Motorcycle Club, has been deemed a huge success, attracting over 200 exhibits of vintage cars, tractors and stationary machinery.The winner of the prestigious best vintage car 2008 was Johnny Walsh of Ballyduff, who brought along one of his prized possession, and Ireland's only 1935 Vauxhall 14. For his efforts, Johnny was presented with the Jimmy Dee Memorial Cup for the Best Vintage Car 2008. Given the stunning display of tractors on the day, organiser Connie Herbert said that next year there will also be a prize for the best original tractor. Among the other contenders on the day were a fabulous Jag from Clare, an Austin Allegro 1970 which came from Dingle, and many other great cars from yesteryear. The entertainment again was provided by Richie Kavanagh on an open-air stage, followed by the festival parade which took place through the village at 5pm. Once in the village, PJ Murrihy entertained the crowds on the streets until 8pm. In thanking all who came out and supported the event, Connie paid particular tribute to all the lads from Knockanure Vintage, particularly Bobby Stack, Paddy Kennelly and Dan Hartnett, who offered great help again this year in organising the event. They will be organising their own Knockanure rally on August 17. This is the second year Athea Motorcycle Club has sucessfully staged A Vintage Day, with all proceeds going to fund Athea Road Races 2009. Extract taken from The Kerryman July 30th 2008 article by John Reidy |
