COMMUNITY NOTES: BALLINA - WESTERN PEOPLE (JUNE 8 EDITION)
Alloy wheel and car engine supremos Willie Durcan, Benny Walkin, Vinnie Kelly, Micheal O’Grady, Bernie Kenny and James McGreal are just some of the names synonymous with motor rallying in Ballina and the wider region for the best part of five decades.
The six were among the founding members of this highly respected Ballina Motor Club, one of the most active in the west and the pioneers of the annual Mayo Stages Rally.
On the numerous occasions that the club hosted a major rally in Ballina the town was packed with car enthusiasts who brought a splash of colour, excitement and competitive motor sport, also generating a major boost for the local economy as hundreds of people descended on the town.
It will be a stage of a different kind for these six seasoned enthusiasts when they will join others to share their memories of Ballina Motor Club at a golden jubilee reunion next month, marking 50 years of motor sport in Mayo, and expected to attract hundreds of former members, competitors, officials and supporters.
Whether you own a classic, a rally legend or a cherished vintage car, or simply love motoring memories, you are welcome to help celebrate half a century of friendships, stories and unforgettable machines at the event in the Great National Hotel Ballina on the weekend of July 4 and 5.
On Saturday, July 4 there will be a nostalgic look back at some of the iconic and most memorable motor rallies of the past, followed by a drinks reception and reunion dinner, with music afterwards by Gerry Guthrie and his band.
The celebrations, organised by an enthusiastic local committee, will conclude with a vintage and retro car meet on Sunday, July 5.
Visit the social media pages of Ballina Motor Club 50th Reunion for more information.
