a day ago
- Automotive
- Irish Independent
John F Kennedy's historic Wexford visit is marked by vintage car run in New Ross
Gathering opposite the Dunbrody Famine Ship, the JFK Car Meet and Run left the town and headed for the JFK Arboretum, crossing the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Bridge, and upon its return to the quay, passed the JFK statue.
The lead car on the run was the distinctive and iconic red Ford Mustang with its V8 engine, probably the best known car to feature in any film for the remarkable Steve McQueen street chase through San Francisco in the 1968 classic film, Bullitt.
The New Ross event attracted over 70 cars of all makes from the 1950's to the more modern cars of the 2000's, despite being a late event added to a crowded calendar and clashing with a well established show in south Dublin, and also up against the national favourite, the Donegal Rally, which is a must for all car enthusiasts. However, the organisers of the event said they were grateful for the support they received for the New Ross event in their efforts to attract people to the town and enjoy what it has to offer, especially on a summer's day like so.
Throughout the day, people also wandered the streets as their curiosity led them to seek out the newly renovated Brennan's Lane, The High Hill Garden, the many murals around the streets, and some families strolled from the car meet down along the banks of the River Barrow past the award-winning Emigrant Park and joined in with the Family Fun Day in Pearse Park held by Wexford Sports Active, which was also a hive of activity on the day. Meanwhile, visitors of the Dunbrody Famine Ship and The Ros Tapestry afterwards made their way towards the car meet.
John Dimond, of Wexford Sports and Classic Car Club commented on the event and said: 'The support from the visitors was great to see, but more events are needed to attract tourists and locals and on the back of this, the club will look at running similar events in the future.'
The Wexford Sports and Classic Car Club has thanked those who sponsored prizes and the Dunbrody Centre for providing their facilities, with the 'most appreciated part of the day the Butchers Best sponsored BBQ burger to finish off the days events.'
It's expected the JFK Car Meet and Run will made a donation from the funds raised to the New Ross Meals on Wheels in the near future. The Meals on Wheels is currently preparing for it's golf competition on July 21 and the organisation is appealing for sponsorship of tees and greens at €100 for each.
The Meals on Wheels provides over 20,000 meals delivered to the homes of vulnerable people throughout the year and the delivery of the meals allows many of the recipients to remain in independent living in their homes. By supporting the golf competition, it will contribute hugely to the continuation of the service.
Enquiries regarding the Meals on Wheels can be made at the Sr. Aidan Centre, Cross Street or by contacting 051 445711 between 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Monday to Friday.
