35th Annual Rally: Sunday 7th July 2024
Raymond Megaw, our host for the second segment of our 35th Annual Rally, based at Carrickdale Hotel car park, was on hand to deliver his drivers’ briefing at 10:00 am to members and visitors, for a trip that would lead us into another county and another country.
This time it was a clockwise circular route, where the real journey to be enjoyed was after passing through Newry, Co. Down, and once we were off the main thoroughfare.
Travelling eastwards along the edge of the mountains of Mourne, was as we expected, full of hills and dales but with scenery of forty shades of green everywhere, which looked really magnificent, especially as the sun broke through the overhead clouds.
We were instructed, per the copious notes circulated beforehand, to head for Meelmore Lodge for refreshments. Meelmore Lodge is situated in the heart of the Mourne Mountains, Northern Ireland. With views looking directly onto Slieve Meelmore and The Hare’s Gap. With private access onto the Mountains, there is no better place to start a hiking trip from.
Tollymore and Castlewellan Forest Parks are only 10 mins away with lots of activities nearby. Walking, Hiking, Horse riding, Swimming, Cycling, Rock Climbing and so much more.
Disclosing a hidden secrete, Olene is a master baker as far as the writer and many present were concerned. Her display of tray bakes shortbread and cakes was colourful and wonderful, the likes of which would hardly be seen in the Patisseries of large towns in France.
Olene’s ginger snaps were crispy, gingered and delicious. Asked how they were all in regular shape and looking so attractive, she disclosed the baking material was first rolled up like a large Swiss roll and then sliced to suit.
Our teams of drivers and guests tucked into the offerings, pleased with themselves as they enjoyed the outdoor picnic in the very scenic and colourful surroundings. Readers note that a visit to Meelmore will not disappoint.
A drive by at Kilkeel Harbour was a must. Pity we did not have more time to gaze and admire the fleet of fishing boats tied up for the weekend and ready to set sail on fishing grounds in the deep waters of The Irish Sea. Perhaps on another day some of us may take the pleasure of a revisit.
Too soon perhaps it was fast approaching lunch time bearing in mind our target back to base for 5:00 pm. We motored on a few miles in very pleasant road conditions to arrive at Kilkeel Golf Club.
For those of us that are interested Kilkeel Golf Club is located at Mourne Park, Newry BT34 4LB, in Northern Ireland. Situated at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, it is approximately3 miles from Kilkeel town center on the main Newry Road. The par 72 championship coursewas designed by renowned Dublin Golf Architect Eddie Hackett, making it one of the finest inland layouts in Ireland.
The catering corps of Kilkeel Golf Club were on hand to provide us with a delicious Sunday lunch and at good value. A great opportunity to sit and chat with friends and share the experiences of our 35th Annual Rally, this day in Northern Ireland.
Everybody was happy; and why would they not be. A week end away from home in very comfortable surroundings with of course, our Model Ts to hand. The Mourne region with its mountains and lakeside vistas, particularly with bright blue skies and beaming sunshine, makes for a fabulous place, heaven on earth.
We sallied forth in a northerly direction towards Newry with a 180 degree anti-clockwise pivot heading south and back to our rally base for loading up.
Members and friends bade farewell to one another wishing for a safe return home to all parts of Ireland.
Our UK friends were to travel on as part of their five day Tour in Ireland, heading for Virginia in Co. Cavan. No doubt a visit to accept the hospitality the Coote homestead to visit Alan and Sandra will be educational and entertaining.
To sum up, the weekend of the 35th Annual Rally was most enjoyable. The collaboration of Michael and Raymond worked like a dream; we had good warm weather, places to see and visit were refreshing, and accommodation and fare second to none.
Happily we record our thanks to members for their due consideration and courtesy to other road users, made for an incident free event.
We are grateful to the teams of Tail End Charlies for being alert and in position as and when required, which adds great comfort and peace of mind to organisers and participants alike. Also, our Flag Man John Quinn for his attention to task for the week end with our thanks.
Michael and Raymond volunteered to host the 35th Annual Rally during our AGM of March 2022. Look at how time passes so quickly. We were all looking forward to the event for ages, particularly our visit into Northern Ireland.
We say well done to the Michael & Raymond duo; you did a good job and we are grateful to you both for sharing your extensive knowledge of your home base and making our week end so enjoyable and safe.
