Mallow Spring Run: 19th May 2024
The front page of the drivers’ instructions for the 2nd North Cork Model T Run has a village photo taken in the early 1920s, for it shows an improved Tudor reversed parked against the footpath edge at the brow of the hill at Scarteen leading into High Strreet, Newmarket, Co. Cork where opposite stands a horse and cart parked in a similar fashion.
Fair to say that the hand brake effectiveness surpasses the static force of our equine fiend who surely must have gazed across the street thinking that these noisy contraptions are just a fad and will never take on.
We foregathered at OC Motors located at Quarterstown Industrial Estate, a couple of miles at most from the busy town of Mallow where our hosts Margaret and Liam O’Connor and family were there to greet us and make us all feel welcome. Teas, lavishly buttered scones with lots of strawberry jam were gladly taken up by the appreciative guests.
Liam presented his driver’s briefing and handed out written instructions on the itinerary. A tail end Charlie was to hand together with motorcycle outriders which he hoped would surely make for a pleasant and safe experience in County Cork.
He asked that drivers keep off the grass at the first stop.
We were off at 11:25 am with Liam Leading and our convey of 16 Model Ts purring away in the sunshine under blue skies. The setting made for a high quality of photo images taken during the day.
The photographs of course record our people content and enjoying our scenic drive that took us through the rural villages of Dromahane and Bweeng.
Then downhill for a couple of miles into Blarney where we parked up at the mansion, a marvellous residence surrounded by very large gardens in full springtime colour and scent, a mere stroll to the Castle itself.
Every year in May, the Fête de la Bretagne, ’Gouel Breizh’ brings together thousands of people all over the world. The marketing ploy aims at a world-wide audience to discover and experience Breton tradition, folklore and spirit!
As our group strolled to the dining enclosure adjacent to the castle, we were greeted with the sound of music and song performed by a quartet with instruments made up of a violon, clarinet, accordion and guitar. To those who had experience of French travel, surely the music stirred happy memories.
The restaurant facilities are situated in the former courtyard stables with plenty of tables and chairs where one could sit and relax in the sun trap that the buildings provided.
Some sat and enjoyed the calmness of the situation, others strolled in the gardens taking into view the blooming rhododendrons, expressing amazement of the huge beech trees.
The more energetic made their way to the Castle stairs and plied the many steps to reach the famous stone. They were not alone; such a number of tourists on the day is testament to the international name that the brand Blarney Castle holds.
We agreed that we would regroup at around 3:00 pm and set off for our next stop at a working pet farm and have a chance to walk around at the 1950’s village.
The drive was equally enjoyable, which practically zero traffic; maybe it was because the hurling match was on, with Cork playing against Clare and enthusiasts glued to TV sets at home and elsewhere.
Road conditions excellent and our outriders in position at each junction where we crisscrossed rural places and settlements to arrive at Grenagh farm.
For those interested in a visit, really recommend, Grenagh farm is a worthwhile stop, with everything for family and group visits alike.
Their Haystack Restaurant is a must with loads of space to cater for as many would wish to dine with them. We were served up our Sunday dinner with four choices of main course and a like number of deserts. The food was very well presented and delicious too; hot plates really make the difference.
After teas/coffees were served, our Secretary advised members that the next run would take place at Ballinadee on Sunday 16th June next.
He reminded all that the annual run is on 6th/7th July.
The Ford week is to take place at the former Ford Plant at Marina in Cork from 26th June to 3rd July, encompassing Ford collectors with special emphasis on the tractors, cars and commercials that were assembled from 1919 to 1927.
Our President John Brady addressed our gathering expressing his appreciation and thanks to our hosts, Margaret & Liam O’Connor, the two outriders and the catering team at The Farm in equal measure. Thankfully our day was marked with glorious weather and free of anything adverse.
President Brady presented Margaret and Liam with a hand turned bowl, crafted from a piece of apple wood, as a memento of the occasion from our membership. He did go on to make an open invitation to those who had eyes on a bowl that they would have to volunteer for service. No run…no bowl !
To sum up, we had a great day in North Cork. The alignment of good company, fine weather and plenty of springtime scenery, made for enjoyment equally shared by all.
With grateful thanks to Margaret & Liam, and the crew of OC Motors Mallow, we will surely return.
