All sorts of wonderful engines on display at 44th Fenagh steam rally
Trevor and Kerry Warren and family with William Foster steam engine.
STEAM engine enthusiasts from across the country descended on County Carlow recently for the second year of the Fenagh Steam and Heritage Rally since it returned last year following a gap of more than 12 years.
This was the 44th staging of the rally since its inception with something on offer for everyone in attendance, including vintage engines, tractors, dog shows and community spirit in abundance, while funds were raised for various local charities.
Among the highlights of the engine and tractor events, Steve Jenkinson won the slow engine race and the William Jenkinson memorial cup, while Darren Brooks claimed the slow tractor race and the Johnny Brooks memorial cup. Niall Whitford won the slow miniature engine race, sponsored by Douglas Jewellers and Emily Murphy and Steve Jenkinson were jointly crowned queen and king of steam. The Kelly family scooped the plaque awarded for ‘the steam engine I would most like to bring home,’ presented in memory of founding members Jim Glynn, William Jeffers and Jack Aughney.
The dog show proved extremely popular and drew a big turnout with Raissa Dagg from Tullow picking up awards for best working dog and best overall dog of the show.
Angela Attride from Bagenalstown scooped the best lady handler award while John Foley of Wexford was named best gentleman handler. Local girl Emily Hogan took home the best child handler award.
In the meggars competition, sponsored by The Hunters Rest, Fenagh, Andy Doyle and Tom Connors came out on top, with Robert Connors and Tom Rossitor taking the runners-up positions.
Organisers thanked the many landowners who allowed their fields to be used for the rally, parking and camping, as well as the event's sponsors, advertisers, civil defence volunteers and the large team of helpers who worked behind the scenes in the lead-up to and on the day of the rally, including members of Clohamon Vintage and Heritage club.
The rally is organised by a small but dedicated group supported by the wider Fenagh community. Funds raised will go towards Carlow-Kilkenny Home Care, the event's main beneficiary, along with other local charities.
Organisers said the rally remains as much about community spirit as it is about vintage machinery while also thanking everyone who contributed to making the day a success.
