Baltinglass classic car run raises thousands for good causes
Cyril Whitford with his Mk2 Escort from 1978 at Baltinglass Photos: Paul Curran
CAR enthusiasts from all over the southeast and beyond flocked to Baltinglass recently when the West Wicklow Classic and Vintage Vehicle Club (WWCVVC) hosted their annual car run.
The event was made even more special and attractive because the club was celebrating the 50th anniversary of the ever-popular Ford mk2 Escort.
“We had Escorts coming from all over the southeast and beyond. We got a good lot of them taking part in the run, they were very impressive," said Ned Kinsella, founding chairman of WWCVVC.
The club was set up by Ned and a few other car lovers in 2010 and they’ve been hosting their annual run every year - with the exception of the Covid lockdowns - every year since then.
The cars typically gather in Baltinglass town square where those taking part can meet, chat and compare notes before heading off on a trip of almost 50 kilometres, taking in the Glen of Imaal, Rathdangan and Kiltegan.
“Some of the cars don’t go that fast,” explained Ned, adding that the drivers took a break to stretch their legs in the beautiful grounds of St Patrick’s Missionary Society in Kiltegan before coming back to Baltinglass.
The event was rounded off nicely when the drivers and companions had dinner later in Baltinglass, where the craic was had and lots of prizes were awarded in various different categories.
“It takes a lot of work to do it, but it’s worth it. Ours is one of the best-known runs in the country. There’s a huge social aspect to it. We’re always very happy when it goes well,” said Ned.
Over €4,500 was raised by this year’s run, with the money being presented to the Réalta ASD unit in Scoil Naomh Íosaf and to the West Wicklow Day Care Centre.
