Sprint event to mark 50 years of motorcycle racing in Faugheen this weekend
The Faugheen 50 motorcycle road races are returning after a four-year break
Faugheen 50 Road Racing Club will mark the 50th anniversary of the first motorcycle races on the roads around the South Tipperary village with a two-day sprint competition this Saturday and Sunday, July 11 and 12.
Motorcycle racing fans from all over the country and further afield will descend on Faugheen for the return of racing to its race circuit after a four-year break due to insurance issues that have seriously hampered the hosting of motorcycle racing events throughout the country over the past few years.
Faugheen 50 RR Club PRO Michelle Kirwan said the countdown is on for the “highly anticipated” return of the Faugheen 50 road races that began in 1976.
She declared the event promises to be an “unforgettable weekend of high-speed action, thrilling competition and a fantastic atmosphere”.
“Competitors and spectators can expect fierce competition on the circuit as some of the sport's finest riders take on the famous Faugheen circuit in a celebration of half a century of road racing history.
Michelle explained the competition will be a time trial style event with each rider competing to complete a 1.3 mile circuit solo in as fast a time as they can. Over 50 riders will compete in the competition.
She said the club hopes to return to multiple competitor road racing at next year's Faugheen 50 event.
Over the weekend, classic motorbikes from the early days of Faugheen 50 racing will be on display in the paddock for racing fans to view.
Michelle paid tribute to the event's sponsor, Premier Engineering, for its support in bringing the Faugheen 50 motorcycle racing event back to life.
The official campsite for visitors to the Faugheen 50 sprint event opens on Friday at 6pm.
She said camping is available for €30 per pitch (accommodating four adults per pitch). She pointed out camping prices don't include race admission.
“Children under 16 go free when accompanied by a paying adult and must be accompanied at all times.
“General admission is available at just €25 for a weekend pass or €15 for a day ticket, making it the perfect opportunity for families, race enthusiasts and first-time visitors to experience motorcycle racing in the south of Ireland.”
She pointed out that camping and general admission tickets are now available through the official website: www.faugheen.com
Tickets will also be available to purchase with cash only at the event.
The following roads will close on Saturday and Sunday between 8am and 7.30pm on each day to facilitate the event.
*The L-2605-2 from Faugheen Village to the junction of the L-6601-2 on the Faugheen to Carrick on-Suir Road.
* The L-2601-3 from Faugheen Village to the junction of the L-6601-2 at Ballinurra Cross.
*The L-6601-2 from Ballinurra Cross to the junction of the L-2605-2 on the Faugheen/Ballyrichard roadway.
Alternative routes will be in place for motorists during the temporary closure.