Longford's Old School New School drives in plenty of crowds to St Mel's College
Organised by Niall Gerety, the car show had 350 cars on display and roughly 2,000 people in attendance
Old School New School was a great event in Longford town over the weekend. Taking place on the grounds of St. Mel’s College, the day was perfect for motoring enthusiasts and families alike. Founded and organised by Niall Gerety, the event has now been in its seventh year, and people have been entering all over the country annually to participate in being exhibited.
Niall Gerety has had no committee to help him with these annual shows, other than close friends and family to bring a popular event to Longford. This year, there were two Lamborghinis. One was worth €500,000 and the other €250,000, which Niall considered to be the “highlight” of the day, as he got to ride one of them. He called it a “dream”, having said previously that he was a car enthusiast at a young age. All entries came from “north, south and every corner of the country,” as Niall enthused when asked about the quality number of entrants.
“We found a Lamborghini, to Rolls Royce Phantoms right now in the 1950s, American Chevrolet pickup trucks. That is basically why it’s called Old School New School.”
Altogether, Niall said that there were 350 cars that were on the premises on Sunday. A hundred cars arrived on Saturday night while the remainder showed up in the early hours of Sunday morning and near noon. Niall estimated that roughly 2,000 appeared at the event, but did not believe that there was a number increase from previously.
He concluded that due to the high temperatures over the weekend, this may have affected an even bigger number than the already impressive outcome.
“From the proceeds of the show, they’re going to St Mel’s College with their new handball court so the students can enjoy indoor handball. It’s a good way to give back for letting us use the iconic grounds. Thanks to St Mel’s College, and Malachy Flanagan, the principal, for giving us the grounds. It’s so welcoming.”