A small village, great pub and Kermesse racing…somewhere in Belgium? No…County Cavan and the Mountnugent GP (Sat 3rd August) promoted by Navan RC!!

My weekend started on Saturday afternoon, a 3-hour drive in front of me to arrive in Mountnugent eventually, as my navigation system told me a few times to ” Turn around asap” after making a few wrong turns…but at least I could quieten that annoying woman, the human version is much more difficult to handle (ask any long-time married man..LOL) A charity run had just ended and a real good buzz at the only pub in the village, with still some fundraising going on such as burger sales, and activities at the lake

I was invited to help out with the commentary, and playing some tunes and got going well before the race, as a crowd was gathered outside the pub and the atmosphere was like home at the kermesses. I did put also a few flags up (after all I am from the North..lol) and soon the races on their way. The A4 first for 11 laps of 4.1km, lots of attacks in that race and very unusual for this category, but a prime each lap has aided to that effect for sure. Next was the main race with the A3-A2-A1’s send of in a handicap race, but this was quickly overcome and one big group formed in the early laps. Plenty of breaks, none came to something and it was a dash to the line in the end. (Result below) Just a pity I had to drive another few hours that night as I would have loved to stay and taste the local beers. Never mind…a great race in somehow wet conditions but no accidents been reported..all good!! Plenty of volunteers to make the race safe, organised by well-experienced promoters (Navan RC) and plenty of prizes…wish there is more of such kermesse races in Ireland…fast and furious and great craic at the finish area…The race is in his 35th year, and surely 36 will be on the cards next year