Ballymena - Are We There Yet?
Friday, 15 May 2009
When the children were small, and travelling with us in back of cars, the most common question was "ARE WE THE YET? ARE WE THERE YET? ARE WE THE YET?"
I'm sure many of you know this feeling, and years later I do not know the correct answer or response to satisfy the excitement of children.
That is how I feel about Ballymena, and wish I was starting the journey today. We are looking forward to the weekend, and I expect that t will be the best and biggest show in Ireland this year. The crew of dedicated people who have organised this event deserve every support, and those of us who missed Kilbroney for the past two years are excited about Ballymena.
I expect that there will be the biggest collection of cars ever assembled in Ireland, and I know that friends are travelling from as far away as Cork and Galway to join in the activities.
Many Clubs will have stands but there will be a big general area to cater for everyone who wishes to attend. We can be assured of a great and genuine welcome in Ballymena and throughout the North. I and others have travelled to many events and shows all over Northern Ireland for many years. I have to admit that our friends in that part of Ireland are genuinely fanatical about their cars, and the help they offer to all of us in a joy to experience.
I was in Enniskillen last week for the annual MOT on my Alvis. The car failed due to serious defect with the brakes - I was in trouble and miles from home. Nigel Downey from the Erne Vintage Club rang to see how I got on! He said 'stay there, book a re-test, I will ring you back' ...
When I have more time I will write a full short story - because what happened next was unbelievable. I met Mr Roy Smith and with the help of Noel Grainger, Roy remanufactured brake pads, cylinders, etc., etc., etc. He spent the day on the ground repairing my car; Mrs Smith provided cake, buns, biscuits and coffee. The car passed the MOT later that evening. The MOT lads were amazed that the brakes were so good!
What can I say except 'thanks' to all of our friends in Northern Ireland. This was a humbling experience - and I not sure how to thank Roy, Nigel and Noel, except to ask with great excitement:
"ARE WE THERE YET? ARE WE THERE YET? ARE WE THERE YET in BALLYMENA?" ...
Sean Mc Greevy
Regional Officer, Mercedes-Benz Club, Connaught.
Past President, Western Veteran & Vintage Motor Club, Galway
... and member of the usual "half-a-dozen" other good causes ...
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Admission Adult £5.00, Child £3.00, Concession £3.00, Family Ticket £10.00
