Michael Halpin and Ken Fagan from Fore Motor Cycle Racing Club at the official launch of this year's Race of the South, in McCormack's, Castlepollard last night.

Race of the South back after two-year gap

The Race of the South at Walderstown returns this year after the Covid disruption and there is strong interest from riders across the country, said Michael Halpin, chairman of Fore Motor Cycle Racing Club.

The races had their official launch at McCormack's in Castlepollard on Saturday evening, and Michael said the fixture remains popular with competitors. "We started at Walderstown in 2000, and it's a round of the Southern Centre and Irish Championship.

"We get the top riders in Ireland, anyone that's looking for championship points, the likes of Micko Sweeney from Dublin, and Thomas Maxwell, who's going very well in the championship."

Michael expressed his gratitude to the main sponsor, Principal Insurance, and to the 12 other directors at Fore Motorcycle Club, plus the other members and volunteers who help in preparation for the weekend, which this year is Saturday July 9 and Sunday July 10.

"And anyone who wants to volunteer on the Friday to help out is more than welcome." Contact Michael on if you are in a position to assist the club 086 854 6798.

"We're looking forward to it now after two years' break," said Michael, and he concluded with a road safety message. "We would ask everyone to obey the traffic laws, observe the speed limits, don't forget they are public roads, and we want everyone to get there safely and get home safely to their families."

Kayleigh Fagan from Castlepollard and Elisha Gavigan from Fore. Photo by Thomas Gibbons
Christy Mongey on his Yamaha R1 1000cc. Photo by Thomas Gibbons
Eugene Morahan with his Kawasaki ZX6. Photo by Thomas Gibbons
Cathal Fagan, Raymond Halpin and Cathal Og Fagan on Friday evening. Photo by Thomas Gibbons
Paul Flynn and Michelle Sweeney from Castlepollard. Photo by Thomas Gibbons
Willy Mongey and Colm Gallagher at McCormack's. Photo by Thomas Gibbons
DJ Jimmy provided the entertainment for the launch. Photo by Thomas Gibbons
Michael Halpin and Ken Fagan from Fore Motor Cycle Racing Club. Photo by Thomas Gibbons