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AS IRELAND BIKEFEST 2017 rolls into Killarney this June Bank Holiday weekend, so too will a record number of woman bikers from all over the world.

To celebrate the growing popularity of biking among women, the Ladies of Harley® will host two events during this year’s festival, a meet and greet which takes place at The Brehon at 5pm on Saturday, and a Ladies of Harley® rideout which will depart the Bike Village at 2pm on Sunday.

Ladies of Harley® promotes female participation in motorcycling worldwide. Their message for other women? If something makes you happy, just do it. At the meet and greet, fully fledged bikers will share their stories, knowledge and tips with aspiring bikers. “It can be daunting for anyone starting out, but it is especially daunting for women who may not know someone that shares their interest,” said Ladies of Harley® representative Fiona Carroll.

“But the number of women's motorcycle groups is growing, and social media is helping to connect us all. Women are embracing biking like never before and we are encouraging and helping each other in any way that we can.”

Motorcyclists that would like to participate in the ride-out on Sunday can register at the Celtic Thunder Chapter’s hospitality desk located in the Harley Bar in the Bike Village.

Ireland BikeFest Killarney is one of Europe’s largest free, open biker festivals. Every make and model of motorbike imaginable along with their owners are welcome to attend. Visitors do not even have to own a bike, they can just bask in the glory of some slick, well-built machines and enjoy the unique party and festival atmosphere of the Bike Village.

The festival headquarters, located on the grounds of The Gleneagle Hotel, is the main hub of activity. Here you will find The Bike Village, featuring trader stands with specialised biker gear and more, along with plenty places to eat, grab a drink and listen to the live bands and DJs.

Highlights for 2017 include daily rideouts along the Southwest section of the Wild Atlantic Way - marshalled by Celtic Thunder Chapter Ireland and Gaelic Chapter Ireland, free Harley-Davidson® demo rides, Waterford and Dublin Harley-Davidson® Dealers, H.O.G.® Hospitality & Info, Jumpstart, Novelty Dog Show, the Custom Bike Show, Kids Zone, Parade and lots of free live indoor and outdoor entertainment day and night.

Ireland BikeFest is supported by Harley-Davidson® UK & Ireland, Authorised Harley-Davidson® Dealers and H.O.G.® Chapters in association with Destination Killarney Ltd, Fáilte Ireland and Wild Atlantic Way.
 

 
Above: Ireland BikeFest Chairperson Breffni Ingerton and Ladies of Harley® Representative Fiona Carroll gear up at Ladies View Killarney yesterday for Ireland BikeFest 2017 which takes place in Killarney this June Bank Holiday weekend.
PICTURE: DON MACMONAGLE