News
More the half crown than the crown
W
When Queen Victoria, Prince Albert, two of her daughters, large retinue and press corps departed Killarney by train on August 29, 1861, “the consensus was the ordinary people were a model of loyalty and allegiance to the crown.”
The lavish visit was recalled again in 2011 in the press clippings ahead of Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Ireland. The nobility rode along side Vic’s carriage. Dragoons and equerries and other long forgotten ranks in this republic accompanied her, along with 400 members of the constabulary in dress uniform drawn from Cork, Limerick and Kildare.
The who’s who of Kerry got to meet and greet the Queen during her three-day stay in Killarney. Killarney House, owned by Lord Castlerosse, was the public side of the visit, while her stay at Colonel Herbert’s place at Muckross House was more private.
Hundreds of boats lined the quays as she set out by barge on the lake; thousands lined the lakeshores and streets to cheer on the Queen. She visited Innisfallen. She walked around Muckross Abbey. She took a ride in a landau around Muckross estate.
The late Séamus McConville, former editor of the Kerryman, searched the archives of the 150-year-old Kerry Post in 2011
“The royal carriage was drawn by four dark bays, with outriders and footmen behind. A guard of honour of the 18th Royal Irish were drawn up and presented arms, and the escort was composed of 40 of the 1st Royal Dragoons. Lord Castlerosse and Colonel Herbert as lieutenant of the county rode on either side of the carriage.
“The assemblies on five monster galleries, erected by Lord Castlerosse, joined with the thousands on the road (to Killarney House) in the heartiest of demonstrations of welcome. The Queen seemed greatly impressed and highly pleased with the enthusiasm of the people and bowed repeatedly to the right and to the left, with a marked and gracious manner, to the assembled thousands.”
It seems there was a spontaneous loyalty in Killarney to the Crown. These days of course, it’s not the Crown that is the important issue – it’s the half crown. The visit of Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, and the communication of their visit by a large press corps, will hopefully draw the British loyal tourist in their hordes to Killarney as it did in 1861.
The English Market in Cork - a down at heel, fly-blown place when I lived in the city - has seen a transformation and a surge of visitors since Queen Elizabeth was snapped heartily laughing at the fishmonger by Killarney’s Valerie O’Sullivan and Cork has been put on the tourist map.
Back in the day, Castlerosse, and Herbert to a lesser extent, would have been fully aware of the value of Queen Vic’s visit to local tourism too. Tourism was already thriving in Killarney, drawing poets like Tennyson (The splendour falls on castle walls… Blow, bugle, blow…)
And while Queen Victoria’s visit is often mistakenly said to have started tourism in Killarney, it was a far more pedestrian piece of infrastructure which actually clinched it for the town. Before Victoria, the railway had arrived and it was this 1853 event which more than anything literally drew the tourist - and allowed the Queen to progress to Killarney in just six and a half hours from Dublin.
“The opening of the Dublin to Killarney railway line in 1853 brought this remote region within reach of a host of new visitors,” Killarney’s Donal Horgan of Lewis Road writes in his splendid book on tourism The Victorian Visitor to Ireland, published in 2002.
Killarney, of course, ticked all the right boxes for the Victorian tourist: a romantic lakeside setting, spectacular ruins, day trips, lots of parkland and lots of ways to amuse, and quality accommodation.
A huge industry has been built on the 1861 visit, so much so the town is now almost wholly dependent on tourism. But challenges remain: access is still an issue, a year-round business is still someway off, and we still do not have a third level tourism college which would set proper professional standards across all sectors of the local industry.
Courting the loyal and neighbouring British tourist - particularly in the shoulder and winter season - might just clinch it.
There has, of course, this time been an attempt to spread the Prince around like the proverbial pound of butter so Tralee for instance can reap a tourism benefit. Our own Moira Murrell, the county chief executive who is a very fair-minded person indeed, is credited with swinging it for Tralee .
And the county town, a stronghold of republicanism, which a mere decade ago refused safe haven to the British flagship store Marks and Spencers (who had to seek refuge in Killarney), can’t get over its good fortune.
In his book on tourism, Donal Horgan also notes how the Prince of Wales was so taken by the Gap of Dunloe in 1858 he broke into a rendition of God Save the Queen.
Now, one has to wonder if Martin Ferris, and even the Fianna Fáil Mayor of Killarney, or Tralee, will be so moved by Prince Charles this time, and perhaps even Camilla, there will be a spontaneous embrace of the UK anthem - for the sake of the half crown, of course.
The 2025 Killarney Historic Rally was officially launched on Sunday at the Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa. The event will take place on November 28–29 and will again be based at the Killarney Towers Hotel, which continues as the main sponsor. BG Motors has come on board as an associate sponsor for the first time.
Clerk of the Course Anthony O’Connor confirmed that the rally will feature eight stages, including two runs of Moll’s Gap in reverse for the evening leg. The event will move heavily into the Kenmare area with stages such as Roughty River returning to competition after many years.
O’Connor said the 2025 edition marks a major change in the type of cars eligible for historic competition.
“With the change in the rules it has opened the event to a different category of historic car. You’ll see Alan Ring’s new Subaru outside the door, we’ve a Toyota Corolla World Rally Car entered, and we’ve two Ford Escort Cosworths as well. It has changed the whole dynamics of the event,” he told the audience.
He also stressed the work of club volunteers.
“Without the people who give their time every week, the event wouldn’t run. From PR work to stage set-up, they’ve put in huge hours,” he said.
Brian Lawlor, Group General Manager of the O’Donoghue Ring Collection, highlighted the group’s continued support.
“On behalf of the O’Donoghue and Ring families, we are honoured to return as lead sponsor for a third year. This event is now in its 29th year and remains the only fully historic rally in Ireland. It draws huge numbers to the town and the businesses of Killarney are proud to welcome them,” he said.
He also referenced the move to honour the late Mike Gaine, whose passing earlier this year deeply affected the motorsport community.
“It is fitting that so much of this year’s route is centred around Kenmare. Mick was a huge part of the rallying scene in that area,” Lawlor added.
The rally will be run in memory of Mike Gaine, with much of the competitive mileage based around his home area of Kenmare. The final corner of Moll’s Gap passes the Gaine family farm.
Kenmare driver Shane McCarthy said:
“Mike was the backbone of Kenmare rallying. He helped so many people and his support meant everything. His loss is still hard to process.”
Mayor of Killarney Martin Grady spoke about the rally’s longstanding significance to the town.
“This is one of the most important sporting events in Killarney each year. It brings value to the community and to local business,” he said.
He also reminded spectators to follow instructions.
“I want to emphasise one final message: safety. I urge everyone to respect the marshal team and Gardaí. Their work keeps this rally safe.”
KDMC Chairman Thomas Randles thanked the club’s sponsors and reminded spectators of their responsibilities.
“Listen to the marshals. Be careful where you go. We want everyone safe,” he said.
Leading entries confirmed
A number of high-profile entries were confirmed at the launch.
Kris Meeke and Muckross-based co-driver Noel O’Sullivan will compete in a BMW M3. Belgian legend Patrick Snijers will also take part. The full entry list will be published later this week.
The Historic category will again be the main focus, with close to 80 genuine historic cars expected.
Defending champions Donagh Kelly and Rory Kennedy will lead the field in his BMW M3 E3 as he bids for two wins in a row.
Local driver Alan Ring will debut a new Group A Subaru Impreza. Former winners Mark Falvey (Escort Mk1) and newly crowned Tarmac Historic Champion John O’Donnell (BMW M3) are also confirmed.
As many as ten BMW M3 E30s are expected, including cars driven by local crews Paul Ahern/Kieran Murphy and Fergus O’Meara, who will be co-driven by Brian Duggan.
The rally gets underway on Friday night, November 28, with a ceremonial start on College Square, Killarney and will conclude with a finish celebration outside the Plaza Hotel on Saturday night just after the first of Killarney’s Christmas Parades.
Rally Masters organisers hand over €44k to two charities
The organisers of Rally Masters Ireland handed over a total of €44,444.15 to two children’s charities following a presentation at Killarney Racecourse on Sunday, November 16.
The funds were divided between LauraLynn Children’s Hospice and The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation. Both organisations support children with life-limiting and complex medical needs and provide vital assistance to families.
The handover followed the Rally Masters Ireland event held at Killarney Racecourse on September 27. The event drew a strong attendance of around 4,000 fans and received positive feedback from fans and competitors.
Siobhan Reen of Jack and Jill said: “Heartfelt thank you as these funds will help offset over 1200 hours of care, we only receive 20 percent funding from the government so you have no idea what this means.”
Elaine Bukley of the Laura Lynn Foundation added: “This money will go 100 percent to our Mallow Hub and will develop our Munster team of amazing nurses.”
Organiser, Killarney and District Motor Club along with event sponsor Eamon Long and Company along with a wide group of associated sponsors brought a wide range of historic and iconic cars to Killarney for the occasion.
“This event truly captured the heart of Irish rallying, not only through the iconic cars and talented drivers, but through the incredible sense of community that surrounds our sport. Seeing young fans meet the heroes they’ve only heard about in stories was something very special. I want to thank everyone who supported Rally Masters Ireland and helped us raise vital funds for two remarkable charities,” said Tim Clifford, Clerk of the Course, Rally Masters Ireland.
Killarney Historic Rally officially launched at the Killarney Plaza Hotel
The 2025 Killarney Historic Rally was officially launched on Sunday at the Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa. The event will take place on November 28–29 and will again be based at the Killarney Towers Hotel, which continues as the main sponsor. BG Motors has come on board as an associate sponsor for the first time.
Clerk of the Course Anthony O’Connor confirmed that the rally will feature eight stages, including two runs of Moll’s Gap in reverse for the evening leg. The event will move heavily into the Kenmare area with stages such as Roughty River returning to competition after many years.
O’Connor said the 2025 edition marks a major change in the type of cars eligible for historic competition.
“With the change in the rules it has opened the event to a different category of historic car. You’ll see Alan Ring’s new Subaru outside the door, we’ve a Toyota Corolla World Rally Car entered, and we’ve two Ford Escort Cosworths as well. It has changed the whole dynamics of the event,” he told the audience.
He also stressed the work of club volunteers.
“Without the people who give their time every week, the event wouldn’t run. From PR work to stage set-up, they’ve put in huge hours,” he said.
Brian Lawlor, Group General Manager of the O’Donoghue Ring Collection, highlighted the group’s continued support.
“On behalf of the O’Donoghue and Ring families, we are honoured to return as lead sponsor for a third year. This event is now in its 29th year and remains the only fully historic rally in Ireland. It draws huge numbers to the town and the businesses of Killarney are proud to welcome them,” he said.
He also referenced the move to honour the late Mike Gaine, whose passing earlier this year deeply affected the motorsport community.
“It is fitting that so much of this year’s route is centred around Kenmare. Mick was a huge part of the rallying scene in that area,” Lawlor added.
The rally will be run in memory of Mike Gaine, with much of the competitive mileage based around his home area of Kenmare. The final corner of Moll’s Gap passes the Gaine family farm.
Kenmare driver Shane McCarthy said:
“Mike was the backbone of Kenmare rallying. He helped so many people and his support meant everything. His loss is still hard to process.”
Mayor of Killarney Martin Grady spoke about the rally’s longstanding significance to the town.
“This is one of the most important sporting events in Killarney each year. It brings value to the community and to local business,” he said.
He also reminded spectators to follow instructions.
“I want to emphasise one final message: safety. I urge everyone to respect the marshal team and Gardaí. Their work keeps this rally safe.”
KDMC Chairman Thomas Randles thanked the club’s sponsors and reminded spectators of their responsibilities.
“Listen to the marshals. Be careful where you go. We want everyone safe,” he said.
Leading entries confirmed
A number of high-profile entries were confirmed at the launch.
Kris Meeke and Muckross-based co-driver Noel O’Sullivan will compete in a BMW M3. Belgian legend Patrick Snijers will also take part. The full entry list will be published later this week.
The Historic category will again be the main focus, with close to 80 genuine historic cars expected.
Defending champions Donagh Kelly and Rory Kennedy will lead the field in his BMW M3 E3 as he bids for two wins in a row.
Local driver Alan Ring will debut a new Group A Subaru Impreza. Former winners Mark Falvey (Escort Mk1) and newly crowned Tarmac Historic Champion John O’Donnell (BMW M3) are also confirmed.
As many as ten BMW M3 E30s are expected, including cars driven by local crews Paul Ahern/Kieran Murphy and Fergus O’Meara, who will be co-driven by Brian Duggan.
The rally gets underway on Friday night, November 28, with a ceremonial start on College Square, Killarney and will conclude with a finish celebration outside the Plaza Hotel on Saturday night just after the first of Killarney’s Christmas Parades.
Rally Masters organisers hand over €44k to two charities
The organisers of Rally Masters Ireland handed over a total of €44,444.15 to two children’s charities following a presentation at Killarney Racecourse on Sunday, November 16.
The funds were divided between LauraLynn Children’s Hospice and The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation. Both organisations support children with life-limiting and complex medical needs and provide vital assistance to families.
The handover followed the Rally Masters Ireland event held at Killarney Racecourse on September 27. The event drew a strong attendance of around 4,000 fans and received positive feedback from fans and competitors.
Siobhan Reen of Jack and Jill said: “Heartfelt thank you as these funds will help offset over 1200 hours of care, we only receive 20 percent funding from the government so you have no idea what this means.”
Elaine Bukley of the Laura Lynn Foundation added: “This money will go 100 percent to our Mallow Hub and will develop our Munster team of amazing nurses.”
Organiser, Killarney and District Motor Club along with event sponsor Eamon Long and Company along with a wide group of associated sponsors brought a wide range of historic and iconic cars to Killarney for the occasion.
“This event truly captured the heart of Irish rallying, not only through the iconic cars and talented drivers, but through the incredible sense of community that surrounds our sport. Seeing young fans meet the heroes they’ve only heard about in stories was something very special. I want to thank everyone who supported Rally Masters Ireland and helped us raise vital funds for two remarkable charities,” said Tim Clifford, Clerk of the Course, Rally Masters Ireland.
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