Ireland Bike FestNews of this event reminds me a poem I read more than 30 years ago: "On hardware broncos, half machine. With arteries pulsing to the piston. And hearts inducting gasoline."
That should give you an appetite for the festival, which starts in Killarney, Co Kerry, next Friday and runs until next Sunday. This event is for all bikers and biking fans. You don’t even have to own a bike – just enjoy the family fun, with plenty of games and activities. No registration is required. On Sunday there is a charity ride through the town in aid of Muscular Dystrophy Ireland. Call 064-6671549 for inquries, or 064-6671550 for accommodation, or see www.irelandbikefest. com.
Happy Heart WeekendAlso around Killarney, the Irish Heart Foundation is having its annual Kerry Walk from June 12th to 15th, featuring two full-day and one half-day walks. Participants are expected to raise a minimum of €675. A reasonable level of fitness is required to take part. The weekend will include three nights' accommodation at the Lake Hotel (including use of the pool and leisure and fitness rooms) and all meals and packed lunches. A €100 deposit is required to reserve a place. See www.irishheart.ie/ kerrywalk or contact Tanya on 01-6685001 or tcomber@irishheart.ie.
Green in WestmeathMidlands Garden Festival takes place at Belvedere House Gardens Park next weekend, from Friday to Sunday. Built in the 18th century for the notorious Robert Rochfort, the house is now owned and run by Westmeath County Council. It sits on 65 hectares of parkland with six kilometres of woodland and lakeshore walks. Expect more than 300 exhibitors at the festival, with a variety of garden and home equipment on display, plus a fairy village for children. Admission is €10 for adults and seniors; children are free, as is parking. 044-9349060 www.belvedere-house.ie.Francis Bradley