The mighty roar of 1000cc motorbike engines could be heard pulsating through sleepy towns and villages of deepest West Limerick at this year's Athea Motorcycle Road Races.
Spectators occupied every available space along the roadside to witness skilful motorbike racers negotiate the track's hedges and ditches. "I'm really enjoying it," said William Riordan from Athea, "If the bikes weren't on here in Athea I probably wouldn't follow road racing, but it's great to watch it," he added. This year marks the third year Athea has successfully held the Motorcycle Road Races. Big name riders such as Ryan Farquhar from Dungannon, Martin Finnegan from Lusk and Robert Dunlop from Ballymoney travelled to take part in the racing.
Veteran racer Robert Dunlop was happy to take part and won the 125cc race. "They really appreciate you here and you always feel welcome," he said. Robert's son William came home sixth the race. Martin Finnegan took an impressive two wins on the day. He sped past Ryan Farquhar, Barry Maguire and Darren Lindsay in the final big race to set a lap record of 113.013 mph.
Ryan Farquhar came second in the final 1000 cc race and second in the 250 cc race. "I did crap," he said. "I had a few problems with the bikes, they eren't really competitive because I didn't have my usual bikes. I fractured my wrist earlier in the year and it was at me too." He added.
This year was the first year Farquhar made it to Athea. "It's a good wee circuit," he said. "It's a long way away but I'll probably come back next year," he added.
Road racing fans from across the country travelled to witness the riders pit their wits against the natural roadside obstacles. PRO of the Athea club Conor Hartnett was delighted with weekend's racing. He said it was "absolutely fantastic, and it was bigger than last year".