Mallow Autograss to honour Donal at their final meet of the year
Some of the country’s top drivers will go headto-head in North Cork this weekend with the Mallow Autograss Club set to host the deciding round of the 2017 All-Ireland Autograss Series.
Thousands of motor-sport fans are expected to flock to the club’s Ballyguyroe track on Saturday and Sunday for two days of high octane action.
The meeting, the final one to be held at the track this year, will hold a particular significance for club members as it will be dedicated to the memory of the late Donal O’Brien, with the staging of a race named in his honour taking place on Sunday afternoon.
An esteemed and highly respected member of the Mallow Autograss Club, Donal tragically lost his life in a cycling accident last May.
Club spokesperson Gillian Forde said it was fitting that his passion for the sport should be recognised in this way.
“Donal is missed by young and old alike, his smile and character have left a void and club members are determined to make the weekend a success in his honour,” said Gillian.
“The Cork Motor Club summed up Donal when they described him as a larger than life figure with a passion for motor-sport who will be fondly remembered by all for his determination in the car and his lovable roguery outside. He was always keen to help out and support motor-sport in any way.”
Over the weekend heats will be raced with the qualifiers from each class racing each other in the final eight-lap race for the Donal O’Brien Memorial Cup.
“Drivers from many different clubs will be taking part in the race. The honour of taking home this cup is a much sought after one and the racing promises to be determined, fast and exciting,” said Gillian.
The event will be filmed at both ground level and from above using a drone, with a DVD of the weekend’s action to be released at a later date.
Prize-giving will be held after the meeting at The Springfort Hall Hotel.
For more details of the event and to find out more about the Mallow Autograss Club visit their dedicated Facebook page.