The launch took place in Kilbeggan yesterday of the Steam Engine Run in aid of Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin. Locke’s Distillery in Kilbeggan was selected as the ideal venue for the launch of the fundraising event by TV presenter Síle Seoige, who wished all the drivers, supporters, and collectors the very best on their adventure.
The Irish Steam Engine Owners Association, who have been organising steam rallies in Ireland for over 25 years, are about to embark on their most ambitious journey to date. The 148-mile trip will see the classic engines visiting many towns along the route including Newbridge, Kildare, Monasterevin, Portlaoise, Abbeyleix, Durrow, Johnstown, Urlingford, Cashel, Mitchelstown, Fermoy, and Cork. Collectors along the way will happily receive support for Our Lady’s Hospital.
The 25 beautifully restored steam engines, all over 100 years old, will make their way from Dublin to Cork over a week starting out at noon on Saturday May 29, arriving in Cork on Saturday June 5.
All engine owners are welcome to get involved in the event and the association expects to have over 250 people on board including engine owners, drivers, helpers, engineers, food caterers, marshals, first aid, and lots of entertainment with musicians, singers, and a few surprise guests to take the wheels!
Full details of the route are available at www.iseoa.com
