The Ireland Heads West Outdoor Classic, Vintage Car, and Farm Machinery show will take place over two days at the Ballybrit Racecourse this weekend in aid of the Help Emma Beat It Trust.
The event takes place on June 28 and 29 and promises to be an incredible gathering of vehicles, including one of the rarest cars in the world, the Frazer Nash Sebring (1954 ). The event has been organised to help the fund which has been set up to support 17-year-old Emma Naughton-Heavey from Galway. Emma is battling a rare virulent cancer called fibrolamellar and has to travel to the USA every 12 weeks to meet with doctors there.
Organisers of the event say that registration numbers have already surpassed expectations and it is on course to become the largest event of its type in Ireland. Thomas Heavey, chairman of the event committee and father of Emma, said: “I have been around the classic scene for many years due to my work and I have been humbled by the support that my peers are showing for the cause. Ever since Emma was diagnosed with this rare cancer in January 2013 vintage and classic clubs and enthusiasts from all over Ireland have wanted to support her fund, Help Emma Beat It. We came up with the idea of hosting the outdoor show and it looks like this event will be of a scale never before seen in the country.”
Looking forward to the show and having the opportunity to thank her supporters, Emma Naughton-Heavey said: “ It has been a tough journey over the last year, and it has been particularly difficult having to face several surgeries and follow-up treatments in America while in my Leaving Cert year. I have to say that even at my lowest moments the level of support and enthusiasm shown by so many gives me a boost. Words are not enough to show my thanks to all those involved in this event and the many others throughout the country.”
The show comprises a display of vintage cars, tractors, steam engines, stationary engines and old time machinery and tools. One of the highlights will be the display of steam engines - one of the largest in Ireland.
Emma’s campaign has reached across the water as well with steam engines making their way from Scotland and England.
For spectacular displays of truly amazing classic cars and entertainment for all the family, visit the Ireland Heads West for Emma show that takes place in Ballybrit Racecourse from 10am to 6pm on Saturday June 28 and Sunday June 29.
