The Carole Nash Mondello Historic Festival will run on the 12th and 13th of August, and if you're a fan of classic racing cars, it is enormously worth getting along to.
Porsche's 75th
This year, it being the 75th birthday of Porsche, Mondello has teamed up with Porsche Centre Dublin, and on display will be the likes of the Cayenne Turbo GT, 911 Targa, Cayman T, an exclusive 75-year anniversary commemorative, colourful Taycan finished in rainbow hues, along with a selection of legendary classic 911s.
"We are delighted to partner with the Dublin Porsche Centre to celebrate this legendary car brand, they will be bringing along a stellar selection of both classic and new Porsches, a must see for car enthusiasts' said the Managing Director of Mondello Park, Roddy Greene. "The foundations of Porsche and how it has evolved are clear from the vision of founder Ferdinand Porsche, who said, 'In the beginning, I looked around and could not find quite the car I dreamed of, so I decided to build it myself.' Visitors will have the opportunity to experience Porsche's history firsthand and see these exceptional sports cars up close at the dedicated Porsche display."
Grand Prix Trophy
On the track, the racing events will include The Irish International Grand Prix Trophy, The Dublin Grand Prix Trophy, St. Brigid's Trophy and the Birrane Perpetual Trophy. Mondello Park says, "These races showcase the skill and adrenaline of drivers competing in vintage and classic vehicles. There will be a selection of pedigree Grand Prix motorcycle displays on track on both days with the unique sights and smells of the distinctive two-stroke engine to entertain."
There will be plenty of off-track entertainment and activities to explore, such as live swing and drum bands, a vintage funfair, fairground rides, games, face painting, street food pop-ups, and surprises to keep the whole family entertained.
The Birrane Collection
The Birrane Perpetual Trophy will be well worth watching, as it celebrates both the 100th anniversary of the Le Mans 24hrs and the efforts of the late, great Martin Birrane, one-time owner of both Mondello Park and Lola racing cars and a ten-times competitor at the 24hrs. If you're visiting the festival, you get automatic free admission to the trackside museum, which houses the Birrane collection and which contains such treasures as Jordan F1 cars, a rare Ford C100 Le Mans racer, and Indycars driven by the likes of Jackie Stewart and Nigel Mansell.