The 2016 Skerries 100 Road Race took place in North County Dublin, Ireland, this weekend as the event celebrated its 70th anniversary.

The very first Skerries 100 race in 1946 was won by Belfast man Harry Turner on his 348cc Norton and the race has been run every year since then, a unique achievement in Irish Road Racing history. The 2016 races were a suitable tribute to this history and despite the best attempts of the weather to dampen spirits with rain showers, the enthusiastic fans were treated to a great day of racing.

With names like “Finnegan’s Corner,” “Duke’s Bends” and “Joey’s Sweep” (named after Martin Finnegan, Geoff Duke and Joey Dunlop) around the 2.92-mile course, you can appreciate the names who have graced this road circuit in the past.

A minute’s silence was observed at the start of proceedings to remember fallen riders and the great Dr.John Hinds “The Flying Doctor.” who sadly died following an accident during the practice sessions at last year’s event.

Throughout the day, a total of 10 races, with classes from 125cc to Superbike, ensured the crowd got their fix of action “between the hedges” and praise must go to the Loughshinny club (http://www.loughshinnymotorcycleclub.com/) for getting the races completed with a minimum of fuss in challenging weather conditions.

Enjoy the photos and you can see more from the day on here.

Stephen

Above, you can not get closer than this.

Racing gets underway at the 2016 70th-Anniversary Skerries Road Races

A rider negotiates Finnegans Corner

Wet roads during the 125cc race

Michael Dunlop heads into Joey’s Sweep

The crowd watch the race action from one of the many great vantage points

Veronika Hankocyova in the Junior Support race

William Dunlop in the Open race

The classics helping celebrate 70 years of racing

Intensity

Derek McGee looks through a rain-soaked visor before the race

Local rider Andy Farrell on his way to a win

A rain puddle gives a great opportunity for a reflection photo

Popular Czech rider Michal Dokoupil lines up on the grid

William Dunlop took the win in the Supersport 600cc race

Micko Sweeney burns some rubber for the appreciative crowd

©2016 by Stephen Mahon – All Rights Reserved