Ballymena Car Fest 2013 – rare 1932 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 steals the show

Another enjoyable day for NIIMC members at  Ballymena Car Fest.  Held on  8th June 2013 at Ballee Playing Fields, this was the show’s fourth year running, during which it has not only grown in size but also  popularity.  Club members cars on display were Dave’s Alfa 147 GTA, Chris’s Alfetta GTV, Peter’s Lancia Delta Integrale Evo 2, Stuart’s early Fiat 500, Brian’s Fiat 850 Coupe, Johnny’s Alfa 159 Ti SW, Ricky’s Fiat X/19, Johnny’s Ferrari 348 TS, James’s Fiat Coupe and Stephen’s Lancia Delta Integrale Evo.  The Italian section was also graced with various other Italian cars.

Weather was fantastic and the show boasted attractions to suit all tastes including car dealer stands, various stalls selling a range of car related products, clothing and other accessories as well as a great range of  bikes and trucks.  A big crowd puller was the Strong Man event, one aspect of which involved pulling a lorry. With the heat and sun, it was evident that this element of the event proved extremely tough.

What proved the highlight of the day  was part of a collection of cars on display owned by a local Ballymena family.  Alongside an  AC Ace-Bristol, AC Cobra and a very low mileage 1980 Porsche 911 Turbo, was a 1932 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300, with race history.  Not only did it race in the Ards TT, but also the 1932 LeMans endurance grand prix.  What a fantastic and rare sight!  Really made my day and I was really fortunate to be allowed behind the railings to get a number of photos.

Well done to Brian and James for being awarded a well deserved first and second place in the show and shine for the Italian section.

Thanks to the event organisers for a brilliant day.

Chris Byrne