Gerard Murphy Memorial Classic Show & Road Run took place in Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford on the 1st of October 2023.
Gerard Murphy Memorial Classic Show & Road Run took place on Sunday. The weather was absolutely amazing, as the sun shone bright, there were so many fantastic and well kept vintage and classic cars pouring into the Mart in Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford on the 1st of October 2023.
The event was founded in 2011 by Gerard Murphy's family in remembrance of their son and brother Gerard who lost his life to suicide. Gerard Murphy Memorial is a Vintage & Classic Car Show & Road Run that is held every year on the first Sunday in October to mark Gerard's birthday.
On the 3rd of January 2011 Gerard's family's lives changed forever, They had no idea that there was anything troubling Gerard. Gerard's family said "As parents, brothers and sisters we would have moved the world to have Gerard with us. The loss and devastation is immeasurable of losing a sibling at a young age and losing a child is not quantifiable.
Gerard's family took the decision in 2011 to do this memorial for two reasons, they wanted to ensure that Gerard's life did not go in vain and they sought to create awareness of mental health issues and promote helplines, services and to empower people with the knowledge that there is help out there from organisations with help on hand 24 hours a day, with the hope to save families from heartache of losing a loved one to suicide.
Gerard's family greatly appreciate and thank supporters within the community and from vintage organisations from all over Ireland. All funds raised are donated to their chosen charities that are supporting suicide awareness and prevention. There were four chosen charities this year which are Slaney Search and Rescue, East Coast Samaritans, Good & New and Wexford Marine Watch.
Classic and vintage cars in the Mart, Enniscorthy
Crowds gathered to watch the procession of vintage cars leave the Mart at 1:30 pm and set off on their route at a leisurely pace. They then came back to the Mart for the presentation of prizes.
There was a raffle with many fantastic prizes and very sought after cars. The first prize was a Toyota Twin Cam and the second prize was a Ford Escort. There were many cash prizes. Richie Kavanagh pulled out the winning tickets in person.
Volunteers from East Coast Samaritans felt privileged and delighted to be part of this years event. We had a Samaritan stand and had the opportunity to speak to people in the area and offer them pens, wristbands and other materials. It is so important to raise awareness that there is help available. A volunteer from East Coast Samaritans said "We had a fantastic day, great job everyone with brilliant teamwork. She added, it was my pleasure to be part of the day. There was unbelievable work done on the part of Brid and Pat and family, they are excellent people"
Volunteers from East Coast Samaritans with Brid Murphy
Volunteers from the causes chosen had the opportunity to speak live on South East Radio. Three volunteers from East Coast Samaritans were delighted to talk about the importance of creating awareness that support is available by calling 116 123 and by emailing [email protected].