RUNNING THE ROADS FOR A GOOD CAUSE by Helen Mayne

After a few weeks of glorious weather, Saturday 29th May dawned another bright and sunny day - proving the weather forecasters showers and storms to be misguided. The Traction Engine Club of Ulster seemed to have been lucky with the weather for their second annual road run. Due to have an 11am starting time some early birds were present from before 10am - full marks for those eager participants. The meeting point at Tamlough Road, Randalstown was a field kindly loaned by John McAteer, with the previous weeks of good weather ensuring that the ground conditions were ideal. Some tractors arrived on lorries, some on trailers and some intrepid tractors drivers even drove their machines to the starting point. By the time 10.30 came the entries were rolling in thick and fast and the tractors were lining up in orderly fashion around the perimeter of the field. All makes and models were represented, from the very early Fordson Model N's to the much more modern Case 2390. Some superb restorations were proudly paraded by their owners, paying tribute to the many hours attention given to them to get them in such a condition. Other makes on show included Nuffields, McCormicks and Zetors. Having been meticulously restored, the Dexta of Thomas Moorhead, Broughshane and the Super Dexta of John Calderwood and sons, Aughnacleagh, Portglenone stood proudly alongside the Fordson Major of Raymond Houston, of Kells, all resplendant in their fine mid blue and orange livery. More up to date models from the Ford stable were also on view including a 2000, 3000 and 4000. Changes in David Browns over the years were easy to see as two versions of the DB 990 sat alongside one another - the red one of Alan Millar, Randalstown and the white one of David Millar. Another DB 990 certainly caught the eye with its beautiful gypsy caravan being towed behind it. Owned by Hugh J McKee of Randalstown it was clear that a lot of work had gone into getting this ensemble to its finished condition. Becoming increasingly popular amongst vintage tractor enthusiasts Ford Countys were also represented with Martin White of Antrim's recent restoration on show. As to be expected there were a good selection of MF's participating in the run including grey fergies, 35, 35X,135 and 188 models. Some of the more unusual models participating were Gilbert Armour's Minneapolis Moline, Lawrence Woolf's Australian imported 1960 Chamberlain Super 70 and the 1966 John Deere 5020 imported from Canada and owned by Allen McAnally of Ballyeaston. At 11am the tractors were all sitting in well ordered lines around the field. As one moved towards the gate, like sheep the others followed and formed into their line up for the event. A few latecomers were accommodated - they hastily unloaded their machines and joined in the line just before the off. The smell of diesel and TVO fumes was certainly nostalgic as just under 80 tractors headed towards Randalstown at the start of their 28 mile adventure. The cavalcade headed for the town, passing through housing estates before emerging at the main street for a short distance and then entering the Shanes Castle estate. Following the River Maine for a distance the roadways of the estate made for some pleasant scenery. In the shadow of the M2 motorway the tractor drivers were able to enjoy a more leisurely pace than their counterparts on the road! This area of the route then headed into Randalstown forest before emerging at Staffordstown. Taking to the roads again the participants enjoyed glorious sunshine and heat as they made their way towards the lunch stop. Slightly short of half way along the route the tractors all converged on the yard of Millar transport for their lunchtime break. This proved to be an ideal setting with plenty of space for parking the tractors and stunning views of Lough Neagh as a backdrop. Having had the opportunity to stretch their legs and enjoy their complimentary lunch, tractor drivers and spectators alike were able to have a good look at each others machines, discuss restoration projects and enjoy a chat. Whilst the weather was still fine and after everyone had been fed and watered, it was time for the off again. A bit of off road driving followed allowing the drivers to see some more of scenic Mid Antrim not generally seen from the roads. Just after emerging onto the road again a very unusual sight for Northern Ireland was seen - in a roadside field looking out through the gate were two llamas and some rare breeds of sheep and goats! Minor tree lined country roads were travelled before arriving at the Demesne Estate for some wonderful scenery and off-road driving. Entering the estate alongside what would have once been a beautiful gate lodge, the drivers enjoyed travelling through some wonderful parkland with mature trees and cattle grazing contentedly amongst them. Remains of historic buildings allowed participants to imagine what this estate must have been like in years gone by and the sort of lifestyle enjoyed by the gentry then. Back to the road again the tractors were approaching the homeward part of their route. Winding their way towards Moneyglass, with less than five miles to their finishing point, the rain decided to make an appearance. One heavy downpour wet the drivers but did nothing to dampen their spirits - it was at this stage that drivers of tractors with cabs were glad of them, having earlier complained about being too hot! The rain passed by as the drivers completed one last off-road section before returning to the starting point. Comments on the route were very favourable as participants received their commemorative plaques from the organisers. Thanks are due to many people without whom such an event would not have been possible. Rodney Getty and his helpers planned a magnificent route taking in some wonderful scenery. The landowners of the various off-road sections must be thanked for their cooperation and the welcome extended to the tractor drivers - namely the Shanes Castle Estate Company, the Higgins and Burnside families as well as John McAteer, who kindly granted the use of his field as a rendezvous point. The facilities at Millar transports yard were second to none for the lunch stop and again everyone was made to feel very welcome. Nursing staff from the Antrim Area Hospital Coronary Care Unit acted as willing collectors on the day as proceeds of the event are being given to that unit. All in all, the event was very successful with everyone going home content. The next major event in the vintage clubs calendar is their annual two day steam and vintage rally in Ballymena Showgrounds. The rally will be held on Friday 16th and Saturday 17th July 2004.