Report on the Ivan Anderson Memorial Run 2011

Saturday 14th May saw 16 cars entered and assembled at the Tyrone Crystal factory. This was the 22nd running of this event, in memory of the late Ivan Anderson. His son John once again led the cavalcade of cars away, going across country to cross the Dungannon Cookstown road  at Carland and then into Donaghmore. From here we followed the main road to Pomeroy. Straight through the village and then turning off to go into the hills for wonderful views of Cregganconroe mountain with Lough Mallon and Black Lough off to either side.

These quiet mountain roads really suited our old cars and despite a few showers everyone was full of praise for the route John had picked. Back down the other side we arrived at the An Creagán Centre on the main Omagh to Cookstown road for our mid run break and refreshments. The centre has a Craft Shop where the ladies were especially delighted to view their range of crafts at their successful extension of display space in the shop. With their emphasis still firmly based on supporting local crafts people, all enjoyed seeing some really unique hand-of  jewellery.  The men also enjoyed having a browse, although most were careful to keep their distance in case they were asked to pay for their ladies purchases!! This was certainly a worthwhile visit. Afternoon tea and scones were served here. 

Back on the road again John led us towards Greencastle, but turned off right to again provide us with some lovely views of the Sperrin mountains off to our left. Through Dunamore we were now running parallel to the main road. We passed Wellbrook Beetling Mill which nestles in an idyllic wooded glen that offers lovely walks and picnic spots, this, the last working water-powered linen beetling mill, offers a unique experience for all the family. You can try some scutching, hackling and weaving as you take part in hands-on demonstrations, set against the thundering cacophony of beetling engines.

Unfortunately we had no time to stop, but for those interested this is a worthwhile separate visit. We then made our way around Cookstown and across country to the Hanover House hotel in Coagh, John stopping on the way to hand out his customary framed pencil drawing of a vintage car as a finishers award, which was greatly appreciated by all. At the hotel we had our evening carvery meal, thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Trophies were presented. John and all his sponsors were thanked for another great run and their generosity in providing all drivers with a free meal. Everyone parted for home, delighted that they had taken part in another successful run organised on behalf of the UPWAC.