John O’Grady backs North Kerry off road motorsport complex plans

One of Kerry’s top motorcycle racers  and engineers has backed plans to build an off-road motorsport complex in North Kerry.

Last month, Kerry Motorsport News revealed plans that the current owners of the former Hot Rod oval and adjoining wind farm near Kilflynn are investigating the creation of such a complex.

Motorsport promoter and windfarm business partner Niall Gunn invited several local motorcycle races – both off road and short circuit racers – to a pilot event in early September. A second one is planned for this Sunday.

John O’Grady, father of current Short Circuit racers Emmet and Evan attended the first meeting.

While there he showed his grandchildren, Eloy and Parker how to ride an off-road motorcycle in a safe and controlled manner.

The renowned race engineer sees huge potential in the site and not just entirely for motorsport.  

“It is a fantastic idea,” he told Kerry Motorsport News “It is an amazing place for people in to Mountain Biking.

“Hopefully something will happen up there, that the locals will support but more importantly, that people play by the rules.

“There is a nice little business opportunity up there, a training school for off road motorcycling, where you can learn the skills of MotoX and maybe find a future world champion – make a career for somebody

“Look at what is happening in Dublin, and these places, it would put a stop to a lot of anti-social behaviour.”

This weekend’s event is by pre-booking only and spectators are not allowed attend.