North Coast Mini Mania

The first of September saw Portrush blow the bloody doors off and welcome 442 Minis to West Strand. Alongside the Rover Club, members of the NIIMC were also kindly invited to display some of their machinery, and despite being unable to recreate a scene from The Italian Job, we put together a fine line-up spanning from a Fiat 128 3P, to an Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce. Elsewhere, Alan’s Ferrari 308 GTS remained a fan favourite, whilst Roy provided the entertainment from the custom sound system in his Maserati. Having travelled to and from the show in the big Maser, I can confirm the volume is ‘adequate’.

Of course, the main event of the day was the eclectic array of Minis. All generations of ‘original’ Mini were displayed from early Issigonis-designed Morris and Austin variants, presented in a range of body styles, to late 1275 cc Rover Minis. These sat alongside meticulously prepared Wolseley Hornets and Riley Elfs, rally-prepared and modified Coopers, and even an Italian-built Innocenti Mini. Modern BMW-Minis were also well represented, from supercharged R53 Cooper S’s (Alastair’s next car I believe) to the latest electric Cooper and Countryman, which were on display from JKC Coleraine. Having poked around both, I was very impressed.

The afternoon was livened up more so when, despite not being Mini specialists, Abarth owner David and I were asked to partake in some judging. Initially daunted by our task, we soon settled into the role and enjoyed getting a closer look at some owners’ pride and joy. Given the high standard of show cars, choosing a winner was not easy! Congratulations to all who picked up an award, and special mention must also be given to Alastair who deservedly won a prize for ‘best invited car’ in his gorgeous Alfasud Sprint.

Overall, a fine day was had, and we kindly thank the show organisers for their hospitality. We are already looking forward to next year.

 

Aaron McCalmont

North Coast reporter