Back in the early summer of 2001, two like-minded Cork men took time out from goin’ on about how great the ‘People’s Independent Republic’ was, and had a think about the VW (and associated auto manufacturers) scene in Ireland. Both Haulie Keane and Alan Lomasney were in agreement: Ireland needed an organised VAG enthusiasts club to cater for the growing number of people, who were to be found spinning around the country in their old Mk1’s and Mk2’s!

And so, it was done………VAGE was born! Not being men to rest on their laurels, Haulie and Alan then decided to hold the inaugural VAGE Annual Show…with under two months to organise it! The first show was held in Ballyvourney in Co. Cork (where else boy, like?!) and was a great success, with over 70 cars on display. A simple, straightforward show ‘n’ shine format was employed; you showed up on the day, shined up your car (hangover permitting - most VAGE shows fall on a Sunday) and then took a stroll around the show venue, admiring the other cars on display, browsing the trade stands, or grabbing a bite to eat. Since 2001, the show has been held annually, with the exception of 2002, which saw the national foot and mouth disease outbreak curbing travel within the country. Venues for the show since 2003 have been Midleton (2003), and Fermoy (2004,2005 and 2006), with in excess of 100 cars on display every year.

Our current mission is to build on the social side of the VAG scene, with regular meets and spins held throughout the country. We all feel that this approach works very well – actually getting out in our dubs, meeting up, having a chat and a bit of craic and all taking a spin together. There are enough internet sites out there, where you can sit at your pc and browse pictures all day, while discussing everything VAG-related with other like-minded folk without ever meeting anyone. What we’re trying to encourage is people getting behind the wheel, meeting up face-to-face and having a bit of a laugh. When the weather’s poor, it’s a good way to spend an afternoon……………when the weather’s good, it’s a great way to spend the day! So, have a look around the site, see what you think, and if we’ve whetted your appetite for all things VAG-related, feel free to contact us – everyone’s welcome to join in the craic. You won’t be disappointed. Paul C.