In The Air

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A legendary Boeing Stearman flying near Weston Airport, Dublin on its way to the Bray Air Display

Rallycross at Mondello Park

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Would you believe it? Six years and counting…. that’s how long I reside in Ireland now. Mostly in Dublin, of course. And as you would have noticed following this blog: I do love sport. Seen pretty much all you can see here. The obvious and the obscure ones. But motor sport? I didn’t have a clue!

I mean, I had no idea it even remotely exists in this country the way it actually does. There is, however, just outside of the capital, this massive race track, the Mondello Park – it’s of course the green island’s only international circuit.

Well, for a couple months now I live in Naas, county Kildare, outside of the stinky capital. And as it happens Mondello Park is a leisurely 20min car ride off the home door.

Last Sunday was the right time to visit the place. The Irish Rallycross Championship took place this day. Cars in all shapes and forms thundered down the track in countless small lap races. Close to the action with fantastic viewing of the track I had to get out the cam and shoot the exciting scenes unfloding right in front of my eyes:

All photos taken with the Nikon D7100 and the G2 Tamron 70-200mm.

Been a tremendous day out there at Mondello Park. Viewing is great from across the track. You get as close to the action as safety regulations can allow. Can highly recommend a visit. I for one will be back, that is for sure.

Wicklow Panorama

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8mm, ISO 100, f/8, 1/100s – Nikon D7100, Sigma 8-16mm

It looked simple enough on the map. The reality was steep. And windy. At least not rainy. That was for later. Hiking up to the Djouce Mountain in the Wicklow’s isn’t a big deal, though the last bit is steep enough for untrained legs.

Add some high winds and it makes for a stern test on a weekend’s afternoon. It was too windy up there and the looming rain clouds made sure I only stayed for a brief period until making my way down again.

Light was sparse, though the shapes of the different mountains, hills, the wide panoramic view of the Irish coastline makes for an image where you can’t do much wrong.

The wonderful 8-16mm from Sigma in the back delivered once more. I wanted to capture the atmosphere felt on the mountain in a wide panorama to show the contrasts of the scene. It’s not the most special image I’ve ever taken. Still, It was worth to get out there and take it.