Just got back home from the Shepherds Rest Thumper Meet at 2.00am this morning after catching the 9.15pm Saturday night ferry from Rosslare to Fishguard. After the gathering I headed up to Malin Head, Co Donegal the most northerly point in Ireland and then headed south following the "Wild Atlantic Way" route as far as practically possible. The weather was not very kind, which drove me onto the N roads at times and also to seek shelter in hostels for the night. Crossed the River Shannon by ferry having last done so on my Suzuki GT750 in 1978. Eventually made it down to Mizen Head, Co Cork, the most southerly point in South West Ireland a few days later, taking in sites of interest on the way. Has two fantastic days riding with superb weather following the coast road and mountain routes through Co Kerry & into Co Cork. However, the weather gods saved the best until last, with monsoon rains from Kinsale to Rosslare on the final leg. Total mileage door to door 1,600 miles on my trusty TDM850 which never missed a beat. I had actually planned to take my XT600 Tenere but because of a couple of niggles ended up on the TDM. So whilst being a little late back home a big big thank you to Tim and the Irish lads for organising the meet with great company, riding and food all sorted. Cheers guys. See you all soon. The Bard XT
