Help Us Uncover the Lost Stories of Cairncastle Hill Climb

The Cairncastle Hill Climb has been a thrilling part of Northern Ireland’s motorsport scene since 1950. Yet, many chapters of its history remain incomplete, especially from the 1960s through the 1990s. Larne Motor Club is working to fill these gaps and create a detailed exhibition that honors this iconic event. To do this, they need your help to gather programmes, photos, personal memories, and documents that shed light on the lesser-known years of the hill climb.

The Early Years and the Need for More Records

Cairncastle Hill Climb began in 1950 and quickly became a highlight for drivers and fans alike. The event showcased skill, speed, and the unique challenge of the hill’s terrain. While the early years are fairly well documented, the decades that followed have many missing pieces. Programmes and results from the 1960s to the 1990s are especially scarce. These materials are crucial for understanding how the event evolved, who the key competitors were, and how the local community engaged with the race.

Why the Event Paused in the 1960s

One of the most intriguing parts of Cairncastle’s history is the pause in the event during the 1960s. The reasons behind this break are not well recorded. If you have any documents, letters, or personal stories explaining why the hill climb stopped during this period, your contribution would be invaluable. Understanding this pause helps explain how the event adapted and eventually returned stronger.

Personal Memories Bring History to Life

Photographs and official records tell one part of the story, but personal memories add depth and emotion. Whether you were a driver, marshal, spectator, or local resident, your experiences matter. Stories about the atmosphere, challenges faced by drivers, or the excitement of race day help paint a fuller picture. Even brief recollections can connect the dots and bring forgotten moments back to life.

What You Can Share

You don’t need to have perfect or complete materials. Even a single photo, a note, or a memory can make a difference. Here are some examples of what Larne Motor Club is looking for:

• Programmes or race results from the 1960s to 1990s

• Photos of the hill, paddock, cars, crowds, or race action

• Personal stories from anyone involved or who attended

• Documents explaining the event’s pause in the 1960s

• Evidence of the event becoming a two-day competition

  
  

How Your Contributions Will Be Handled

All items shared will be carefully credited to their owners and treated with respect. The club will ensure that materials are returned safely after being documented. This is a chance to preserve your part of motorsport history and see it celebrated in a public exhibition.

Join the Effort to Complete Cairncastle’s Story

The Cairncastle Hill Climb is more than just a race; it is a piece of Northern Ireland’s cultural heritage. By sharing your materials and memories, you help keep this legacy alive for future generations. If you have anything to contribute, please reach out to Larne Motor Club or complete this form.