By Forward progression summed up Rathkeale aces James Chawke and Liam Chawke, 2026 Walderstown ‘Race of The South’ stint.
Eva Mullen takes up the story, covering the Chawkie brothers’ performances over the past weekend.
The Walderstown ‘Race of the South’ once again delivered everything that makes it one of the standout events on the Irish road racing calendar. Bathed in warm sunshine under clear blue skies, the fast and flowing Westmeath circuit was in prime condition, setting the stage for a weekend of close, high-speed racing.
With perfect weather allowing riders to exploit every inch of the circuit, both James and Liam produced a series of determined performances, displaying pace, consistency, and growing confidence throughout the meeting.
James enjoyed one of his strongest weekends of the season. A superb ride aboard the RL Racing Aprilia Super Twin earned himself an impressive third place podium finish after an intense battle from lights to flag.
He backed that up with an outstanding fifth place in the Open Race, mixing it with a selection of Ireland’s leading road racers, before rounding off an excellent weekend with sixth place within the prestigious Grand Final to complete an impressive haul of results.
Liam also continued his upward progression, enjoying another encouraging weekend on the demanding Walderstown circuit. A solid 11th place finish from the Open Race, he produced an excellent ride to secure P8 in the fiercely contested 600cc race.
Liam rounded off the meeting with another composed performance in the Grand Final, taking the chequered flag in 10th place to underline the progress been-made.
The combination of ideal weather and a dry, grippy track produced blistering lap speeds and thrilling racing across all classes, while the large crowds lining the circuit created the unique atmosphere that has become synonymous with Walderstown.
The team would like to extend its sincere thanks to the Fore Motor Cycle Racing Club CLG for delivering another first-class edition of the Race of the South. The event was impeccably organised, and tremendous credit must also go to the volunteers, marshals, medical crews, officials, photographers, sponsors, and supporters whose dedication ensured another safe and successful meeting.
Attention now turns to the Armoy Road Races, where James and Liam will be aiming to carry their Walderstown form into another iconic road racing weekend. With confidence high and momentum building, the team is looking forward to another opportunity to challenge at the front and continue their strong run of results.
Thanks to our sponsors such as Bikewise, Peter McCormack, PMC Builders, Open Road Motorcycle, Auto Roller door, Ernie Coates Race Support, Askeaton Paving, 547 Motors who help us to compete at events like this!
Photo credit: Colin Casey Photography
Words by Eva Mullen
