Skerries 100 organisers look ahead to 80th anniversary of 'special' event as Irish road racing makes welcome comeback in Republic of Ireland
The Skerries 100 will celebrate its 80th anniversary this summer as the “special” event returns to the calendar for the first time since 2022.
Motorcycling in the Republic of Ireland has been revived this year after prohibitive insurance costs prevented any road races, short circuit, trials or motocross meetings taking place in 2025.
The sport’s governing body in the Republic, Motorcycling Ireland, obtained cover for all disciplines of the sport this year, with Irish national road races including Kells, Skerries, Walderstown and Athea making a welcome comeback.
The Skerries 100, first held in 1946, will run from July 4-5 around the 2.9-mile course in North County Dublin, with loyal backers Country Crest remaining as title sponsors.
Rory McKay, Chairperson of the Loughshinny Motorcycle Supporters Club, said 2026 would be a crucial year for the future of road racing in the Republic.
“Following several years of uncertainty on the future of road racing in Ireland, Loughshinny Motorcycle Supporters Club is proud to be launching the Country Crest Skerries 100, one of Ireland’s iconic road racing events,” he said.
“This historic race meeting was first held in 1946 and has been keenly supported by riders, course residents, the local community and a dedicated group of volunteers ever since.
“It celebrates the passion, skill and collective love of the sport that defines Irish road racing. We look forward to a long-awaited thrilling event and to welcoming fans from across the country and beyond.
“2026 is all about securing the future of road racing in places like Skerries and we are evolving how the event is delivered while protecting what makes it special for all involved.”
Country Crest owners Michael and Gabriel Hoey said the race meeting “showcased thew very best of Ireland”.
“As title sponsor, Country Crest is proud to be associated with an event that has such a strong tradition, community spirit and national profile,” said a statement.
“The Skerries 100 is more than a race weekend — it is a celebration of dedication, local pride and the passion that brings competitors, volunteers, businesses and spectators together year after year.
“At Country Crest, we believe in supporting communities and events that showcase the very best of Ireland, and the Skerries 100 continues to do exactly that in North County Dublin. We are honoured to play a part in supporting the continued growth and success of the event in 2026.
“We would like to thank the Loughshinny Motorcycle Club for its tireless commitment and dedication in making this event possible once again.
“We wish all competitors a successful and safe weekend, and we look forward to another fantastic Skerries 100 this year.”
With the return of road racing in the Republic and the addition of the Mid Antrim 150 in Northern Ireland, this year represents a significant turnaround for Irish national road racing with the fullest calendar in four years.
The Cookstown 100 and North West 200 have already taken place, with seven events still to run as follows:
2026 Irish Road Racing Calendar: June 20-21 – Kells Road Races; June 26-27 – Tandragee 100;
July 4-5 – Skerries 100; July 18-19 – Walderstown ‘Race of South’; July 24-25 – Armoy Road Races; July 31-August 1 – Mid Antrim 150; September 12-13 – South West Road Races Athea.