My relationship with the 'Wexford' began navigating for Pat Dunne in a very hurridly prepared Hillman Imp, and then in the following years, both in Mk1 and Mk2 Escorts. After winning a number of local navigation events, I moved into broadcasting as a late-night DJ on South East Radio's launch in 1989.
Broadcasting to the region opened up a number of opportunities, one of those being the chance to move into sports journalism - I've covered every rally since Wexford got its own independent radio station in 1989, and was among the home-based team for Wexford's All-Ireland Hurling triumph of 1996, zipping between some of Wexford's best-known hostelries, and relaying the various celebrations of the Model County's memorable triumph.
An occasional international football reporter, I have also more than a passing interest in both Formula 1 and A1GP. One of my most memorable interview being with Sheik Makthoum at the launch of A1 Team Ireland in Mondello in 2005. I just hope the recent introduction of gary Anderson can improve fortunes for the Irish team!!
Annie, as she is better known in motorsport circles, was born in Kilkenny into a rally mad family, so there was no way out! All 3 of her brothers either drive or navigate, her Mam makes the tea and sambos and Dad is team boss or so he likes to think.
Been in the motor club for 4 years now, been co driving for bout 3 years, debuting with Gary Nolan in the Wexford single stage as 00. She sat in for a few rallies with Barry Murphy. In 2005 she navigated for Colin OToole from Carlow in which he won the West Coast Junior Championship 2005. Currently she is navigating for John Stafford and they hope to have a really good year this year with new engine, gear box etc.
She is currently studying massage therapy, so soon to be the clubs personal masseuse!! (her words, not mine, honest!!!)
In 2006 she was crowned strawberry fair Queen and is now being put forward for the Wexford Rose in March/ April! Will she wear race overalls on the night???
Taghmon's own John Dier is an ardent Liverpool fan, who has been involved, both as a navigator and as a journalist, in every rally since 1982 (I guess I've been around for a lot of allies!!!!).
Kilkenny born, having spent all her formative years in Wexford,Annemarie Kennedy is the latest recruit to the team here at the website. The youngest member of the team, she tells us she was born on january 27th, 1984. That makes it her birthday the day after this is posted!! There is a brave girl giving away her age.