Thousands gather in Ballymoney to celebrate Joey Dunlop at ‘Joey 25’ Anniversary event
- Love Ballymena
- May 25
- 3 min read
Thousands of motorcycling enthusiasts converged on Ballymoney this weekend to pay tribute to one of Northern Ireland’s greatest sporting heroes, Joey Dunlop, during a landmark memorial event marking 25 years since his untimely passing.
The “Joey 25” celebration, organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council in partnership with Linda Dunlop and the Dunlop family circle, drew fans from across the globe to honour the legendary racer, affectionately known as the “quiet man” of road racing.
From the early hours of Saturday (24th May), crowds gathered to experience a jam-packed programme of events that celebrated Joey’s enduring influence on motorsport.
A central highlight was the breathtaking parade lap of 25 of Joey’s original racing bikes, ridden through the streets of Ballymoney by an elite group of motorcycling champions and Joey’s closest peers.
The emotional tribute was led by Donna McLean, Joey’s daughter, and Michael McCammond, husband of Joey’s youngest daughter Joanne, with thousands lining the streets to cheer on the iconic machines.
A Star-Studded Line-up of Road Racing Legends
Racing royalty was out in force, including World Superbike champions Carl Fogarty and Jonathan Rea, Grand Prix stars Ron Haslam, Jeremy McWilliams, and Eugene Laverty, as well as British champions Leon Haslam and Adrian Coates.
Local favourites and TT legends such as John McGuinness, Ian Lougher, Bruce Anstey, and Phillip McCallen also featured in the parade.
Joining them were Joey’s former teammates, rivals, and friends including Alan Irwin, Trevor Steele, Con Law, and Leslie McMaster, alongside Double World Formula 2 Champion Brian Reid. Leading the dazzling lineup was world record holder Ryan Farquhar, cementing the event as a who’s who of international road racing.
Unique Exhibitions and Rare Memorabilia
Ballymoney’s Joey Dunlop Memorial Garden and museum became the focal point for fans eager to get up close to a unique collection of memorabilia.
The Joey 25 exhibition, now open to the public until the end of August, showcases never-before-seen items from the Dunlop family collection, alongside bikes, photographs, and mementoes donated by fans and collectors.
Visitors had the opportunity to purchase commemorative Joey 25 t-shirts and souvenir programmes, with additional family-friendly attractions including autograph signings, live music, and entertainment throughout the day.
Emotional Tributes from Family and Officials
Reflecting on the day, Joey’s wife Linda Dunlop said:
“I am overwhelmed by the huge crowds that have travelled to Ballymoney today to remember their racing hero. Thank you to everyone who joined with our family to celebrate this milestone year.
“I would also like to thank the Council for organising this fantastic event and honouring Joey’s legacy with such a fitting tribute.
“Seeing so many of Joey’s original bikes displayed and ridden through his hometown has been truly special. It has been a day that we as a family will treasure.”
Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Ciaran McQuillan, echoed these sentiments:
“We were delighted to welcome thousands of fans from all around the world to Ballymoney for this very special Joey 25 celebration.
“It is a true testament to who Joey was, both on and off the circuit, that huge numbers have come along today to show their love and appreciation for their sporting hero.
“It was an honour to welcome the new Mayor of Douglas, Steven Crellin to Ballymoney. The two towns have been twinned since 2006, with the Causeway Coast and Glens and the Isle of Man sharing a passion for motorsport.
“I would like to thank all the riders who took part in today’s event and the collectors who very kindly loaned bikes, artifacts and memorabilia for the displays.
“A special word of thanks to Stephen Watson and the team at BBC Northern Ireland for their help in organising this fitting celebration, reflecting Joey’s enduring legacy.”
The Joey 25 exhibition continues at Ballymoney Museum until the end of August. Visitors can find more details by visiting:
