Martin Birrane facts for kids
Martin Brendan Birrane (born August 19, 1935 – died June 9, 2018) was a successful businessman from Ireland. He was also a skilled racing driver. Martin was born in Ballina, County Mayo and went to St Muredach's College. He became wealthy by developing properties with his company, Peer Group.
He owned the Mondello Park racetrack in County Kildare. This track is the only one in Ireland that meets FIA 3 1/2 kilometre standards. It hosts many exciting racing events, both local and international.
Martin Birrane loved racing. He raced in the famous Le Mans 24 Hours race ten times. In 1985, he even won the GT class, which was a huge achievement! In 1990, he set an Irish land speed record. He drove at an amazing 176 miles per hour (283 km/h). This record was set on a part of the M50 motorway in Dublin that was not yet open.
Birrane also owned a NASCAR racing team called Team Ireland. This was from 1991 to 1992. Later, from 1997, he owned Lola Cars. Lola Cars was a company that built racing cars. It closed down in 2012. In 2011, a report called the Sunday Times Rich List said his wealth was about €85 million.
Martin Birrane passed away in June 2018. He was 82 years old.
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Racing Career Highlights
Martin Birrane had an exciting career in motorsports. He competed in many different types of races. He was known for his passion for speed and racing cars.
Competing in Le Mans
One of Martin Birrane's biggest racing achievements was at the Le Mans 24 Hours race. This is a very famous endurance race. Drivers and their teams race for 24 hours straight. Martin competed in this tough race ten times. In 1985, he and his team won their class. This showed his skill and determination as a driver.
Setting a Land Speed Record
In 1990, Martin Birrane did something incredible. He set a new Irish land speed record. He drove a car at 176 miles per hour (283 km/h). This record was set on a new section of the M50 motorway. It was a thrilling moment for Irish motorsports.
Business Ventures in Racing
Beyond driving, Martin Birrane was also a key figure in the business side of racing. He owned important racing facilities and companies.
Mondello Park Ownership
Martin Birrane owned Mondello Park, Ireland's only international racetrack. This track is very important for motorsports in Ireland. It hosts many national and international races. His ownership helped keep racing alive and thriving in the country.
Lola Cars and Team Ireland
Martin Birrane also owned Team Ireland, a NASCAR racing team. This was a big step into American stock car racing. Later, he bought Lola Cars. Lola was a well-known company that built racing cars. They made cars for many different racing series. His ownership of Lola Cars showed his deep commitment to motorsports.
