Would-be VP is no stranger to West Cork

BY BRIAN MOORE

US vice-presidential hopeful Senator Tim Kaine from Virginia is no stranger to West Cork.

In fact, just five years ago, in 2011, as he prepared to represent Virginia as a senator, Mr Kaine took time out from his campaign to visit friends and present prizes at the Courtmacsherry races.

‘Tim Kaine has been to Ireland on numerous occasions and he was a gracious guest here in 2011 when he joined Minister Simon Coveney presenting prizes at the Courtmac races,’ John Kingston of Springmount Stud told The Southern Star. During his visit to Ireland, Mr Kaine, who is also acquainted with Minister Coveney, travelled to West Cork to officiate at the annual beach races in Courtmac. He presented the Leading Jockey award to Joe Doyle and took time out to watch the races.

He also attended a meal later that day at Fleming’s restaurant in Cork. ‘Tim met many, many people that day back in 2011 who I know are looking forward to welcoming him back to West Cork and Courtmac as the vice-president of the US, in the not-so-distant future,’ John said.