Seven manufacturers were represented at the inaugural International Pick-Up Award test trials, which took place in Ireland recently. Held at the Quest Event Centre at Mondello Park, jury members travelled from all parts of Western and Central Europe for the event, hosted by Fleet Transport Magazine. The Johnstown House Hotel, Enfield with support from Failte Ireland, provided hospitality and accommodation.  

Many of the Pick-ups that went under scrutiny on the specially designed course were premiered in Ireland, such as the new Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi L200, Nissan Navara, Toyota Hilux and VW Amarok, while the latest Isuzu D-Max made its European debut here.

According to chief organiser and Irish Jury Member, Jarlath Sweeney, the event was a great success from both a press participation and vehicle manufacturers point of view.

“I’m delighted how things went. It was great to see fellow jury members travel from Russia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania, the UK as well as Scandinavia for the inaugural test trials. Judging by the reaction from the European based communication representatives from the vehicle manufacturers present, they were happy that their Pick-ups performed well on the three-faceted course around Quest and Mondello Park’s Racing Circuit.”