Joey

by Christopher Peake

A racing motor cyclist from Armoy, Co. Antrim
Joey was one of nature's gentlemen who loved racing motor bikes
Just like some people enjoy going for lonely long distance hikes.
Joey was a quiet man. He was a family man who did his own thing.

When Joey got on his racing bike his competitors knew he was king.
In his early days when he was getting known Honda offered him a deal.
Joey turned down works rides “ I’m independent that’s the way I feel “
He was a regular entrant at motor cycle races on the Isle of Man
He usually took the ferry with his bikes loaded in his van.

One year there was a dock strike so he and mates hired a fishing boat
This was a bad move as they all ended in the water including his best coat.
They’d just left Portaferry when their boat it came to grief
They’d not travelled very far before they struck a reef.

Joey, his pals and bikes were rescued from Strangford Lough.
This is just one of many little anecdotes. There is quite a stock.
Joey was so good he had Honda’s support for very many years
When Joey crashed and died in Estonia the Japanese were in tears

Joey will be deeply missed by many a little Estonian orphan child
Annually his van was loaded with gifts for the orphanage in the wild
The greatest tribute to Joey would be to treat our fellow men as he did
With respect. Do that and our towns would be better places for every kid.

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