Clifden, Co. Galway – In July 2005, Mark Rebholz and Steve Fossett made history by retracing the legendary path of Alcock and Brown, completing a transatlantic flight from St. John’s, Newfoundland, to Clifden, Connemara, Co. Galway. Flying a faithful replica of the original 1919 Vickers Vimy, the duo paid homage to the aviation pioneers who achieved the first ever non‑stop transatlantic flight.
On Saturday, 5th July 2025, Clifden and Connemara will mark the 20th anniversary of that remarkable re‑enactment. The celebrations will welcome Mark Rebholz back to Clifden for a special day of free events honouring this historic feat and the people who made it possible.
Highlights of the day include:
- 1.00pm – Unveiling of a Commemorative Plaque by Mark Rebholz, Clifden Town Square
- 4.00pm – An Audience with Mark Rebholz, Station House Theatre, Clifden
- 6.00pm – Screening of Alcock and Brown: The True Story, a documentary by Kevin Glynn
This event is organised by the Connemara Chamber of Commerce, which was also involved in welcoming the aviators back in 2005. The commemorations will provide an opportunity for the community and visitors alike to learn more about the historic transatlantic crossings and the role Clifden has played in this remarkable chapter of aviation history.
All events are free, but tickets must be reserved online on Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.ie/o/connemara-chamber-113026257011
Contact Details:
Connemara Chamber
Email: [email protected]
website: https://connemarachamber.ie/news-social/
Phone: 089 9526795 / 087 7784856
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Editorial notes
- Mark’s co-pilot was the famous adventurer and aviator Steve Fossett – now deceased
- High resolution imagery available from David Branigan https://oceansport.photodeck.com/ [email protected]
- Low resolution imagery here https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/3mjhkptcc3ckj44ljuw97/AMNAalXabmeJCSN6qLT4JVw?rlkey=fgeclllzrgas1qlrbz0qnwbvg&dl=0
