Small Wheels Only - The Fifteen Club

Sometimes the stars just align.
Everyone’s free, the weather is perfect, and—most importantly—nobody breaks down. That was exactly the kind of rare magic we had a couple weeks back when, after a couple of months of back-and-forth planning (and some very helpful wrangling from Gavin at Cruz, even though he couldn’t make it himself), we finally brought three incredible cars together for a shoot I’ve been wanting to do for years.

Sean’s Z20 Soarer, Dave’s PS13, and Tadhg’s PS13 — three machines I know like the back of my hand, owned by three lads I’m lucky to call friends. These aren’t just cars I’ve admired from a distance; they’ve been regulars in my life, part of countless shows, meets, and shoots. More importantly, Sean, Dave, and Tadhg have always had my back. Whether it was supporting my earlier projects, helping out behind the scenes, or just showing up without question, they’ve never hesitated. I’m always keen to return the favour and I thought this shoot was the perfect way to do just that!

For the longest time, I’ve wanted to properly film rollers. The good stuff — hanging out the boot or leaning out the rear window, camera in hand, catching cars in motion, the way they were meant to be seen. The problem? You need a driver who’s willing to keep a steady pace while you contort yourself into some questionable filming positions, often at speeds your mam wouldn’t approve of(Sorry Mam!). Not an easy thing to organise. But this trio — who I’ve affectionately named The Fifteen Club — deserved all the stops pulled out.

We kicked off the day at Tadhg’s place. A bit of chat, a quick look over the cars, and then we were off to the Hillside Bar for some pre-shoot refreshments(10-9 burger is top notch). Once the caffeine (and Guinness) levels were topped up, it was time to get serious. We mic’d up Dave’s PS13 to catch every ounce of turbo flutter and exhaust note glory. There’s just something about hearing an SR20 soundtrack raw and unfiltered while you’re in the thick of filming — it’s addictive.

The first real stretch of road we hit was a short but beautiful run between two motorway exits with sweeping views over County Wexford. Perfect weather, golden light, and three cars that looked right at home in the scene. From there, we timed it just right to hit the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Bridge at sunset. The low light spilling over the structure made for some of the best footage I’ve ever captured — the kind that instantly makes you forget how many hours you’ve been on your feet, or how much your shoulders ache from holding the camera steady.

As daylight faded, we switched gears and headed to a nearby abandoned industrial spot for static shots. The setting was gritty but photogenic — the perfect contrast to the clean lines and polished finishes of the cars. The only downside? A swarm of mosquitos that apparently decided we were this evenings meal. Minor inconvenience aside, everything just worked out. The light, the cars, the vibes — it all came together exactly how I’d imagined.

Days like this remind me why I love doing what I do. Good friends, great cars, and the kind of golden-hour magic you can’t fake. The Fifteen Club might have been a one-off for now, but I’ve got a feeling this won’t be the last time these three share the same stretch of road.

And to be honest… I love it when a plan comes together.