Preparations underway for the Gordan Bennett Classic Car Run in Laois
The Gordon Bennett Classic Car Run takes place from Thursday 30 May to Monday 2 June
A JAM-PACKED itinerary awaits those taking part in the 122 year running of the Gordon Bennett Classic Car Run that takes place from Thursday 30 May to Monday 2 June.
Beginning on the Friday of the June Bank Holiday weekend, it prides itself on being the oldest motor sporting event of the year. It welcomes classic petrol heads from all over the globe to join in the journey back in time experience. Even if you’re not taking part, it is an equally thrilling experience to be an onlooker.
The original Gordon Bennett route was first run in 1903 by the playboy son of the founder of the New York Herald and travelled through the country sides and villages of Kildare, Carlow and Laois.
On Friday evening 30 May those taking part in the run will gather at Laois County Council from 6pm for registration and a launch night as well as introductions with speeches and guest speakers, followed by finger food and refreshments.
Please note that this is a private event for registered participants only.
Registration can also be done on each of the event days for those who cannot attend the formal run launch on Friday night.
The run takes off at 11am on Saturday 31 May from its usual headquarters at Treacy’s. The Heath and the cars will wind their way down through Laois and onto the Carlow/Wexford border. The first stop on the route will be at Huntingdon Castle and Gardens where an open air hog roast picnic lunch will be served.
After lunch its back to Laois and the village of Timahoe to park up where the cars will be on display during the Timahoe Viking Festival.
Sunday depart time from Treacy’s is again at 11am when the drivers will retrace the original 1903 Gordon Bennett Race route with stops at Athy and then onto Kildare Town for a street party hosted by the Cill Dar Car Club. The evening will be rounded off with a Gala Night at the Midlands Park Hotel in Portlaoise with food, music, spot prizes and craic.
The Gala Night is billed as a relaxed evening and not black tie so those attending are encouraged to don their tweeds in spirit of the event. Many repeat guests see this as the highlight of the weekend.
The next morning, Monday 2 June, cars will again depart from Treacy’s at 11am for a leisurely run though the Laois and Kildare countryside to their Monasterevin hosts for a street festival and the legendary tea party in the town.
It’s then back to headquarters for the annual BBQ finale, music and send offs followed by the lowering of the Gordon Bennett Flag to close this year’s event.
