Ready to roll in Laois on the road with Gordon Bennett run

This 20th edition of the Gordon Bennett Race was officially launched at Treacy's on The Heath and the organisers are hoping to break records for what will be a special year for the rally.

This year's event has already attracted some 145 entries from across the UK, Scotland, Wales and Europe.

It's on course to surpass last years event which the organisers claim was an unprecedented success with over 150 entries from as far away as the USA and Malaysia.

The Gordon Bennett Irish Classic Car Committee s say they hope to build the success of previous events making the 2023 event the most spectacular yet.

The event takes place annually every June Bank Holiday weekend (Ireland) and this year it commences on Friday, June 2 at Portlaoise College with registration and guest speakers.

This year each entrant will be given a specially commissioned limited edition 20th Anniversary Car Grille Badge.

The three-day event will encompass Laois, Carlow and Kildare showcasing some of the areas most beautiful and historic landmarks as the run weaves its way through the countryside taking in parts of Ireland's Ancient East.

The highlight of the weekend is on Sunday, June 4 when the drivers will don their tweeds and period costumes to retrace the original 1903 Gordon Bennett Route over three counties and some 150 Km.

However, instead of the neck-breaking race it once was, the event organisers invite entrants to take a gentler approach and to travel at a slower pace whilst embracing the incredible scenery and experiencing a weekend packed full of fun, and nostalgia with like-minded car enthusiasts.

With stops at the original start line at the Moat of Ardscull, the incredible Quaker village of Ballitore and Kildare town the committee hopes people will embrace the event and come out to see us over the weekend. READ MORE BELOW PICTURE.

After a long day guests will enjoy some local hospitality and music at our annual gala dinner and awards night at the Midlands Park Hotel.

The cars will also stop over at Abbeyleix House & Farm on Saturday, June 3 where the entrants will park up side by side with a selection of vintage aircraft to witness a spectacular air display.

All in Laois invited to celebrated Laois Africa Day in Portlaoise

The annual driver's dinner at the Thatch Pub at The Heritage Hotel in Killenard will give entrants a chance to compare notes and stories as day two ends.

The event concludes with a street party, afternoon tea, military re-enactment and a variety of music and entertainment in Monasterevin on Monday, June 5.

The Vikings are coming! Laois village is the place to be for June weekend festive fun

Drivers and navigators will have a chance to absorb the weekend as we wind down with the annual BBQ in the Gordon Bennett marquee hosted by our long-term supporters and friends of the event, the Treacy Family.

More info online at www.gordonebennettclassic.ie