Cars gathered at CareyGlass in Nenagh for last year's Lough Derg 100. Photo: Odhran Ducie

Looping Lough Derg for Pieta House

An exciting and philanthropic event is set to take place this Saturday, May 31, as car enthusiasts gather at CareyGlass, Nenagh, for a memorable day in support of Pieta House.

The event promises to combine an appreciation for classic and performance cars with the spirit of charity, all while enjoying the stunning scenery of Lough Derg. Lough Derg 100 is an annual motoring event organised by a group of passionate volunteers and car enthusiasts from Nenagh Classic Car Club and the surrounding area. Every year, the group uses the event to raise funds for a selected charity.

By participating in the event and donating to take part, event attendees have the opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and families facing challenging situations.

In 2024, the team decided to step up efforts to fundraise which resulted in the best year yet; over 100 cars took part and more than €1,000 was raised for the Irish Guide Dogs and €2,700 was raised for Children’s Grief Centre, Limerick.

In 2025, the Lough Derg 100 team will be raising funds for the valuable services provided by Pieta House. By participating in the event and donating to take part, attendees will have the opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and families facing very challenging times.

The event will kick off at Carey Glass, Limerick Road, Nenagh, where participants will gather to first display their cars to the public, before embarking on the 100km roundtrip. As the engines roar to life, a convoy of classic cars/bikes/jeeps and performance cars will set out on a scenic drive around the breathtaking Lough Derg region. Drivers and passengers alike will experience the thrill of the open road while immersing themselves in the natural beauty that surrounds them.

Spectators and automotive fans are invited to come to CareyGlass from 11am to 1pm and view the variety of machines on display before they head off around the lake.

FINISH AT THE GREEN BAR

The event will then finish at 2.30pm, in The Green Bar, Borrisokane, where all cars will once again be on display for local spectators, along with a display of vintage tractors and machinery by the Borrisokane & District Vintage Club. Food and drinks will be available to purchase from the Green Bar.

As part of the fundraising drive, participants and the public will be asked for donations towards Pieta House. There is no fixed amount; any contribution, no matter the size, will be warmly appreciated. Or, anyone who wishes to donate online can do so at the Lough Derg 100 Gofundme page at Gofundme.com.

“We are honoured to host this charitable car event in support of Pieta House,” said John Joe Lewis, lead organiser of the event. “It's a special opportunity for car enthusiasts to come together, enjoy the beauty of the region, and contribute to a cause such as Pieta House. We encourage everyone to participate and help make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need.”

The event is open to all car enthusiasts, regardless of the make or model of their vehicle. Whether it's a sleek vintage classic or a more modern sports car, bikes trucks, jeeps - everything is welcome to be a part of this charitable initiative. People wishing to take part in the show or both the show and the drive can turn up on the day and register or register online and take part in the Lough Derg 100 sponsorship cards where we’d ask people to raise €100 for the Lough Derg 100. Everyone taking part in the sponsorship card will receive a Lough Derg 100 2025 T-shirt.

Those interested in participating are encouraged to visit Lough Derg 100 on Facebook or Instagram, or email: Loughderg100@yahoo.com for further details.

The Lough Derg 100 team is also seeking businesses to partner with us in future LD100s, especially businesses involved in the motor trade, to help us build on the success of the previous years.