Cannonball Run to raise funds for Barretstown
The 2011 Cannonball run around Ireland has been officially started in Dublin this morning by Taoiseach Enda Kenny.
Some 150 supercars are taking part in the third annual event in aid of Barretstown - which helps young children suffering from cancer.
Over the last two years the Cannonball run has raised over €230,000 for the charity.
Members of the public are being urged to support the cause and enjoy seeing more than 150 supercars at Mondello Park, Co Kildare today, free of charge.
On show will be Ferraris, Aston Martins, Porches and Mustangs among others.
The vehicles will race around the circuit before drivers set out on the journey to the first official stop, Waterford city.
Boyzone singer Shane Lynch is among those taking part in what's become the largest organised road trip in Europe.
"We're raising the best amount of money we possibly can for Barretstown," Lynch said.
"We're just supporting the cause."
Having already departed Dublin this morning the entourage will have a lunchtime stopover in Mondello before heading to Waterford city this afternoon, and then on to Cork for an overnight stop.
Day two will see the cars travel from Cork city to Bunratty Castle, from there on to Kylemore Abbey, before travelling to Westport for the night.
The run will conclude on Sunday with stops in Tullamore and Kinnity Castle before finishing in Kilkenny.
