Retro Cannonball causes a classic stir in Waterford 

Car enthusiasts gathered in very large numbers in Waterford recently for the finish line of the Retro Cannonball fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House.

The event saw some of the world's most exotic and luxurious cars converge on the city along with some of the most iconic brand names from the world of rallying.

The run brought great excitement to the city over the weekend of June 5 to 7.

Featuring over 100 classic cars the weekend had a real festival vibe as it also featured free family-orientated live entertainment.

There was great excitement as the cars arrived into the city from around 6pm on Saturday, June 6th, affording those in attendance the opportunity to view the cars up close.

Dynamic Duo Tadhg and Derry Fleming officially launched the charity partnership for 2026 with Cannonball Ireland and Ronald McDonald House, bringing their trademark humour and nationwide following behind a cause that provides vital support for families across Ireland when children need hospital care.

Alan Bannon, founder of Cannonball, also welcomed Ella O’Connor (6) and her family from Brosna who came out to support the event following the fantastic support they received during Ella’s treatment at Crumlin Hospital when Ronald McDonald House was their home from home for nearly two years. 

Ella joyfully rang the bell on St John’s ward last year when her chemotherapy was officially finished and she is now doing great.

Retro Cannonball is a classic car road-trip and that includes rare cars such as the Lamborghini Diablo, Jaguar E-Type, Ferrari 348 GTS, Mercedes-Benz SL Classics, Lancia Beta, BMW 635CSI, Porsche 911 Carrera and Targa, MG Midget, Ford Escort Cosworth, Chevrolet Corvette, VW Beetle, Ford Thunderbird, mini cooper and many more.

Spectators got to take close-up photos of the cars.

Retro Cannonball began in Dún Laoghaire at the Royal Marine Hotel on June 5th, and made its way to Waterford through the sunny south east, taking in Wicklow and Wexford along the way with a lunch stop at Mount Wolseley Hotel in Co Carlow also on the agenda.

Day two saw the classic convoy take on the famous Vee drive before stopping in Clonmel for lunch and then it was on towards the spectacular Cannonball finish line in Waterford City. 

Cannonball has already raised €2,271,716 for Irish children's charities and this year's event was aimed at raising funds for Ronald Mac Donald House. 

"When a child is sick, they need the best care possible even if it is hundreds of miles away," said a spokesperson for the organisers.
"Ronald McDonald House allows families across Ireland to stay close to their child for as long as they are undergoing treatment," he added.

"Since they opened their House in November 2004, they have provided accommodation, care and support for 5,413 families from all over Ireland."

Classic cars are all about the experience, style, exclusivity and craftsmanship, all of which are universal and timeless.

Featuring cars from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and 90’s - from vintage Mustangs to sleek Corvettes - the impressive array of iconic automobiles rumbled into the city to the delight of everyone attending.

Registration is also now open for Cannonball Ireland, the supercar event, which will take place on September 13th to 15th.

For more details of all Cannonball events see www.cannonball.ie