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The What & The Why
The Challenge
Looping the Loop is a major open-water rowing challenge being organised by Loop Head Rowing Club. We will know the exact date about 3-5 days in advance.
The plan is to row around the Loop Head peninsula, starting out on the Atlantic side at Kilkee, rounding the headland beneath the lighthouse, and then pushing up along the Shannon Estuary to Carrigaholt.
This is not flat-water rowing. Crews will face Atlantic swell, shifting winds, and powerful tidal flows. It is a serious undertaking involving Atlantic conditions and strong tides. This is the Wild Atlantic Way and the clue is in the name!
The event is weather dependent. The Atlantic decides when it happens but the planning team are experts in reading charts and forecasts and will be taking no chances. We are aiming for a date in July but we keep reminding ourselves that “The Atlantic decides”. We are very much a club that is focused on safety and that is our priority.
There has been extensive planning and safety preparation, including route planning, safety boats, and protocols. It is ongoing and intense.
A crew from Kilrush’s Seol Sionna Sailing & Rowing Club will also take part in their St Ayle’s Skiff “Éalú”. So too will the rowers of West Clare Currachs, highlighting strong collaboration between local clubs.
Why We’re Doing It
The idea came from Marty Fennell, inspired by the parallels between the unpredictability of the sea and living with MS. Marty is a very active member of Loop Head Rowing Club. Marty lives with MS and is passionate about raising awareness in a way that feels real and honest. He often reminds people that no two days are the same, and no two experiences of MS are alike. Just because someone looks well does not always mean they are feeling well, and that is why he values understanding, open conversation, and simply being heard.
Over 10,000 people in Ireland are living with MS. In Co. Clare, 205 people are known to MS Ireland, although the true number is likely higher, as not everyone has yet made contact.
MS is a lifelong condition affecting the central nervous system. MS Ireland provides vital support, programmes, and advocacy to those affected, and their families, including counselling, physio, and community outreach.
Funds raised by our event will primarily support services in Co. Clare, while also contributing to the wider Mid West Region, including Limerick and Tipperary North.
Donations can be made via iDonate or through club members who will be fundraising too for a range of prizes.
About MS Ireland
MS Ireland is the national organisation providing information, vital services, and to the MS community. They offer a wide range of specialised services and resources at national, regional, and local levels. Services include: Regsupportional Community Worker programmes for one-to-one support, physiotherapy, symptom management courses, newly diagnosed sessions, and the MS Information Line—one of the first services accessed in the time leading up to or following a diagnosis. They also operate the only national respite and therapy centre for people with MS in Ireland.
More than two-thirds of the 10,000 people living with MS in Ireland access these resources. Everyone affected by the condition relies on MS Ireland to advocate on their behalf on issues that impact their quality of life.
MS Ireland provide a range of services throughout Ireland in their 10 regional areas.
The team in the Mid-West cover counties Clare, Limerick and Tipperary North. They provide a range of services and activities to people with MS, their families, health professionals and others interested in or concerned about MS. Services are provided by professionally trained staff.
In the Mid West region, they also have voluntary Branches offering local support and contact.
Telephone No: (061) 303802
Email: midwest@ms-society.ie
Make an Impact Today.
Make an Impact Today.
Scan the QR code or click this link to go to our iDonate page.
Prefer to donate in cash?
There are lots of ways to support our Looping the Loop fundraiser.
Of course, you can make a donation through iDonate, but if you'd like to get even more involved, why not buy a line from one of our members, or take a fundraising card and sell the lines on our behalf to friends, family, or colleagues?
Every contribution, no matter how big or small, brings us one step closer to our goal.
To request a fundraising card or to find out more, simply get in touch with us through our social media channels or email us at hello@loopheadrowing.club.
Thank You to Our Supporters
To everyone who has sponsored a prize, thank you.
Your generosity and encouragement mean the world to us. Every gesture and every conversation helps us move closer to our goal of supporting people living with multiple sclerosis.
We couldn't do this without you, and we are truly grateful to have such incredible support behind us. Maith sibhse!
Prizes on Offer from our Buy a Line Card
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TWO PREMIUM BOTTLES OF J.J. CORRY IRISH WHISKEY
Nestled in the heart of West Clare, J.J. Corry is an award winning independent Irish whiskey bonder, breathing new life into one of Ireland's oldest whiskey traditions. By carefully sourcing, maturing, and blending exceptional Irish whiskeys, the company has gained international recognition for producing premium spirits of outstanding character and quality. A true West Clare success story, J.J. Corry celebrates Irish heritage, craftsmanship, and the timeless art of whiskey making.
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ONE DAY'S E-BIKE HIRE FOR TWO PEOPLE
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Loop Head Peninsula on two wheels with Loop Head E-Bikes. Offering high quality electric bike hire for all abilities, they make it easy to explore the Wild Atlantic Way at your own pace. Cruise along quiet coastal roads, discover hidden beaches, visit the iconic Loop Head Lighthouse, and soak up spectacular Atlantic views, all without the effort of a traditional bike. Whether you're looking for a leisurely day out or an unforgettable adventure, an e-bike is a fun, relaxing, and environmentally friendly way to experience one of Ireland's most beautiful and unspoilt landscapes.
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ONE €90 DINING VOUCHER
Located at the tip of the Loop Head Peninsula, Keating's is a much-loved pub and restaurant offering delicious food, a warm welcome, and stunning views of the water. It's the perfect place to relax after exploring Loop Head Lighthouse or the nearby coastline.
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FAMILY PASS FOR 5
Make a splash at Ireland's largest inflatable aqua park on beautiful Lough Derg. West Lake Aqua Park is packed with slides, climbing walls, balance challenges, and plenty of laughs. It's an unforgettable family day out for all ages.
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BLUEFIN SUP STUFF
1 Hi-Drate Water Bottle
1 Releash Quick Release Waist Belt
1 Dry Tide Bag
WYKYK and so, you may not need us to tell you all this but hey- this is a haul!
Bluefin SUP is an award-winning, family-run UK company, in the biz of designing premium inflatable paddleboards and watersports equipment for adventurers of all ages and abilities. Renowned for quality, innovation, and durability, Bluefin's boards are built to inspire confidence on the water, whether you're exploring the coastline, paddling inland lakes, or discovering somewhere new. Their commitment to making paddleboarding accessible has made them one of the UK's and Europe's leading SUP brands. We feel seen!
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TWO €50 DINING VOUCHERS
A family-run restaurant in the heart of Kilkee, Naughton's is renowned for its warm hospitality, fresh local seafood, perfectly cooked steaks, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether it's a special occasion or a relaxed evening out, it's one of West Clare's favourite dining destinations.
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TWO RETURN TRIP VOUCHERS
Experience one of Ireland's most scenic ferry journeys. The Shannon Ferry links County Clare and County Kerry with a relaxing 20 minute crossing across the magnificent Shannon Estuary, offering spectacular coastal views and a wonderful start to any Wild Atlantic Way adventure.
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TWO WESTERN LOOP PASSES
Each pass includes admission to three of County Clare's most iconic attractions:
Loop Head Lighthouse Experience
Vandeleur Walled Garden & Visitor Centre
Cliffs of Moher Experience
Discover dramatic coastal scenery, beautiful historic gardens, and one of the world's most spectacular natural landmarks with this fantastic visitor package.
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€100 DINING VOUCHER
Enjoy a taste of luxury at one of County Clare's finest coastal destinations. Set against the stunning backdrop of Doughmore Bay on the Wild Atlantic Way, Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Ireland is renowned for its exceptional hospitality, elegant surroundings, and award winning dining. Whether you're stopping in for a relaxed lunch, an evening meal, or simply a drink while taking in the spectacular Atlantic views, the resort's bar and restaurant offer an unforgettable dining experience showcasing the very best of local and seasonal produce.
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4 WEEKS OF QUIGONG CLASSES
Known for her beautiful artwork inspired by the Wild Atlantic Way, Marijke Jordens is also a passionate and experienced Qigong teacher. Through her welcoming classes, available online and with weekly in person sessions in Ennis, she helps people of all ages improve their wellbeing through gentle movement, mindful breathing, and relaxation. Whether you're completely new to Qigong or looking to deepen your practice, her classes offer a wonderful opportunity to slow down, restore balance, and reconnect with both body and mind.
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LUXURY HAMPER
Ireland's first zero energy emissions distillery, Ahascragh Distillery combines traditional craftsmanship with cutting edge sustainability to produce exceptional Irish whiskey and gin. Located in the beautifully restored Old Mill in County Galway, the distillery is committed to creating premium spirits using renewable energy and time honoured distilling methods. With a strong focus on quality, innovation, and environmental responsibility, Ahascragh Distillery is quickly establishing itself as one of Ireland's most exciting new craft distilleries.
Sponsors Are Welcome!
Sponsors Are Welcome!
Partner With The Challenge
Looping the Loop is more than an endurance row. It is a powerful community-driven challenge along one of Ireland’s most dramatic coastlines, raising funds and awareness for Multiple Sclerosis Ireland. We are inviting businesses to become part of the journey through sponsorship and support. By partnering with the event, sponsors will align themselves with resilience, community spirit, local pride, and a unique Atlantic adventure that will capture attention across Clare and beyond.
If you would like to get involved, please contact us via email, or DM/PM us on Instagram or Facebook.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Looping the Loop is planned for a suitable weather window in July or August 2026. Because this is a serious open-water Atlantic row around Loop Head, conditions must be right before any launch can take place.
Safety comes first at all times. Wind, swell, tides, visibility, and sea state will all play a role in determining the final date.
In simple terms: the Atlantic decides.
Rest assured though, the challenge will go ahead. Updates will be shared regularly across our website and social media channels as conditions develop.
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Unlike a land-based event, this challenge depends entirely on sea and weather conditions along one of Ireland’s most exposed coastlines.
The route involves Atlantic waters around Loop Head before entering the tidal Shannon Estuary, so flexibility is essential for the safety of all participants and support crews.
Rather than forcing the row into unsuitable conditions, we are working within a planned weather window to ensure the safest possible opportunity for the challenge to take place.
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Yes. This is a demanding endurance challenge requiring careful preparation, experienced crews, support planning, and close monitoring of Atlantic conditions.
The route involves open water, changing tides, swell, wind exposure, and long-distance rowing along a rugged coastline.
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Yes. A community landing event is planned in Carrigaholt to welcome the crews home following the challenge.
We hope it will be a memorable occasion filled with music, food, celebration, and community spirit.
Full details will be announced closer to the event.
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The best place to stay up-to-speed with it all is via our Facebook and Instagram. Always feel free to reach out to us!
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Due to the nature of the challenge and the safety requirements involved, participation in the row itself is limited to selected members of Loop Head Rowing Club and associated crews.
Looping the Loop is a demanding open-water Atlantic endurance challenge requiring extensive preparation, training, safety planning, and familiarity with the route and conditions.
While the row is not open to public participation, there are many other ways to get involved, including supporting the fundraiser, volunteering, attending the landing event, sponsoring the challenge, or helping us spread the word.
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Yes, where safely possible. We hope to provide updates throughout the event and encourage the public to follow the journey online and join us for the landing celebrations in Carrigaholt.
More details will be shared closer to the time.
Why donate?
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Make A Difference
Your donation helps create real, measurable change in the lives of those with MS and in the lives of their families.
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Support A Cause That’s Local
Back Grassroots Community Action. This event is driven by volunteers, local support, and people giving their time, energy, and belief to something bigger than themselves.
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How Your Donation Helps
Funds raised will provide vital services, advocacy, information, and support, strengthen services locally in Clare, while also supporting the wider Mid-West region.
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Support A Unique Atlantic Challenge
Looping the Loop is more than a row. It is endurance, teamwork, respect for the sea, and a community coming together behind something meaningful.
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Fund Grassroots Work
Support local, hands-on efforts that make a difference where it matters most.
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Inspire Others
Your generosity can motivate friends, family, and colleagues to do the same.