Weekend feast of sport
LIMERICK is again ready to put its best foot forward this weekend for its biggest ever invasion of sports fans, generating millions of euro for the local economy.
A feast of International Rules, rugby, soccer, greyhound racing and basketball are on a packed menu, with national and international TV coverage boosting the city’s image.
Then there will be the free all-family spectacle of a special fireworks display at King John’s Castle on Saturday evening.
Hoteliers, restaurateurs, traders and all engaged in the hospitality and transport sectors are on full alert, fully geared to greet overseas visitors from Australia and Italy, as well as from Northern Ireland and the Republic, with a traditional local welcome. Conscious of the role it can play, the Milk Market will host music, art, craft, dance and cookery displays on this Friday.
The three-day sports festival kicks off on the same day, with the official cutting of the tape at the €20million greyhound stadium at Greenpark.
On the same evening, Munster will entertain Treviso in the Magners League at Thomond Park, when 20,000 plus fans are expected, and 24 hours later, upwards of 45,000 people will pack the Gaelic Grounds for the International Rules Series between Ireland and Australia.
Also on Friday, Limerick FC face into a crucial First Division clash with Shelbourne, at Jackman Park.
In addition, there will be a major basketball attraction at UL with the local Eagles playing Belfast Star at 7-30 on Saturday.
With both the International Rules game and the Magners League pairing of Munster and Treviso going out ‘live’ on TG4, Limerick will enjoy a huge captive TV audience.
The Australia v Ireland match will also be screened Down Under.
With the new Greenpark Stadium having already won the approval of local greyhound enthusiasts, there will be a far more representative gathering for the official opening, with some of the leading figures in the Irish sporting world having been invited. The Australian team and management are also expected to be present.
Mayor Byrne is looking forward to what she predicts will be a marvellous weekend for Limerick.
“We are, after all, the Sporting Capital, and I have no doubt we will live up to our well-deserved reputation”.
The first game in the International Rules Series takes place in the Limerick Gaelic Grounds this Saturday and members of the South Liberties GAA Club were in King John’s Castle to celebrate the arrival of the teams and to celebrate the exciting weekend ahead.
Picture: Keith Wiseman
