THIS weekend’s Munster Senior Hurling Championship Final between Limerick and Clare at the TUS Gaelic Grounds is set to provide a big windfall to the local economy — with Limerick Chamber estimating a €2.3 million boost to the city.
John Kiely’s defending All-Ireland champions are also favourites to win this weekend’s final with odds of 4/11. The Banner men currently sit at a less favourable 15/8.
However, after Clare’s victory over Limerick by 1-24 to 2-20 in Round Two of the Munster Senior Hurling Championship in April, they will now be hoping to overturn last year’s extra time defeat at the same stage to the Treaty men.
Highly sought after tickets for the big game sold out in 25 minutes when they went on general sale last week. City bars and hotels are expecting a booming trade, with supporters, from both sides of the border, arriving in the city from early on Sunday ahead of the 1.45pm throw-in.
Director of Sales and Marketing at The Strand Hotel, Maria O’Gorman Skelly, told the Limerick Post that they are expecting a great atmosphere on the day.
“For the last match, I remember people were in really early to get parking and the ground floor was buzzing. It is a really wonderful family occasion as well, so it’s going to be a fun day out.
“Best of luck to Limerick from us all here at The Strand. We are really looking forward to the game,” she said.
“We don’t usually see a big take up on beds on match day when people are travelling from a neighbouring county. That said, the game is a huge boost to the local economy in terms of food and drink and hospitality.
“The County Limerick clubs are usually the first to arrive early on the day and there’s a lot of events on as well. We are looking forward to a very exciting weekend.”
CEO of Limerick Chamber Dee Ryan estimated this weekend’s Munster Senior Hurling Final to be worth €2.3m to the local economy.
“Sporting events like the Munster Final not only have huge cultural significance but also economic,” she said.
“The final this weekend is likely to boost business within key sectors. We estimate that the final is worth €2.3 million to the economy and represents a key opportunity to showcase the city and county.
“Best of luck to the Limerick Hurling team from all at Limerick Chamber,” Ms Ryan said.
With Limerick having home advantage on final day, the city will be awash with green and white this Sunday as it gets ready to welcome thousands of hurling fans ahead of the Munster Senior Hurling Championship Final at TUS Gaelic Grounds.
The Council have helped to green the city in support of the All-Ireland Champions with Limerick flags flying on Shannon Bridge, Thomond Bridge, and at King John’s Castle.
“There is nothing to compare with the atmosphere on Munster Final match day and to have this game at our home ground is a major boost for Limerick.
“Hopefully we will be celebrating another victory for John Kiely and his men,” said Mayor of Limerick, Cllr Francis Foley.
“Let’s all pull on our green and white jerseys and show our pride in Limerick by helping to keep our streets clean and being respectful of property owners, particularly around the TUS Gaelic Grounds. Let’s make the occasion a positive experience for everyone. Luimneach abú!”
Meanwhile, as Limerick senior hurlers prepare to hold off the challenge of Clare and retain their Munster title at the sold-out Ennis Road venue, match goers are advised to travel early to make the most of the pre-match atmosphere and avoid delays caused by heavy traffic.
