When you are in Ireland, do as the Irish do! And there is one thing that is constant for Irish people - they are fond of sports, at least in the role of spectators. TV, radio and newspapers provide a constant stream of coverage. It is not enough. If you want to experience the full impact of sports on the Irish character, you should join the crowds at one of the many matches, sport clubs, events, challenges. Here are 10 the most popular spectator sports.
Gaelic Football
This kind of sport is similar to soccer - until a player actually picks up the ball and runs in a rugby-like manner away with it. Some historians of the game claim that both soccer and rugby are bastardized versions of football. Games can be enjoyed almost everywhere. The football is more popular than hurling.
Hurling
This is the fastest game on earth. It is played by two teams, equipped with special sticks (hurleys), chasing a small ball across a football-sized field. The game is played like field hockey. Speed, agility, and marksmanship are in a big demand. The game definitely takes your breath away.
Rugby
Historically this is the way football was played in public schools in Rugby. Of course, Rugby is not Irish, but English game. Rugby in Ireland is split into the 4 provinces: Ulster, Munster, Leinster, and Connacht. If you are traveller, you definitely need to see a provincial match which generates fantastic competitive atmospheres. Travelling in spring, you are sure to check out the six nations tournament played every year; whether it be live in Dublin or in bars around the country, you will feel the fans rallying in support.Soccer
Ireland has the Eircom League catering for professional soccer, but the economic situation of the most of clubs is precarious. The whole Irish soccer scene is represented with such players like George Best (Belfast) and Roy Keane (Cork). The Ireland is factually divided into several parts. Each of them boasts its own national team.
Golf
Golf is rather prestigious sport all over the world. The prestigious tournaments are also held in Ireland. The crowds of fans gather to observe the teeing off and putting of the world's golfing elite. Golf is a common pastime in Ireland, so you are always welcomed to watch the game. Want to hear a good new? The green golf fields are moderate. There are many golf clubs and classes to learn playing golf. The best golfers from around the world will flock to Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland to compete on one of the world’s finest courses. Travelers are encouraged to experience the world’s greatest links firsthand. Some of the courses are opened to visitors. The best-visiting of them are:The K club
Adare
Co. Louth
Lahinch
Waterville
Portmarnock
Royal Co. Down
Welcome to Silloge Park Golf Club
There is one golf club in the country that is especially interesting to visit. This is Silloge Park that has been working since 1984. The public golf course is one of only four 18-Hole public golf courses in Dublin and offers golfers the opportunity to play at exceptional value for money. You need to hire a car in Dublin to get that place easily. Silloge Park Public Golf Course is located within 5 minutes from Dublin Airport just off the M50 Motorway. The course is easily accessible and offers possibly the best value parkland golf in the country. In the twenty plus years since the public golf course opened, it has matured beautifully. The golf course boasts many tree lined fairways with small tricky greens that provide golfers of all levels with a fair and enjoyable test of golf in a wonderful parkland setting.The new Silloge golf club was founded in March, 2010. The new club was affiliated to the GUI and ILGU and for the first time Silloge Park had its very own golf club. This membership offers golfers an excellent opportunity to join a club in Dublin and get an official handicap at a very affordable price. It’s not a joke! The prices are really affordable. This is a great opportunity for golfers not only to play golf and take park in competitions, but also learn to play golf.
Horse Racing
Horse racing is a big business in Ireland. Every large village boasts at least one betting shop and major races. Any horse racing event will have a huge attendance and lively crowds. Such major events like Galway Race Week and the Easter races at Fairyhouse are society occasions - do not miss any Ladies' Day if you are interested in fashion! Traditionally, horse racing event is a big fashion show!Showjumping
It sounds interesting! Despite some setbacks to Irish showjumping due to avoidable blunders and scandals, Irish horses and riders are ranked amongst the best in Europe. Be it individual stars or the riders from the Irish Army's Equestrian School. The main event to look out for is the Dublin Horse Show in Summer, held at the RDS Showgrounds and usually drawing riders and visitors from around the world to Ireland. It’s really spectacular!Camogie
Of course, this kind of sport cannot draw such huge crowds as football and hurling. Camogie has become increasingly popular during the last years. Basically it is very close to hurling, reserved for female players. Slightly less bloodcurdling, but a fast and exciting game nonetheless.
Posts
Share
0 Comments:
Post a Comment