All-Ireland Rounders GAA Junior Finals Preview: Exciting Clashes and Rising Stars

As the GAA rounders season reaches its climax, anticipation mounts with semi-final and final stages now underway. A thrilling month lies ahead, showcasing the best of the sport as top teams vie for victory.

Junior Ladies Final: Carrickmacross Emmets vs. Castletown Liams Mellows

In a captivating showdown, Carrickmacross Emmets from Monaghan face off against Castletown Liams Mellows from Wexford for the Junior Ladies championship title. Both teams, in just their second year of the sport, have impressively risen to prominence.

Carrickmacross Emmets’ Journey

Carrickmacross Emmets dominated their group, reminiscent of their senior men’s team who competes in the upcoming senior semi-finals. Victories against Dunderry, Skyrne, The Dublin Mets, and a triumph over neighbors Drumhowan showcased their prowess. A remarkable comeback in the semi-finals against Emo from Laois demonstrated their determination.

Castletown Liams Mellows’ Rise

Castletown Liams Mellows’ journey included topping Group A, overcoming challenges from Emo, Myshall, and Glynn/Barntown. Although facing a setback against St. Kieran’s, their resilience was evident as they battled back to secure a semi-final spot against Dublin Mets.

The Final Showdown

With both teams well-matched, the final promises to be enthralling. The potential for extra time and innings heightens the suspense, leaving the outcome uncertain.

All-Connacht Showdown: Kilmeena vs. Galway City Rapparees

A showdown of Connacht contenders unfolds as Mayo’s Kilmeena takes on Galway City Rapparees. Despite their shared regional origins, their paths to the final have been markedly distinct.

Kilmeena’s Path to Glory

Kilmeena secured second place in their group, avoiding quarterfinal playoffs. Their impressive displays against Mayo Gaels and St. Senan’s showcased their determination, setting the stage for a compelling quarter-final victory against Inniskeen.

Galway City Rapparees’ Resilience

Galway City Rapparees who are in their first year entering a mixed team have players from all over the world navigated a challenging route, finishing third in their group due to score difference.

Overcoming Mayo Gaels and Kilmeena, they secured a playoff victory against Carrickmacross. A hard-fought quarterfinal against Fenagh and a revenge win against St. Senan’s in the semis highlight their perseverance.

A Rematch in the Final

Kilmeena seeks to overturn their earlier defeat by Galway City Rapparees, promising an intense and closely contested final.

Final Thoughts

As these gripping finals approach, fans are advised to secure their tickets in advance for this all-ticket event. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness these exciting matchups and rising stars in the world of GAA rounders. Here is link for tickets

Ireland Squad, Live TV & Schedule for World Athletics Championships in Budapest

World Athletics Budapest — Credit: worldathletics.org.

Athletics Ireland has named a squad athletes for the World Athletics Championships in Budapest from August 19th – 27th 2023.

Event is live on Virgin TV

The Irish squad is the largest ever selected for a World Athletics Championships and will compete alongside over 2,000 athletes from 200 countries at the new 35,000 capacity National Athletics Stadium in Budapest.

Leading the Irish challenge across the busy nine-day schedule will be European Championship medal winners Ciara Mageean (City of Lisburn AC), Mark English (Finn Valley AC), Sarah Lavin (Emerald AC) and Rhasidat Adeleke (Tallaght AC).

The Championships, which start on 19th August, will see Virgin Media present live coverage across all nine days.

Morning – Saturday August 19th

David Kenny – Men’s 20km Race Walk – Final – 07:50 (08:50)
Eric Favors – Men’s Shot Put – Qualification – 09:30 (10:30)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon 100m Hurdles – Heats – 09:35 (10:35)
Mixed 4x400m Relay – Round One – 10:05 (11:05)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon High Jump – 10:45 (11:45)
Ciara Mageean – Women’s 1500m – Round One – 12:15 (13:15)
Sarah Healy – Women’s 1500m – Round One – 12:15 (13:15)
Sophie O’Sullivan – Women’s 1500m – Round One – 12:15 (13:15)

Evening – Saturday August 19th

Andrew Coscoran – Men’s 1500m – Round One – 18:02 (19:02)
Luke McCann – Men’s 1500m – Round One – 18:02 (19:02)
Nick Griggs – Men’s 1500m – Round One – 18:02 (19:02)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon Shot Put – 18:05 (19:05)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon 200m – Heats – 19:30 (20:30)
Men’s Shot Put – Final – 19:35 (20:35)
Mixed 4x400m Relay – Final – 20:47 (21:47)

Morning – Sunday August 20th

Rhasidat Adeleke – Women’s 400m – Round One – 08:35 (09:35)
Sharlene Mawdsley – Women’s 400m – Round One – 08:35 (09:35)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon Long Jump – 08:50 (09:50)
Christopher O’Donnell – Men’s 400m – 09:25 (10:25)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon Javelin – Group A – 11:00 (12:00)

OR

Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon Javelin – Group B – 12:05 (13:05)

Evening – Sunday August 20th

Women’s 1500m – Semi-Final – 16:05 (17:05)
Men’s 1500m – Semi-Final – 16:35 (17:35)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon 800m – 17:00 (18:00)

Evening – Monday August 21st

Women’s 400m – Semi-Final – 20:10 (21:10)

Evening – Tuesday August 22nd

Sarah Lavin – Women’s 100m Hurdles – Round One – 17:40 (18:40)
Mark English – Men’s 800m – Round One – 18:20 (19:20)
John Fitzsimons – Men’s 800m – Round One – 18:20 (19:20)
Men’s 400m – Semi-Final – 20:00 (21:00)
Women’s 1500m – Final – 20:30 (21:30)

Morning – Wednesday August 23rd

Louise Shanahan – Women’s 800m – Round One – 09:05 (10:05)

Evening – Wednesday August 23rd

Women’s 100m Hurdles – Semi-Final – 19:40 (20:40)
Men’s 1500m – Final – 20:15 (21:15)
Women’s 400m – Final – 20:35 (21:35) *

Morning – Thursday August 24th

Brendan Boyce – Men’s 35km Race Walk – Final – 06:00 (07:00)

Evening – Thursday August 24th

Brian Fay – Men’s 5000m – Round One – 18:00 (19:00)
Men’s 800m – Semi-Final – 19:50 (20:50)
Women’s 100m Hurdles – Final – 20:25 (21:25)
Men’s 400m – Final – 20:35 (21:35)

Evening – Friday August 25th

Women’s 800m – Semi-Final – 19:25 (20:25)

Evening – Saturday August 26th

Women’s 4x400m Relay – Round One – 18:55 (19:55)
Men’s 800m – Final – 19:30 (20:30)

Evening – Sunday August 27th

Men’s 5000m – Final – 19:10 (20:10)
Women’s 800m – Final – 19:45 (20:45)
Women’s 4x400m Relay – Final – 20:47 (21:47)

Team selections as of 10.08.2023

Athlete Name	Event(s)	Club	Coach
Rhasidat Adeleke	400m, W4x400m	Tallaght AC	Edrick Floreal
Sharlene Mawdsley	400m, Mx4x400m, W4x400m	Newport AC	Gary Ryan
Louise Shanahan	800m	Leevale AC	Phil O’Dell
Ciara Mageean	1500m	City of Lisburn AC	Helen Clitheroe
Sophie O’Sullivan	1500m	Ballymore Cobh AC	Mauricia Powell
Sarah Healy	1500m	UCD AC	Trevor Painter
Sarah Lavin	100mH	Emerald AC	Noelle Morrissey
Kate O’Connor	Heptathlon	Dundalk St. Gerald’s AC	Michael O’Connor
Sophie Becker	Mx 4x400m, W4x400m	Raheny Shamrocks AC	Jeremy Lyons & Gerard O’Donnell
Roisin Harrison	Mx 4x400m, W4x400m	Emerald AC	Eoghan McNamara
Niamh Murray	W4x400m	Bray Runners	Aine Murray & Joe Ryan
Kelly McGrory	W4x400m	Tir Chonaill AC	Drew & Hayley Harrison
Chris O’Donnell	400m, Mx4x400m	North Sligo AC	Benke Blomqvist
John Fitzsimons	800m	Kildare AC	Joe Ryan
Mark English	800m	UCD AC	Feidhlim Kelly
Andrew Coscoran	1500m	Star of the Sea AC	Feidhlim Kelly
Luke McCann	1500m	UCD AC	Thomas Dreißigacker & Clark McCann
Nick Griggs	1500m	Candour Track Club	Mark Kirk
Brian Fay	5000m	Raheny Shamrocks AC	Feidhlim Kelly
David Kenny	20km Walk	Farranfore Maine Valley AC	Rob Heffernan
Brendan Boyce	35km Walk	Finn Valley AC	Rob Heffernan
Eric Favors	Shot Put	Raheny Shamrocks AC	Dane Miller
Jack Raftery	Mx 4x400m	Donore Harriers AC	Jeremy Lyons & Gerard O’Donnell
Callum Baird	Mx 4x400m	Ballymena & Antrim AC	Ian Neely

* Selection subject to medical clearance.

Watch Live – Rhasidat Adeleke start times and event schedule for World Athletics Championships

Exciting News: Rhasidat Adeleke start times and event schedule for World Athletics Championships

There is live coverage of on Virgin 2 at 7:40am on Saturday it’s channel 105 on Sky.

Watch the new star of Irish athletics Rhasidat Adeleke who has just turn professional and signed for Nike

The rising star in Irish athletics, captivating the international stage. Holding six Irish records and securing the NCAA championship in the 400m outdoors, Adeleke’s talent shines brightly.

As her time at the University of Texas draws to a close, and with immense promise in her career, Adeleke is all set to make her Diamond League debut this weekend. Excited to watch her in action? Find all the details on how to catch Rhasidat Adeleke’s remarkable Diamond League debut right here.

Morning – Saturday August 19th

David Kenny – Men’s 20km Race Walk – Final – 07:50 (08:50)
Eric Favors – Men’s Shot Put – Qualification – 09:30 (10:30)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon 100m Hurdles – Heats – 09:35 (10:35)
Mixed 4x400m Relay – Round One – 10:05 (11:05)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon High Jump – 10:45 (11:45)
Ciara Mageean – Women’s 1500m – Round One – 12:15 (13:15)
Sarah Healy – Women’s 1500m – Round One – 12:15 (13:15)
Sophie O’Sullivan – Women’s 1500m – Round One – 12:15 (13:15)

Evening – Saturday August 19th

Andrew Coscoran – Men’s 1500m – Round One – 18:02 (19:02)
Luke McCann – Men’s 1500m – Round One – 18:02 (19:02)
Nick Griggs – Men’s 1500m – Round One – 18:02 (19:02)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon Shot Put – 18:05 (19:05)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon 200m – Heats – 19:30 (20:30)
Men’s Shot Put – Final – 19:35 (20:35)
Mixed 4x400m Relay – Final – 20:47 (21:47)

Morning – Sunday August 20th

Rhasidat Adeleke – Women’s 400m – Round One – 08:35 (09:35)
Sharlene Mawdsley – Women’s 400m – Round One – 08:35 (09:35)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon Long Jump – 08:50 (09:50)
Christopher O’Donnell – Men’s 400m – 09:25 (10:25)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon Javelin – Group A – 11:00 (12:00)

OR

Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon Javelin – Group B – 12:05 (13:05)

Evening – Sunday August 20th

Women’s 1500m – Semi-Final – 16:05 (17:05)
Men’s 1500m – Semi-Final – 16:35 (17:35)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon 800m – 17:00 (18:00)

Evening – Monday August 21st

Women’s 400m – Semi-Final – 20:10 (21:10)

Evening – Tuesday August 22nd

Sarah Lavin – Women’s 100m Hurdles – Round One – 17:40 (18:40)
Mark English – Men’s 800m – Round One – 18:20 (19:20)
John Fitzsimons – Men’s 800m – Round One – 18:20 (19:20)
Men’s 400m – Semi-Final – 20:00 (21:00)
Women’s 1500m – Final – 20:30 (21:30)

Morning – Wednesday August 23rd

Louise Shanahan – Women’s 800m – Round One – 09:05 (10:05)

Evening – Wednesday August 23rd

Women’s 100m Hurdles – Semi-Final – 19:40 (20:40)
Men’s 1500m – Final – 20:15 (21:15)
Women’s 400m – Final – 20:35 (21:35) *

Morning – Thursday August 24th

Brendan Boyce – Men’s 35km Race Walk – Final – 06:00 (07:00)

Evening – Thursday August 24th

Brian Fay – Men’s 5000m – Round One – 18:00 (19:00)
Men’s 800m – Semi-Final – 19:50 (20:50)
Women’s 100m Hurdles – Final – 20:25 (21:25)
Men’s 400m – Final – 20:35 (21:35)

Evening – Friday August 25th

Women’s 800m – Semi-Final – 19:25 (20:25)

Evening – Saturday August 26th

Women’s 4x400m Relay – Round One – 18:55 (19:55)
Men’s 800m – Final – 19:30 (20:30)

Evening – Sunday August 27th

Men’s 5000m – Final – 19:10 (20:10)
Women’s 800m – Final – 19:45 (20:45)
Women’s 4x400m Relay – Final – 20:47 (21:47)

Team selections as of 10.08.2023

Athlete Name	Event(s)	Club	Coach
Rhasidat Adeleke	400m, W4x400m	Tallaght AC	Edrick Floreal
Sharlene Mawdsley	400m, Mx4x400m, W4x400m	Newport AC	Gary Ryan
Louise Shanahan	800m	Leevale AC	Phil O’Dell
Ciara Mageean	1500m	City of Lisburn AC	Helen Clitheroe
Sophie O’Sullivan	1500m	Ballymore Cobh AC	Mauricia Powell
Sarah Healy	1500m	UCD AC	Trevor Painter
Sarah Lavin	100mH	Emerald AC	Noelle Morrissey
Kate O’Connor	Heptathlon	Dundalk St. Gerald’s AC	Michael O’Connor
Sophie Becker	Mx 4x400m, W4x400m	Raheny Shamrocks AC	Jeremy Lyons & Gerard O’Donnell
Roisin Harrison	Mx 4x400m, W4x400m	Emerald AC	Eoghan McNamara
Niamh Murray	W4x400m	Bray Runners	Aine Murray & Joe Ryan
Kelly McGrory	W4x400m	Tir Chonaill AC	Drew & Hayley Harrison
Chris O’Donnell	400m, Mx4x400m	North Sligo AC	Benke Blomqvist
John Fitzsimons	800m	Kildare AC	Joe Ryan
Mark English	800m	UCD AC	Feidhlim Kelly
Andrew Coscoran	1500m	Star of the Sea AC	Feidhlim Kelly
Luke McCann	1500m	UCD AC	Thomas Dreißigacker & Clark McCann
Nick Griggs	1500m	Candour Track Club	Mark Kirk
Brian Fay	5000m	Raheny Shamrocks AC	Feidhlim Kelly
David Kenny	20km Walk	Farranfore Maine Valley AC	Rob Heffernan
Brendan Boyce	35km Walk	Finn Valley AC	Rob Heffernan
Eric Favors	Shot Put	Raheny Shamrocks AC	Dane Miller
Jack Raftery	Mx 4x400m	Donore Harriers AC	Jeremy Lyons & Gerard O’Donnell
Callum Baird	Mx 4x400m	Ballymena & Antrim AC	Ian Neely

* Selection subject to medical clearance.

Top 6 Horse Racing Betting Strategies

Horse racing has been around for centuries and is one of the most popular spectator sports worldwide.

Millions troop the racetracks annually, and several others bet on their favourites in every major event, including the Kentucky Derby, Melbourne Cup and other prominent races.

These engagements have contributed to the stable growth of the global horse racing market, which experts valued at USD$402.3 billion in 2022. This figure is expected to reach USD$793.9 billion by 2030.

Like any other spectator sport, it takes knowledge of the game and the players to formulate a horse racing–betting strategy. However, with several betting options, newbies can start simple and eventually move to more complex systems after building their skills. Below, you’ll find some betting strategies to consider.

Betting strategy #1: Straight wagering

A single bet is perhaps the safest betting strategy that works perfectly for beginners. Under this method, punters collect prizes if any of their favourites win. A bettor can place a ‘win’ bet if they’re confident about their runner copping the top spot. A ‘place’ bet lets you win if the thoroughbred places in the top two. And finally, a ‘show’ bet enables you to win if the runner gets any of the three spots.

Straight wagering adds a palpable edge to thrilling races like the Wyong Gold Cup. When you’re considering the Wyong Cup odds, opting for straight wagering can be a fascinating dance between risk and reward. Its slightly conservative nature balances out any major losses while leaving room for potential wins.

Betting strategy #2: Multiple horse betting

Some bookies might allow an ‘across the board’ wager, which mixes two or three straightforward betting options (win, place and show) to increase your chances of collecting a payout. You’d have to make the winning bets for all conditions before you could collect, though. Besides mixing all the straight bets, punters can wager on two or several horses to place differently in one or more races. These bets are called exotic wagers.

For example, a standard exacta bet enables you to wager on two horses to finish in the top two spots. Betting on a boxed exacta is also an option, where you can collect pot money if your two runners place first or second. That said, it costs more to wager on a boxed or reverse exacta than a standard exacta. Trifecta and superfecta wagers allow punters to pick the top three and four placers, respectively.

Besides choosing multiple horses, punters can also determine the runners most likely to win two consecutive races in a daily double bet. This method can be used in longer-running horse racing events like the Melbourne Cup.

Finally, there’s a ‘pick’ wager, where bettors can predict the top finishers of a certain number of consecutive races. For instance, betting on a Pick 6 wager means a punter has to pick the winner of six races, not the top six placers of an event. In this strategy, you can increase the probability of winning, although the risk also rises as you pick more runners.

Betting strategy #3: Betting on the ‘beaten favourite’

While the first two betting strategies bank on the winners and placers, this wagering method does the opposite. Instead of favourites, punters place their bets on a runner with recent losses but had good winning records before their defeat. This strategy is also called the ‘beaten favourites’ system. This system operates on the principle that the loss is a temporary flak and the runner can still become a dark horse, literally and figuratively.

When using this betting strategy, punters must study the horse’s performance history and rankings, trainers and similar aspects to ensure that your bet can make a strong comeback. Tapping this strategy can be lucrative, especially if you’ve mastered the art of spotting the ‘beaten favourite.’ That’s because these seemingly losing horses have higher market odds, meaning you’ll also collect higher payouts if your bet wins. That means you’ll still collect even if the amount isn’t as high as the most profitable bets in horse racing history.

Betting strategy #4: Lay betting system

Regarding placing stakes on a losing runner, here’s another horse race–betting strategy that works in contrast with the others: lay betting. Tapping this strategy enables a bettor to wager against a contender or place wagers on the thoroughbred most likely to lose. Thus, you’ll win if your horse fails to make it as the top finisher.

Using this strategy, you can pick two to three race favourites and start evaluating their odds. In addition, you can also select other runners with the lowest chances of winning, also known as the event’s underdogs.

Betting strategy #5: The Dutching strategy

The Dutching strategy is said to have originated in the 1920s, named after its inventor, alleged mobster nicknamed Dutch Schultz. To begin Dutch betting, you must be familiar with the Dutch betting techniques that enable punters to adjust the bet, stake and profits using mathematical formulas. The idea is to bet on several options that will allow you to collect a payout no matter the results of the race.

The main idea is to divide your stakes to collect profits no matter the odds on the horse you’ve bet on. In a simple equal-stake Dutching system, a punter places the same bet amounts on the two strongest contenders, keeping the projected returns and the profit in mind. For instance, if a winning bet can get you USD$50, wager USD$12.50 for each horse for a total stake of USD$25. If your chosen horse wins, you’ll collect USD$ 25 in profit.

Again, this is only one of the many ways you can use the Dutching model. If you want to tap this technique, make sure you familiarize yourself with the design first and use an online Dutching system calculator for quick computations.

Betting strategy #6: The Yankee strategy

This betting strategy is one of the oldest techniques available, earning the moniker ‘the grandfather of all betting strategies’. A Yankee betting strategy can be confusing, but beginners can quickly get the hang of it once they try.

This betting method covers 11 bets of equal value but is divided into four horses in various races: six doubles, four trebles and one fourfold. Two or more of your chosen runners must win or place in the race for you to win, depending on the type of wager you choose. Some punters can earn generous rewards for using this strategy to bet on several of the world’s most famous horse racing events.

The Dutching strategy isn’t a foolproof technique, and the risks remain. However, it can also become profitable if you know how and on which runners to bet.

Wrapping up

When placing stakes on a thoroughbred, a punter has to consider several factors, including the runner’s performance history, trainer, jockey and handicap. Choosing the right betting strategy is also as important, as it can spell the difference between winning and losing—even if it doesn’t guarantee positive outcomes.

By studying the various techniques in this blog post, punters can exercise caution and use their heads to make the right choices. This is valuable in any betting activity, where some might lose a lot before making a winning wager.

Chelsea agree British record £115m deal for Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo

It looks like Chelsea have finally got their man.

For the small fee of £115m, the Blues have agreed to sign Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo in a British record deal.

The fee means Chelsea will break the British record twice in 2023, following the £107m purchase of Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez in January.

What a midfield partnership that could be.

But what do you think of Chelsea’s latest piece of transfer business? Is Caicedo needed at Stamford Bridge? And is he worth spending that much money on?

Liverpool fans, how do you feel about missing out on the Ecuador midfielder?

Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi said he had “already forgotten” about Caicedo in his news conference before the Seagulls’ opening game against Luton.

“Bigger clubs can buy our players but they can’t buy our soul or spirit,” De Zerbi said.

Following his side’s 4-1 win, the Italian added: “He wants to leave.

“If Moises wants to leave then it is not on my focus. My focus is on my players and my work. What I can improve. If we win the next game, we will start very strong.”

Women’s InterPro Rugby Video Replay – Wins for Connacht & Ulster

Thrilling Comeback for Connacht as They Defeat Leinster in Vodafone Women’s Interprovincial Championship

In an exciting opening match of the Vodafone Women’s Interprovincial Championship, Connacht’s Shannon Touhey led her team to a remarkable comeback, erasing a nine-point deficit to secure an 18-17 victory against Leinster.

Strong Start for Connacht with Historic Win

Connacht’s campaign started on a high note at the Sportsground, marking only their second-ever Interpro win over Leinster. The impressive victory showcased the resilience and determination of the Connacht team.

Touhey’s Versatility and Fond Memories

Shannon Touhey, a Tullamore native, displayed her versatility by switching to number 8 during the second half, contributing to the team’s resurgence. The win also brought back fond memories of her Connacht debut in 2016, the last time they defeated Leinster.

Touhey, who earned her first Ireland cap against Japan in November 2021, expressed her satisfaction, stating, “It’s pretty surreal. We worked really hard in training. We have a lot of young girls coming through. We came out of the gates, raring. At that moment (when Méabh Deely scored the first try inside two minutes) I was like, ‘here we go, we have a game on our hands’. But at half-time, we hit our purple patch. One of our pillars is resilience, and we showed it on the day. We came back fighting and here we are.”

Challenges and Emerging Heroines

Despite missing regular captain Mary Healy, Mairead Coyne, Laura Feely, and Fiona Scally, all of whom have retired recently, a new-look Connacht team rose to the challenge. Emerging heroines at the Sportsground, especially 22-year-old Ballinasloe pair Méabh Deely and Aoibheann Reilly, made a significant impact.

Promising Returns and Dynamic Play

Scrum half Aoibheann Reilly made a triumphant return after recovering from a long spell out with an ACL injury – her defense-slashing break set up Deely’s opening try. With a great brand of rugby and new skipper Nicole Fowley leading the way, full-back Méabh Deely created opportunities for her team. She set up replacement Orla Dixon’s try, narrowing the gap to 17-13.

Late Drama and Celebrations

In the 81st minute, Connacht found space out wide once again, allowing Clara Barrett to burst past Jess Keating. Her neat offload back inside led to Deely completing her brace. However, they had to endure seven more minutes of injury time, including a Hannah O’Connor penalty miss, before the celebrations began.

Touhey praised the confidence brought by the squad’s younger players, stating, “I think it came from a lot of the young girls. They’ve been through the Under-20s program, they’re playing AIL with their clubs, they’re meeting these girls every week, so they knew exactly what they were up against. To be honest, they kind of dragged us on. They brought in that belief and that was it, like. We found it and we went with it. Home turf, that was the big thing. We weren’t going to be beaten here. We’ve another match next week. We need to come down, gather ourselves, and we’ll go again.”

Munster Dominates in Bonus Point Win Over Ulster

In another exciting match, Munster emerged as 41-14 bonus point winners over Ulster, with Waterford duo Ellen Boylan and Brianna Heylmann making their senior debuts and contributing with second-half tries.

Strong Performance by Ulster, But Munster Seals the Result

Murray Houston’s first game in charge of Ulster showcased a strong performance across the opening hour at City of Armagh RFC, with Maebh Clenaghan’s 55th-minute try reducing the arrears to 10 points. However, Niamh Briggs’ Munster side sealed the result through closing scores from replacements Boylan and Heylmann, and Vodafone player-of-the-match Stephanie Carroll, who completed her hat-trick late on.

Tightly Contested First Half

Munster held a 17-7 lead at the end of a tightly-contested first half, with Ella Durkan’s converted try briefly giving the hosts the lead in between two Carroll five-pointers. Clodagh O’Halloran crossed in the 36th minute to extend the visitors’ advantage.

Impact Off the Bench for Munster

The closing 40 minutes saw Deirbhile Nic a Bháird, a game changer during last season’s tournament, making the desired impact off the bench for seven-try Munster. The impressive performance demonstrated Munster’s depth and ability to capitalize on opportunities.

Unlucky final result for Dickson and Waddilove at Sailing World Championships

Gold Fleet Achievement for Dickson and Waddilove at Sailing World Championships

Tokyo 2020 Olympians Robert Dickson and Sean Waddilove secured a coveted spot in the Gold fleet finals at the Allianz Sailing World Championships in The Hague (The Netherlands).

Impressively, the Dublin crew, along with another Irish 49er skiff team, initially held race wins and high positions.

Unexpected Setback and very little luck

Unfortunately, both boats encountered an unexpected calm area on an otherwise windy day, slipping back in the fleet. Dickson and Waddilove finished the nine-race round in sixth overall, while the other Irish team, Guilfoyle and Durcan, placed 14th, missing the Gold fleet due to an early starting disqualification.

Comment from Irish Sailing

James O’Callaghan, Irish Sailing’s Performance Director, expressed satisfaction with the Gold fleet achievement, acknowledging the boat handling errors that affected the other team’s performance.

Focus on Next Round

A rest day is scheduled for the 49er skiffs on Monday, with the final round starting on Tuesday, leading to the medal race for the top ten boats on Friday. With limited qualification spots for Paris 2024, securing a place on Friday is crucial.

ILCA Classes Qualification

The ILCA classes started their qualification round with six races, where Rio 2016 Olympian Finn Lynch and Ewan McMahon made notable efforts.

Finn Lynch’s Performance

Finn Lynch had a solid day with a 12th and a fourth place, securing an overall eighth position.

Ewan McMahon’s Recovery

Ewan McMahon, despite a challenging start with a 40th place, managed to recover and finished in the 17th position.

Eve McMahon’s Efforts

Eve McMahon performed well with an eleventh-place finish in her ILCA6 opening race, but faced a setback with a Black Flag disqualification in the second race.

Dublin Ladies are 2023 All-Ireland football champions

Dublin’s Dominant Display Secures Fifth TG4 All-Ireland Ladies Senior Football Title

Hannah Tyrrell Shines with a Magical First-Half Performance

Dublin’s recent All-Ireland victory was fueled by Hannah Tyrrell’s stunning first-half play, contributing eight of their 11 points and showcasing her remarkable skill in front of a vibrant 45,326 fans.

💫 Hannah Tyrrell of @dublinladiesg receives the Player of the Match award from TG4 head of sport Ronan O Coisdealbha after the 2023 @TG4TV LGFA All-Ireland Senior Championship Final between Dublin and Kerry at Croke Park!@LeinsterLGFA #ProperFan @SportTG4 pic.twitter.com/VJRLffvWfZ

— Ladies Football (@LadiesFootball) August 13, 2023

Kerry’s Resilience Falls Short

Kerry, despite a valiant effort led by Louise Ni Mhuircheartaigh, couldn’t overcome a nine-point deficit, narrowing the gap to four points but ultimately falling short in the final.

Dublin’s New Generation and Impressive Performance

Dublin’s rejuvenated team, with emerging stars like Niamh Donlon and Niamh Crowley, secured their first senior medals in defense, complementing Tyrrell’s Player of the Match performance.

Dublin’s Redemption and Strategic Approach

After previous losses to Kerry this year, Dublin came into the final as favorites, displaying a near-flawless performance and demonstrating their determination to reclaim the title.

Tyrrell’s Unstoppable Journey

Hannah Tyrrell’s impactful return from rugby to Gaelic football was marked by a masterful display, scoring crucial points and assisting in critical plays throughout the match.

Dublin’s Dominance Maintained

Although the second half was less dominant for Dublin, their early lead provided them with a comfortable cushion, ultimately securing a well-deserved victory.

Críoch láidir curtha leis an gcluiche!

Dublin are All-Ireland Champions 🏆👏🎉@dublinladiesg | #ProperFan

BEO/LIVE ar @TG4TV

pic.twitter.com/qvwiQ9Es03

— Ladies Football (@LadiesFootball) August 13, 2023

Kerry’s Last-Minute Rally

Kerry mounted a late comeback, with Ni Mhuircheartaigh’s goal adding suspense, but Tyrrell’s final play sealed the game for Dublin in the closing seconds.

Dublin scorers: Hannah Tyrrell 0-8 (0-4f), Carla Rowe 0-4 (0-1f), Jennifer Dunne 0-2, Orlagh Nolan 0-1, Caoimhe O’Connor 0-1, Kate Sullivan 0-1, Niamh Hetherton 0-1.

Kerry scorers: Louise Ni Mhuircheartaigh 1-7 (0-6f), Niamh Carmody 0-2, Aishling O’Connell 0-1.

Dublin: Abby Shiels; Leah Caffrey, Niamh Donlon, Niamh Crowley; Aoife Kane, Martha Byrne, Lauren Magee; Jennifer Dunne, Eilish O’Dowd; Caoimhe O’Connor, Orlagh Nolan, Kate Sullivan; Hannah Tyrrell, Jodi Egan, Carla Rowe. Subs: Ellen Gribben for Egan h/t, Niamh Hetherton for Kane 41, Sinead Aherne for Sullivan 52, Danielle Lawless for Gribben 58.

Kerry: Ciara Butler; Kayleigh Cronin, Eilis Lynch, Ciara Murphy; Aishling O’Connell, Emma Costello, Cait Lynch; Lorraine Scanlon, Louise Galvin; Niamh Carmody, Niamh Ni Chonchuir, Anna Galvin; Hannah O’Donoghue, Danielle O’Leary, Louise Ni Mhuircheartaigh. Subs: Mary O’Connell for Louise Galvin h/t, Siofra O’Shea for O’Donoghue 42, Amy Harrington for Ni Chonchuir 47,

FREE admission to The Curragh on Saturday

Seven two-year-olds will contest the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes at The Curragh on Saturday.

Westmeath-based handler Adrian Murray is aiming for the biggest win of his training career to date as he saddles the GAIN Railway Stakes winner, Bucanero Fuerta, in the six-furlong contest.

The son of Wootton Bassett will again meet Givemethebeatboys, who finished three-quarters of a length behind him in the Group 2 Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot in June.

Running in the colours of AMO Racing Limited and Giselle de Aguiar, he will be the mount of jockey Kevin Stott. Launch from the same trainer and ownership will be ridden by Gary Halpin.

Donnacha O’Brien will be represented by his Albany Stakes winner Porta Fortuna (Oisín Murphy), while his father Aidan will rely on Unquestionable (Ryan Moore) and His Majesty (Séamie Heffernan) in an effort to maintain his incredible record in the race – he has trained the winner 17 times.

The Diego Dias-handled Gaenari, the mount of Gavin Ryan, is the other runner in the Group 1 worth €300,000.

There is FREE admission for all on Saturday, thanks to the Irish National Professional Bookmakers Association. The first race is off at 1.40pm.

Switzerland win The Aga Khan Trophy with Ireland second

Switzerland won the Aga Khan Trophy at the Dublin Horse Show this afternoon.

In an exceptional display by the pre-competition favourites and first-ever winners of the famous trophy in 1926, they produced two double clear rounds, and six clear rounds in total, as they ended the two-round Nations Cup on a zero score.

Last year’s winners, Ireland, who had been given a 20% win chance by Equiratings this morning, finished as runners-up on 12 faults in their attempt to successfully defend their title. The home nation has a total of three clear rounds during the class, and their anchor Shane Sweetnam and James Khan Cruz did not jump as it would not have changed their overall finishing position.

The 2018 winners Mexico took the final position on the podium on 16 faults, followed by France on 20, Belgium on 21, The Netherlands on 24, Spain on 28 and Britain on a final score of 57 faults.

Round One

Ireland ended the opening round of the Longines FEI Nations Cup with 8 faults, the same score as 27-time Aga Khan Trophy winners Britain, and France, with the favourites Switzerland – given a 25% win chance by Equiratings – holding a two-fence lead on a zero score.

Irish pathfinder and one of two Aga Khan Trophy debutants, Michael Duffy and Cinca had four faults at the water as did the second-line combination of the other first-timer on the Aga Khan team Mikey Pender and HHS Calais.

Cian O’Connor, the rider with most Aga Khan starts and podium finishes in the last 10 editions, and Eve d’Ouilly, were the third Irish combination into the Main Arena. They also had four faults, this time knocking a pole in the final part of the triple combination.

Kanturk’s Shane Sweetnam and the Irish Sport Horse James Kann Cruz brought Michael Blake’s side back into contention with a clear round in front of a packed and nervous crowd.

Switzerland achieved three clear rounds through Steve Guerdat (Venard de Cerisy), Martin Fuchs (Leone Jei) and Edouard Schmitz (Garmin Van’T Naastveldhof), meaning their four faults score from Bryan Balsiger and Chelsea Z became their discard score.

Steve Guerdat and Venard de Cerisy achieved a double clear during today’s Nations Cup. Credit: Breandán Ó hUallacháin.

The water caused some problems during the opening round with a total of five combinations incurring faults there. The penultimate fence, the Telecom post boxes with a Liverpool underneath, saw nine participants knock a pole.

Britain and France joined Ireland in joint-second place at the end of the first round – with the three teams on 8 faults.

Belgium and Spain were next, a fence behind, with Mexico on 16 faults and The Netherlands bringing up the rear on 20 faults.

Cian O’Connor and Eve d’Ouilly in action during Friday’s Nations Cup at the RDS. Credit: Breandán Ó hUallacháin.

Round Two

The Swiss took up where they had ended the first round with each of their first three combinations all going clear. Steve Guerdat and Venard De Cerisy as well as Martin Fuchs and Leone JEI achieved exceptional double clear rounds, while second-line rider Bryan Balsiger and Chelsea Z, who faulted in the first round, went better at his second attempt.

With Fuchs’ second clear the Swiss were uncatchable, meaning their final-line rider Edouard Schmitz didn’t jump.

Course builder Alan Wade later described it as “poetry in motion watching them jump clear after clear.”

Michael Duffy and Cinca got Ireland off to the best possible start in the second round, going clear in 70.96 seconds. Mikey Pender and HHS Calais matched their four-fault first round, before Cian O’Connor riding Eve D’Ouilly produced a faultless round.

Shane Sweetnam and James Kann Cruz then withdrew as they were safe in the runners-up position, and unable to catch chef d’équipe Michel Sorg’s side.

Switzerland have won the Aga Khan Cup at the RDS, while Ireland finished as the runners-up with Mexico in third place. #RTEsport pic.twitter.com/5cLLC3ZUmR

— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) August 11, 2023

“It’s very special to stand on the podium; it’s an amazing arena,” admitted Sorg. “It’s a dream of everybody to win this Aga Khan Trophy. It’s been a while.”

Statistical information kindly provided by Equiratings.