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Westmeath v Galway : Preview, Stats, Teams & Betting

Group 1: Westmeath v Galway – GAA Championship Clash

Match Preview

The eagerly anticipated Group 1 clash in the GAA Gaelic football championship features Westmeath taking on Galway. Both teams have had contrasting fortunes in their initial outings, setting the stage for a fascinating encounter. Galway will secure a place in the quarter-finals if they win.

Live Scores for Westmeath v Galway

Previous Encounters

Westmeath and Galway have met only twice previously in the championship. Westmeath claimed a narrow victory in an All-Ireland qualifier tie back in 2006, winning 1-8 to 0-10 in Pearse Stadium. However, Galway exacted revenge last year, securing a comfortable 0-20 to 0-12 win in Mullingar during the All-Ireland round robin series.

Championship Journey So Far

Galway

  • Galway 5-21 London 0-9 (Connacht quarter-final)
  • Galway 1-13 Sligo 0-14 (Connacht semi-final)
  • Galway 0-16 Mayo 0-15 (Connacht final)
  • Galway 2-14 Derry 0-15 (All-Ireland round robin)

Galway have showcased their offensive prowess and defensive solidity, highlighted by their remarkable run of not conceding a single goal in their four championship games to date.

Top Scorers for Galway

  • R Finnerty: 1-21 (0-8 frees, 0-1 mark)
  • C Darcy: 2-4
  • P Conroy: 1-6
  • J Heaney: 0-7
  • T Culhane: 2-0

Westmeath

  • Wicklow 2-9 Westmeath 1-11 (Leinster first round)
  • Armagh 0-16 Westmeath 0-11 (All-Ireland round robin)

Westmeath’s journey has been more challenging, with a narrow defeat to Wicklow in the Leinster first round and a five-point loss to Armagh in their initial All-Ireland round robin match.

Top Scorers for Westmeath

  • L Loughlin: 0-6 (0-3 frees)
  • J Heslin: 0-5 (0-2 frees)
  • J Lynam: 1-0
  • R Forde: 0-3 (0-1 free)
  • R O’Toole: 0-3

Key Insights

  • Galway’s stellar defense has not conceded any goals in their four championship games so far.
  • Rival managers, Pádraic Joyce (Galway) and Dessie Dolan (Westmeath), were both players in the first championship clash between these teams in 2006, with Dolan captaining Westmeath to a one-point win.
  • Westmeath is still seeking their first victory in the ‘round robin’ series introduced last year, having lost to Galway, Armagh, and drawing with Tyrone previously, and losing again to Armagh this year.

Team News

Westmeath: Jason Daly; Jamie Gonoud, Kevin Maguire, James Dolan; Sam McCartan, Ronan Wallace, David Lynch; Ray Connellan, Andy McCormack; Jonathan Lynam, Ronan O’Toole, Conor Dillon; Luke Loughlin, John Heslin, Robbie Forde.

Subs: Jack Connaughton, Shane Allen, Charlie Drumm, Eoin Mulvihill, Matthew Whittaker, Daniel Scahill, Senan Baker, Lorcan Dolan, Stephen Smith, Kieran Martin, Conor McCormack.

Galway: Connor Gleeson; Johnny McGrath, Seán Fitzgerald, Jack Glynn; Dylan McHugh, John Daly, Liam Silke; Paul Conroy, John Maher; Johnny Heaney, Matthew Tierney, Céin D’Arcy; Liam Ó Conghaile, Shane Walsh, Cillian McDaid.

Subs: Conor Flaherty, Seán Ó Maoilchiaráin, Eoghan Kelly, Daniel O’Flaherty, Kieran Molloy, Cian Hernon, Patrick Egan, Cathal Sweeney, Cillian Ó Curroain, Tomo Culhane, Niall Daly.

Betting

Galway 1/8 Westmeath 6/1

Handicap – Galway -6 10/11

Conclusion

As Westmeath seek to register their first round robin win and Galway aim to continue their winning streak with both teams eager to secure vital points in Group 1. Expect Westmeath to get within 6pts.

Roscommon v Mayo : Preview, Stats, Teams & Betting

Group 2: Roscommon v Mayo – GAA Championship Showdown

Match Preview

The Group 2 clash in the GAA Gaelic football championship sees Roscommon taking on Mayo. Both teams have had different starts to their campaigns, with Mayo looking strong and Roscommon aiming to bounce back.

Previous Encounters

Roscommon and Mayo meet again in the Connacht championship for the second time this year. Mayo secured a five-point victory in the Connacht semi-final clash last month, adding to their recent dominance in this fixture.

Live scores for Roscommon v Mayo

Championship Journey So Far

Roscommon

  • Mayo 1-15 Roscommon 0-13 (Connacht semi-final)
  • Dublin 2-19 Roscommon 0-13 (All-Ireland round robin)

Roscommon have faced tough opposition, losing to both Mayo and Dublin, and will be eager to turn their fortunes around in this match.

Top Scorers for Roscommon

  • D Murtagh: 0-10 (0-5 frees)
  • D Cregg: 0-8 (0-3 frees)
  • C Cox: 0-4 (0-1 mark)

Mayo

  • Mayo 2-21 New York 2-6 (Connacht quarter-final)
  • Mayo 1-15 Roscommon 0-13 (Connacht semi-final)
  • Galway 0-16 Mayo 0-15 (Connacht final)
  • Mayo 0-20 Cavan 1-8 (All-Ireland round robin)

Mayo have had a solid campaign, highlighted by their convincing win over Cavan in their first All-Ireland round robin game.

Top Scorers for Mayo

  • R O’Donoghue: 1-33 (0-20 frees, 0-1 mark)
  • C O’Connor: 1-6 (1-0 pen)
  • M Ruane: 0-6
  • A O’Shea: 1-2 (0-1f)
  • F Boland: 0-5

Recent Championship Meetings

  • 2024: Mayo 1-15 Roscommon 0-13 (Connacht semi-final)
  • 2023: Roscommon 2-8 Mayo 0-10 (Connacht quarter-final)
  • 2020: Mayo 1-16 Roscommon 0-13 (Connacht semi-final)
  • 2019: Roscommon 2-12 Mayo 0-17 (Connacht semi-final)
  • 2017: Mayo 4-19 Roscommon 0-9 (All-Ireland quarter-final) Replay

Key Insights

  • Roscommon and Mayo meet in the Connacht championship for the second time this year, with Mayo having won a Connacht semi-final clash last month by five points.
  • Mayo beat Roscommon by six points in this year’s Allianz League clash.

Team News for Roscommon v Mayo

Roscommon: Conor Carroll; David Murray, Brian Stack, Niall Higgins; Niall Daly, Robbie Dolan, Eoin McCormack; Enda Smith, Tadhg O’Rourke; Dylan Ruane, Donie Smith, Ciarán Lennon; Conor Cox, Daire Cregg, Diarmuid Murtagh.

Subs: Colm Lavin, Patrick Gavin, Shane Cunnane, Ruaidhri Fallon, Ronan Daly, Cian Connolly, Ultan Harney, Keith Doyle, Conor Hussey, Adam McDermott, Conor Hand.

Mayo: Colm Reape; Jack Coyne, David McBrien, Donnacha McHugh; Stephen Coen, Sam Callinan, Eoghan McLaughlin; Jack Carney, Mattie Ruane; Darren McHale, Ryan O’Donoghue, Jordan Flynn; Aidan O’Shea, Tommy Conroy, Cillian O’Connor.

Subs: Rob Hennelly, Fergal Boland, Diarmuid Duffy, Enda Hession, Conor Loftus, Conor McStay, Eoin O’Donoghue, Padraig O’Hora, Michael Plunkett, Paul Towey, Bob Tuohy.

Betting

Roscommon 9/4 Mayo 1/2 Draw 8/1

Conclusion

  1. The upcoming match between Roscommon and Mayo promises to be an exciting encounter in Group 2. Roscommon will be determined to improve their performance, while Mayo aim to maintain their strong form. Expect Roscommon to win at 9/4

 

Leinster v Connacht – Preview, Teams, Odds, Where To Watch

Leinster vs Connacht: Clash of Irish Provinces in URC Showdown

Kick-off: 7:35 pm, Friday, 31st May 2024

Venue: RDS Arena, Dublin

Match Preview

Leinster will welcome Connacht to the RDS Arena for their second interprovincial clash of the season and the final round of the 2023/24 United Rugby Championship (URC). Kick-off is scheduled for 7:35 pm on Friday. After a heartbreaking extra-time loss in the Champions Cup last weekend, Leinster faces a quick turnaround for this game.

Leinster’s Recent Form and Team News

Leinster are coming off a grueling Champions Cup match that extended into extra time, resulting in a tough loss. Given the emotional and physical toll of that match, it’s likely that Leinster will rest many of their key players for this URC fixture. Expect a lineup similar to the one that featured in their South African tour, giving opportunities to younger and less experienced squad members.

Leinster’s head coach Leo Cullen has named a team with a mix of experienced and fresh faces. Scott Penny will captain the side, with Rhys Ruddock making his 229th appearance before retirement. Jamie Osborne and Ciarán Frawley, who starred in the Champions Cup Final, start in the center. Sam Prendergast and Cormac Foley form a new half-back pairing.

Leinster Starting XV:

  • 1. Ed Byrne
  • 2. Rónan Kelleher
  • 3. Thomas Clarkson
  • 4. Ross Molony
  • 5. Brian Deeny
  • 6. Rhys Ruddock
  • 7. Scott Penny (C)
  • 8. Jack Conan
  • 9. Cormac Foley
  • 10. Sam Prendergast
  • 11. Rob Russell
  • 12. Ciarán Frawley
  • 13. Jamie Osborne
  • 14. Tommy O’Brien
  • 15. Jimmy O’Brien

Leinster Replacements:

  • 16. Dan Sheehan
  • 17. Michael Milne
  • 18. Michael Ala’alatoa
  • 19. Ryan Baird
  • 20. Max Deegan
  • 21. Luke McGrath
  • 22. Harry Byrne
  • 23. Charlie Ngatai

Connacht’s Form and Team News

Connacht has struggled over the past four months, reflecting a team in need of morale boosts. Despite these challenges, head coach Pete Wilkins has named a relatively strong squad for this fixture. Key players like Bundee

Where To Watch

The match will be available to watch on TG4, Premier Sports 2 and URC TV.

Irish Rugby Inter-Provincial Derbys in URC 2024/25

Irish Rugby Inter-Provincial Derbys in URC 2024/25

R Date Home Away Venue KO GMT/BST
1 Sat, Sept 21 Munster Connacht Thomond Park 17:30
4 Sat, Oct 12 Leinster Munster TBC 17:45
5 Sat, Oct 19 Connacht Leinster Dexcom Stadium 19:35
8 Thurs, Dec 26 Leinster Connacht Aviva Stadium TBC
8 TBC Ulster Munster Kingspan Stadium TBC
9 TBC Connacht Ulster Dexcom Stadium TBC
9 TBC Munster Leinster Thomond Park TBC
14 TBC Connacht Munster Dexcom Stadium TBC
15 Sat, Apr 19 Leinster Ulster Aviva Stadium 19:35
15 Sat, Apr 19 Munster Vodacom Bulls Thomond Park 17:15
17 Fri, May 9 Munster Ulster Thomond Park 19:35

Connacht Rugby – URC Home and Away fixtures for 2024/25

Connacht RugbyURC Home and Away fixtures for 2024/25

R Date Home Away Venue KO GMT/BST
1 Sat, Sept 21 Munster Connacht Thomond Park 17:30
2 Sat, Sept 28 Connacht Hollywoodbets Sharks Dexcom Stadium 19:35
3 Fri, Oct 4 Scarlets Connacht Parc Y Scarlets 19:35
4 Sat, Oct 12 Ulster Connacht Kingspan Stadium 20:00
5 Sat, Oct 19 Connacht Leinster Dexcom Stadium 19:35
6 Sat, Oct 26 Connacht Dragons Dexcom Stadium 19:35
7 Sat, Nov 30 Connacht Vodacom Bulls Dexcom Stadium 17:30
8 Thurs, Dec 26 Leinster Connacht Aviva Stadium TBC
9 TBC Connacht Ulster Dexcom Stadium TBC
10 Fri, Jan 24 Glasgow Warriors Connacht Scotstoun Stadium 19:35
11 Sat, Feb 15 Connacht Cardiff Dexcom Stadium 19:35
12 Sat, Mar 1 Connacht Benetton Dexcom Stadium 19:35
13 Sat, Mar 22 Ospreys Connacht TBC 17:15
14 TBC Connacht Munster Dexcom Stadium TBC
15 Sat, Apr 19 DHL Stormers Connacht DHL Stadium 15:00
16 Sat, Apr 26 Emirates Lions Connacht Emirates Airline Park 15:00
17 Sat, May 10 Connacht Edinburgh Dexcom Stadium 19:35
18 Sat, May 17 Zebre Parma Connacht Stadio Lanfranchi 17:00

Connacht URC Home Fixtures

R Date Home Away Venue KO GMT/BST
2 Sat, Sept 28 Connacht Hollywoodbets Sharks Dexcom Stadium 19:35
5 Sat, Oct 19 Connacht Leinster Dexcom Stadium 19:35
6 Sat, Oct 26 Connacht Dragons Dexcom Stadium 19:35
7 Sat, Nov 30 Connacht Vodacom Bulls Dexcom Stadium 17:30
9 TBC Connacht Ulster Dexcom Stadium TBC
11 Sat, Feb 15 Connacht Cardiff Dexcom Stadium 19:35
12 Sat, Mar 1 Connacht Benetton Dexcom Stadium 19:35
14 TBC Connacht Munster Dexcom Stadium TBC
17 Sat, May 10 Connacht Edinburgh Dexcom Stadium 19:35

Leinster Rugby Fixtures for 2024/25 URC Announced

Leinster Rugby Fixtures for 2024/25 URC Announced

The United Rugby Championship (URC) will release the fixtures for the 2024/25 season at 10am on Thursday, and Leinster fans are eagerly anticipating an action-packed year. As one of the leading teams in the competition, Leinster will be looking to build on their previous successes and make a strong push for the title.

The season kicks off with a high-octane opener against, setting the tone for what promises to be a thrilling campaign. With key matches against rivals and challenging away fixtures, Leinster’s schedule is both exciting and demanding.

Here is list of interpro derbys 

Leinster v Connacht

Leinster v Munster

Leinster v Ulster

Ulster v Leinster

Munster v Leinster

Connacht v Leinster

Leinster’s 2024/25 URC Fixtures

R Date Home Away Venue KO GMT/BST
1 Fri, Sept 20 Edinburgh Leinster Hive Stadium 19:35
2 Fri, Sept 27 Leinster Dragons Aviva Stadium 19:35
3 Sat, Oct 5 Benetton Leinster Stadio Monigo 17:15
4 Sat, Oct 12 Leinster Munster TBC 17:45
5 Sat, Oct 19 Connacht Leinster Dexcom Stadium 19:35
6 Sat, Oct 26 Leinster Emirates Lions Aviva Stadium 17:15
7 Fri, Nov 29 Ulster Leinster Kingspan Stadium 19:35
8 Thurs, Dec 26 Leinster Connacht Aviva Stadium TBC
9 TBC Munster Leinster Thomond Park TBC
10 Sat, Jan 25 Leinster DHL Stormers Aviva Stadium 17:00
11 Fri, Feb 14 Ospreys Leinster TBC 19:35
12 Sat, Mar 1 Leinster Cardiff Aviva Stadium 15:00
13 Sat, Mar 22 Vodacom Bulls Leinster Loftus Versfeld Stadium 15:00
14 Sat, Mar 29 Hollywoodbets Sharks Leinster Hollywoodbets Kings Park
15 Sat, Apr 19 Leinster Ulster Aviva Stadium 19:35
16 Sat, Apr 26 Scarlets Leinster Parc y Scarlets 17:15
17 Sat, May 10 Leinster Zebre Parma Aviva Stadium 17:15
18 Sat, May 17 Leinster Glasgow Warriors Aviva Stadium 19:35

Dramatic Drift of City of Troy in the 2024 Derby Market

The Dramatic Drift of City of Troy: A Pivotal Moment in the 2024 Derby Market

Aidan O’Brien’s prized colt, City of Troy, has recently experienced a significant drift in betting odds, creating a stir among racing enthusiasts and bettors alike. Once a formidable favorite, City of Troy has seen his odds lengthen from 3.2 to 4.5 on the Betfair Exchange in just a few hours. This sudden shift has raised eyebrows and sparked speculation about his prospects in the upcoming 2024 Derby.

City of Troy’s Disappointing Performance in the 2000 Guineas

City of Troy’s performance in the 2000 Guineas was nothing short of disappointing. Despite being the race favorite and the top two-year-old of 2023, he finished at the tail end of the field. Aidan O’Brien, the esteemed Ballydoyle trainer, later acknowledged his role in the colt’s downfall, admitting that he might have placed undue pressure on City of Troy, treating him “like too much of a God” in the lead-up to Newmarket. This candid admission has only fueled doubts about the colt’s ability to maintain his form as a three-year-old.

Los Angeles: The Potential New Derby Favorite

The uncertainty surrounding City of Troy’s future has opened the door for his stablemate, Los Angeles, to potentially become the new Derby favorite. Should City of Troy’s drift continue, Los Angeles could assume the top spot before the race kicks off next Saturday. The shift in sentiment is not entirely surprising, given the skepticism about how well the progeny of Justify, City of Troy’s sire, can progress at three years old. The colt’s shattered confidence and underwhelming recent performance have further prompted punters to reconsider their bets.

Market Predictions: Coral’s Insight

Coral, a prominent bookmaker, has observed the market dynamics closely. They predict that City of Troy, who has long been at the forefront of the Derby market, could soon be overtaken if punters continue to place their bets on the colt’s key rivals. The current trend indicates a potential reshuffling of favorites, adding an intriguing layer of uncertainty to this year’s Derby.

Conclusion: The Unpredictable Nature of Horse Racing

In the high-stakes world of horse racing, where fortunes can change in the blink of an eye, the drift of City of Troy serves as a reminder of the sport’s unpredictable nature. As the Derby approaches, all eyes will be on the betting boards, watching to see if City of Troy can regain his footing or if a new favorite will emerge to claim the spotlight.

Stay updated on the latest 2024 Derby news and betting odds shifts, and follow the thrilling journey of City of Troy and his contenders as the race day draws near.

Ireland at U20 Rugby World Cup – Full Fixture List with Kick Off Times

Ireland Gears Up for World Rugby U20 Championship 2024: Fixtures and Kick-Off Times

Ireland’s U20 rugby team is set to compete in the highly anticipated World Rugby U20 Championship 2024, taking place in the Western Cape, South Africa from June 29 to July 19. This marks the 14th edition of the tournament and the second consecutive year it will be held in South Africa. Here’s a preview of Ireland’s fixtures and kick-off times for the championship.

Tournament Overview

The World Rugby U20 Championship 2024 will feature 12 of the world’s best teams competing across three venues: Cape Town Stadium, Danie Craven Stadium, and Athlone Stadium. The championship will kick off with defending champions France taking on debutants Spain. The event will also showcase new law amendments aimed at promoting an exciting and attacking style of rugby.

Key Highlights

– **First international competition** to feature fan-focused law changes.
– **Broadcasting**: Available globally via local partners and RugbyPass TV.
– **Tickets**: Available at ticketmaster.co.za.

Ireland’s Road to Glory

Ireland will face stiff competition in Pool B, starting their campaign against Italy, followed by matches against Georgia and Australia. The team will look to build on their recent performances and make a strong impact on the global stage.

World Rugby U20 Championship 2024 converted to Irish time (IST, which is UTC+1 in the summer):

Ireland’s Fixtures

**Saturday, June 29**
– **Ireland vs Italy**
– **Kick-off**: 14:30 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: DHL Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

**Thursday, July 4**
– **Ireland vs Georgia**
– **Kick-off**: 12:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Danie Craven Stadium, Burgersdorp, South Africa

**Tuesday, July 9**
– **Ireland vs Australia**
– **Kick-off**: 12:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Athlone Sports Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

Other Fixtures

**Saturday, June 29**

– **France vs Spain**
– **Kick-off**: 12:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: DHL Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

– **England vs Argentina**
– **Kick-off**: 12:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Athlone Sports Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

– **Australia vs Georgia**
– **Kick-off**: 14:30 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Athlone Sports Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

– **South Africa vs Fiji**
– **Kick-off**: 17:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: DHL Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

– **Wales vs New Zealand**
– **Kick-off**: 17:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Athlone Sports Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

**Thursday, July 4**
– **Wales vs Spain**
– **Kick-off**: 12:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Athlone Sports Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

– **France vs New Zealand**
– **Kick-off**: 14:30 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Danie Craven Stadium, Burgersdorp, South Africa

– **Australia vs Italy**
– **Kick-off**: 17:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Athlone Sports Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

**Tuesday, July 9**
– **Argentina vs Fiji**
– **Kick-off**: 12:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Danie Craven Stadium, Burgersdorp, South Africa

– **France vs Wales**
– **Kick-off**: 14:30 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Athlone Sports Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

– **Georgia vs Italy**
– **Kick-off**: 14:30 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Danie Craven Stadium, Burgersdorp, South Africa

– **South Africa vs England**
– **Kick-off**: 17:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Athlone Sports Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

– **New Zealand vs Spain**
– **Kick-off**: 17:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Danie Craven Stadium, Burgersdorp, South Africa

**Sunday, July 14**
– **9th Place Semi-Final (Match 19)**
– **Kick-off**: 12:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Danie Craven Stadium, Burgersdorp, South Africa

– **5th Place Semi-Final (Match 22)**
– **Kick-off**: 12:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: DHL Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

– **9th Place Semi-Final (Match 20)**
– **Kick-off**: 14:30 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Danie Craven Stadium, Burgersdorp, South Africa

– **Semi-Final 1 (Match 23)**
– **Kick-off**: 14:30 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: DHL Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

– **5th Place Semi-Final (Match 21)**
– **Kick-off**: 17:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Danie Craven Stadium, Burgersdorp, South Africa

– **Semi-Final 2 (Match 24)**
– **Kick-off**: 17:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: DHL Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

**Friday, July 19**
– **11th Place Play-Off (Match 25)**
– **Kick-off**: 10:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Athlone Sports Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

– **5th Place Play-Off (Match 28)**
– **Kick-off**: 12:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: DHL Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

– **9th Place Play-Off (Match 26)**
– **Kick-off**: 12:30 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Athlone Sports Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

– **3rd Place Play-Off (Match 29)**
– **Kick-off**: 14:30 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: DHL Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

– **7th Place Play-Off (Match 27)**
– **Kick-off**: 15:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: Athlone Sports Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

– **Final (Match 30)**
– **Kick-off**: 17:00 (Irish Time)
– **Venue**: DHL Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

Galway Swimming Club to Host Longest Day Swim 2024

Galway Swimming Club to Host Longest Day Swim 2024

On June 22, 2024, Galway Swimming Club proudly presents the Longest Day Swim 2024, a charity river swim offering participants a unique chance to swim down the picturesque River Corrib. Swimmers will pass iconic Galway landmarks, including the University of Galway, Menlo Castle, Steamboat Quay, and swim under the Quincentennial Bridge, providing a distinct perspective of the city.

Since its inaugural event in 2019, the Longest Day Swim has grown significantly and is now a major event on the Galway Open Water Swimming Calendar. The race has attracted notable competitors, including former US Olympic swimmers Gunnar Bentz, Peter Vanderkaay, and Davis Tarwater. The event is celebrated for its charitable contributions and welcoming atmosphere.

**Event Details:**

The Longest Day Swim is a timed, open water river swim for participants over 18, catering to all levels of open water swimmers and triathletes, from casual swimmers to elite athletes. The event promotes the physical and mental health benefits of swimming while raising funds for this year’s charity partner, Claddagh Watch.

Two swim distances are available, each with Male/Female and Skins/Suits categories:
– **4km swim** starting at Glenlo Abbey.
– **2.5km swim** starting at the slip in Dangan.

Swimmers will navigate the River Corrib from their starting points to the finish line at Steamer’s Quay (Woodquay, just above the Salmon Weir).

**Swim Start Points:**
– **4K swim:** Glenlo Abbey Hotel [53°18’11.1″N 9°05’21.6″W](https://goo.gl/maps/axA9jwTUAeSz4vWq6)
– **2.5K swim:** NUIG Dangan [53°17’43.3″N 9°04’28.8″W](https://goo.gl/maps/3GzJUuXitq6e7wZr6)

**Finish Line:**
– **Commercial Boat Club:** Eircode: H91 FH61, Waterside, Woodquay, Galway [53°16’41.9″N 9°03’16.1″W](https://goo.gl/maps/umPU6znKFYsUR79S9)

**Entry Benefits:**
1. Participation in either the 2.5 km or 4 km races.
2. A GSC “Longest Day Swim” swimming hat.
3. A Longest Day Swim 2024 gift.
4. A goodie bag with water, fruit, etc.
5. Tasty food after your swim, with a chance to relax at the awards ceremony.
6. Support for GSC and Claddagh Watch charity.
7. Bragging rights for swimming the Corrib!

Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a unique swim experience while supporting a great cause. Join us for the Longest Day Swim 2024!

REGISTRATION:

You can register at: https://www.galwayswimmingclub.ie/longest-day-swim

Aidan Morgan to Join Ulster Rugby Until June 2026

Aidan Morgan to Join Ulster Rugby Until June 2026

Ulster Rugby is pleased to announce the signing of fly-half Aidan Morgan, who will join the club until at least June 2026.

The Auckland-born playmaker, who turns 23 next month, is Irish-qualified through his Belfast-born grandfather. Morgan will make the move to Belfast this summer on a two-year contract.

Morgan, who represented New Zealand at the U20s level, first gained attention during the 2019 school campaign, helping Kings College win its first Auckland Schools championship title in over a decade. He was then developed through the Hurricanes Academy.

Currently playing for the Hurricanes, Morgan has earned 23 caps over three seasons in Super Rugby, becoming known for his energetic and competitive style of play at fly-half.

Bryn Cunningham, Ulster Rugby’s Head of Rugby Operations and Recruitment, commented on the signing:

“As part of our recruitment process, we explored various options to align with our short-term needs and long-term ambitions. Aidan brings a mix of youth, competitiveness, and high energy, which aligns with our strategic objectives. His maturity as a fly-half and being Irish-qualified with Ulster roots is a significant advantage.

“We’re excited for Aidan to develop with this talented squad under Richie’s leadership, and I’m confident he will make the province proud.”

Aidan Morgan expressed his enthusiasm for the move:

“I’m really looking forward to moving to Belfast this summer and representing Ulster, the birthplace of my grandfather. Ulster has a rich history, and I’m excited to experience the atmosphere at Kingspan Stadium. I’m eager to join a talented team and play in front of passionate supporters.

“It’s a great time to be joining Ulster, and I look forward to contributing to the team’s future under Richie and the coaching team’s vision.”

Morgan’s signing is anticipated to add depth and dynamism to Ulster Rugby’s squad as they aim for success in the coming seasons.