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Festive Season

5 sporting events you could attend over the Christmas period

Whether you want to be active or a simply spectate, we’ve picked out some of the best ways to spend your few days off.

1. A day at the races

Hurricane Fly and Ruby Walsh are set to compete in the Istabraq Festival Hurdle at Leopardstown. Credit: INPHO/Morgan Treacy

A trip to the races is always a good shout and with Leopardstown, in particular, bustling  punters for its Christmas festival. Whether it’s the cheap and cheerful option or the works you want, there are hospitality options to suit all tastes during the four-day meeting (December 26-29). Fairyhouse, Limerick and Tramore also offer alternative options.

For more information, visit GoRacing.ie.

2. Christmas Day swims

Swimmers at the 40 foot. Credit: Mark Stedman/Photocall Ireland

Not for the fainted-hearted, the annual Christmas Day swim takes place in numerous locations around the country with the 40ft in Dublin and Dugort on Achill Island two popular locations. Sure to get the blood flowing and a great hangover cure, many go without but wetsuits are a smart option.

3. Fields of Athenry 10km

Credit: Athenryac.com

Sure, many of us spend St Stephens’ Day stuck to the couch gorging on selection boxes and turkey sambos but for those who feel like being more active, Galway has got just what you’re looking for. The Fields of Athenry 10km has become hugely popular in the 11 years since it began.

For more information, visit Athenryac.com.

4. Rabo Direct Pro12

Ulster’s Andrew Trimble hands off Dave O’Callaghan of Munster. Credit: INPHO/Presseye/Darren Kidd

All four provinces are in action in the Pro12 so you’ve no excuse to get out and watch some top quality rugby over the festive period.

The fixtures are as follows:

  • Munster v Ulster, 29 December, Thomond Park
  • Leinster v Connacht, 29 December, RDS

5. New Year’s Eve walk

Held on Keel Beach on Achill Island, the annual New Year’s Eve walk raises funds for Crumlin Children’s Hospital.

Visit VisitAchill.com.

Alternatively, you could always just sit yourself in front of the television for the World Darts Championship and a feast of Premier League action!

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