Hundreds expected for annual conker championships

Competitors are going crackers over the Irish Conker Championships (ICC) set to be staged in Co Kilkenny tomorrow.

More than 600 enthusiasts from all over the country are due to descend on Freshford for the eighth annual festival.

Entrants, some who have been training for months, will set out the same mission tomorrow – to smash the opposing nut into oblivion.

Children from St Lachtains School in Freshford have been busy collecting almost 30,000 conkers for the event.

These fruits of the Horse Chestnut tree – which were stored in a secret location and quality checked – will be provided by the Conker Committee.

Organisers have even made indoor provisions to ensure that the 'Sport of Flings' can happen in any weather, and that competitors’ technique will not be impeded by even the smallest gusts of wind.

“A huge amount of work goes in to the championship, but it is well worth it,” said Brenda Cooper, ICC Chairperson.

“It has really taking off and keeps getting bigger and bigger every year. We have had visitors from as far as Australia, England and all over Ireland taking part.

“But as well as the actual championship we have activities for everyone so it really is a huge community event.”

The event was the brainchild of Grace Kearney, who saw the potential for the 52 Horse Chestnut trees that surround the village green.

This year over 250 adults and almost 200 children will take part in the under 11’s, under 14’s, under 17’s, and adult champions.

Last year’s winners in the team event – the Airheads from Wexford – are also returning to defend their Irish title.

The action will begin at noon tomorrow.