All-Ireland final magic hits streets of Limerick
Europe’s biggest TV screen will bring Croke Park magic to the streets of Limerick and give 20,000 extra fans a chance to see their heroes in action.
It’s all thanks to the efforts of Limerick City Council, Limerick County Council, Shannon Development and the Limerick GAA County Board.
City mayor Councillor Ger Fahy said: “Limerick remains synonymous with sporting endeavours and the entire city and county are rallying behind our hurlers.
“A large number of passionate supporters, especially families, cannot get tickets to the game so we decided to bring the thrills of Croke Park to the streets of Limerick by erecting the big screen.”
Limerick County Council chairman Cllr Kevin Sheahan said the local authority was delighted to be associated with the massive joint effort.
He said: “The team has captured the imagination of the sporting public with their determination, spirit and never-say-die approach which has restored a sense of pride in Limerick hurling. I have no doubt the team will do us proud on the day and bring back the elusive All-Ireland hurling crown.”
Shannon Development chief executive Kevin Thompstone said the big screen initiative would be a major boost to marketing Limerick city and county as sporting centres.
Limerick hurlers Mark Foley, Brian Murray, Michael Fitzgerald and Pat Tobin along with Limerick Co Board chairman Denis Holmes attended yesterday’s launch of the big screen.
Mr Foley said: “It is a great boost for the team to know that people who cannot get to the game will be able to see it on the streets of Limerick and will be hopefully cheering us to victory.”
Mr Holmes said it was fantastic to see all the local organisations supporting the hurlers.
“I want to particularly thank both local authorities and Shannon Development for all their help and expertise in organising the big screen and the homecoming. Hopefully it will be a great homecoming.”
The big screen was first erected in Limerick for the Heineken Cup Final in 2006 when the Munster Rugby team had a sensational win over Biarritz.
For hurling final day, Sunday, September 2, two large screens will be erected in O’Connell Street — one at the Roches Street junction and a second at the Bedford Row junction. No alcoholic drinks will be allowed.
A special homecoming celebration is planned, regardless of the result.
The team will be escorted directly from the railway station to a stage on O’Connell Street.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
