Another first for Team Chase Ireland

AS if an inaugural World Cup qualifier was not enough, Ballindenisk stages another first this Sunday, as Team Chase Ireland cuts its first turf.

The competition, which begins at 3pm, will see 12 teams of four tackle natural banks and man-made obstacles. The aim is to travel the 1.75-mile course in one piece in the fastest time to win the €1,000 first prize. Each team is counted down and its completion time determined when the third rider crosses the finish line. Along the way, three members of each team must negotiate a selected fence in unison.

Adding spice is the rule that each team comprises one person aged over 40, a female, a junior (aged 16-25) and one other.

Riders will travel from Galway, Kerry, Wexford Waterford Tipperary and will face teams from the local South Union Hunt and the Ballinshassig Farmers.

Team Chase Ireland has big plans, including starting a league next Spring.

It is envisaged that the top three teams at the conclusion of the league will go head-to-head with the top three teams in Britain, where the sport is well established following its inception in 1974, when the first chase was televised on Good Friday at Hickstead.

Those interested in finding out more about Team Chase Ireland should telephone: [phone].