Busy sporting weekend ahead

A MIXTURE of fireworks, fast cars and fresh winds are likely to be the main talking points of what is shaping up to be a busy weekend around the country.

The 125th anniversary celebrations of the GAA begin in Croke Park this evening during the National Football League opener between Dublin and All-Ireland champions Tyrone.

Throw-in for the game is scheduled for 7.30pm, but the festivities are to begin at 6.30pm, with television presenter Hector Ó hEochagáin overseeing the evening’s programme of events. Half-time entertainment will come from Sharon Shannon and Mundy.

There will be a bilingual tribute to the GAA by commentator Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh, and U2 drummer Larry Mullen has produced a soundtrack for a lighting and fireworks display during the show incorporating contemporary and traditional Irish music.

“The quality musical act, together with an exciting game of football and also a specially-designed lighting and fireworks spectacular, promises to be a night to remember,” said Jarlath Burns of the GAA 125th anniversary committee.

A limited number of tickets are still available, and can be purchased from the participating counties, on www.gaa.ie or from Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

AA Roadwatch says traffic delays can be expected in Drumcondra and in the area surrounding Croke Park this evening, and that both the Dart and the Luas networks stop within walking distance of the stadium.

Meanwhile, thousands of spectators are expected to turn out for the World Rally Championship, which concludes in the northwest of the country tomorrow afternoon.

Today the rally will travel from Sligo to Tyrone, and tomorrow the stages will run through Leitrim and Sligo before heading north to Donegal for the final stage.

The rally ends in Donegal town at lunchtime tomorrow with a “super special stage” in the town centre. This will be a 1.5km time trial, which will take the drivers just over a minute to complete. Details are available from www.rallyireland.org.

Race meetings are scheduled for Punchestown, Co Kildare, and Limerick racecourse tomorrow, with the action commencing at 12.55pm and 1.45pm respectively.

Met Éireann is predicting fresh winds and rain to persist over parts of the country this weekend.

The forecaster said recent heavy outbreaks would continue today in some areas, but that they should clear tonight.

Tomorrow will be significantly colder, with highest temperatures of 4 degrees predicted. Some wintry showers are likely near the east coast.