Atlantic Touch Rugby Cup Thrills 3,000 in Limerick

UPDATE: The Atlantic Touch Rugby Cup has concluded in Limerick, and the event has been declared a resounding success. Held over the August Bank Holiday Weekend, this thrilling tournament showcased 45 youth teams from 12 countries, drawing in approximately 3,000 visitors to the University of Limerick (UL).

The competition saw England dominate several categories, but the spotlight shone brightly on the Irish teams, who clinched gold in the Mixed 18s, silver in the Mixed 20s, and bronze in the Boys 15s. This remarkable achievement has sparked excitement and pride among local fans and participants alike.

Players and spectators alike praised the pristine condition of the six pitches at UL, enhancing the exhilarating atmosphere. Many international visitors expressed their delight at the warm hospitality they received, with several local residents unexpectedly joining in the excitement as they stumbled upon the tournament while jogging or enjoying leisure time nearby.

The vision to host the Atlantic Cup in Limerick was spearheaded by Michelle Mulcahy, chairperson of the Ireland Touch Association (ITA). She emphasized the event’s success, stating,

“We couldn’t have wished for the Atlantic Cup to go better. From the standard of touch across all categories to the good weather and vibrant atmosphere, the cherry on top was the achievement of our Irish teams. The future of touch is bright,”

highlighting aspirations for potential Olympic entry in 2032.

As excitement builds, interested individuals can learn more about touch rugby through Munster Touch Rugby on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

The success of the Atlantic Touch Rugby Cup not only celebrates athletic achievement but also fosters community spirit and international camaraderie. Keep an eye out for future tournaments as the sport continues to gain traction globally, promising even more thrilling moments in the years to come.