Summit to turn Ireland into sports tourism hub

In an effort to find ways the Sport Tourism summit in Thomond Park, Limerick, this May will involve international experts discussing how Irish cities and communities can get a

slice of the €450bn industry.

 
The summit, organised by W2 Consulting and sponsored by Shannon Airport, has Independent Newspapers as its media partner and will be attended by more than 400 delegates.

W2 Consulting director and former rugby star Keith Wood said that sports tourism represents a huge opportunity for Ireland. “Sports tourism is huge business and it’s getting bigger and bigger,” he said.

Shannon Group chairman Rose Hynes said that developing a major sports tourism strategy must be a priority for Ireland.

“As an airport we see first-hand the value of sports tourism. Huge numbers of golfers, for
instance, come through Shannon each year.”

Latest statistics show that 150,000-plus golfers come to Ireland each year, generating up to €200m.

“There are several other sports, such as mass-participation cycling events, triathlons, hill-walking and tournaments led by local sports organisations that can attract big numbers,” Ms Hynes added.

Apart from others, speakers from the Rugby World Cup and Premier League clubs will attend the conference which will be staged annually in Limerick.