THE ANNUAL Aer Lingus College Football Classic returns to Dublin for another year this weekend. Last year's edition threw up a one-sided affair as Notre Dame demolished Navy 42-3 . But this year's match-up should prove a far closer affair between Florida State and Georgia Tech.
For the second year running, the Aviva Stadium is already sold out with sales bolstered by an estimated 27,000 American fans travelling here to roar on their college teams. But for those open to sampling the pageantry and fervour around a college American football match there is still hope. That's because ESPN's College GameDay preview show will be broadcasting from the Dame Street/College Green area on Saturday afternoon.
According to Dublin City Council the exact broadcasting time will be from 2pm-5pm. The famed show began in 1991 and sets up in a different college campus every week of the season. This will be the first time it's ever broadcast from outside of the US.
The usual backdrop of the programme sees throngs of fans hanging around in the background as its very much a format where presenters interact with them throughout. So anyone who has any interest in experiencing the occasion as a whole can show up on the day as it's a non-ticketed, family-friendly event. DCC will be putting on Irish dancing performances in addition to live trad music so it's sure to be a memorable afternoon in the capital.
Lord Mayor of Dublin James Geoghegan said of it: “I am delighted to welcome so many of our American friends to the city of Dublin this weekend. "This event once again proves how capable our capital city is to host major sporting events. "The presence of ESPN this weekend will help showcase the beauty of our capital city to a worldwide audience”.
Seth Markman, ESPN vice president and executive producer, added: “Travelling College GameDay overseas and sharing the excitement and traditions of college football with sports fans from other countries is something we’ve always wanted to do." FOOTBALL legends Tony Cascarino, Stuart Pearce, Andy Reid and Neil O'Riordan will join The Irish Sun’s first live football preview event on Tuesday September 3 ahead of the Republic of Ireland v England match in The Aviva that weekend. Goals Live 2024, in association with TonyBet and hosted by well-known sports commentator Dave McIntyre, promises to be an evening of entertainment, discussion, analysis and lively debate as the panel delves into the upcoming big match between football rivals the Republic of Ireland and England.
The event, which is for over 18s only, will take place in The Camden, Dublin 2, from 6.15pm – 9pm. The ticket includes a complimentary drink for attendees and each ticketholder will be entered into a draw for a chance to win a pair of match tickets to the big game in the Aviva on Saturday September 7.
Tickets are just €5 and available to purchase HERE . “Ireland is an amazing country known for having very passionate sports fans. "So we expect an incredible atmosphere and experience for this first-ever international show in Dublin.
” In preparation for the event, Dame Street will be closed to vehicle traffic between 8pm on Friday 23rd and 6am on Sunday 25th of August. Foster Place will be closed from 3pm on Wednesday 21st of August until 6am on Sunday 25th August. Bus services in the Temple Bar area on the Quays and Westmoreland Street will continue to operate.
The LUAS green line will continue to operate. Any temporary relocation of bus stops from Dame Street to other locations will be publicised via the National Transport Authority website. The Taxi Ranks from Foster Place and College Green will be moved temporarily to D’Olier Street.
As part of a busy weekend in the capital Dublin City Council is also delighted to announce the return of its Smithfield Fleadh for its third successive year ( Dublin City Council Smithfield Fleadh - Dublin.ie ). The free, family-friendly outdoor event will take place on the 24th and 25th August from 12pm-6pm at Smithfield Square, Dublin city centre’s largest dedicated event space.
The event will showcase the vibrancy of traditional Irish music in modern Ireland with internationally recognised artists and grassroots artists alike. This year will see more opportunities for visitors to engage with the artists through music sessions, workshops and céilís for all the family to enjoy..
