Cork Leisure

There are two very popular and unique amateur sports played throughout Ireland; hurling and Gaelic football attract large crowds and a passionate following. Meanwhile, the coastal areas provide centres for sailing, swimming, scuba diving and other water sports, while those who prefer to stay dry can take part in golf, horseback riding and fishing.

Hurling

Hurling is a 15-a-side game and has similarities to both hockey and lacrosse, but is much faster and more competitive than either. The pitch has H-shaped goalposts (like rugby) and each team aims to score as many points as possible by either hitting the leather ball over the crossbar for one point or into the net below for three points. Players can knock the ball along the ground, hit it through the air or run while balancing the ball on their broad, wooden stick. The ball can be caught by hand or with the hurley. The women's version of hurling, camogie, is also becoming increasingly popular.

Gaelic football

Gaelic football is similar to hurling, as it is played on the same pitches and uses the same scoring system and team size. It can be compared to both rugby and football, as the ball can be kicked, caught and passed by either boot or hand. However, running with the ball is only allowed if a player keeps control by tapping the ball from foot to hand every five steps.

Alternative activities

There are many other sports and activities on offer throughout the region. Along the coast there are centres for sailing, swimming, scuba diving and other water sports, and inland you can take part in golf, horseback riding and fishing.