Huge crowds gather Derry today for the start of the Foyle Cup parade
The parade has become an iconic part of the prestigious tournament as the competing teams march through the streets of Derry.
A record 600 teams are taking part in this year’s O’Neill’s Foyle Cup.
Clubs from across the island of Ireland, the UK, Europe and North America are taking part, with matches being held across the north-west.
The parade set off at 10.30 am from Ulster University’s Derry Campus.
Led by bagpipes, the players made their way via Northland Road, Great James Street and Strand Road before gathering at the Guildhall where they were officially welcomed by Cllr Lilian Seenoir-Barr, Mayor of Derry City & Strabane District Council.
Almost 600 teams have signed up for this year’s Foyle Cup in what marks a record number of entries.
Matches will be staged in the Derry, Strabane and Causeway Coast & Glens Council areas as clubs from across Ireland, UK, Europe, and USA go head-to-head.
Said Foyle Cup Secretary Philip Devlin: “The Foyle Cup parade holds great significance, not only for the countless young players who proudly march through the city, but also for their loved ones.
“We urge the entire community to gather and demonstrate their unwavering support for the teams during this memorable occasion.
“With this year’s Foyle Cup being larger in scale than ever before, we extend our immense gratitude to our incredible sponsors and partners for their invaluable contributions in orchestrating this remarkable event.”
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi-Barr, said: “I was eagerly anticipating the sight of all the young boys and girls participating in the upcoming Foyle Cup parade.
“It fills me with joy to welcome them to Guildhall Square and I extend my best wishes to those participating in the upcoming competition.
“The City and District comes alive with excitement during the tournament, and I am counting down the days until we can kick it all off with the fantastic Foyle Cup parade!”
Speaking on behalf of O’Neill’s Irish International Sports Company, John Murphy said: “With the start of the Foyle Cup just around the corner, everyone at O’Neills is very excited to welcome all the players, coaches, and parents to Derry.
“As title sponsor of the Foyle Cup, we wish all participants the best of luck for the week and thank everyone involved in making this tournament happen.”
Other sponsors include Derry Strabane District Council; Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council; ONeill Sports; Oddlygood; Derry Credit Union; Inner City Trust; Seagate; Brunswick Moviebowl; Ulster University; North west Regional College, Springtown Fuels and Diamond Corrugated.
Matches are scheduled to be played at over 60 venues – a total of 2,932 matches in just six days.
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