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Killarney is set for a bumper week as thousands of football and horse racing fans are set to arrive in the town over the coming days.

Many fans are expected in their droves ahead of the all-important Super 8 clash with Kerry on Sunday at Fitzgerald Stadium.

The match is expected to attract a capacity crowd of 31,900 to the stadium bring a much needed mid-season boost to the town.

“It promises to be an exciting sporting week with a huge crowd expected at the recently upgraded Fitzgerald Stadium for what promises to be an epic encounter and the local businesses will contribute hugely to the special atmosphere in and around the town on big match day,” said Paul Sherry, President of Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce. “It is a wonderful mid-season boost for the town and I know that businesses are expecting a bumper weekend with GAA supporters and punters set to avail of the top class hospitality for which the town is famous.”

Top flight football is a central part to summers in Killarney, traditionally Munster finals with our great rivals Cork, but with the advent of the new Super 8 format since last year new sets of supporters will get the chance to experience what Killarney has to offer.

“July in Killarney conjures up memories of Munster Football Finals and the July Festival Meeting at the Killarney Races. It wouldn’t be a July without Bird’s Bazaar in the Fair Hill Car Park. Bird’s initially were invited to Killarney in the 1940s by Fitzgerald Stadium Committee in order to raise funds for developing the Stadium.,” said the stadium’s Tatyana McGough. “Mayo and Horse Racing Fans can expect some sporting excitement during the day while enjoying what Killarney can offer in the evening   by way of entertainment.”

The five-day Killarney July Racing Festival will commence on Monday.

Highlights include Ladies Day on Thursday, one of highlights of the social calendar in Killarney.

“The three race meetings, held every May, July and August, are a major boost to the town and I know that Gerard Coughlan and his team at the racecourse estimate that the three meetings are worth in excess of €8 million to the town every year. It will certainly be a bumper week ahead for Killarney and I know that the local businesses are really looking forward to welcoming visitors from all over the country and beyond,” added Mr Sherry.

Racing fans are sure to flock to the Ross Road course on Wednesday following the announcement that legendary jockey Frankie Dettori will make is maiden appearance in Killarney.

“This is a tremendous feather in our cap because Frankie Dettori is box office. We are absolutely thrilled,” said Killarney Racing Manager Philip O’Brien,“We are overjoyed that he will include Killarney in his schedule for the first time and his personality has never been greater so we expect a bumper crowd on the day.”