It’s time for the Lisdowney Sevens!

All roads will lead to Lisdowney as teams from all over the country come chasing Sevens success.

The Lisdowney Sevens competition swings into action this weekend, with 32 clubs from all over Ireland set to compete.

Now in its 33rd year the tournament, which is sponsored by J.J. Kavanagh & Sons, sees under-13 hurling teams play over two dates (July 19 and 26) for the right to compete in the finals on August 2.

The action begins this Saturday, with games starting at 10am.

A total of 49 GAA clubs were contacted about this year’s tournament this year. The list included all the clubs in Kilkenny, as well as regular visitors and a number of new teams that have expressed an interest in participating in the tournament.

This year’s tournament will see 25 teams from the county in action, as well as two teams from Laois and one each from Kildare, Tipperary, Dublin, Clare and Carlow.

There is also a reserve list of seven teams hoping for a chance to participate in this event.

A huge success over the years, the tournament has provided a stage for future hurling greats. Players like D.J. Carey, James ‘Cha’ Fitzpatrick and Henry Shefflin have all participated.

Many of this year’s Kilkenny senior hurling panel have also tasted Sevens action, including Michael and Colin Fennelly, T.J. Reid, Jackie Tyrrell, Tommy Walsh, Richie Hogan, Cillian Buckley, Mark Kelly, Paul Murphy and captain Lester Ryan.

Thanks went to all clubs who will participate in this year’s event. Lisdowney GAA club also thanked all their supporters and sponsors.