The GAA was founded in 1884 to promote indigenous Irish sport and discourage British influences. Gaelic football is played by women or men in teams of fifteen. The ball may be carried for up to four paces and then bounced or released to the toe, kicked, or struck with the open hand or fist, in any direction. Hurling is a fast and physical sport played with stick and ball. Women play a similar type of game called camogie.
Horse racing is a national passion.
Ireland's breeders and trainers are masters of their trade and enjoy astonishing international success. Ireland hosts some of the finest race meetings whilst many champion jockeys, including Richard Dunwoody, Adrian Maguire and Tony McCoy have hailed from these shores. These include the famous fairways of championship courses, such as Royal Portrush, Royal County Down, Portmarnock, Mount Juliet and Druid's Glen.