Ever wanted to know what it was like to scuba dive, go up in a hot-air balloon, enjoy a little zorbing, shimmy up a climbing wall, then the Point Theatre, Dublin, is the place to satisfy that curiosity next weekend. A new and innovative event, The Mars Sport Show, in association with The Irish Times, takes place from October 6th to 8th.
This is the first participatory sports show of its kind in Ireland, a concept that originally appeared in New Zealand five years ago. "It offers the visitor an opportunity to have a go at the sports on offer," enthused Planet Sport's Ann Glamuzina, the event promoters.
The idea is the brainchild of Glamuzina and partner Robert Kielty, whose goal is to establish the show as an annual event in Ireland. Their vision extends beyond a simple exhibition full of booths and promotional flyers. They demanded an event that involves the visitor through interactive features. Glamuzina confirmed: "We want to see people trying out the seven metre climbing wall, or participating in one of the IRFU's coaching clinics.
"We're not going to be turning anyone into a Sonia O'Sullivan overnight but we promise they will have a load of fun trying out the sports." Among the attractions that the show boasts is the Red Bull-sponsored vertical ramp, the biggest transportable ramp in Europe and paying a first visit to Ireland.
There will be a number of sponsored skaters, BMX riders and in line skaters to provide demonstrations over the three days. The Irish Times will erect a sports photography gallery with access all weekend. Martial arts ranging from judo, aikido to Tai Chi will be on display while the Real Tennis Association will introduce the delights of that sport to visitors on a half court.
Another first for an Irish audience will be the `helium hopper', a helium filled balloon, 20 feet in diameter that takes harnessed riders 150 feet in the air. New to this country is the zorb, another New Zealand-inspired adrenalin rush. It is now sweeping Europe and will make its Irish debut at the show. It involves getting inside a ball inside a ball and rolling down a 25-foot inflatable ramp from the back of a truck.
The title sponsors will be presenting the Mars Virtual Olympics. Visitors will be able to compete in snow boarding and hang gliding on virtual reality machines and will be in to win a £500 voucher from Champion Sports.
There will be other prizes on offer including the opportunity to win a drive in a Formula One car. For those for whom participation is a prerequisite they may try karting, scuba diving, canoeing, flying a kite, throwing a frisbee as well as taking part in IRFU and FAI skills demonstrations.
Exhibitors will include the majority of sports' national governing bodies, sports retailers, adventure centres and those involved in the sport and leisure industry. Admission is £5.50 for children, students, OAP's and the unwaged while the adult entrance fee is £8.50. A family ticket (two adults, two children or one adult, three children) can be purchased for £23.50.
For anyone who wishes a more detailed account of the attractions on offer they can visit the show website at www.marssportshow.com.
