Irish Christmas Tree Throwing Championship

Ennis will host the annual Irish Christmas Tree Throwing Championship on Sunday, 5th January 2014 from 13:00 until 16:00 at Active Ennis Tim Smyth Park, Ennis, Co. Clare. The event is organised by Ennis Town Council and Clare County Council and the proceeds of the event will go to the Clare Branch of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. The event is common across Germany and Austria. Last years winner was John O'Dea from Co. Limerick who launched his Christmas tree 10.2 metres, just 2 metres short of the world record held by German Klaus Pubnaz. The contestants must throw a standard 1.5 meter tree.

The event is held in conjunction with Active Ennis Sports and Leisure Facilities. The contestants use trees being sent forward for recycling, while at the event people are asked to make an eco-pledge for the New Year.

Tim Forde, General Manager, Active Ennis Sports and Leisure Facilities described the competition as a novel way to turn Christmas tree recycling into a sport, while at the same time raise funds for a needy cause.

He added: "This is a sporting charity event with competitors from the four corners of Ireland and further afield being invited to take part. The event is open to men, women and children, and each contestant will get three attempts at throwing their used Christmas tree."

"Disposing of the Christmas tree is often an arduous task for many so this event allows people to do so in style and with relative ease. The council will be providing a free Christmas tree recycling service at various locations throughout Clare, but we would welcome anyone who wishes to drop their tree at the contest and make a donation towards the Clare Branch of Cystic Fibrosis. The council will arrange for the tree to be mulched for use by its gardening section," stated Mr. Forde.

You can make an eco-pledge on www.managewaste.ie.

The winner of this year's championship will receive the championship trophy and a 2-night bed and breakfast stay at the Armada in Spanish Point.