The first-ever Allianz Cumann na mBunscol National Sports Quiz took place this weekend, bringing together 38 teams from across Ireland to compete in a battle of sporting knowledge. The event, a landmark occasion for the organisation, saw young sports enthusiasts from primary schools nationwide showcase their expertise in Gaelic games and other sporting disciplines. The Tullamore Court Hotel was the venue for the quiz and two local GAA stars, Dan Burke and Dan Ravenhill, U20 All Ireland Hurling Champions 2024, came to mingle with the quiz participants and their supporters before the start of the competition.
The quizmaster, MJ Cleary, a teacher and a presenter of a local radio show on Midlands Radio 3, set the perfect balance in delivering the questions to 152 eager pupils. Katelyn Hayes, a reporter for TG4, was there to document the quiz, interviewing teachers and pupils alike to get comments on, and reactions to the event. The enthusiasm and preparation displayed by all participants were evident during the quiz, as teams tackled a series of challenging rounds covering historical moments, famous players, and key sporting rules.
Over the past few months, counties and provinces held their own quizzes to determine their representative teams, with winners earning the honour of competing in this prestigious national final. The competition tested participants' knowledge of Gaelic football, hurling, camogie, handball, Rounders and other aspects of Irish and international sporting facts, ensuring a thrilling contest for all involved. Aside from the competitive element of the quiz, it served as a celebration of sporting knowledge and passion among young pupils.
This quiz wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of Allianz, who sponsored the event. Not only have they made this event a reality, but they’ve also provided each pupil with a fantastic goodie bag, including a Stop the Drop jersey. #StopTheDrop is an inspiring campaign launched by Allianz last year to encourage young people to stay involved in sport, reinforcing Allianz’s commitment to youth participation and development. To make this first-ever National Sport’s Quiz even more special, Allianz arranged for The Sam Maguire Cup, along with the Allianz National Football and Hurling League Cups, to be on display at the event—an unforgettable experience for all involved!
As the first edition of this national competition, the event has set a high standard for future quizzes, with hopes of it becoming an annual highlight in the Cumann na mBunscol calendar. Participants left with a sense of pride, having represented their counties on a national stage, regardless of the outcome.
Chairperson of Cumann na mBunscol Náisiúnta, Micheal Mac Thiarnain, thanked all who were involved in making this quiz a success. Allianz for their sponsorship; the Tullamore Court Hotel for providing an excellent venue for the quiz; all the volunteers who helped collect, correct and steward on the day; Declan Ward, the Development Officer of Cumann na mBunscol Náisiúnta, for his dedicated work throughout the year as it takes a lot of preparation for a day like this to run smoothly.
It was a closely fought contest with very little between the winning teams and only one point separating 1st and 2nd place. Congratulations to all the successful teams who have the distinction of being the first winners of this quiz. Uachtarán Cumann na mBunscol Náisiúnta, Gary Farrell, presented the trophies and medals to the winners.
1st Niall Mór NS, Killybegs Co. Donegal
2nd Breaffy NS, Co. Mayo
Joint 3rd Ballingar NS, Co Offaly
Blessed Patrick O’Loughran Primary School, Dungannon, Co Tyrone.
