There is no doubt about it, the game of hurling is so entwined in the Kilkenny psyche that so much revolves around it in the everyday life of the folks of this fair county.

The early scheduling of the 2018 hurling championships has led to the bringing forward of the much-anticipated second annual Kilkenny Country Music Festival by a few weeks and it will now be staged at Gowran Park on Sunday, 1 July 2018.

The recent visit of Mike Denver to the Lyrath Hotel in Kilkenny as part of his concert tour, gave members of the organising committee a golden opportunity to meet up with the headliner and declare the official launch of the lineup for the big day in July.

The Portumna man was more than happy to oblige and spent time with various people associated with the venture.

“I am absolutely honoured to be associated with the Kilkenny Country Festival and Gowran Park is a brilliant venue for a summer event like this.

Last year the weather was not too kind, so we are all hoping for a fine day on 1 July, which will greatly add to the enjoyment for everyone.

“It will be the first time a Galway man will be coming to Kilkenny with my county as All-Ireland Hurling champions. Now, that makes a change,” quips Mike.

“We are all aware of the great hurling tradition that is such a part of life down in Kilkenny. We respect that hugely.”

The full lineup for the 2018 Kilkenny Country Music Festival features Mike Denver, Cliona Hagan, Patrick Feeney, Paddy O’Brien, Philomena Begley, Ray Lynam, Brendan Shine and Trudi Lalor.

The Conquerors from Galway are the backing band for all the singers.

Gowran Park, which is synonymous with horse racing, has all the necessary facilities to cater for big crowds.

These include ample bars, restaurants, toilets and wheelchair accessibility and stands for cover in case of summer showers.

It has easy parking and is just 10 minutes from the motorway.

Tickets are €25 and are available in the usual outlets in Kilkenny, and online at www.kilkennycountrymusicfestival.ie.

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