Irish national open egg throwing championships return to Mayo this weekend
Record-breaking road bowler Willie O’Donovan to target Irish egg throwing title at Glencorrib Vintage Day
The 2026 Irish National Open Egg Throwing Championships will take place in Glencorrib, Co. Mayo, this Sunday, July 12, as part of the annual Shrule District Vintage Day.
Organised by the World Egg Throwing Federation, the event will see competitors from across the country test their throwing and catching skills, with entries open on the day.
One of the highlights will be the return of renowned road bowler Willie O’Donovan, who will attempt to break his own Irish record of 78.3 metres, set three years ago.
The current world record of 94.3 metres was established by New Zealand duo Paewai and Hornstein in 2018.
World Egg Throwing Federation President Andy Dunlop believes O’Donovan has every chance of going even further this year.
“Willie is certainly more than capable of breaching that distance. With a throwing arm more muscular than Shergar’s hind leg, we’ve seen him come close before,” he said.
He added that with a new receiving partner in place, expectations are high.
“Willie has shown himself not only to be a great sportsman but also probably the finest tosser Ireland has ever produced,” Dunlop joked.
According to the federation, the unusual sport dates back to the 12th century in the English village of Swaton, where monks are said to have thrown eggs across a flooded river to feed people unable to reach the local church for food.
The World Egg Throwing Federation has since organised championships around the world, including in New Zealand, India, the Philippines and across Europe.
Anyone wishing to take part and challenge the Irish record holder can register on the day. Further information is available from Paddy Rock on 087 2439760 or Pa Martyn on 086 8500617.