While the major footballing countries are sending their top players to participate in the FIFA World Cup this month in Brazil (Ireland did not qualify).,the host country are sending some of their leading athletes to Europe in preparation for the 2016 Olympic Games which will also be held in Brazil.

Three top Brazilian athletes are scheduled to compete in Cork on 8th July at the prestigious Cork City Sports. Mahau Suguimati joins a class field in the 400m Hurdles event which will be the opening track event on the international programme and the 29 year old former Japanese international with a best time of 48.67 sec will surely make a strong showing.

Vanda Gomes noted for her fast starts will compete in the Womens 100m and the emerging sprint talent from Rio. Gustavo Machado will contest the Mens 100m.