In 2002 the Commonwealth Games were last held in Britain (Manchester) and a host of well known athletes from around the world came to Cork to finalise their preparations for Manchester.

Patrons fortunate enough to attend the 2002 City Sports will remember the likes of Aliann Pompey, Dwight Thomas, Sanjay Ayre, Shani Anderson, Vonette Dixon, James McIlroy, Michael Rotich, Nicole Forrester, Shadrack Korir, John Mayock, Mike Power, Bronwyn Thompson, Jacqui Edwards, Willy Kirui, Simon Maina, Diana Allahgreen, Elva Goulbourne, Sandie Richards, Renee Kalmer, Craig Mottram, Allaney Francique, Beita Willis competing in Cork prior to their participation in the Commonwealth Games.

July 8th will see many other current world star athletes compete at the C.I.T Stadium.