The 4 yearly Lions adventure is one of sport's enduring traditions. The selection, anticipation, drama and history make this something special for all rugby fans. The fact that success is rare, due to the challenges of moulding a successful team from a group of strangers, does not diminish the romance! All young players naturally dream of playing for their country, but to then get the recognition and accolade of selection for the Lions is the ultimate honour!
Above all, New Zealand is the place where the Lions have history and have the least chance of success. This place has rugby as the foundation of its national identity. Ever since Dave Gallaher lead the Original All Blacks in 1905, New Zealand has been at the very top of world rugby. The combination of a Maori and Islander warrior identity and a tough pioneer/settler culture from the last two centuries have married perfectly to fit the demands of rugby football.

As visitors to this place, we have been swept away by the genuine welcome and friendliness of the New Zealand people. People chat freely and warmly in check out queues, buses and bars and restaurants. Ireland is known as a welcoming place for good reason, but New Zealand has a similar reputation and bus drivers, construction workers, lollipop ladies and taxi drivers all are fantastic. There was a police check point in the middle of NZ wilderness (near a volcano) driving from Lake Taupo to Palmerston North. This was paid for and staffed by the NZ Police - a free BBQ for bus loads of Lions fans! Is that possible anywhere else?

Many of the people we have met know about Letterkenny RFC and are aware of the Donegal roots of Dave Gallaher. Many Kiwis claim Irish ancestry and heritage and are very warm towards Irish rugby fans. They seem to have a greater respect since the Irish victory in Chicago last November. Several of our hosts have commented on the similarities between Ireland and New Zealand!

To top it all, the Lions have managed, somewhat against expectations, to level the series in a nail biting 2nd test in Wellington. The Blacklash will come next week in Eden Park, but this Lions team is improving and there is some hope for an historic win. As a sporting experience this really is the best. Go the Lions!