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Take a leap: Cliff divers delight crowds in Dublin

Diving started at Dún Laoghaire yesterday and will continue this evening (Pics: Red Bull)
Diving started at Dún Laoghaire yesterday and will continue this evening (Pics: Red Bull)

Hundreds of spectators have gathered in Dún Laoghaire this weekend to watch some of the world's best cliff divers take the leap.

Twenty-four male and female athletes are competing in the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series, which is being hosted in Dublin for the first time.

The Irish event is the second of seven stops, following the Philippines last month. The next stage will be held in Italy.

Diving began at the harbour yesterday, and the final of the competition’s Irish leg is taking place from 7pm this evening.

The cliff diving contest has taken place at a natural pool on Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands, three times in the past, including last year.

On that occasion, British diver Gary Hunt took the top spot on the podium. He is competing again this year.

And 27-year-old Australian diver Rhiannan Iffland is the favourite in the women's event.