John O'Sullivansays advice from our panel of experts should come with a health warning for your pocket
THE FOLLOWING is a statutory warning outlining the utter folly of parting with any money to endorse the hallucinogenic ramblings of those listed below. While some of the faces change on an annual basis - a few innocents discarded without a thought - the success rate of these sporting Shamans in divining the future remains what in polite society might be termed "questionable".
In trying to discern whether the rogues' gallery below harbours a budding Nostradamus it's instructive to note the predictions for the year just ended 2008. The slam dunk, open goal tap-in, six-inch birdie putt, conversion in front of the posts was the prediction that Kilkenny would win their third successive All-Ireland hurling title.
Even those who would only have a peripheral interest in the sport had the good sense to opt for the Cats on the basis of form and an excellent recent track record . . . well almost everyone. The sports editor, Malachy Logan, nurtures a Gretta Garbo-like desire to be alone - in his views amongst other things - and so he plumped for Waterford.
Being almost right is like being almost pregnant: one either is or isn't. He will be quick to point out that his decision to buck the trend when it came the football winners - to a man and woman Kerry and Dublin hogged the voting - and choose Tyrone was remarkably prescient.
There was a consensual accord that two Irish players would make the Ryder Cup at Valhalla and for one of those in question Graeme McDowell - he took part in the crystal ball gazing last year - his sporting wish for 2008 was delivered in remarkable style.
McDowell ventured: "Can I have two? I dearly want to make the Ryder Cup team for Valhalla. That's my personal wish. The other one is for Manchester United to win the Champions League."
One or two others stepped up to the plate and hit a home run or two when it came to predicting sporting events in 2008; none more so than Brian Kerr.
The former Republic of Ireland manager and current Irish Times soccer analyst mused when addressing the question of 'Olympics - any hope of an Irish medal?' Kerr responded: "Our best chance is boxing. Paddy Barnes is our only current qualifier but if Darren Sutherland or Kenny Egan get through (they hadn't qualified for the Olympics at that point in the year) the qualification process we have a real chance." Respect.
In the All-Ireland hurling championship he also suggested that Kilkenny would beat Waterford or Cork in the final. Respect. In terms of his thoughts for 2009, Kerr is one of the few to suggest that Ireland will qualify for the 2010 soccer World Cup.
Trying to alight on a sporting highlight for 2008 offered a variety of choice from Pádraig Harrington's wonderful victories in the British Open and USPGA Championships to Munster's glittering triumph over Toulouse in the Heineken Cup Final at the Millennium Stadium.
Usain Bolt's 100 and 200-metre double at the Beijing Olympics captivated the imagination, so too Michael Phelps dominance in the pool and Munster's celebrated performance, on and off the pitch, in defeat against New Zealand at Thomond Park.
In looking forward many of the pundits listed below have gone back to the future demonstrating uncommon bravery in opting for Kilkenny to win a fourth hurling title in succession. Kerry are still the county of choice to win the Sam Maguire.
And there is a sinister side to what appear at first glance harmless predictions. It's to do with "Logan's Run", a curse that follows those young sports people singled out by the sports editor.
Logan chose James Blake (2005), Mark Vaughan (2006), Luke Donald (2007) and last year Justin Rose (2008). We'd strongly urge his choice for 2009, Kerry's David Moran, to consider changing his name by deed poll.
CRYSTAL GAZING: VIEWS FROM THE 'EXPERTS'
Nicky English Hurling analyst
Lasting sporting memory from 2008?
Being in Cardiff to see Munster winning the Heineken Cup final.
How many players will Ireland have on the 2009 Lions tour to South Africa and who will win the series?
Six, including Paul O'Connell hopefully as captain.
Who will win the GAA football and hurling All-Irelands?
It's hard to look past Kilkenny for the hurling but Tipperary are likely to be strong contenders. Kerry to regroup for football in 2009.
Will the Republic of Ireland soccer team qualify for the 2010 World Cup?
Yes, they have a good chance I think. There are two to qualify from the group and Bulgaria, their main rivals for second place, seem to be having their own problems. The country could need an excuse to celebrate in 2010!
One sporting ticket for 2009 you'd crave above all others?
Hogan Stand, Croke Park in September to see Tippereray winning the All-Ireland.
Complete the sentence: If I ruled the sporting world . . .
I'd have the 2010 World Cup finals switched to Ireland give the country a focus to get over its current gloom.
Who will win the Champions League/League of Ireland Premier Division?
Inter Milan and Bohemians
Who will win more Majors in 2009: Pádraig Harrington or Tiger Woods? Why?
Pádraig Harrington. He does not have to recover from serious injury as well as having to beat all the rest.
One to watch in 2009?
Colin Fennelly, a young hurler who unfortunately for the rest of the hurling world also happens to be from Kilkenny.
Brian Kerr Soccer analyst
Lasting sporting memory from 2008?
It was a great year for the boxers at the Olympics and I'll never forget the atmosphere at Thomond Park for the visit of the All Blacks, but on a personal note St Pat's recovery both away and in Inchicore to see off IF Elfsborg in the Uefa Cup.
How many players will Ireland have on the 2009 Lions tour to South Africa and who will win the series?
Looking at the coaching set-up, the connections don't bode well for marginal Irish candidates. Still, I feel we will have seven or eight, but South Africa appear to be on a different level.
Who will win the GAA football and hurling All-Irelands?
Kilkenny and I feel Kerry will come back again.
Will the Republic of Ireland soccer team qualify for the 2010 World Cup?
I think we'll finish second in the group. We have a decent chance of qualifying despite the lack of experience and quality players like Lee Carsley, Stephen Ireland and some fella called Andy Reid.
One sporting ticket for 2009 you'd crave above all others?
The Champions League final in Rome, providing no English team is in it as they always bring an undercurrent of trouble and potential for violence.
Complete the sentence: If I ruled the sporting world . . .
I'd put a 2 per cent levy on all professional sportsmen or woman and administrators that make in excess of €100,000 per year and invest the money in proper facilities in third world countries as opposed to just handing South Africa the World Cup and so placing them in a life-time of debt.
Who will win the Champions League/League of Ireland Premier Division?
Jose Mourinho has the experienced and guile to guide Inter Milan all the way. Derry.
Who will win more Majors in 2009: Pádraig Harrington or Tiger Woods? Why?
If Tiger is fully fit he can equal Jack Nicklaus' record of 18 Majors over the next two years. Pádraig has proven he is capable of winning another one, but staying with a fully tuned Tiger?
One to watch in 2009?
Celtic's new signing, Niall McGinn.
Liam Toland Rugby analyst
Lasting sporting memory from 2008?
Ahead of Munster beating Toulouse to win European cup, ahead of Pádraig Harrington's second British Open and his USPGA victory, ahead of Usain Bolt's golds, I would choose Munster against the All Blacks in Thomond Park.
How many players will Ireland have on the 2009 Lions tour to South Africa and who will win the series?
Five Irish Lions, but they could be carrying tackle bags!
Who will win the GAA football and hurling All-Irelands?
Kerry and Kilkenny, but watch out for Fermanagh.
Will the Republic of Ireland soccer team qualify for the 2010 World Cup?
With three teams that can beat Ireland home and away, the odds are stacked against them.
One sporting ticket for 2009 you'd crave above all others?
Two tickets (and flights) to the Melbourne Cup for myself and my wife.
Complete the sentence: If I ruled the sporting world . . .
I'd ban soccer players from playing soccer; all the rolling and tumbling is killing me!
Who will win the Champions League/League of Ireland Premier Division?
Hopefully not glory, glory Man United. Chelsea, although playing badly, are far too strong for them I think. So, I will go with Chelsea. With a new manager, Michael O'Neill and a fantastic ground in Tallaght, the Hoops (Shamrock Rovers) to win Premier Division.
Who will win more Majors in 2009: Pádraig Harrington or Tiger Woods? Why?
Pádraig Harringhton. He can now close out any opportunity with mental strength and aggression.
One to watch in 2009?
Joe Canning (Portumna and Galway) and Seán O'Brien (Leinster)
Conor Niland Tennis player
Lasting sporting memory from 2008?
Watching Usain Bolt run, and Rafa Nadal's celebration when he won Wimbledon.
How many players will Ireland have on the 2009 Lions tour to South Africa and who will win the series?
Eight Irish players on the squad, and South Africa to take revenge from 1997 and sneak it 2-1.
Who will win the GAA football and hurling All-Irelands?
Kilkenny to repeat in the hurling, as they were so impressive in 2008, and Kerry to go one better than this year in the football.
Will the Republic of Ireland soccer team qualify for the 2010 World Cup?
I think we have a chance. I think Stephen Ireland is good enough, he could be the difference between us being there or not.
One sporting ticket for 2009 you'd crave above all others?
To have a ticket at the French Open final to watch Roger Federer try to complete the Slam.
Complete the sentence: If I ruled the sporting world . . .
I would make sure tickets and good seats go to the people who really support the sport.
Who will win the Champions League/League of Ireland Premier Division?
Barcelona have some unbelievable players and a solid defence this year and will be very hard to beat. Bohemians for League of Ireland.
Who will win more Majors in 2009: Pádraig Harrington or Tiger Woods? Why?
I think you'd have to go with a healthy Tiger Woods to win more majors, but I guess it all depends on his knee.
One to watch in 2009?
Andy Murray to seriously challenge for world number one, and Croatian Marin Cilic to break into the world's top 10.
Redmond Barry Wexford footballer, hurler and schoolboy rugby player
Lasting sporting memory from 2008?
Leaving the field after the Tyrone game. Just the amount of fans that had stayed back and clapped us off the field after getting beaten. They appreciated the effort that had gone into the year.
How many players will Ireland have on the 2009 Lions tour to South Africa and who will win the series?
I'd say there will be eight or nine Irish players and I think they can win the series.
Who will win the GAA football and hurling All-Irelands?
Kilkenny for the hurling. In the football, if Tyrone stay injury free they will be the team to beat again.
Will the Republic of Ireland soccer team qualify for the 2010 World Cup?
I don't think they will qualify, I hope they do as it is such a great boost for the whole country. There are a few lads out with injuries and then the whole Andy Reid, Stephen Ireland thing leaves the squad short of two quality creators. Ireland, in particular, is playing great football for Manchester City.
One sporting ticket for 2009 you'd crave above all others?
The Lions trip.
Complete the sentence: If I ruled the sporting world . . .
I would remove the pick up off the ground in football. The interpretation is so different with each referee; the rolling ball is okay with one ref and not with the other. Just get rid of it as it has an impact in deciding big games.
Who will win the Champions League/League of Ireland Premier Division?
I'm a Liverpool fan, so I'll stick with them. They won't win the Premier League though.
Who will win more Majors in 2009: Pádraig Harrington or Tiger Woods? Why?
I'd say Tiger Woods if he can get back fit. I can see him winning two majors.
One to watch in 2009?
Shane Cullen, Wexford footballer. He was away for a year but should make an impact on his return. Liam Óg McGovern - although still a minor, he can make a breakthrough in football or hurling or both, or which ever he decides.
Stephen Butler Hockey international
Lasting sporting memory from 2008?
Listening to the Wimbledon final on the radio driving back from Cork, or Kenny Egan's performance in the Olympic Games.
How many players will Ireland have on the 2009 Lions tour to South Africa and who will win the series?
I think there will be four or five players on the Lions Tour - O'Driscoll, O'Connell, Fitzgerald, O'Gara and Kearney (maybe).
Who will win the GAA football and hurling All-Irelands?
For football I would have to go with Kerry and in the hurling, Kilkenny.
Will the Republic of Ireland soccer team qualify for the 2010 World Cup?
Yes they will qualify. They have had a good start and have the advantage of home games coming up. I am very confident they will do it.
One sporting ticket for 2009 you'd crave above all others?
US Masters in Augusta, Wimbledon final, third Lions Tour Test (I predict it will be one Test each going into third Test).
Complete the sentence: If I ruled the sporting world . . .
I would like to see more recognition from the government for amateur sports and sporting bodies . . . or making Sky Sports free for everyone.
Who will win the Champions League/League of Ireland Premier Division?
I will have to go with Chelsea and Bohemians.
Who will win more Majors in 2009: Pádraig Harrington or Tiger Woods? Why?
Pádraig Harrington . . . he is in better form and has the luck of the Irish.
One to watch in 2009?
Stuart Loughery from Pembroke Wanderers.
Philip Reid Golf correspondent
Lasting sporting memory from 2008?
It has to be Pádraig Harrington's scary eyes down the stretch of the USPGA championship at Oakland Hills, where he traded shots with Sergio Garcia. They were like two good old street brawlers who didn't know when to give up. Who says golf is boring?
How many players will Ireland have on the 2009 Lions tour to South Africa and who will win the series?
Seven. The Lions.
Who will win the GAA football and hurling All-Irelands?
Dublin will win the football and it will be business as usual for Kilkenny in the hurling.
Will the Republic of Ireland soccer team qualify for the 2010 World Cup?
No. The tough games against Italy and Bulgaria still have to come, and the quality in the squad is simply not there . . . even if Stephen Ireland returns or Andy Reid is recalled.
One sporting ticket for 2009 you'd crave above all others?
You've got to see if Pádraig Harrington can make it three majors in a row at Augusta in April. Fortunately, I'll be there (working, of course). Otherwise, if paying, it'd be for Dublin's return to Croker for an All-Ireland final (dreaming, of course).
Complete the sentence: If I ruled the sporting world . . .
I would get professional sportsmen to give a voluntary contribution back to the grassroots of their sport.
Who will win the Champions League/League of Ireland Premier Division?
Champions League: Barcelona. League of Ireland: Bohemians.
Who will win more Majors in 2009: Pádraig Harrington or Tiger Woods? Why?
Tiger Woods. He'll be back for all four majors in 2009 . . . and on courses - Augusta, Bethpage, Hazeltine - where he has previously won or strongly contended.
One to watch in 2009?
Swedish golfer Alexander Noren, now that he has got Colin Byrne on the bag!
Malachy Logan Sports Editor
Lasting sporting memory from 2008?
Usain Bolt completing the 100-200 metre double at the Beijing Olympics with a style and nonchalance only a laid-back Jamaican could get away with.
How many players will Ireland have on the 2009 Lions tour to South Africa and who will win the series?
Nine in Lions squad and three in the Test side that will be beaten by the Springboks in the series.
Who will win the GAA football and hurling All-Irelands?
Same again, Tyrone and Kilkenny.
Will the Republic of Ireland soccer team qualify for the 2010 World Cup?
No, although they may very well finish second in their group and get through to a play-off match. The squad is very average and will struggle as much at home as away.
One sporting ticket for 2009 you'd crave above all others?
Wouldn't mind seeing the Ashes test at Lord's but will settle for watching Kilmacud Crokes winning the All-Ireland club football title at Croke Park on St Patrick's Day.
Complete the sentence: If I ruled the sporting world . . .
There would be no more satellite TV buying up key sports events; no more humiliating defeats for the Dubs; no more missed three-foot putts for me; no more torn betting dockets; no more complaints from readers and no more whinging from reporters.
Who will win the Champions League/League of Ireland Premier Division?
Hopefully, not an English Premier League team. Bohemians again.
Who will win more Majors in 2009: Pádraig Harrington or Tiger Woods?
Neither. It's hard to see either picking up a major in 2009 for entirely different reasons. Woods, because it will take a while for him to recover his best form and Harrington because the weight of expectation might prove too great after his sensational 2008.
One to watch in 2009?
Another outstanding Kerry talent to emerge in the shape of David Moran.
Brian O'Connor Racing correspondent
Lasting sporting memory from 2008?
Roger Federer, in almost completing the mother of all comebacks against Rafael Nadal at Wimbledon. That backhand down the line was sporting greatness in a moment.
How many players will Ireland have on the 2009 Lions tour to South Africa and who will win the series?
Five or six, and South Africa to wipe the floor with them, ja?
Who will win the GAA football and hurling All-Irelands?
Kerry and Cork: just as it should be!
Will the Republic of Ireland soccer team qualify for the 2010 World Cup?
I fancy them to sneak in. Trappatoni has proved his point with Andy Reid.
One sporting ticket for 2009 you'd crave above all others?
Centre Court at Roland Garros when a rejuvenated Roger Federer finally wins his French Open final.
Complete the sentence: If I ruled the sporting world . . .
I would invent someone to explain to me the point of American football.
Who will win the Champions League/League of Ireland Premier Division?
Liverpool to win Champions League and miss out on Premier League. Who cares for the other?
Who will win more Majors in 2009: Pádraig Harrington or Tiger Woods?
Pádraig Harrington to win one and Tiger Woods nothing, because two good knees are usually a requirement even for a "sport" like golf.
One to watch in 2009?
Sea The Stars is bred to be a superstar racehorse and Michael Kinane believes he has the potential to be one. That's good enough for me. Look out for a 2,000 Guineas-Derby double.
Mary Hannigan Columnist and feature writer
Lasting sporting memory from 2008?
It would be too unkind to choose the moment John Terry slipped as he stepped up to take the "winning" penalty in the Champions League final, so we'll go for the Wimbledon final between Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer. Breathtaking.
How many players will Ireland have on the 2009 Lions tour to South Africa and who will win the series?
Not to be too detailed about it, 14 and South Africa.
Who will win the GAA football and hurling All-Irelands?
Well, Kerry haven't won an All-Ireland since way, way back in 2007, so with Jack O'Connor back at the helm they might end the drought. Hopefully Cork for hurling, led by Séan Óg Ó'hAilpin.
Will the Republic of Ireland soccer team qualify for the 2010 World Cup?
I can't see Ireland finishing above Italy in the group, but they should be good enough to come second and go in to the play-offs. After that, who knows? They say Giovanni Trapattoni is a lucky manager, so we'll trust that good fortune will stay on his side and that we'll be South Africa-bound.
One sporting ticket for 2009 you'd crave above all others?
Any Test match hosted by the West Indies in 2009 - Antigua, Barbados, Trinidad. I'm not fussy, but all three would be ideal. Cricket in the Carribbean . . .
Complete the sentence: If I ruled the sporting world . . .
I'd provide a limitless amount of funding for drug testing in sport and I'd see to it that any player who dives or feigns injury, whatever the code, would be sentenced to life with no hope of parole.
Who will win the Champions League/League of Ireland Premier Division?
Barcelona, if they carry on playing like they are at the moment, and Bohemians again.
Who will win more Majors in 2009: Pádraig Harrington or Tiger Woods? Why?
By the time Woods gets back in his stride Harrington will have won the Masters, US Open and British Open. He might leave the USPGA to Tiger; you don't want to be greedy.
One to watch in 2009?
He's only 18, but footballer James McCarthy.
Gerry Thornley Rugby correspondent
Lasting sporting memory from 2008?
Munster beating Toulouse in the Heineken Cup final. By winning it a second time, and against the leading club in France and perhaps the world, it was arguably a bigger win. And it confirmed them as the outstanding Irish side of the pro era.
How many players will Ireland have on the 2009 Lions tour to South Africa and who will win the series?
These things only become clearer with the Six Nations. If Wales go into that as the reigning champions and most in-form side, but with Ireland at least level with England and ahead of Scotland, then out of a squad of 35-ish, about eight or nine is attainable, with Keith Earls the possible Irish "bolter". Not knowing the specifics in terms of personnel . . . ip, dip, sky blue . . . Lions.
Who will win the GAA football and hurling All-Irelands?
I'd like to see Galway or Mayo do it, and in hurling I'd guess Kilkenny seconds would make the All-Ireland a more competitive contest.
Will the Republic of Ireland soccer team qualify for the 2010 World Cup?
No, the best hope is a qualifier spot and they are unlikely to come through play-off.
One sporting ticket for 2009 you'd crave above all others?
Champions League final and especially if Arsenal make it. Or maybe the US Open men's singles final if Roger Federer is there.
Complete the sentence: If I ruled the sporting world . . .
I could hardly envisage having that power. Maybe make Fifa retrospectively punish all divers, especially those who feign injuries, with punitive suspensions. Returning from a rugby match to turn on the TV and see that nonsense is nauseating.
Who will win the Champions League/League of Ireland Premier Division?
Arsenal, beating Barcelona or Roma in the final. Bohemians look too far ahead of everyone else.
Who will win more Majors in 2009: Pádraig Harrington or Tiger Woods? Why?
Harrington - he's Irish.
One to watch in 2009?
Seán O'Brien, the Leinster flanker from Tullow.
Keith Duggan Columnist and feature writer
Lasting sporting memory from 2008?
There were several unforgettable moments but it was a privilege to watch Michael Phelps swimming in Beijing for his audacity - his slow march to those eight golds.
How many players will Ireland have on the 2009 Lions tour to South Africa and who will win the series?
Ireland could have a fine representation if they enjoy a good Six Nations. On a squad of 35, they could have 10. South Africa must be favourites.
Who will win the GAA football and hurling All-Irelands?
It would only be guess work to bet against Kilkenny in hurling. Football is difficult to predict - Kerry will come storming back and Dublin could make it to the All-Ireland final this year under Pat Gilroy. But Tyrone have the stuff to do it twice.
Will the Republic of Ireland soccer team qualify for the 2010 World Cup?
Yes. They are getting the results while still ironing out the weaknesses - and they may, at last, get a bit of luck so lacking in recent campaigns.
One sporting ticket for 2009 you'd crave above all others?
It would be a courtside ticket, Duke play North Carolina in the ACC division of the American college basketball season. It is one of the most enduring rivalries in sport. Or a summer's pass to the training sessions of Brian Cody, Jack O'Connor or Mickey Harte would be great.
Complete the sentence: If I ruled the sporting world . . .
I would ban Alex Ferguson from chewing gum during games and send Ronaldo on a course that teaches the virtues of humility.
Who will win the Champions League/League of Ireland Premier Division?
Internazionale could make a late run. Bohemians.
Who will win more Majors in 2009: Pádraig Harrington or Tiger Woods? Why?
They may well win one each - with the US Masters throwing up a wildcard winner.
One to watch in 2009?
Back to US college basketball: if you get a chance to see Stephen Curry play for Davidson College (on NASN TV channel) don't miss it.
