This time three yeas ago Packie (the only person with his own name on his singlet) who has sadly gone south to Cork, was commissioned to write a short report on the graded track and field events that happen over the summer, and answer any common questions that people might have about them. He may have thought he was getting paid by the word, but the final result is a very complete explaination of these events. This years graded schedule  is now up on the Dublin athletics site. The first race night is  May 1st. Dublin Athletic County Board Graded T&F Meets. What? This presents a unique opportunity for club runners young and old with only a passing interest in the sport to test themselves against other club members of their own ability from around Ireland, but predominantly from Dublin clubs. Who can compete? Absolutely anyone of any age, race, colour or religion with any interest in athletics can compete. Is there an entry fee? The Dublin Athletic County Board has to live on something so yes there is an entry fee. You can pay separately on the night for one night (I think €8) where you get a temporary number. Better still you can register for the series at a reduced rate per evening (I think €45), hereby getting one number which you must bring with you to each subsequent evening. Are there medals/cash prizes? With the exception of the Dublin County Championship (Sat June 20th), these are non – competitive events. All you will gain is valuable experience. And a time/distance/height that is universally accepted and comparable to an athlete in Rio de Janeiro, Hong Kong or Denmark. You can’t make such assertions with road or cross country events [...]