The summer has landed and all around the country, county boards are getting ready for their county Poc Fada finals.
Such was the case in Carlow on Monday evening as despite brilliant sunshine on the day, chilly conditions with a strong easterly wind swept Sliabh Bawn, Mount Leinster, for the 2023 Puc Fada Ceatharlach.
30 competitors were involved this year – 13 across hurling and 16 across the camogie ranks – Monday night’s competition bringing an added buzz and excitement in the wake of the county’s thrilling Joe McDonagh Cup final victory over Offaly on Saturday.
A large crowd between players, club representatives, families and supporters had gathered at the Nine Stones from 6.30pm ahead of the start and we’ve got four new winners this year.
In hurling, Naomh Eoin’s Dean Slye took the senior title for the first time, taking over the reins from last year’s winner and senior county goalkeeper Brian Tracey. Setanta’s Shane McCarthy.
On the camogie front, Myshall’s Michelle Nolan took the senior award with Kildavin/Clonegal’s India Mernagh taking the U16 prize.
2023 Poc Fada Ceatharlach Winners
- Hurling Senior: Dean Slye, Naomh Eoin
- Hurling U16: Shane McCarthy, Setanta
- Camogie Senior: Michelle Nolan, Myshall
- Camogie U16: India Mernagh, Kildavin Clonegal
All four will now head to the Leinster finals, also on Mount Leinster this July.
The All-Ireland finals will be held on the Cooley Mountains (Co. Louth) this August.
Additional reporting: Tommy Murphy
