FORMER TIPPERARY goalkeeper Brendan Cummins captured an unprecedented eighth title at the 2014 M Donnelly GAA All-Ireland Poc Fada Finals yesterday.
The five-time Allstar emerged victorious in a competitive field, where Clare goalkeeper Patrick Kelly and Laois’ Eoin Reilly provided a stiff challenge.
Cummins sealed the victory with 52 pucks and 63 metres, while Derry’s Ruairi Convery finished second with 57 pucks, 75 metres. Reilly took third place with 57 pucks, 30 metres.
“It’s a record I’d wanted to capture but it was a very competitive event,” Cummins admitted afterwards.
“I knew the competition would be very stiff and I had prepared for that. It’s an event that has increased in profile – the fact that GAA president Liam O’Neill will be in attendance really boosted the profile, I think.”
Meanwhile, Waterford’s Patricia Jackman also made history by claiming her sixth title, winning with 29 pucks, 62 metres.
In the U16 finals Antrim’s Donal McKernan emerged victorious with a score of 26 pucks, 7 metres.
“There are few events in our diary that stand out from the rest of our activities in the same way as the Poc Fada,” said GAA President Liam O’Neill, who spoke at the event.
“The Annaverna Mountain was the perfect picturesque setting for a truly unique event and the contestants included some of the highest profile hurlers in our game who were participating at a time of the year when their season reaches fever pitch.
“That says everything about the importance they place on their involvement.”