AFTER a string of near misses, Limerick’s Colin Ryan (Pallasgreen) regained the M Donnelly All-Ireland Poc Fada title, Corn Setanta, on the Anneverna Moutains, Louth on Bank Holiday Monday.
2021 winner Ryan edged-out Cillian Kiely (Offaly) for the win, with Fionán Mackessy (Kerry/Kilkenny), winner for the last two years, a close third.
Asked where the win ranks in his career achievements, Ryan said it’s close to the top.
“It’s right up there for me,” he told the Irish Examiner.
“You’re on your own, compared to playing with the club or in a team. So it’s that bit tougher mentally. You’re striking by yourself and there’s no-one to help you with that strike, or to dig you out of a hole.
“So I put this win right up there in my career. The 2021 win was special but I’d say this was even more special having come second the last three years.
“To get over the line was great because you’d wonder at times would it happen again.”
There to celebrate with Ryan was his partner Grace and young son Fionn, along with other family members and good friends.
Previous Limerick winners are Vincent Godfrey (Bruff, 1961), Pat Hartigan (South Liberites, 1981/’83), Tommy Quaid (Feohanagh, 1991), Albert Shanahan (South Liberties, 2001/’05)
