Hey friends!
Today I had the incredible privilege to score tickets to a big hurling match happening between Waterford and County Kilkenny ((mega-rivals)). For a student price of 10 euro, you can sit in the stands and soak up the old celtic game that has been marveled at for centuries. If you are unfamiliar with the game of hurling, here is a quick video to give you an easy rundown. {{hUrLiNg 101}} For 70 minutes, Ashton and I sat on the edge of our seats as Waterford did the unthinkable. Known as the underdogs of the GAA (Gaelic Athletics Association), they were expected to be smashed in the first half. To everyone's surprise, Waterford fought to the very end; including a close overtime to break a tie. Fans adorned in blue and white cheered for the heart of their county, and I did just the same to represent the place I call my temporary home. Before I share a few pictures that sum up the excitement of the game, I want to share an interesting fact about hurling that makes it stand out amongst all of the recognized sports of the athletic world. Hurling players are all non profit players. They practice 5-7 days a week and dedicate their weekends to well-played games...all without receiving a single euro. It is a long standing tradition that brings high respect to the GAA and it's members. Every man on the team is an average person you would see in any Irish classroom, department store, or post office. This beautiful tradition brings a new meaning to athletics that we as Americans just don't understand. Due to our constant thirst for success, the love of the game has been lost in the stacks of dollar bills and mindless contracts. The players of the GAA may not be rolling in money, but they will always hold the richness of the love for the game.
Final score: Waterford-22 Kilkenny-25
A loss on the scoreboards but a victory for the perseverances of County Waterford!
No comments:
Post a Comment