Village to scale new heights for hurling

The country’s highest village is preparing to get its name into the Guinness Book of Records for hosting the biggest hurling match in the world.

It will be high-altitude and high-octane stuff at Meelin GAA pitch in North Cork on Aug 25, with the club hopeful that hundreds of people will turn up to puck a sliothar around the field.

Meelin GAA Club members have already been in touch with officials from the Guinness Book of Records to ensure they know exactly what they have to do for a successful outcome on the pitch, which is 260m above sea level.

The GAA club has teamed up with the village’s carnival committee to organise the event.

The village, near the border with Co Limerick and Co Kerry, has long disputed with Glencullen in Co Dublin the claim to being the highest village in Ireland.

Carnival committee spokeswoman Eileen Kelly said daring feats are nothing new to the tiny village.

“It’s a daring venture but then, as any sportsperson knows, daring feats are nothing new to Meelin, crowned All Ireland Club Junior Hurling champions in 2011,” said Ms Kelly.

GAA club spokesman Kieran Linehan said the Guinness Book of Records had set out stringent rules which had to be adhered to.

“For example, every player must play for at least 10 minutes, with a maximum of 30 players on the field at any one time and so on,” he said.

“The aim is to have several hundred people in Meelin GAA pitch, all playing hurling, and we are appealing to all local clubs, clubs from afar, or anyone at all who wants to take part in this interesting record bid to come along and get involved in this world-first exercise.

“It’s going to be a family event. There is no age limit and young and old will be welcomed. All you need is a camán, but if you don’t have one don’t worry because hurleys, helmets, and jerseys will be supplied. Refreshments will be served and a barbecue will also be provided.

“We are hoping to register as many players as possible in advance, so we know what numbers to prepare for. This can be done at Meelin GAA Club and Meelin Carnival Facebook pages.”

Mr Linehan added that sponsors and donations to help run the event are currently being sought.

* Further details can be had at www.meelinvillage.ie