'We have Hoggie': Cork legend Patrick Horgan honoured by city council

Horgan retired as the all-time leading scorer in the senior hurling championship and league, and won four All-Stars, four Munster championships, and one National League medal with Cork

Eyes on the prize: Patrick Horgan during the league clash with Galway last March. Picture: INPHO/James Lawlor

The city council has held a civic reception to honour Cork hurling legend Patrick Horgan.

'Hoggie' announced his inter-county retirement earlier this year after a record-breaking 18-year career.

He retired as the all-time leading scorer in the senior hurling championship and league, and won four All-Stars, four Munster championships, and one National League medal with Cork. 

In his inter-county career, he scored 32 goals and 683 points in championship action, and 26 goals and 674 points in league play.

With his club Glen Rovers, he won two county senior titles.

Lord Mayor of Cork Fergal Dennehy held the reception to honour Mr Horgan's extraordinary contribution to the sporting life of his native city, to his club, county, and country.

On behalf of the city, Mr Dennehy said he wanted to salute a true sporting legend whose name will forever be synonymous with the game of hurling, and with excellence.

“Throughout history, some individuals have achieved such fame and influence that they’re instantly recognised by a single name,” Mr Dennehy said.

“Think Bono, Beyoncé, Madonna, Pele, Ronaldo, or Picasso. Closer to home we have Sonia, Roy, Rog, Rob, and Derval. And here tonight, we have Hoggie.

“The names don’t just identify a person — they evoke an entire world of talent, achievement, and impact.

“Today, we honour you, Patrick, and we thank you for so many wonderful memories, for your skill, your commitment to the game, and to the jersey.

“We thank you for all the drama, the excitement, the ecstasy — for so many magical moments in the rich and storied history of Cork hurling.” 

Mr Horgan was joined at the civic reception by his wife, Ashley, their son Jack, several family members, friends, clubmates and supporters.

“While some players measure their success in terms of medals and trophies, Patrick himself measured success in terms of his performance,” Mr Dennehy added.

“He has earned respect across the country for his skill and dedication, for his pursuit of excellence, for his total commitment to his team.

“His influence on Cork hurling, and on the game in general, cannot be overstated."

Mr Horgan has already begun his post-playing career by joining Noel Furlong’s Cork U20 set-up as a selector.