Newtown have what it takes to stay at the top, says O’Connor

FROM humble beginnings, Newtownshandrum have risen to the peak of Cork hurling.

Their historic first county senior title in 2000 at the start of the new millennium captured the imagination of the local youth. Growing up in this area of 800 residents near the Cork-Limerick border, the young hurlers from ‘Newtown’ were schooled from an early age in the twin ethics of hard work and discipline.

“Many of our lads had an abundance of natural talent but we got it across to them that it takes blood, sweat and tears to attain success at the highest level,” said Bernie O’Connor, the architect behind Newtown’s rise.