Claffey quits inter-county scene

VETERAN Offaly forward Vinny Claffey has announced his retirement from the inter-county scene.

The 38-year-old farmer from Doon was one of the longest serving players in inter-county football, having been a part of the Offaly senior set-up for the past 17 years. His announcement comes in the wake of the Faithful County's All-Ireland qualifier defeat to Roscommon.

Claffey was introduced as a second half substitute but was unable to save Offaly from defeat after extra-time.

Meanwhile DJ Carey visits Cork tomorrow at 6pm to sign copies of his popular DVD and VHS release "The Story & the Skills".

"It is simply the story of hurling," explains DJ. "And I am a story within that. It shows the fundamentals of the game how to perform the skills of hooking, blocking, rising and striking.

"It is for young boys and girls who are interested in playing hurling or camogie. It is basic enough and anyone who has seen it and has enjoyed it. For most of us, the skills are natural but for young people learning the video will give them a greater insight into the know- how."

For Carey, who is the holder of four All-Ireland senior medals and nine All-Star awards, the novel idea came about after RTÉ radio sports broadcaster Brian Carthy suggested making a video of the top 100 goals ever scored. The DJ Carey story was added to this. It also includes old footage, including Christy Ring, plus 20 minutes of skills.

The video retails at 19.95 and and the DVD sells for 24.95.

Manager of HMV, Paul Lawlor, says the DVD and video have proved extremely popular. We are delighted to welcome DJ to our store and are expecting a good turn out of loyal fans on the day."