Dunne delivers as Davey loses sparkle

LOUTH native Paul Dunne captured his first All Ireland Poc Fada title over the Cooley mountains yesterday.

28-year-old Dunne, a member of the Knockbridge club who was competing in the Martin Donnelly sponsored event for the fifth year, completed the course in 54 pucks.

Tom Finn of Wicklow was second with 55 pucks, with Allstar goalkeeper Brendan Cummins in third. Dunne and Finn also landed the Pair’s title.

“It was a brilliant day with over 400 people in attendance which is great considering we were up against live games on television,” Louth secretary Pat Hamilton said.

“Due to the weather, the course was heavy and slow but it was really exciting. Last year’s champion David Fitzgerald failed to sparkle but there was plenty of drama. Paul said that before the competition that he was going to retire after today’s event but I think we might persuade him to come back next year and defend his title.”