Irish outclassed by overseas stars

MORE THAN 1,000 handball enthusiasts gathered in Breaffy House Sports Arena in Castlebar, to witness breathtaking contests in all grades but sadly it was the travelling international stars who dominated.

Ireland’s last hope in the men’s open was Tyrone’s Ruairi Kelly, who ended a four-year unbeaten run in the competition for Armagh’s Charly Shanks earlier, but fell to Puerto Rico’s Wally Amaro, in the semi-final 15-1, 15-9.

Puerto Rico’s Herman Mendez, following a sensational 30-13 win over Westmeath’s Robbie McCarthy, went on to deny US Open champion, Pee Wee Castro (USA) in the final.

The Ladies Open saw reigning champion, Lorraine Havern (Down), lose out in the semi-final to US Open champion, Karen McConney (USA). Havern had a thrilling 21-15 win over Roscommon’s Leona Doolin, while McConney defeated Ashley Prendiville 20-14 in the quarters. Puerto Rico’s Michelle Melendez enjoyed an impressive win over Mayo’s Pauline Gallagher 26-11 and then defeated Roscommon’s Marianna Rushe in the semi-final, by 13-15, 15-1, 11-0.

USA’s McConney took the Ladies Open following a thrilling final against Melendez, winning 15-14, 15-11.