McLoughlin keeping the dream alive

Christy Ring hurled at senior inter-county level for Cork for 24 seasons, from his debut in 1939 to his retirement in 1962, during which time he became the most storied hurler of all time.

In fact there are those who claim that he retired too soon, that he was still easily one of the best six forwards in Cork for years afterwards, including the All-Ireland winning year of 1966. No matter, Christy got his rewards and his recognition.

Tommy McLoughlin made his senior hurling debut for his native Leitrim in 1985, all of 27 years ago. Last Sunday, aged 47, in the Lory Meagher win over neighbours Longford, he was still representing his county, albeit in a very different position to when he started.