Derry double in Ulster Poc Fada

It was a Derry double in the Ulster Poc Fada finals at Belfast's Divis mountain on Saturday as Ruairi Convery and Kathleen Taggart took the honours.

Convery claimed his third men's provincial Poc Fada title in succession, completing the course in 34 pocs.

The Swatragh clubman finished ahead of Down's Karol Keating in second spot, with Brian McFall of Antrim taking third place.

Senior inter-county players Neil McManus (Antrim) and Gareth 'Magic' Johnston (Down) were also involved.

Giving his reaction afterwards, Convery said: "I am delighted to have won today on what was a very tough course.

"To win three titles in succession is something special, but today was certainly a tough challenge with some of the best hurlers in the province also involved."

Convery will now attempt to win the All-Ireland title at the Cooley mountains in Louth on the August Bank Holiday weekend.

It is a title that has remained elusive to Convery, but one which he is hoping he can take this year.

"The All-Ireland title has always been a goal of mine, but unfortunately I haven't had luck on my side in the past few years," he admitted.

"Some of the country's top hurlers like Brendan Cummins are regulars in Louth, and you are up against it with such a strong field, but hopefully I can do well."

Meanwhile, Kathleen Taggart from Derry dethroned Down's Fionnuala Carr to take the Ulster Camogie Poc Fada crown.

The Lavey player completed the course in 51 pocs and was thrilled to win the event at her first attempt.

"I was over the moon to win. It was my first time doing it so I was nervous and didn't know what to expect," said the 22-year-old.

"The weather was great for it, it was a very good day and very enjoyable."

Down's Sean Savage took the Under-16 boys title, with Gareth Shaw of Derry finishing in second place.