National GAA Committee appointment for Camlough man Pat

The Committee is headed by respected Dublin GAA official and Na Fianna Dublin clubman Tom Ryan.

An Poc Fada Craobh na hÉireann is an annual hurling contest that takes place on Annaverna Mountain in Cooley.

Hurlers after winning their way through their club, county and provincial championships represent their Provinces cover the 5km mountain course. The hurler who completes the course in the lowest amount of pocs wins the All Ireland title, an All Ireland medal.

This year’s Poc Fada which also sees senior camogie and U16 camogie and hurling players participate for their respective All Ireland titles, takes place on Monday, August 5.

Pat has had a connection to the prestigious All Ireland Poc Fada competition, which takes place in the Cooley Mountains, for nearly 30 years. The Craobh Rua Hurling club member says that he is deeply honoured at his appointment by the GAA President.

“It was a privilege to be nominated to the National Poc Fada Croke Park Committee by the GAA President and I thank Jarlath,” he said.

“The Poc Fada is not only a special sporting contest but also a terrific reminder of our cultural past.

“I was first involved in the Poc Fada nearly 30 years ago through Fr Pól Mac Seáin, known affectionately as ‘An tAthair’.

“He and all those involved in the early years of An Poc Fada had a great influence on me, an influence that exists to this very day.

“The local organising committee, chaired by Paul Comiskey, are the unsung heroes who year after year ensure that Annaverna Mountain is prepared to host An Poc Fada Craobh na hÉireann.

“They have a passion for and commitment to An Poc Fada that is abother fitting example of true volunteerism.”

He concluded, “I look forward to serving on the National Committee and helping to continue to ensure the All Ireland Poc Fada continues to develop and is supported in whatever practical way possible.”