They say hurlers are a breed apart, and footage of a remarkable act of self-sacrifice during a championship final in Antrim proves the point.
The video, posted online by Jerome Quinn, shows Ciaran McKay of Loughgiel Shamrocks losing his hurl during the minor match but then chasing down his opponent in an attempt to prevent him unleashing a shot.
When Rory Mullan, from Dunloy, swings his stick to aim at the posts, McKay tries to block with his arm and the hurl breaks over his wrist.
Ciaran McKay's desperate attempt to prevent a score in the Antrim minor hurling championship final. Video by Mark and Jerome Quinn Media
‘It was going to happen at some point, today’s the day – we will see it out’: Slaughtneil stay strong to send champions Cushendall out of Ulster
As it happened: See how Slaughtneil came out on top against Cushendall in the Ulster Senior Hurling Championship semi-final after extra time and an end-to-end Ulster classic
While his bravery was unable to prevent the score, it was a standout moment in a thrilling encounter between two sides who could not be separated when they first met two weeks earlier.
The game in Ballycastle last Sunday saw Dunloy ultimately emerge victorious by a single point, 1-19 to 3-12, thanks to a pointed free deep into injury time.
It was the young Cuchullains' fourth title in a row.
Mr Quinn said: "Hurlers, whether they are in north Antrim or north Kerry, or even in Croke Park, truly are a breed apart."
