Hurling

We had read that the ancient Irish sport called "hurling" was very important to locals, and that fierce rivalries exist in some places.  Indeed, we saw many youngsters carrying their hurling sticks with them everywhere... in the streets, into restaurants, even at the Rock of Cashel.

As we drove through County Wexford and saw flag after flag bearing purple and gold, we knew something was up.  Turns out that the Wexford team, who hadn't done well in many years, was playing in the championship final game that night against Galway.  Every pub, nearly every house, even our hotel was decked out in the purple and gold.  It was reminiscent of the excitement surrounding the Buffalo Bills' Super Bowl game in 1991 (and '92, '93 and '94).

Sadly, the Wexford team didn't win.  We saw a lot of sad people leaving the hotel bar.  Also reminiscent of the Bills' loss in '91 (and '92, '93 and '94)!

Team flag that we saw flying everywhere