Making Hurleys in Sixmilebridge, Co. Clare, Ireland 1982

Great demand for the hurleys made in Sixmilebridge by craftsman John Torpey.

Clareman John Torpey made hurleys by hand for many years, but eventually was unable to keep up with demand. With assistance from the Shannon Development Small Industry Scheme he set up his own hurley factory last year, and is now busier than ever filling orders from clubs and players all over the country.

The most important part of making the hurley is the mould, which John himself. Even though a large part of his workflow is mechanised, he still sands by hand all senior level hurls. A skilled eye is crucial as it ensures that the correct balance is maintained,

All good hurlers look for a properly balanced hurley.

Ash is his preferred material, but as there does not seem to be an emphasis on growing it by the relevant government departments, its future is uncertain,

It’s a pity really that the forestry don’t have a policy for planting ash.

And it’s not just senior players from the Banner County who prefer Torpey hurleys as they are also supplied to the County Clare primary school hurling teams.

An RTÉ News report broadcast on 26 February 1982. The reporter is Michael Walsh.