It’s been a busy few weeks in GAA Handball with All-Ireland deciders across dozens of grades. However, all handball roads lead to Ulster this weekend, as handballers converge on venues throughout Down, Antrim, Tyrone, Armagh, Cavan and Monaghan to take part in the GAA Handball Nationals, sponsored by Ladbrokes.
After a short break from the game, Cork’s Tony Healy returns to competitive action this weekend where he chases a fourth Men’s Open crown, while the defending champion, Cavan’s Paul Brady will be hoping to continue his recent good form, having won the 40x20 Senior Singles and Doubles titles in the past month.
Brady said: ‘I’m just resting for the week. I have one football training with Cavan, but I’m just taking each day as it comes and assessing how I’m feeling because it’s been a hectic few weeks.’
The Mullahoran man has been in action in both football and handball over the past month and while the going is tough, Brady has reaped the rewards of his efforts.
Brady said: ‘Winning the senior doubles was a great feeling last weekend, but I’m starting from scratch again and the nationals will provide a totally different type of competition and preparation.
‘My main motivation for playing this weekend is the opportunity available to represent Ireland at the US Nationals – winning that has been a goal since the beginning of the season.’
The winner of the Men’s Open and Ladies Open grades will travel to Austin, Texas later this year to compete in the US Nationals, where Brady will be aiming for a sixth consecutive title.
Cork’s Healy will be one of his main opponents in his conquest to retain the title he won in 2009, while Dublin’s Eoin Kennedy has also proved in recent weeks that he will take some stopping over the weekend.
Armagh’s Charly Shanks, who reached the final of this year’s 40x20 championship, is another who will have his eye on the big prize in Kingscourt (Cavan), where Ireland’s top players will converge Friday evening.
Also in the fray for the Men’s Open crown is one of America’s top players, Californian Emmett Peixoto, who will travel to take part in the prestigious event, while Westmeath’s Robbie McCarthy made his mark on the Irish championship this year and is also one to watch.
Brady said: ‘There are definitely some tough games ahead for me but I’m looking forward to the action.’
