The majority of inhabitants in the Glens of Antrim, and certainly almost all those in the middle Glens (Glenariff, Glenballyemon, Glenaan, Glencorp and Glendun) follow the Roman Catholic faith. However many of these folk also subscribe to another religion: the Gaelic sport of hurling.
Hurling is akin to the Scottish game of shinty, which is also similar to hockey. However, unlike these other games, the hurling ball (sliothar) may be taken into and struck from the hand, as well as from the ground. The stick, or caman is also heavier and wider in the blade than in these other sports. The caman, also called a hurley, is usually made from the wood of the ash tree. Hurling in North Antrim is almost unique in Ulster Gaelic games, where overall, football is the preferred mode. Not surprising then, that Antrim should be the only Northern county to feature regularly in the final stages of the National championships.
| Hurling teams are based solidly on the Catholic parish structure and among the foremost teams in North Antrim are Dunloy, Loughgiel, Ballycastle. Armoy, Carey, Cushendall and Cushendun. The history of Cushendun club has recently been described in a beautiful book: Almost a Century by Malachy McSparran. Available by mail order from Glens Music, 86 Knocknacarry Road, Cushendun, BT44 0NS, Northern Ireland. Tel: +44(0)28 21761291 or e-mail or CLICK HERE | |
| Last modified 4 May 1998 | Glens Home Page |  Sean |
