Quest on for another world title in Sweden

By Sean McMahon

World tug-o-war champions Killylough have just been crowned European Champions and brought Gold home to Cavan and Monaghan. The quest is now on to win another world title in Sweden next year.

  The are literally the most experienced team in the world and most of them have been pulling tug o war for 30 years.

  The  reigning  world  cham-pions features Co. Cavan, Monaghan, Fermanagh and Tyrone men on the team, so they are truly cross-border champions.

  They beat a Swiss team to collect the gold medal at Minehead, Somerset and the Tydavnet based champions were excited about bringing further glory to their country.

  It is wonderful to see an Irish team igniting the scene abroad when the rugby and soccer teams have flattered to deceive with lots of hype.

  The tug-o-war teams achievements have been remarkable and do not attract the same coverage and hype as the likes of the rugby team.

  There were amazing scenes at the final when the Swiss team supporters turned up with the cows bells in tow. This has long since become a national emblem for that country.

  When the Swiss team were pulling up to par, the fans gave vent to the bells and the noise was something else.

Great fitness

 Belturbet stalwart Patsy McDonald from Grilly has been pulling tug-o-war for over 30 years and is delighted that the team continues to show their fitness and staying power.

  The have achieved a great technique over the years and their experience can prove invaluable in tight situations.

  All the team members train very hard and do not arrive home until 12.30 to 1 a.m. in the morning. They also do a lot of training on their own.

  The world championships take place in Stenungsund in Sweden next year, and will commence on the 3rd September.

  Congratulations to our new European tug-'o-war cham-pions.