The hand family are one of the most successful families in recent years on the tournament front, but an Irish title seemed illusive to them. They had previously reached the final of the Champion of Champions Rinks and last year Shane lost in the final of the Champion of Champions pairs. Saturday the 4th of October put an end to the nearly men tag and they finally claimed the big one. The Champion of Champions Rinks

They began their quest for the title with a narrow 5-4 victory over another father and three sons combination of the Morrisons. The quarter-final was a bit more comfortable with a 9-3 victory over Mark Wilson. The semi-final they came up against the holders and favourites John Quinn. Playing the last end the game was tied at 8-8, but a great blocker by Niall saw them qualify for their 2nd Rinks final. This time they faced Trevor Vance. Playing the last end the had an 8-5 lead and never looked like dropping a 3. They now qualify for the World Championship in Belgium next year. Congratulations to all from the Oriel Zone

Paul Duff hoped to join them when he once again reached another final this time in the Champion of Champions Singles. Paul began the day with a comfortable 14-2 victory over Trevor McIntyre. Paul then had a tight escape beating Brendan Murphy 12-11. In the semi-final he beat a Donegal man Derick McClintock winning 9-6. Paul now hoped to put to bed his recent final losses by facing the National Singles holder Andy Steele. In an extremely close affair it came down to the narrowest of margins with Paul unfortunately losing in an extra end. Commiserations Paul but I’m sure your time will come sooner rather then later.