A GREAT day’s play of handball was had recently at Broughton High School in Edinburgh, with some brilliant skills on display too. The fifth code of the GAA is fast-paced, fun and strategic and the event buzzed with excitement. There was immense enjoyment on the day for those playing for the first time as youngsters or as more experienced novices with the skill challenges. In the Men’s Open, Willie Quaile of Coolboy Handball Club defeated Thomas McCurtains’ Fionn Ó Súilleabhái

IN 1427, the Scottish King James I had a cellar window in his palace blocked up as it was interfering with his handball game. This ancient Gaelic sport which is played similar to squash though without the racquet, has faded from popularity in Scotland though has continued with fervour in Ireland and beyond.