Tradition of horseshoe throwing

The game has enjoyed something of a revival in the village and locals decided to hold a competition which attracted 18 throwers and provided an enjoyable afternoon of sport for them as well as for a large number of spectators.

‘Hudie’, who dominated the sport years ago, easily swept past a number of more youthful challengers to beat Richard McCook in the final. Organiser John McCook, a beaten semi-finalist, said he was delighted with the response but admitted he would have liked to have had support from throwers in neighbouring villages.

“The big entry showed us that many in Armoy have an interest in horseshoes. Some of those who didn’t compete were even generous enough to donate to the prize fund,” he said.

This enabled the organisers to hand out substantial prize money for the winner, runners-up and beaten semi-finalists

More competitions are planned for next year and an application to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council for financial aid to establish proper pitches is being considered.