Catch the Gaelic game of hurling in Richmond, VA

We’re breaking down the Irish sport of hurling including its rules and where you can catch a game.

A worn white ball with curved stitching like a baseball lies on a pitch of sunny grass.

The ball is called a sliotar, pronounced “slit-er.”

Photo by Adrian via Pexels

Table of Contents

There are many ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, but have you heard about hurling? No, not that kind of hurling. We’re talking about the Irish sport.

What is hurling?

This ancient Gaelic game is the national sport of Ireland and looks a bit like field hockey played with a baseball.

Players use a wooden stick to pass and score points by shooting through the opponent’s goalpost. Players use the stick (called a hurl or hurley) to hit and balance the ball (called a sliotar).

Want to learn all the official rules? Check out the US Gaelic Athletic Association (USGAA).

Get involved

Whether you want to hurl yourself onto the field or be a spectator, the Richmond Battery GAA has you covered. Scope out the competition, as well as other Gaelic sports, with the USGAA’s interactive map.

More from RICtoday
As gas prices spike, which Richmond businesses offer deals when it comes time to treat yourself?
Grab your tickets ahead of time for these upcoming summer concerts bringing big names to the River City.
We took the advice of a local content creator and ventured to find Japanese fruit sandos in Richmond.
Throughout the month, Richmond Police will forgo citations and instead issue violation warnings to drivers illegally parked in bike lanes.
Cracking the code to urban farming.
Bookmark this page to your favorites tab so you can quickly return and find the top events happening each month in Richmond.
Directly north, east, south, and west, cities across the world await.
See where Richmonders are cultivating friendships and fresh produce.
Attend the Richmond premiere of “Saved by the Beauty of the World” at the 32nd James River Film Festival.
What kind of volunteer are you? Find out, and see what upcoming local opportunity suits your style.