Bride and groom’s fairytale moment with Limerick hurlers

IN A MAGICAL venue, on a magical day, Patrick and Orlaith McNamara stood before family and friends to pledge their lives together on Sunday, July 23, 2023 in Limerick. Little did they know that a remarkable surprise awaited them at their wedding reception.

The All-Ireland hurling champions, fresh from their triumphant victory, made an unforgettable appearance at the Woodlands House Hotel in Adare, where the couple had chosen to celebrate their nuptials, and, similarly, where the team were to gather following their historic four-in-a-row win.

As the clock struck 11pm, John Kiely and his heroes arrived at the hotel, and were greeted by family, friends, and the happy newlyweds.

Just one week after celebrating 40 years in the business, Mary Fitzgerald, owner of the Adare hotel, welcomed the boys in green with hugs and kisses for all as they stepped off the bus, one by one, having made history for Limerick in Croke Park that afternoon.

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The team had travelled by train to Colbert Station before being treated to a homecoming celebration at the hotel. Before they could really chill out however, there was the small matter of live interviews to do for The Sunday Game from The Treehouse at the Woodlands.

There followed an intimate gathering with the hurling greats savouring their momentous achievement surrounded by those who had been there for them throughout their journey.

Proud sponsor JP McManus was also present, offering his warm greetings to the All-Ireland champions.

As the night continued, the venue remained alive with laughter, cheers, shared memories, and, reportedly, the odd song from a certain captain!

A fairytale day and not just for the hurlers. Mr and Mrs McNamara’s love story is now a special part of Limerick’s sporting history too.