Carefully developed over a 16 month period in Oranmore, Co Galway, while the small hurlóg looks like it is made from ash, it is actually made of foam and is extremely light to hold. It is available in three sizes for two, four and six-year-olds. The hurlóg has been specially designed with the child in mind.
It is extremely light (approx half the weight of an equivalent size ash hurl) which allows the child learn how to hold and swing a hurlóg correctly.
The material used to make the hurlóg, although looks like ash, is soft.
A special ball has been designed to be used with the hurlóg. This ball is much lighter than a standard sliotar and its larger size makes it easier to hit.
As part of the development of the hurlóg we have received input from over 500 coaches and parents.
The hurlóg has been Patented – Patent No S85552?
An innovation voucher from Enterprise Ireland assisted in helping to complete the design of the hurlóg.
The following outlines the various stages of the development of the hurlóg:
August 2009 – developed prototypes.
November 2009 – attended the GAA coaching conference to obtain feedback on the material and concept.
Deceember 2009 – applied for Innovation Voucher from Enterprise Ireland.
February 2010 – obtained approval on Innovation Voucher and commence working with Athlone IT to assist with the design.
December 2010 – design of hurlóg complete.
January 2011 – start design of packaging.
January 2011 – first hurlógs go into production.
June 2011 – first hurlógs go on sale in 8 Elverys stores.
Irish Independent – December 2nd 2011 – Paudie Butler – GAA Director of Hurling
“The problem hurling had earned was that mothers were afraid for their young children in case they received an injury. The other problem was if you weren’t from a certain place, you couldn’t play hurling – this dispels all those notions,”
“Hurling is for everyone and the hurlóg is a hurley that children can use as soon as they can walk – it is a great innovation.”
Wexford All-Ireland winner and long serving hurling coach, George O’Connor also gave his backing to the hurlog and said it was perfect for children to begin the sport with.
“It is a lovely width. It is a lovely weight and is absolutely ideal for children. It is light – it feels like a feather. A child will love it, even the ball is soft,”
