He has walked in space but that was nothing compared to the challenge of learning to play hurling for Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield.
While he was here in January for an appearance at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition, Hadfield was appointed an ambassador for Irish tourism by Discover Ireland.
The hope is that through his extensive social and mainstream media profile that he will raise interest and visitors.
A series of videos have been produced ranging from the Titanic Centre in Belfast to the Wild Atlantic Way but it is perhaps his learning to play hurling, with the help of Experience Gaelic Games that may prove the most popular.
“It’s like a mix of all sports, ice hockey, a bit of baseball and more,” he says as he is brought through the basic skills enabling him to line out in a full blown club match.
It has been a busy time for the team behind Experience Gaelic Games who have held training sessions with students from across the US this week who had travelled as a mix of St Patrick’s Day and Spring Break. They also hosted school trips from Denmark and France adding yet further lustre to the growing awareness of GAA across countries in which it was previously unknown.
