Kerry footballer Killian Young and Tipperary hurler John O'Dwyer were in Croke Park yesterday to launch the 21st Fexco Asian Gaelic Games tournament that takes place in Shanghai from November 5th-6th, a two-day tournament under the aegis of the Asian County Board that brings together men's, women's and juvenile teams to compete in football, hurling and camogie.

Fexco, Ireland's largest privately-owned financial technology company, confirmed their sponsorship for a venture that began in 1996 and has been staged in Manila, Singapore, Phuket, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Penang, Bangkok, Seoul and Kuala Lumpur.

This year 65 teams representing 20 clubs from 18 countries, with about 800 participants in total, will play 200 matches. Games are nine-a-side with matches lasting 14 minutes. There are 10 trophies to be won along with individual All-Stars, Most Valuable Player (MVP) and club awards. The top teams compete for the Derek Brady Cup, the Ladies Cup, Hurling Cup and Camogie Cup.

GAA director general Páraic Duffy said: “The Asian Gaelic Games is a true reflection of the work and commitment of the Asian County Board and the players, managers and their support networks. I would like to extend my best wishes to all those involved and to thank Fexco for their continued support.”