Over 400 players are fine-tuning their preparations for this weekends GAA Handball One-Wall Nationals at Breaffy House, Castlebar.

Charlie Shanks

Three time champion Charlie Shanks returns as top seed in the EDTL Handball Mens Open having missed the last few tournaments due to his hiatus in New York, whilst Robbie McCarthy returns after missing last years event. McCarthy will replace 4 time World 40x20 Champion Paul Brady in the Mens Open draw after the Cavan man had to withdraw through injury. But McCarthy is a classy replacement and is on the verge of history. A three time champion himself, Mullingar's McCarthy will bid to be the first man ever to hold the All-Ireland Senior 40x20 Title, All-Ireland Senior 60x30 Title, and Irish Men's Open One-Wall Nationals Title all at the same time, which would be a truly remarkable achievement.

World 40x20 Champion Aisling Reilly will be making her tournament debut in the MacSports Ladies Open, which is very competitive with two 3 time champions in the mix. Reigning champion Lorraine Havern has won three of the last four titles, whilst Roscommon's Marianna Rushe also returns having previously won in '06, '08 and '09.

A great weekends action is in store at the Mayo venue with action over a further 20 grades from 11 & Under to over 65s. Over 400 competitors and up to 2000 spectators are expected to attend the festival of Handball in the impressive Breaffy Sports Arena. Admission is free all weekend and the action kicks off this Friday at 12 noon.