43 Photos That Prove The All Ireland Hurling Final Is The Greatest Day You Could Ever Experience

There is something so majestic about Croke Park on All Ireland Final day. Something that gets your pulse racing just as you near the stadium. 

We wanted to capture the magic of the day – the people, the fans, the workers, the build up, the ecstasy, the agony and everything that comes with the big day. 

This year it was Kilkenny and Tipperary who brought the nation to a standstill with skill, excitement and pure unbridled desire. 

The greatest spectacle on earth? We think so...

1. Miraculously the sun was shining on the first Sunday in September

2. Some got there as early as they could

3. Not even the experts knew what was coming 

4. Meeting points were fixed

5. As expectation grew for a clash of the titans 

6. They came in their thousands from every corner of Ireland

7. Dressed to the nines

8. A quick burger to help settle the nerves

9. Tickets changed hands 

10. Some last minute accessories

11. A quick selfie for those at home

12. Entrepreneurs sold water to the thirsty fans

13. The band were there playing as always 

14. Tactics were discussed

15. There was always a friendly face to guide you there

16. The songs rang out all along Jones Road

17. The collars were straightened 

18. The sheet music checked twice

19. The nervous wait for the Artane band

20. As 82,000 people filled the stadium

21. The famous red carpet

22. For our wonderful president

23. All was set for a ferocious battle 

24. The teams traded early blows

25. While some struggled to find their seats

26. The nerves were intense

27. On both sides of the fence

28. Enda watched on 

29. So did Bertie 

30. And Gerry

31. The groundsmen did their work at half time

32. And then the tide started to turn away from Kilkenny 

33. As many realised it wasn't going to be their year

34. Some watching on had seen it all before but still couldn't believe their eyes

35. Tipp had reached the dreamland 

36. And the cup was theirs

37. Even in defeat they gave it their all

38. But it still hurt so much

39. The face of a happy player's father says it all

40. Teammates through it all 

41. Back to the drawing board for next year

42. A wonderful moment shared with family

43. Time for home. The most majestic day

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