Liam McCarthy (hurler)

Liam McCarthy (born circa 1853, died October 4, 1929) was an Irish hurler from London and a prominent figure in the early development of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA). Although born in London to Irish parents from County Cork, he is best remembered for the trophy awarded to the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship winners, which bears his name: the Liam MacCarthy Cup.

McCarthy was a leading member of the London GAA in its formative years, serving as its chairman and treasurer. He was instrumental in organizing and promoting Gaelic games in London and helped to build a strong Irish community there. He was a dedicated advocate for the GAA's aims of promoting Irish culture and sport.

While McCarthy himself was not a particularly renowned player, his contributions to the GAA in London were significant. Following his death in 1929, the decision was made to commission a trophy in his honour to commemorate his service. This trophy, originally known as the All-Ireland Hurling Championship Cup, was presented for the first time in 1923 (retrospectively awarded to the 1921 champions, Limerick) and soon became known as the Liam MacCarthy Cup.

Today, the Liam MacCarthy Cup is the most prestigious trophy in hurling and a powerful symbol of Irish sporting tradition. It represents the pinnacle of achievement for inter-county hurling teams and serves as a lasting tribute to the dedication and commitment of Liam McCarthy to the GAA.