Join me for a journey through 100 years of Limerick rugby history with Des Ryan and Stephen Ruschitzko, authors of "Limerick Lions - Limerick and the British and Irish Lions 1888-1988.

In this fascinating chat, Des and Stephen reveal the incredible stories of the first nine Limerick men to represent the British and Irish Lions, from 1888 to 1988. These weren't just rugby players - they were adventurers, characters, and legends whose tales read like fiction.

Highlights include:

• Charles Barrington from Murroe, the "Father of Irish Rugby" who wrote the rules
• William Roche's extraordinary WWII encounter with Rudolf Hess
• The alleged car theft that became rugby folklore (involving Mick English)
• Tom Clifford's heroic six-month tour of 1950s New Zealand
• Why Colm Tucker played more for the Lions than Ireland
• The family connections and rivalries that shaped Limerick rugby

Des and Stephen also share insights into their extensive research process, working with players' families, and uncovering stories from an era when Lions tours lasted six months and took players to the far corners of the world - from Australia and New Zealand to Sri Lanka, Canada, and Kenya.

Whether you're a rugby fanatic or simply love great Irish stories, this episode offers a unique window into Limerick's proud sporting heritage and the characters who helped write rugby history.

"Limerick Lions - Limerick and the British and Irish Lions 1888-1988" is published by TTT Press and available from July 1st, 2025.

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