In a world where ounces matter, a Co Westmeath-based team of fly fishermen has come up with goods to put them on an international stage.
Brosna Anglers, based in Mullingar, has won the right to represent Ireland in the House of Hardy International Fly Fishing Championships in Britain next month.
According to Mr Mick McCormack, captain of the Brosna team and coach of the Irish Youth team, the men won the honour by a quarter of an ounce. They had to compete against nearly 40 other teams to win the right to compete for Ireland in the competition.
"It was a very difficult day for the competition; it was very hot and there were very few fish moving. We won by a quarter of an ounce," said Mr McCormack.
"We are travelling to fish on the Rutland Valley reservoir in the British midlands to compete. The match will be held on 16th and 17th of September with the 15th given over to practice," he said. "This is one of the largest man-made bodies of water in Europe and has a wonderful fishery, which is very well managed and stocked.
"The competition will be fierce. There will be teams there from the Czech Republic, Belgium, Scotland, France, Monaco, England and Wales," Mr McCormack said.
"In addition, there will be teams from the Shetland Islands, Orkney Islands and from the south of England. It is one of the most prestigious competitions held annually." The top prize is £2,500 and he is confident each team will try its best to win.
Mr McCormack will captain the team. The other members are Mr Dennis Goulding, Dublin; Mr Seamus Eighan, Tyrellspass; Mr Ian Kelly, Mullingar; Mr Phil McMahon, Dublin, and Mr Andy Duncan, Mullingar.