'Sport is in the blood' of sliotar smasher, Ben!

The proud dad of a budding young hurling star from Dunboyne who stole the show during half-time of a recent match says “sport is in the blood.”

A super 'in action' shot taken by Meath Chronicle photographer, Gerry Shanahan captured nine-year-old Ben's passion for hurling during a half-time puck around during a SHC clash that saw St Peter's GAA Dunboyne, the team his dad, Niall plays for take on Dunderry.

“Going out at half-time in Pairc Tailteann made his day,” said dad, Niall.

“He is a sports fanatic but a real hurling fan even more so I'd say, he comes to all of the games and cheers me on from the sidelines,” he added.

“He plays under 10’s hurling and football and can't get enough of it.

“We could have done with him on the pitch at the weekend!”

It's not the first time the Smyth family has received attention for sporting success with Ben's great grandfather, Brian Smyth captaining Meath's first All Ireland SFC win in 1949.

Ben's late grandfather, Bernard Smyth also made a name for himself in the world of hurling playing both for St Peter's in Dunboyne and also for Meath.

Niall says he is proud to be part of a family steeped in GAA history.

“It's just great for kids to be involved in the GAA, I see first hand with Ben the joy that it brings him. It's a great outlet for him. It’s really great to be able to continue the passion for sport down through the generations.”

Expect to see more shots of Ben in the sports pages in the future.