<P> The history of hurling is long and often unclear, stretching back over three millennia . References to stick - and - ball games are found in Irish mythology . The game is thought to be related to the games of shinty that is played primarily in Scotland, cammag on the Isle of Man and bandy that was played formerly in England and Wales . </P> <P> Hurling is older than the recorded history of Ireland . It is thought to predate Christianity, having come to Ireland with the Celts . It has been a distinct Irish pastime for at least 2000 years . The earliest written references to the sport in Brehon law date from the fifth century . </P> <P> The tale of the Táin Bó Cuailgne (drawing on earlier legends) describes the hero Cúchulainn playing hurling at Emain Macha . Similar tales are told about Fionn Mac Cumhail and the Fianna, his legendary warrior band . </P>

When was the first game of hurling played
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