JJ Kavanagh Junior A Hurling Championship Semi-Finals

The JJ Kavanagh Junior A Hurling Championship reaches semi-final stage on the weekend of 7 to 8 August 2026. This is the top tier of Kilkenny’s junior grade, one step below intermediate, and the semi-finals decide who plays for the county title. The four sides involved came through quarter-finals played in late July, where Ballyhale Shamrocks beat Graigue-Ballycallan and O’Loughlin Gaels beat Dicksboro.

What to expect

Glenmore take on O’Loughlin Gaels on Friday 7 August at Thomastown, throw-in 7pm, in the first semi-final. The second semi-final follows on Saturday 8 August, with Threecastles facing Shamrocks Ballyhale at Larchfield, throw-in 3.30pm. Junior A hurling in Kilkenny is competitive and well attended locally, with clubs fielding sides drawn from a mix of experienced club players and younger talent working their way up through the ranks. The winners of these two semi-finals advance to the Junior A county final, with the date and venue to be confirmed by Kilkenny GAA once both results are known. As a knockout competition, this fixture window represents the business end of the championship, with only a final left to play afterwards.

Getting there

Thomastown GAA grounds sit on the edge of the town, a short walk from the centre and well signposted from the N9. Larchfield, home of James Stephens GAA club, is on the outskirts of Kilkenny city, with parking available at the grounds. Both venues fill up for championship fixtures, so arriving in good time is worthwhile.

While you’re in Kilkenny

Thomastown is one of the county’s prettiest riverside towns, with Jerpoint Abbey and Mount Juliet nearby, while Kilkenny city itself has the castle, medieval mile and a strong pub scene close to Larchfield. There is more to see in Kilkenny and across Co. Kilkenny.

Good to know

• Semi-final 1: Glenmore v O’Loughlin Gaels, Friday 7 August, 7pm, Thomastown
• Semi-final 2: Threecastles v Shamrocks Ballyhale, Saturday 8 August, 3.30pm, Larchfield
• Junior A grade, county championship knockout stage
• Winners progress to the county final, date to be confirmed
• Full fixtures and results at kilkennygaa.ie