The Christy Ring Cup was clinched in dramatic style

Gareth ‘Magic’ Johnson was the hero with a stoppage-time goal against Kerry. He was one of four Down players named on the ‘Champions 15′ team for the competition. INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Rory McIlroy ended a tough year on a winning note

The Holywood native captured the Australian Open with a birdie on the last hole. He beat Tiger Woods in a mano-a-mano challenge too. AP Photo/Rob Griffith

Darren Cave got his first try for Ireland in a victory over Canada

Cave crossed for a second-half try in a 40-14 win at BMO Field in Toronto. INPHO/Billy Stickland

These affable Down lads showed off their hurling tricks and went viral

YouTube credit: mattconlhotmailcom

James McCartan and Benny Coulter committed themselves for a 2014 tilt at the Sam Maguire

The county stalwarts will be needed for their respective coaching and attacking skills after an underwhelming 2013. INPHO/Presseye/Mark Pearce

Plaudits flowed in for David Healy after he announced his international retirement

Healy, from Killyleagh, scored 36 goals in 95 outings with Northern Ireland, including this one in a 1-0 win over England at Windsor Park:

YouTube credit: TheParkyni

Simon won his first tournament on the European Tour

Thornton has made a home for himself in Down and was a worthy winner at St Omer [Najeti Hotels Golf Open] this summer. INPHO/Getty Images

Karen Tinnelly was named on the Soaring Stars team at the 2013 Camogie All Star Awards

The Ballyholland Harps defender won a similar award in 2009. INPHO/Cathal Noonan

50-year-old Mickey Linden rolled back the years to score 0-4 in a club game

Linden in action against Donegal 22 years ago. INPHO

The 1991 and ’94 All-Ireland winner came off the bench for the Mayobridge in the thirds local championship to show the young lads how it is done.

Ballynahinch won the Ulster Bank League Division 1B title

Star player Stuart Morrow won the division’s award for best player. INPHO/Morgan Treacy

17 signs you’re a sports fan from… Down