Irish · Bellewstown, County Meath, Ireland · Born 18 July 1978Irish wing and centre who helped Ireland win three Triple Crowns between 2004 and 2007 as part of a potent back-line alongside Brian O'Driscoll, Gordon D'Arcy and Ronan O'Gara.
Born Shane Patrick Horgan in Bellewstown, County Meath, on 18 July 1978, Horgan made his Leinster debut in 1998 and his senior Ireland debut in 2000 against Scotland, scoring a try on his first appearance. Standing at 6ft 4in and nearly 230lbs, his combination of pace and power set him apart from most northern hemisphere wingers of his era. Horgan formed part of one of the most potent back-lines in world rugby alongside Ronan O'Gara, Brian O'Driscoll and Gordon D'Arcy, helping Ireland win three Triple Crowns in four years between 2004 and 2007. He continued his strong Six Nations form throughout that period, scoring tries against Italy, France and Wales in a single tournament. Horgan was selected for the 2005 British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand, winning four Test caps, starting against Argentina in Cardiff before adding three appearances from the bench during the series against the All Blacks. Horgan's career wound down after the 2008 Six Nations, and he retired from Leinster and Ireland duty shortly after. He has remained closely involved in rugby as a respected pundit and commentator, and is the brother of comedian and writer Sharon Horgan.
Being part of Ireland's potent back-line that won three Triple Crowns between 2004 and 2007
How They Played
Powerful, pacey wing with an unusual size advantage for the position
Lasting Impact
A key figure in one of Ireland's most successful backlines of the professional era
Irish Athletes