Kurdish-Irish hurler Zak Moradi describes how they fled Iraqi War and found refuge in Leitrim.
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Zak Moradi was born in a refugee camp in Iraq with his 8 brothers and two sisters. Despite living in unbearable heat, the harsh dictatorship of Saddam Hussain, and the constant fear of being killed by the Arabs, the strong Kurdish community spirit made them survive. In 2002, at 11, he brought with him to Ireland his passion for sport and strong work ethic that is deeply imbibed in Kurdish culture. Now working, coaching young hurlers and volunteering, he is forever grateful for the undying support of the Irish who welcomed them with open arms. He believes he will always have Kurdish blood and an Irish heart.
