Tribute to Micheál O'Muircheartiagh on his retirement. By Sarah

Micheál O’Muircheartiagh is at the age of 80. He was born on the 20th August, 1930. He lived in a small village called Dún Síon in Dingle, Co.Kerry. His father’s name was Timothy and his nickname was Thady. His mother’s name was Catherine Quinn from Coum Bowler. He had three brothers and four sisters. Their names are Paidraig, Eileen, Nais, Donal, Maire, Siobhán and Kathleen. Micheál came fourth in a family of eight. All of his family spoke Irish.

In May, 1936, he went to school in the Presentation Convent in Dingle. At the age of eight, he went to the Christian Brother’s school in Baile Bhuirne Co.Cork. In September, 1948, he went to St.Patrick’s College in Dublin to become a Teacher. While in College, he went to all the football matches. In March, 1949 he was selected as a commentator to broadcast matches for Radio Eireann.

His first broadcast was a hurling match. He had never seen a hurling match before. On St. Patrick’s day in 1949, he broadcasted the Railway Cup Final and he was paid six pounds for the job. He enjoyed his work and became the voice of the G.A.A. from 1949 – 2010. He has a unique and personal style of broadcasting.

He knew all players and their talents. He had nicknames for some of the great players. His voice would travel around the world to be enjoyed by Irish emigrants on All Ireland Final Day.

He was greatly loved and will be missed on the airwaves.