GAA commentator Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh has died aged 93.
Mr Ó Muircheartaigh was much loved by many as the voice for GAA commentary on RTÉ for seven decades, in both Irish and English.
His first match saw him provide all-Irish commentary on the 1949 Railway Cup final between Munster and Connacht on St Patrick’s Day.
He was born in Dún Síon outside Daingean Uí Chúis (Dingle), Co Kerry, originally working as a teacher.
In 1985, Mr Ó Muircheartaigh assumed the role as commentator on a full time basis, following Micheál O’Heir’s retirement, going on to endear himself to listeners with his iconic voice, and command of Irish and English language.
Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh eventually retired from commentary following the 2010 All Ireland Senior Football final between Cork and Down in Croke Park.
In 2020, Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh celebrated his 90th birthday, with the GAA paying a sweet tribute to him.
The then president John Horan described Ó Mhuircheartaigh as “synonymous with Gaelic games as Croke Park, Semple Stadium, St Tiernach’s Park or Dr Hyde Park”.
He also added: “For those who couldn’t be there at a game – there was still the chance to feel like you were there”.
“a true friend”
Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh’s death has led to an outpouring of tributes on social media.
Former Sunday Game presenter Des Cahill shared a photo of the pair standing at Croke Park. “RIP Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh”, he wrote.
The GPA (Gaelic Players Association) penned this tribute to the late commentator.
“He had a voice that conjured up magic; he created masterpieces with his words; and he enhanced memories for generations”, they said.
“To players, he was a true friend. Our deepest condolences to the family of Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh. A legend of Gaelic games. A legend of Ireland. RIP”.
Taoiseach Simon Harris also released a statement paying homage to Mr Ó Muircheartaigh. See that in full here.
