Broadcaster Micheal O Muircheartaigh's voice is familiar to generations of sports fans, in particular for his commentary on GAA matches. O Muircheartaigh He has also devoted his life to promoting Irish language and culture.
At the awards ceremony in the Burlington Hotel in Dublin last night, he was cited for the "pleasure and enjoyment" he has given to Irish people at home and abroad since his first match commentary in 1949. O Muir cheartaigh was described as "the GAA's public voice".
He has been the coach and trainer of the Kerry All Ireland team members in Dublin, one of the founders of Colaiste Gaeilge in Dublin and one of the driving forces behind St Bridget's GAA club in Blanchardstown. He is chairman of Bord na Gaeilge and owns and trains greyhounds for racing, another sport he on which frequently commentates. Gaelic games, the Irish language and Irish dancing are worth preserving, he believes: "They give this country a kind of distinction," he says. "We'd never be forgiven if we let them go."
Married with eight children, O Muir cheartaigh was the first broadcaster to interview a member of the British royal family. The occasion was the final of the English greyhound derby and Prince Edward was the owner of one of the dogs. His first commentary was the Railway Cup football final between Munster and Leinster on St Patrick's Day 1949.
