Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh has been remembered for his “encyclopaedic knowledge” and “beautiful voice” among heartfelt tributes made in his memory today. The legendary GAA commentator passed away today at the age of 93 , after nearly 60 years as the voice of GAA fans nationwide. Among those to pay tribute were the President, Taoiseach, Tánaiste, ex-players, managers, TV personalities, and Irish language enthusiasts.
TV and radio presenter Hector Ó hEochagáin said shaking the hand of Mr Ó Muircheartaigh “was an honour.” “There's not one bad word you could say about him,” he told The Hard Shoulder . “He was the voice of the parish, and the parish is the most important thing in this country.
“By God, did he know his people, did he know his games, and he was happiest when he could paint a picture for people's minds with hurling or football.” President Michael D Higgins said the broadcaster had unrivalled commentary talents. “He turned every match into an epic tale, his commentaries capturing like no other the sense of occasion, the atmosphere in the stadium and on the terraces, the ebb and flow of the play and of every movement,” he said.
RTÉ’s Des Cahill said Mr Ó Muircheartaigh would have made an excellent head of State. “There was talk going around at one stage he would have been a great president for Ireland, not just because he was a famous commentator, but because of his love of our language and culture,” he said. “He was su.
