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ALF Ó MUIRÍ 1914 - 1999
Date: 27 Jun 2009 / Category: Other / Views: 74
On Saturday 6th.June, Clann Eireann had the privilege of hosting an event which celebrated the extraordinary life of Alf Murray. The evening, organised by Armagh County Board, centred on the launch of a book which detailed all the various aspects of Alf’s life. The inspiration behind all of this was the author, Eithne McAlinden who having completed her thesis with Alf as her subject, believed that the production of a biography would do Alf more justice. The novel book, produced in both Irish and English, captures the whole of Alf’s life; his early days, the huge impression that he made as a footballer on supporters throughout Ireland, his dynamic influence as a GAA administrator, beginning with his own club Clann Eireann and culminating in his term as President of the Association. To many this would have been more than enough dedication to the promotion of Gaelic Culture but not to Alf. He was also the catalyst behind the introduction of hurling to Lurgan, indeed as President he strived to improve the standing of hurling in the ‘weaker’ counties and he was also the main inspiration behind the establishment of Conrad na Gaeilge, bringing the Irish language to the people of Lurgan. All of this was achieved on top of his professional life as a teacher/principal and his most important role as a family man, husband to his beloved wife Maire and father to Máire, Eimear, Séamus, Niamh, Fionnuala and Ruairi (RIP).
A truly astonishing life captured so well by Eithne McAlinden. A read that will convey the unbelievable energy of Alf and will leave the reader in no doubt about Alf’s great legacy and how he touched so many lives during his own lifetime and how his foresight and enthusiasm is still being felt today.
The evening itself was an overriding success; the social club was packed with the family, friends and admirers of Alf. Many speakers spoke of Alf’s huge contribution to Gaelic Culture, while others recalled favourite anecdotes. A memorable evening for all those lucky to be there, ended with Eithne signing books, presenting the first to Alf’s daughter Niamh.
I would encourage everybody to purchase ‘Alf Ó Muirí’, a brilliant account of one of the great GAA personalities of all time.
Note, all the proceeds from the sale of ‘Alf O’Muiri’ will go to one of Alf’s passions, ‘Conrad na Gaeilge’.
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