The late Donal (Dan) O'Flynn - an appreciation Ballhea, a tiny hurling stonghold in North Cork, where he spent his later years, but it was his native Castletownroche that had his fondest affections. Such was the colourful life of Donal (Dan) O'Flynn. He was in his 92nd year. A man of many parts, Donal was actually a master of many indoor and outdoor pastimes, during a long distinguished career. He played senior hurling for Galway in the 1940s. The late great Christy Ring was his direct opponent in the All Ireland semi final of 1944 in Ennis, which Cork won by a slender point margin. Donal actually scored the levelling point, in the at game, but referee Mick Hennessy (Clare) disallowed the score, as the final whistle had sounded while the sliothar was still mid air. A change in fortune, however was in store for the Connacht (All Galway Team), in the Railway Cup final of 1947, when the cream of Munster hurlers went down to Connacht. At right full back Donal led the men of the West, including peerless goalkeeper Seanie Duggam and that fine half back line of the late M.J. "Inky" Flaherty. Colm Corless and Berni Power (who on this occasion was marking Christy Ring). At midfield was Father Paddy Gantely (the best player Mr. O'Flynn ever saw) and bustling John Killeen. Hubert Gordon was in the forwards as were, also, the brothers Josie and Steve Gallagher of Gort. Donal's city based Liam Mellows were kingpins of Galway hurling back then but, sadly we seldom hear of them now. Mr. O'Flynn made a huge contribution to Irish education as a vocational teacher in Salthill, Mitchelstown and Charleville, where he was headmaster for many years, to his retirement. He was no daw in the boxing ring either, being senior sparring partner for Martin Thornton, the Galway man being heavyweight champion of Ireland. Slan leat, a Dhonail. Go raibh leaba agat, i measc na naomh's na nAingil, ins na Flaithis. A former teammate of 50 years ago. Courtesy of The Avondhu 12 January 2006 Tweet

Most Read Stories