The Clare county board are expected to unveil former hurling team sponsor Pat O'Donnell as the county's new sponsor in a deal worth an estimated EUR1 million over three years. While the official announcement won't be made until Saturday night's convention, sources indicate that Pat O'Donnell has successfully seen off the challenge of at least two other companies to secure the deal. Mr O'Donnell runs a successful plant machinery company. "We have an agreement in principle with the new sponsor not to say anything officially until our executive and the clubs of the county have been informed," said Clare chairman Michael McDonagh. "Vodafone, who have been our sponsors for the last six years, decided not to renew their deal. They have been superb for Clare GAA and I would like on behalf of the county board to thank them, particularly Enda Lynch, for their courtesy and help over that period. It's been a pleasure doing business with them." Before the Vodafone deal was struck, Clare had two sponsors, Pat O'Donnell for hurling and Martin Donnelly for football. When the change to Vodafone was made, the previous sponsors questioned the county board's loyalty but nevertheless continued to play their part in promoting Clare GAA. Tweet

Most Read Stories