Coming Out of Killarney Stronger than we Went In

Tyrone GAA’s acknowledgement of our ‘leaving of Killarney’ experience has exploded to become, tellingly, the most popular GAA internet post of all time. So far, well over a third of a million people (361,536) have ‘hit’ on it; 24,863 have ‘liked it’ on Facebook; 3,764 have shared it with friends; and 548 have posted formal written responses. This “Inspirational, Unforgettable and Classy” solidarity has humbled Tyrone Gaels.
“Sometimes people say we’re too protective of the GAA in Tyrone,” Tyrone County GAA Chair Ciaran McLaughlin commented. “But our inspirational send-off from Killarney by Kerry Gaels and the stunning response to our short account of it proves yet again just how precious and unique the GAA is. It’s also clear that hundreds of thousands of others share in our belief in it. The vital thing is that our Killarney experience is not unique. For example no Tyrone Gael will ever forget how the Mayo people welcomed us for our first game after Cormac died. Nor will the sheer goodness of people after Michaela’s death ever fade for us. Neither will we forget the goodwill that’s been shown to us on our good days. Whether it’s tragedy or triumph, or just an ordinary routine day, GAA people will unfailingly walk with you.”
Tyrone’s Chair went on to commend the thousands of Tyrone people who made the long trip to Killarney. “In difficult times they showed great commitment and loyalty” he remarked. “They too are an inspiration.”
Our conviction is that ‘The Killarney Experience’ is a cameo of the heart-and-soul of the GAA. That heart-and-soul thrives across Ireland – and, of course, Tyrone – on a daily basis. To tap into it and to help sustain it, just get involved, at whatever level, in whatever place. This Sunday evening Tyrone Minors play in Newry (with Monaghan Minors on the same bill). Over the weekend our Ulster colleagues, Down and Donegal, play in Croke Park.  None of them will turn away the support of any Tyrone Gaels. Bi linn is cuidigh linn: come and join us … do your bit!