MAYO WON'T BE AT SEA ON SUNDAY
25 September 1996
Mikey will catch the All-Ireland Boat
By tom Gillespie
ISLANDER Mikey O'Toole is one of Mayo's most loyal GAA followers. And he is no stranger to All-Ireland clashes. For the past few years he has been a member of the Mayo Masters squad who captured the All-Ireland over 40's title in 1994 and '95.But to participate in the game Mikey has to make a gruelling sea journey in a traditional currach to the mainland from his home on Inishturk Island, ten miles out in Clew Bay. And he will be on the high seas again this weekend on route to Croke Park for the Mayo-Meath All-Ireland re-match.
He will take his boat with outboard engine to Roonagh Pier near Louisburgh. From there he will taxi to Westport in time to catch the train to Dublin.
Fisherman-farmer Mikey said: "I have been a life long follower of the GAA. I was delighted to have been selected for the Masters panel for the past few years." Often Mikey departed Inishturk in his currach for the mainland where he would rendezvous with other members of the team to travel onto a match, returning later that night or the following day to go into the island.
MAYO COLOURS
The Mayo flag flies proudly on Mikey's tractor as he goes about his chores on his holding on the south of the island.A large green and red flag has also been attached to his sturdy currach.
Mikey added: "Often when the weather is too fresh I would have to hire a larger boat to get to Roonagh. But it's all for the love of the game." He is confident that Mayo will win on Sunday.
Mikey added: "I am looking forward to Sam being transported to Inishturk along with John Maughan and the team where we will give them a right royal welcome."
Connaught Telegraph - News - September 1996
Connaught Telegraph - Sport - September 1996
