After a long and brave fight against Motor Neurone Disease, the RTE broadcaster died today. His death has sparked a flood of tributes from the worlds of racing and TV.
Very few people these days are routinely described as a ‘gentleman’ but Colm Murray was. The RTE man was a very familiar face to all of us growing up as he presented the sports bulletins on the evening news and his favourite pastime, horse racing, was a lifelong passion.
Diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in April 2010 the illness eventually forced him to retire from the station but a documentary on his battle, broadcast in early 2012 brought his bravery into every home in Ireland.
Today he finally lost that battle but his life inspired so many, and they expressed themselves on Twitter today. Here’s just two, from men who knew him.
Very sad news to hear of RTE sports correspondent Colm Murray’s passing he was such a nice man and a great supporter of racing & all sports
— BarryJGeraghty (@BarryJGeraghty) July 30, 2013
RIP Colm Murray. Was a lovely man, a fantastic broadcaster and a great supporter of horse racing. It’s very sad.
— John Duggan (@jduggantodayfm) July 30, 2013
We here at JOE can only add our own voices to those sentiments. A broadcasting legend, a passionate supporter of Irish sport and the epitome of bravery in the face of a dreadful illness, Colm Murray’s memory and legacy will live long in every Irish person’s heart.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
