Updated 11.23
RTÉ SPORTS REPORTER Colm Murray has passed away at the age of 61.
The Westmeath native had been battling with motor neurone disease for the past three years having been diagnosed with it in March 2010.
After joining the national broadcaster in October 1978, Murray went on to become a newscaster on the Six One news and reported on some of world’s biggest sporting events but was perhaps best known for commentating on horse racing.
He retired after contracting the disease but featured in a hugely-popular documentary about his ongoing struggles last year:
YouTube credit: TCDAlumni
An Taoiseach Enda Kenny led the tributes to Murray this morning, saluting his passionate dedication to the sport he loved.
Colm was the voice of Irish racing for many years and he lit up the coverage of many a racing meet with his passion and enthusiasm for the sport.
I had the pleasure of being in Colm’s company recently and could see he was a proud Westmeath man who brought out the best in those around him with his affability and gift for storytelling.
“I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to his wife, Anne, and daughters, Patricia and Kate, and sister, Mary. He is also a huge loss to all in RTE and my thoughts are with all who had the pleasure of knowing Colm during his lifetime.”
RTÉ’s Head of Sport Ryle Nugent described the news as “a sad sad day for all of us that knew and worked with Colm.”
“He had an infectious laugh, a real sense of fun and a little mischief that has been, and will always be, missed in this office.
“His commitment and love for his work was there for all to see and he will be long remembered for his kindness, decency and caring of those with whom he came into contact.”
Here’s Colm recalling his favourite Cheltenham memories:
YouTube credit: irishracingcom
– Originally published 10.54; additional reporting by Niall Kelly
