Shape I’m In: Marty Morrissey

SITTING on the sidelines of a packed Croke Park on August 31, RTÈ presenter Marty Morrissey took his double ice-bucket challenge like a good sport. 

The crowds roared their approval. But when not working or fundraising, there is nothing he enjoys more than being with friends in a pub - usually without taking a drop of alcohol.

“I was always the driver. I made sure everyone got home safely — we had great crack. The lads who are drinking will say they can’t get me out of the pub,” he says.

Though hugely busy as a GAA news correspondent and commentator, he is diversifying. “I enjoy doing radio work — filling in for Derek Mooney on the Mooney Show, and Damien O’Reilly on Countrywide. It’s probably something I’d like to do more of. There is a connection on radio, which I think is very important for any communication.”

Aged 56, he is in a long-term relationship. “My other half is a Cork woman, Liz Kidney.”

n Marty Morrissey is lending his support to the ‘Save Your Breath’ national COPD awareness campaign, from November 17-23. See www.copd.ie.

What shape are you in?

In July, right after the Willie Clancy Week, in Milltown Malby, I broke my fourth metatarcial bone in my left foot. I’m obviously under the illusion that I’m still 17. You can’t do anything with it, except rest it. It has been slow to heal, but I’m just getting a bit of physio for it now. I wouldn’t mind if it was a dirty tackle — I could blame someone else — but I fell over all on my own.

Do you have any health concerns?

No. Thanks be to God.

What to you do to exercise?

Up until July, I played five-a-side soccer, if not once then twice a week. I try to play tennis, when I get a chance. I used to play golf — but it takes up half the day, if not more. I love walking and cycling — particularly down in West Clare. I’m hoping to buy a bike in Dublin — I intend to be in even better shape.

What are your healthiest eating habits?

I am trying to drink as much water as possible. I’m getting into porridge — Quick Oats. Everyone is telling me I should have it in the morning. I also eat fruit.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

I am trying to get out of the habit, when I’m driving, of drinking Coca Cola and eating bars of chocolate. I have two favourites — Dairy Milk and Time Out.

What would keep you awake at night?

I’ve an awful habit — I put on the news and fall asleep on the couch while watching it. You’re tired and you say ‘I’ll catch up on the day’s news from around the world’. I feel like an idiot.

How do you relax?

When I go home to West Clare, I go for a walk on the beach, I go for a cycle. I love Killarney and often go down and walk around the lakes. We found a lovely hotel — Hotel Europe. I know it is luxury, but I switch off there more than anywhere else.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

Liz, Bill Clinton, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Jennifer Aniston — I fancied her for years.

What’s your favourite smell?

I’m obviously a real culchie — I love the smell of bacon and cabbage. Haagen-Dazs ice cream, vanilla and chocolate, and the smell of the sea.

What would you change about your appearance?

I think we could start with the face — get rid of it! Seriously, I would love to be a little bit taller: if I could get an extra four or five inches I’d gladly take it. But God gave me whatever I have.

When did you last cry?

When my dad died, 10 years ago. I was particularly close to him. Like my mother, he was an only child — and, lo and behold, I am only child. We were very tight.

What trait do you least like in others?

I hate meanness and hypocrisy. I treasure loyalty and honesty.

What trait do you least like in yourself?

I’ve improved on my time- keeping — but I would be notorious among my friends for being a little bit behind or slow. It’s a work-in-progress.

Do you pray?

I would like to think there is an afterlife. I have met so many good people that I just can’t believe you just disappear. I believe strongly in spirituality. I’d have a sense of God and be thankful to Him for whatever He has given, or done for, me.

What would cheer up your day?

A simple thing like a warm greeting. I appreciate that people give me a warm welcome wherever I go.