Grealy thankful for deep Galway roots

Ever since assuming the role of general vice-president in 1993, Carmel Grealy is to be found in the same location at the Community Games year in, year out — sitting patiently behind the main desk at reception, lending a hand to whoever requires assistance.

On three occasions at the weekend she slipped out into the action, leaving behind her title and duties to support Emma Loughnane (long puck), Brian Burke (U16 marathon) and Galway’s representatives in the U10 mixed relay. But why these three? On closer inspection, it becomes apparent that all are natives of Ballinasloe, Grealy’s home town.

Grealy may have taken up her national role 20 years ago, but it succeeded a further two decades of service with the Ballinasloe Community Games organisation, one of the most successful in the country.