Three cheers for moderation

LESS than two weeks ago, the Down minors poured exuberantly into their dressing room in Croke Park with Mayo beaten and the Tom Markham Cup in tow.

As the door began to close behind them, one of the younger panellists burst into a chorus of "Let's get loaded", a tune that has become all too synonymous with sporting successes in this country.

The reaction of the adults outside - a mixture of journalists and stewards - was one of mirth rather than shock or disgust. Just another example of how the drinking culture is not just tolerated but taken for granted.