GOODBYE TO A GENIUS

13 Irish sports people pay tribute to Brian O’Driscoll

DARREN CLARKE

“What a servant Brian has been not only Irish rugby but to his sport. He is one of the legends of the game with his Lions record, his Irish record and what he has achieved in his career, along with his overall dedication to his sport. The esteem he is held in by his peers is more important than anything else. Unlike the sport of golf, rugby players have a limited playing career and unfortunately Brian’s considered the time is right for him to step away and you have to admire him for that. It was so brilliant that his last appearance at home resulted in a victory but how good was it to cap it all off with a win in Paris? What has set him apart from his peers? Talent. Dedication and desire to lead, and desire to win. He’s a natural leader. He’s just a legend of the sport not just in Ireland but he’s a legend in the game of rugby and I wish him every success in retirement.”