A restored image of John McMonagle and his work-mates, all from Ballina, pictured in Croke Park for the 1951 All-Ireland football final between Mayo and Meath. Front, from left: Cyril Keegan, Corcoran Terrace, Ballina (RIP); Sean Ralph, Tyrawley Park, Ballina; Martin Halloran, The Brook, Ardnaree, Ballina (RIP). Back: Tommy Smith, Ardnaree, Ballina (RIP); John McMonagle, Walsh Street, Ballina, now residing in Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim.

Carrick-on-Shannon resident was one of the happiest Mayo supporters after All-Ireland win

Published: Thu 6 Aug 2026, 4:24 PM

One of the happiest supporters to see Mayo crowned All-Ireland champions on Sunday week last was Carrick-on-Shannon resident John McMonagle, writes Patrick Hennelly.

John – who, at just 97 years young, is an active member of the bridge clubs in Carrick-on-Shannon and Boyle – grew up in Ballina, where his father was based as a garda.

He played football with Ballina and his sister, a pharmacist, had her own business in the north Mayo town.

John, the last surviving member of his family, cried tears of joy to have lived to see Mayo end a 75-year wait and win the famous Sam Maguire Cup.

He can easily recall the 1951 All-Ireland final and what turned out to me a memorable and cherished day.

John said: “In 1951, I had the privilege of being in Croke Park to see Mayo win the All-Ireland final when they defeated Meath 2-8 to 0-9. I had a photo taken on the pitch that day with a group of work-mates who were with me at the match. We all worked in White's Garage, Bachelors Walk, Dublin.

“We were outside Croke Park before the gates opened and this enabled us to get seated on the sideline, which helped us to have the picture taken on the pitch before the match.”

Regarding this year's victory, John said: “What a day to have lived to see Mayo bring home Sam!”