TYRONE GAA star Cathal McShane has avoided a driving disqualification after being caught speeding at more than 100mph in Co Donegal.
Gardaí were conducting a speed check at Dromore, on the N13 dual carriageway outside Letterkenny, when they recorded a Volkswagen Passat travelling at 171kph - equivalent to 106mph - within a 100kph zone shortly before 10pm on July 26.
McShane was taken to Letterkenny Garda station where he was charged with dangerous driving and bailed.
The 24-year-old, of Moolough Road near Strabane, Co Tyrone, made no reply when the charge was put to him by officers.
The 2019 All-Star footballer, who plays for the Owen Roe club near the Tyrone/Donegal border, was not present for the hearing at Letterkenny District Court yesterday.
However, solicitor Patsy Gallagher said his client was "deeply distressed and deeply remorseful".
“This was quite a shock to all parties, including himself,” he said.
“He is a young man who is quite well known in the community. He is very much involved in the GAA and also very much involved in the young side of it. He gives considerable time to underage football in his own club.
“He is a qualified engineer and is very involved in community circles.”
Sergeant Jim Collins said McShane was fully co-operative with gardaí.
Mr Gallagher said he was driving a new car, which he had been given by his employer, and was travelling to visit his mother in Rathmullan.
He added that McShane travels all over Ireland for work purposes and is required to drive a lot.
Judge Paul Kelly said it was clear McShane had made a "good impression" on those who had written lengthy testimonies submitted to the court.
He said "driving at that speed is hugely dangerous" but accepted a plea from McShane and reduced the charge to one of careless driving.
He was fined €750.