MARTY Lynch, the former Down Gaelic Football star and all-round champion sportsman, has passed away after a long battle with Motor Neurone Disease.
The Newry native, who captained his county to the Ulster U21 title and went on to play in the senior side, was diagnosed with the debilitating disease in April last year having first shown symptoms 12 months’ previously.
A talented athlete from his early days, Marty (58) was an All-Ireland champion runner as a youngster and as he grew to six feet tall his muscular frame filled out and he maintained that athleticism. He came through the ranks at Newry Mitchel’s, played for Down minors, captained the U21s to the Ulster title and became a fixture in the senior side.
He played at Croke Park, he played in the League of Ireland for Monaghan United, he was a star for Newry Bosco, a Newry Celtic legend, a national masters cycling champion and a successful manager with the Shane O'Neill's club in Camlough.
As the disease took hold, Marty lost the ability to compete in sport but throughout the many challenges he faced, he retained his positive outlook on life.
Former team-mates and friends stood by his side along with his wife Rosaleen and sons Kenneth and Ryan. Fundraisers were held from New York to Newry Bosco where Sean Cavanagh, Stevie McDonnell and Benny Tierney were among the All-Ireland winners who played in the ‘Legends for Lyncho’ testimonial.
“Marty was one of our most gifted players,” said Frank Mitchell who also played in the game.
“An outstanding sportsman and a lovely man to spend time with. May he rest in peace.”
Last year Marty managed a Celtic Legends team against Warrenpoint Town. His grandson Lorcan played alongside Celtic greats including John Collins, Danny McGrain, Joe Miller and Brian McClair.
“There’s so much good out there,” he said in an interview with The Irish News.
“It’s the finger of fate. I’m not going to complain about it. I have no regrets, I’ve had a great life – how many people have played at Croke Park or played at the Brandywell? I’ve played League of Ireland football, county football, I’ve got national medals in cycling, when I was a kid I won All-Ireland medals as a runner...
“Not too many people had all that and I’m very grateful that I did and I’ve got a brilliant family.
“One thing I would tell anybody: If you have a chance to compete and be the best, you should go for it – grab it, seize the moment.”
