Champ casts his spell at the spot where it all began
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Wednesday September 02 2009
WHILE Waterpark House was the venue for yesterday's freedom of Ennis ceremony, Turnpike just a short walk from the town centre was the place to be to see Muhammad Ali -- or even to be lucky enough to meet him. Up to 2,000 children, parents and elderly gathered at the homeplace of Ali's great-grandfather, Abe Grady, who emigrated to the US in the 1860s.
Railings were placed around a specially commissioned sculpture in honour of the visit and the crowds were ten deep.
Genealogists say that any Gradys or O'Gradys from the Turnpike area of the town would be related to the famous boxer.
Mary Grady Gormley's great-great grand uncle was Abe Grady. The 63-year-old said it was a great day for Ireland and all the Gradys everywhere.
"This'll be a very, very late night. This is as good as the All-Irelands in 1995 and '97. We'll be lucky to get home at all," Ms Grady Gormley said. "As the lines in the old song goes: When Grady meets O'Grady, there'll be a ruction and a fight 'cause there's a hoolie at Hannigans' house tonight."
Ali was presented with a picture of his great-great grandfather's home place by locals Assumptha Sheehan and Bella Hehir before meeting residents.
The roars went up all over Turnpike when Ali unveiled the plaque and statue. Clearly enjoying the occasion, and ever the showman, Ali shook hands with all those in wheelchairs and pulled off his famous boxing pose. Among those lucky enough to meet him was cerebral palsy sufferer, Liam Mulcahy (21), from Lahinch. "He just came over and shook hands. I was delighted to meet him," said Liam.
Mary Lawlor travelled from Newmarket-on-Fergus with friends, Martina and Sean Carrig, from Ballyea, Co Clare.
"Sean trains the lads in Ennis boxing club so they are delighted to be here. It is a fantastic day and something we will always remember," Ms Lawlor said.
Before flying home, Ali stopped off briefly at Dromoland Castle where he met local politicians, sporting figures and corporate guests supporting the Alltech-Muhammad Ali Centre Global Education and Charitable Fund.
- Barry Duggan
