As a nation, we’ve always punched above our weight in sporting achievements and 50 Years of Irish Sport Stars celebrates those stars who have brought us some of our most special sporting moments. This special programme takes fifteen of Ireland’s sporting greats from the last fifty years and hears their take on their own careers, dealing with disappointment, the role of sport in a changing Ireland and ultimately, what it takes to be a winner. Contrasting views of legends like Willie-John McBride, Eddie Keher and Niall Quinn with current heroes like Brian O’Driscoll, Derval O’Rourke and Padraig Harrington, the audience will have a unique opportunity to get to know the person behind the player and relive their favourite sporting moments as well.
Focusing on athletics, Gaelic football, golf, horse racing, hurling, soccer and rugby, 50 Years of Irish Sport Stars explores what has changed and what has stayed the same within Irish sport and is a documentary that celebrates past achievements, while staying firmly rooted in the future.
Commissioned by Chevron (Ireland) Ltd., the documentary marks the fiftieth anniversary of the long running Texaco Sportstars Awards. Since 1958, the Texaco Sportstars Awards have celebrated success across every discipline, with a winners’ list that reads like a who’s who of Irish sporting heroes.