AFTER the success of An Audience with Mike Tyson at Thomond Park I knew it wouldn’t be long until another sporting icon made their way to Thomond Park and last Monday 18 evening it was the global superstar rugby Jonah Lomu who made his way to the legendary stadium. I can still remember the atmosphere in Limerick back in 2008 when rugby fans got the chance to see the legendary rugby player up close in person when he turned on the Christmas lights, so I knew the opportunity to actually meet the man and ask him questions would prove a popular idea. The ‘Audience with Jonah’ event gave fans young and old the chance to meet the iconic All Black and take photos with him, as well as the opportunity to bid on some specially signed auction items from his glittering career. Lomu said he liked the idea of ‘An Audience with’ format because it gives him a chance to give something back to those who have supported him throughout his career. He was candid throughout and didn’t just talk about his sporting career.
He was also happy to open up about his personal life which has seen some epic highs and lows. He spoke about everything, from his turbulent relationship with his father with whom he made his peace before his father’s death, to his own role as a father, one that doctors told him would probably never be possible.
He had some hilarious tales about his mother and his early days on the rugby field with which he regaled the crowd and he also gave great time to the younger members of the audience who were delighted to meet him. Jonah Lomu also spoke about the rare kidney condition that he continues to battles to this day and the effects it had on both his career and life. He wore a T-shirt with his personal motto ‘Power Within’, which he has as a tattoo and by which he says he lives his life.
In addition to the one-man shows that have been proving so popular, there is a French produced documentary about Jonah Lomu in the pipeline called ‘Anger Within.’ Judging by the fascinating topics he covered at Thomond Park, it’s sure to be one for the fans.
Meanwhile for more on Jonah Lomu’s recent visit to Limerick, check out page 99 for a full interview with Limerick Post sports editor, Donn O’Sullivan….
