ON THE occasion of the Golden Jubilee, the 1973 All-Ireland senior hurling squad members will be introduced to the anticipated 40,000 attendance ahead of Sunday’s blockbuster Munster Senior Hurling Championship fixture between Limerick and Cork at the Gaelic Grounds.
The team’s ’73 win over Kilkenny was Limerick’s first All-Ireland title since 1940.
A sprightly Eamon Grimes (South Liberties) will lead-out those heroes of 50 years ago who will be honoured at a pre-game function and introduced to the crowd before the Gaelic Grounds contest.
Also on the Jubilee agenda is a limited-edition commemorative jersey (in conjunction with O’Neill’s Sportswear), resembling that worn by the team of 50 years ago, and including an embossed pattern containing the names of those associated with the memorable ’73 victory.
In the Autumn, the Limerick Museum on Henry Street will host an exhibition of 1973 memorabilia. The venue will be announced in due course.
Around this time also, a publication from James Ludon, with assistance from Liam O’Brien and Niall Deegan (all of Cuimhnigh Ar Luimneach Supporters Group) – Keeping the Dream Alive: Limerick Hurling’s Year of 1973 – will be launched.
Certain to become a collectors’ item, the book will contain numerous stories and information about the year, with some newly discovered detail, history and previously untold anecdotes.
Limerick GAA Chairman Seamus McNamara said a lot of planning and collaboration with the 1973 team has taken place and they were looking forward to honouring this very important year in Limerick’s history in a dignified way.
“On this the 50th Anniversary these players deserve to be recognised and I would like to thank everyone who is helping to bring these commemorative events to fruition.
“In particular I am looking forward to seeing the players take the field at TUS Gaelic Grounds and would call on all our supporters to show their appreciation in recognition of the 1973 achievement,” he added.
