'One of the greatest' - Remembering Kilkenny handball great Michael 'Ducksie' Walsh on tenth anniversary
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Michael 'Ducksie' Walsh is remembered fondly in the handball community and beyond
Today (Tuesday, August 4) marks the tenth anniversary of the passing of legendary local handballer Michael 'Ducksie' Walsh.
Over an extraordinary career spanning several decades, the Kilkenny sportsman dominated the 60x30 traditional court game (softball), winning a record-breaking 38 senior All-Ireland medals before his sudden passing at the age of 50.
We think of 'Ducksie’s’ family and many friends today. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
The Kilkenny People’s Tribute to ‘Ducksie’ from August 4, 2016 - ‘Ducksie’ was a World Champion, and played his beloved sport right up to this week. Indeed he never lost a singles match on his own 'patch' in Talbots Inch. His last win there was last week - winning the senior national open 60x30 title.
A local carpenter noted for his joinery and kitchen work, he was a native of Kilkenny City and lived in Bennettsbridge.
He was very well known for his charity work locally - in particular his outstanding support of the O'Neill Centre which helped raise hundreds of thousands of euros.
Kilkenny GAA Chairman (at the time), Ned Quinn, expressed the sorrow and sadness of the entire GAA community when he paid tribute to “one of the greatest Kilkenny sportsmen of all time.”
“I wish, on behalf of Kilkenny GAA to extend our heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends during this very sad time,” he added.