Adrian Gilmore

Adrian Gilmore talks about his involvement with the Fr Rock's GAA club in Cookstown. Having played in his younger days he got involved in the administrative side of things, and although he left the club for a time after a fall-out, he returned again to occupy roles such as chairman and vice-chairman. Adrian talks about the work done to keep the club afloat and to try and develop their facilities. Much of that work was undone when the club facilities were burned down in 2008 in a sectarian attack. Adrian recalls that period and how the club regained its strength and went on to claim an All-Ireland Intermediate title. He was also able to enjoy a decade of unprecedented success for the Tyrone footballers, with the seniors picking up three All-Ireland football titles and his son on an All-Ireland minor winning team in 2004. Tragedy struck in Tyrone when their 2003 All-Ireland winning captain Cormac McAnallen died suddenly in 2004, a loss that touched people right across the county and beyond. Adrian reflects on this time and the sadness that was felt in the community. He also talks about the ups and downs in his own life and the positive impact the GAA has had on him over the years.