‘We are just delighted we were able to help’: Local pub rallies to send Galway man to 65th All-Ireland final

The 81-year-old said getting a ticket for this final was “the hardest challenge ever” in all his years obtaining the golden passes, but added he was thrilled.

The ticket was secured after friends John Heverin, owner of his local pub Donegan’s in Collon, and barman Brian Kelly did everything possible to get Harry to the final.

“We rang everyone and eventually I got a number for someone who was brilliant once I explained how Harry was a huge fan of GAA football and has attended hundreds of matches nationwide of every county and club team possible over the years,” said Brian.

“The man, who wants to remain anonymous, said to leave it with him and in fairness, was back to me with a ticket which was purchased between myself and John as a gift to Harry. We are just delighted that we were able to help and we will see him going now to his 65th All-Ireland final.

“He is like a GAA memory man. Any match and he would nearly tell you the score line and all the players in any year.”

Harry said he was not going to give up hope of a ticket until the end.

Everyone who I would normally get tickets from just couldn’t get their hands on one for me. I didn’t lose hope. I was going to go up to Dublin on the day and see if I could buy one up there.

“I’m thrilled that Brian and Joe went out of their way to find me one and I’m so grateful. It was definitely the hardest year to get a ticket. It was almost impossible. It was easier to get tickets to see Dublin against Kerry.

“I’m looking forward to it now. I’ll have a bit of breakfast and get the bus up on Sunday. I’ll have a pint before the match and two after it. It’ll be a tight game and I don’t think I’d like to call it.”

As well as finals, Harry has also attended seven replays, 42 All Ireland Hurling Finals and 32 Ladies All-Ireland finals but admits he did not look for a ticket to this year’s Clare and Cork Hurling Clash.

He has also witnessed seven counties — Louth, Offaly, Down, Derry, Donegal, Tyrone and Armagh win the Sam Maguire for the first time over the years.