Over the Bar

by Breandán Ó hEithir

Though he played football growing up, it was O hEithir's career in journalism and broadcasting that brought him into close contact with the GAA. He developed a passion for sports and a deep interest in the social life and folklore involving the GAA. Here he records his memories of the GAA and pays a personal tribute to the enduring influence of this organization on Irish society.

Genres: Nonfiction

224 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1985

About the author

Breandán Ó hEithir was an Irish writer and broadcaster. wrote in both Irish and English, and was highly regarded for the originality and liveliness of his journalism, especially his work in Irish. He was a regular columnist with the journal Comhar and also contributed a weekly column to the Irish Times. He also served as a staff journalist with RTÉ, working on the current affairs programmes Cúrsaí and Féach.

He was born in Galway City, but grew up on Inishmore (one of the Aran Islands), County Galway. His parents were national school teachers and Ó hEithir attended their school in Kilronan. He received his secondary school education at Coláiste Éinde (St Enda's College) in Galway. He attended University College Galway for three years but left without obtaining a degree.

After college, he spent a number of years working as a book manager for Comhdháil Náisiúnta na Gaeilge. He served as an editor at Sáirséal agus Dill, the Irish language publishing house, and as Irish language editor for the Irish Press from 1957 to 1963 he also wrote a column for Sunday Press.

A biography of him has been written by Liam Mac Con Iomaire.

Reviews

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

A casually written, easy followed account of Breandán’s experience with the GAA. This book offers excellent insight into topics such as Gaeilge, teacher training, life during ‘The Emergency’, the Ban and the big question.

[Darragh Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the funniest and best sports books I've ever read. A gem!