‘What a legend’: Readers pay tribute to photographer Eddie O'Hare on retirement
Iconic Cork press photographer Eddie O’Hare, who is retiring after 47 years with the Irish Examiner and The Echo, pictured during a celebration held in his honour at the newspapers’ offices in Blackpool, Cork. Picture Chani Anderson.
The well-known and highly regarded lensman ended his career “on a high” with special recognition from the President of the GAA, Jarlath Burns.
reported how during last weekend’s All-Ireland hurling semi-final, where Cork took the victory over Dublin at Croke Park, Mr Burns approached Mr O’Hare to congratulate him on his retirement after 46 years of service.
Having started his career in 1979, Mr O’Hare said that it was a “bitter-sweet” moment to share with Mr Burns, as he concluded his final day in an official capacity as press photographer.
“He came down and congratulated me, he said thanks for all the hard work and dedication to the game over the years – I was blown away, I didn’t expect anything like that,” said Mr O’Hare.
Many of our readers sent their well-wishes to Eddie on our EchoLive.ie Facebook page.
“What a legend ... well-deserved retirement, Eddie,” commented Paul Reidy.
Liam O’Flynn posted: “One of the best, thanks for all of your great photos over the years, best wishes going forward.”
Former Echo Picture Editor Brian Lougheed described Eddie as a top photographer. “Had some great times with Eddie on and off the pitch. Top guy. Enjoy the retirement.”
Bob Donovan said: “Congratulations on a great career. Best wishes for the future, Eddie.”
Danny Collins said: “Fair play to the president and congratulations and best wishes, Eddie.”
Looking back over his career, Mr O’Hare said that there are a number of stand-out events that remain close to his heart.
“The day I started was the day of the massive explosion of the oil tanker in Whiddy Bay – that was 46 years ago now – I think my first match was probably a Cork City FC game, or Cork United they were called at the time, during the 1980s,” said Mr O’Hare.
Reader Jerry Condon recalled Eddie taking his picture 35 years ago. “Best of luck, Eddie. You took a photo of me and friends at Italia ’90. The Whiddy oil terminal tragedy was some start to your career!”
Sports correspondent Mary Newman posted: “Best of luck, Eddie, it was a pleasure to cover games and a sideline with you down through the years for , hope to still see you there.”
This sentiment was echoed by Patrick Toye, who said: “Very best wishes on your retirement, Eddie. Still hope to see the man behind the camera at a few matches in 2025.
Damien Boylan commented: “Congratulations, my friend. I’m entirely sure it’s not the last time I’ll see you behind a lens.”
Many wished Eddie well on the next chapter.
Billy MacGill said: “Well done, Eddie. Avoid the ret....... word. Actually, kick it out of your vocabulary.”
Donagh Glavin shared his best wishes, saying: “Congratulations, Eddie, hard to believe that you’re retiring. Enjoy every minute of it.”
Seamus Keegan said: “Happy retirement, Eddie.You can go to the All Ireland Final for the first time without your camera. Enjoy.”
Siobhan O’Connell posted: “Congratulations, Eddie. What a wonderful and worthwhile career you have had. Wishing you and your lovely family all the best for the future.”
Jean O’Regan commented: “Ah Ed.... happy retirement... What a way to finish up. Enjoy your time now with Muriel and the lads.”
“Congratulations Eddie. Thanks for all the great photos over the years. Happy retirement,” added Catherine Sheehan.
Linda Horgan O’Meara stated: “Congrats, Eddie. Best wishes on your retirement. No doubt I’ll see more of you in DC now.”
Barbara O’Connell commented: “Congrats, Ed. Hope we ll see more of you and your shorts up the Dyke now.”
Manus O’Callaghan summed up Eddie well when he simply said: “Eddie... a gentleman and a lovely fella.”
We couldn’t let this week pass by without also mentioning the topic on everyone’s lips, Cork’s return to the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Final following a landslide win over Dublin in the semi-final.
The Rebels are hoping three is the magic number and that they will get their third win of the Championship over Tipperary to take home the Liam MacCarthy.
In our comment section, Nick Flavin asked: “Should Tipp even bother turning up for Cork’s coronation?”
Facebook user Cork Rebel Rebel Cork replied: “It will be some game.”
Mike Crowley also added: “It’s all to be seen on the day.”
Brian O’Sullivan, however, didn’t want to write the Premier off so soon:
“That’s a stupid comment. We can take nothing for granted. An attitude like yours could cost games.”
Dee Cee was in agreement with Nick Flavin and bursting with confidence: “Probably not after watching them struggle to beat one of the worst Kilkenny teams ever to play in Croke Park.”
But hethen added: “The Rebels have nothing to fear only themselves.”
Mike Crowley predicted a good game ahead: “Going to the wire.”
Cork Rebel Rebel Cork replied: “Yes, Mike, roll it on in two weeks’ time.”
Siobhan NI Maolmhuaidh was excited for the clash of the ash on Sunday week: “I can’t wait. From a Tipp woman living in Cork, I will have to get a half and half jersey.”
Hugh O’Sullivan cheered on the Cork team: “Come on the Rebels, and let’s make up for last year’s disappointing result. Corcaigh abú.”
Cork Rebel Rebel Cork was back once more to say: “It will be some game, bring it on.”
Brian O Tuama said: “Finals are only about one thing and that’s winning.”
Tadhg Oc said back: “100 per cent agreed. Leave enjoying the occasion and ‘just happy to be there’ to the others. Cork has a hurling legacy to get.”
Dee Cee remarked: “Just go out and go for the jugular, be ruthless, no complacency.
“Last year was a harsh lesson. No slip-ups this time please.”
John Doherty had some advice for Pat Ryan: “They’d want to tighten up at the back a bit.”
Here’s hoping that our Facebook Feedback after the clash will feature comments celebrating our All-Ireland win.
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