TURNING THE other cheek was furthest from the mind of a Co Donegal priest on Saturday night when he took part in a charity boxing event.
Fr Damian McGroarty agreed to take part in the fundraising fight to help raise almost €700,000 needed for renovation work on St Eunan’s Cathedral in Letterkenny.
Fr McGroarty, who is originally from the Fanad Peninsula, swapped blows with Liam Gordon in a bloody encounter at the Clanree Hotel in Letterkenny.
Before getting into the ring the recently ordained priest said he had prepared by cutting out junk food and training twice a week.
“I was involved in athletics when I was younger so I liked to keep fit. But the boxing training got me into good shape. I cut out the junk food a good bit, and it was great to get a few tips from some of the lads at the Letterkenny Boxing Club. I really enjoyed it.”
Fr McGroarty admitted some people might have been a bit surprised at a priest steeping into the ring, but said it was for a good cause. “I suppose some people might have raised an eyebrow at a priest getting involved in a boxing match but it’s only a bit of fun and it’s good that someone from the church is right at the centre of the fundraising.”
After the bout, which was declared a draw, he donned his clerical collar as he was congratulated by hundreds of well-wishers.