Death of Lar FoleyThe death has occurred of Lar Foley, one of the most distinguished names in the Dublin GAA. Twice an All-Ireland football medallist, in 1958 and 1963, Foley was a dual player and played on the last Dublin team to reach an All-Ireland final in 1961.

He went on to manage the county hurlers in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when Dublin reached two Leinster finals.

A farmer from Kinsealy in north county Dublin, he went to school in St Joseph's, Fairview, and there became involved with the local St Vincent's club. He won minor All-Irelands with Dublin in 1955 and 1956, captaining the side the first year.

His first senior All-Ireland was a big day for his family, as younger brother Des captained the county minors to success on the same day. Both brothers played on the team that Des captained to the 1963 All-Ireland.

A tough corner back in both codes, Lar played on until the early 1970s with St Vincent's.

He died suddenly at home yesterday morning, aged 66, and is survived by his wife, Josephine, and six grown-up children.

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, said he was "deeply saddened and shocked on learning of the sudden death of Lar Foley.

"Lar was a great family friend and I will always remember his massive contribution to Gaelic games. He was a great friend to both hurling and football. It is not only the St Vincent's and Dublin followers who will share in the loss, but all Gaelic games people throughout the country.

"Lar was a man of immense talent who loved his sport. His passion for the games was infectious and he was always fully involved in every aspect of the sport. He travelled the length and breadth of the country for the game.

"I met Lar during the week at a Dublin hurling meeting and we had a great chat, and I am glad to have had that chance to talk with him about the sport about which he was so passionate.

"He was a great player, manager and supporter, and he won most of the main honours in the game, including medals at both minor and senior level and in the Railway Cup.

"Hurling and football have been enriched by his involvement.

"I wish to convey my sympathy to Lar's wife, Jo, and family. I share their loss. He will be missed."

- Seán Moran