Mike Finnerty
THERE was widespread sadness across the county and beyond today as news broke that Austin Garvin, one of Mayo’s best-known sports journalists, had died peacefully.
Austin, who managed Mayo to All-Ireland Minor football titles in 1971 and 1978, had worked with The Mayo News as a news and sports reporter for the last 20 years.
A native of Claremorris, the 75 year-old was one of the region’s most respected and experienced GAA journalists, and was renowned for his passion and interest in Gaelic football at underage, colleges and minor level, in particular.
Austin was also the chief boxing and golf correspondent for The Mayo News for many years.
“We were all deeply saddened to hear of our great colleague, Austin’s, passing,” said Michael Duffy, editor of The Mayo News.
“Austin was a valued member of our team for many years and was always diligent and meticulous in everything he did. He did great work in the Claremorris area for us as a news reporter, but it was working with our sports department where he really excelled.
“Austin’s knowledge of Gaelic football, boxing and golf was second-to-none, and he brought that expertise and experience to bear in his journalism.
“He was a loyal and hard-working colleague, a respected journalist, and a wonderful ambassador for our newspaper.
“On behalf of the management and staff of The Mayo News, I would like to extend our sincerest sympathies to Austin’s family and friends. His passing leaves a great void.”
Austin will be sadly missed by his wife Mary, sons Paul and Adrian, daughter Deirdre, and brothers Tom, Michael and Philip, as well as his extended family and his wide circle of friends.
Austin’s remains will repose at Gilligan’s Funeral Home, Market Square, Claremorris from Friday evening at 6pm until 8pm.
His remains will arrive at St Colman’s Church, Claremorris for Funeral Mass on Saturday at 1pm with burial afterwards in St Colman’s Cemetery.