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01 Jan 2026

Birthday wishes: Well-known Mayo gaelic games figure turns 80

The Achill native reached the iconic milestone this month, prompting a plethora of well-wishes

Birthday wishes: Well-known Mayo gaelic games figure turns 80

Packie McGinty is well known in Mayo and Achill LGFA circles. Pic: Sportsfile

Both Mayo and Achill LGFA have led the long queue of well-wishers as one of the most iconic figures in the county's gaelic games scene, Packie McGinty, celebrated his 80th birthday over the festive period.

Packie is someone who has given his life and countless hours to ladies' football in both his beloved Achill and beyond.

READ MORE: COLUMN - Optimism on rise after Andy Moran’s opening Mayo games

He also serves as president of Mayo LGFA.

A statement from the Association commemorating the special occasion for Packie, his family, and his wide circle of friends described him as 'the heart and soul of our association'.

"He represents everything that is best about volunteering in sport," they said. "Commitment, fairness, generosity of spirit, and an unwavering belief in opportunity for girls to play, compete, and thrive.
"Our clubs, our county, and our players are stronger because of people like Packie, people who quietly, consistently build the foundations that allow our association to flourish."

His home club, Achill LGFA, echoed those sentiments in a touching post on social media.
"Words cannot even describe how amazing Packie is. He is the heart of all we do, and without him we would be lost."
Club members turned out in style to celebrate alongside one of the pillars of the community, and the party evoked special memories for all who know him.

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