Boxing champion dies in single-vehicle crash

TRAGEDY?The van in which Joe Mullaney was travelling last Saturday is removed from the scene by Gardaí and recovery crews.?Pic: Paul Mealey

Boxing champion dies in single-vehicle crash


Michael Commins

A former Mayo and Connacht boxing champion died on Saturday evening, April 11, following a road accident at Knockanour on the N5 Castlebar to Bohola Road. The single vehicle crash took place around 7.30pm, close to the turn-off for Turlough village.
Joe Mullaney (33) of Prizon, Balla, was on his way home from work in Castlebar when the van he was driving left the main road and collided with a fence. He was removed from the scene to Mayo General Hospital, where he died from his injuries a short time later.
A carpenter by trade, he worked in both the flooring and kitchens business, and was well known throughout the central Mayo region.
The family had strong associations with boxing. His brother Michael won five national titles over the years. Joe won a number of Mayo and provincial honours and was highly regarded by legendary Claremorris coach, Joe Charles.
“Joey joined our club in Claremorris at the age of nine. The family has strong connections with Claremorris, as his father Michael came from Meelickmore.
“He was small, fiery, fast and had great movement in the ring. He boxed against a French selection in a tournament in the Downhill Hotel in Ballina some years ago. Joey was back in training in Claremorris in more recent times, sparring and keeping fit. He would probably have featured in a white-collar event planned for later in the year.
“All in the club are deeply shocked with this sad news. He was a good boxer and was always delighted and proud to represent Claremorris Boxing Club. We extend our deepest condolences to all the Mullaney family at this very sad time,” said Joe Charles.
Removal took place from Balla Funeral Home to St Cronan’s Church yesterday evening (Monday). Members of Claremorris Boxing Club formed a guard of honour as a tribute to their departed colleague. Interment takes place today (Tuesday) in Balla cemetery following 11.30am Requiem Mass.
Joe, who was predeceased by his father Michael over a year ago, is survived by his son, Michael (5); mother, Bridgie; sister, Marie; brothers, PJ, Dermot, Johnny, Mick and Thomas; relatives and friends.
Meanwhile, Gardaí in Castlebar are investigating the single-vehicle collision that claimed the young boxer’s life. It occurred on the Main N5 Road, which was closed at the scene to facilitate a technical examination by Garda forensic collision investigators and local diversions were put in place.
Investigating Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to contact Castlebar Garda Station on 094 9038200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666111 or any garda station.