What is it about the human psyche that we cannot accept our natural gifts? My late father Peter Burke loved traditional music and was an athletic and handsome man. He played at minor level for his County beloved Sligo; and won Silver at the Collooney Fleadh for playing the fiddle. He admired athleticism and all of the maxims of life were delivered with a sporting theme. As a child, when faced with a dilemma or indecision his response was 'you're either on the pitch or off, make your mind up'.
One of dad's contemporaries was Peter Horan. Horan is revered and remembered for his interpretation of traditional Irish music and sense of mischief. Both friends admired each others skill and had a wistful envy and sadness that they could not both compete in the same arena.
In company, the two Peters always greeted each other with a question. Neither of them would answer the question which was puzzling to the onlooker but was entirely clear to the pair of bucks who would then burst out laughing.
Often as not, Burke would ask Horan "why did you kick it?" and Horan would retort "why wouldn't I take the chance?" Naturally, the others in the room would be curious to know 'the story' and the boys didn't disappoint. Whilst Horan assembled his flute he would wax lyrically about Burke's prowess on the field. Burke would return the compliment by extolling Horan's ability as a flute player. Others would join in the exchange by recalling a moment on the football pitch or the rendition of a tune by Horan. Eventually some one would ask Horan was he ever a football player and thus provide an opening for the story.....
Apparently there was a football match to be played; a local derby which would be keenly challenged and attended by both parishes. It was to be an away match and a lot of 'the lads' worked away from home so getting the team together was always difficult. No mobile phones, very few cars and even bicycles were scarce.
The day of the match arrived and as the Bunninnadden team arrived in ones and twos they realised that they were a man short and the pitch was underwater in places. The hosting team would win by default until someone suggested Horan as a substitute and the game was on. The team strategy was decided; if the ball came to Horan he was to immediately hand pass it away as he had two left feet.
The battle raged on the pitch, against the odds and the waterlogged pitch, our boys were winning by a point. The ball came to Horan and in a fit of exuberance he kicked it.....right into the hands of the opposition who scored a goal and won the match.
The weary teams assembled in the pub, the match was replayed and as the pints were lowered one of the opposing teams remarked loudly that it had been a great match to which Horan replied, 'sure ye beat us in water; next time we'll play you on land'
The picture below is of Peter Horan and his friend Fred Finn in a typical pose..... more anon.
Great as usual.
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