Tributes pour in following the passing of Athlone sporting legend
Tributes are being paid following the sad and sudden passing of one of Athlone's most loved and respected sporting figures.
Padraig 'Amby' Fogarty passed away suddenly on Monday, aged 62, and the sporting community in Athlone and beyond has been paying tribute to his undoubted legacy.
'Amby' was an absolute stalwart of Athlone GAA Club and the club said: 'We are devastated with the sudden loss of our clubman 'Amby' Fogarty".
Members gathered in the clubhouse on Monday night to remember a "beloved friend".
The late Mr Fogarty was also renowned for his prowess on the soccer pitch and one of his former clubs, Willow Park FC, said: 'It is a deeply sad day for everyone at Willow Park FC as we mourn the sudden passing of 'Amby' Fogarty.
'Amby' holds a special place in the history and hearts of our club as the first ever senior player registered for Willow Park. His name will forever be part of our story, and he is fondly remembered by all who knew him here. His son Brian, who plays for our senior teams, and his grandchildren all wear the Willow Park colours. To Amby’s family and friends, and to everyone mourning his loss, we send our deepest condolences and all our love and support'.
The Southern Gaels hurling and camogie club added its condolences, saying: 'Everyone at Southern Gaels is shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Athlone GAA legend 'Amby' Fogarty. Deepest condolences to his family, friends and Athlone GAA Club on the sudden and heartbreaking passing of 'Amby'. He was the kindest, friendliest and most obliging person at all times. He will be sadly missed by all and a huge loss to his family and the GAA community. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis'.
A very popular figure around Páirc Chiaráin, 'Amby' carried out several roles within the Athlone GAA club. He also gave lengthy service to Athlone as a player and he was part of the last club team to win the Westmeath Senior Football Championship in 1998. Athlone defeated Coralstown/Kinnegad in the 1998 final, paving the way for future All-Star Rory O'Connell to lift the Flanagan Cup.
In 2024, ‘Amby’ was chosen as the Westmeath winner in the Leinster GAA Beko Club Champion awards. 'Amby' received his award at Croke Park in the company of his cherished family members.