AS ANOTHER ARTHUR’S DAY comes around, and the backlash against it gains momentum, here in TheScore.ie we started thinking about which people really deserved a national day of celebration, specifically which sports people.
Keano’s Day
Why?
He may have divided opinion with his outspoken views at times but the Cork contrarian rarely let Ireland down on the pitch. His performance against Holland in 2001, when he helped Ireland to qualify for the 2002 World Cup, is almost worthy of its own celebration.
How?
Keano Day could be celebrated by taking your dog for a walk or, if that’s not possible, putting in a crunching tackle on someone getting in your way at work.
When?
August 10 was the day Roy Maurice Keane came into the world, so that’s the day we’d raise our leashes and say ‘to Triggs’.
BOD’s Day
Why?
Gentleman, statesman and Ireland’s finest ever rugby player, there are fewer reasons not to award Brian O’Driscoll his own national day of celebration than there are missed tackles on his stats sheet.
How?
Try to drop at least one nugget of philosophical gold into every conversation you have on BOD day. Start with the oft-quoted “knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit; wisdom is knowing not to put it in a fruit salad.”
When?
21 March, the date Ireland won the Grand Slam for the first time since 1948 thanks, in large part, to O’Driscoll who scored a try in four of the five games.
Katie’s Day
YouTube: thejourney364
Why?
Ireland’s first legitimate Olympic gold medallist in 20 years, Katie Taylor shone brighter than most Irish athletes at London 2012 and looks set to repeat her success in Rio.
How?
Refuse to take any credit for any success you achieve on Katie Day, thank someone else instead.
When?
9 August, the day Taylor took home the gold for Ireland by beating Sofya Ochigava.
Shefflin’s Day
Why?
Nine All-Ireland titles, five National League crowns and 11 All Stars speak for themselves.
How?
Take on natives of Tipperary, Cork, Galway and Dublin at any game you can think of. Beat them repeatedly.
When?
King Henry’s birthday is 11 January. What better way to kick off the new year?
Paddy’s Day
Why?
The Dubliner has represented Ireland on the world’s sporting stage for well over a decade, winning three majors in the process.
How
Take out the putter, pick a spot on the carpet and pretend you’re on the 18th at Carnoustie.
When?
Is 17 March taken? Oh right. Then 31 August for the 42-year old’s birthday.
So those are our suggestions but who do you think deserves and national day of celebration, and why? Let us know in the comments below.
