THE PRESIDENT, politicians and sportsmen last night paid tribute to Michael O'Hehir, RTE's most famous sports broadcaster, who died yesterday in Dublin, aged 76. O'Hehir had been in ill health for some years after suffering a stroke in 1985.

President Robinson said last night that she had learned of the death of Michael O'Hehir with "deep sadness", and extended sincere sympathy to his family on behalf of the people of Ireland.

The broadcaster, who was "always recognised as the voice of, Irish sports", had shown his true gift when faced with the unexpected. "All those who heard his commentary at the funeral of President J F Kennedy will remember his remarkable ability," she said.

The Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dick Spring, said he was shocked and saddened to learn of the broadcaster's death. "His was the voice of Irish sport for nearly six decades. During that time his unique gift provided us with vivid word pictures of hurling, football and racing.

"That wonderful voice is now stilled and we are left with memories of a consummate broadcaster conveying the drama, atmosphere and colour of the great occasions of Gaelic sport with his highly personal enthusiasm.

"I offer my sincere sympathy to his wife and family.

GAA president Jack Boothman led the tributes from the world of Gaelic games. "He was the most famous voice in Ireland during his career. He meant everything to people of my age especially. There was very little transport during the war years so we had to stay at home and listen to the games on the radio and it was Michael whose voice we heard. He made us familiar with all the great players, even though we never saw them, and you can still feel the same magic when you hear an old recording of his.

"He would make the hair stand on the back of your neck with the word pictures he would paint. He could describe scenes that we could only imagine.

"His racing commentaries were great too, especially in the Grand National because he always had a word for the Irish horses. He was a marvellous man and a marvellous broadcaster - he will be greatly missed."

Clare hurling manager Ger Loughnane also has fond memories: "I remember hearing him when I started listening to

(Continued on page 4)