On 30th December 2007, RTÉ Television broadcast 50 Years of Irish Sport Stars, a documentary which marked the 50th anniversary of the longest running sports sponsorship in Ireland - The Texaco Sportstars Awards. The programme featured 15 of Ireland's sporting greats across a range of sports, each of whom had been honoured to receive a Texaco Sportstars Award during their sporting career.
Following the overwhelming response to the programme, we are delighted to launch 5 short videos clips on our website. This never-seen-before footage, which is exclusive to the Texaco brand, provides an intimate insight into the lives, minds and passions of these sporting legends.
Ireland's Call - Willie John McBride & Brian O'Driscoll
These two giants of Irish rugby have both answered their country’s call and legions of sports fans are glad they did. Willie John and Brian reflect on the changes professionalism has brought to the sport, how they got started and their mutual respect for each other as players.
My Sunderland - Niall Quinn
Come with us behind the scenes at the Stadium of Light. Niall explains what makes the club special, to the town itself and to the players, and gives us a taste of the never-say-die attitude that saw the Black Cats finish 15th in 2008’s premier league.
One Sport, Two Counties- Eddie Keher & Seán Óg Ó hAilpín
Cork and Kilkenny are each proud winners of a record thirty All Ireland Senior Hurling titles. Kilkenny legend Eddie Keher and Cork hero Seán Óg Ó hAilpín talk about their passion for club and county, the good natured rivalry between the two counties and what it means to lift the McCarthy Cup.
From the Horse's Mouth - Aidan O'Brien & Tony McCoy
Saddle up and take a journey with leading Irish trainer Aidan O’Brien and champion jockey Tony McCoy as they explain how the special relationship they each have with horses has brought such happiness and success into their lives.
Going for Gold - Eamonn Coghlan, Derval O'Rourke & David Gillick
Eamonn, Derval and David describe their single minded drive to be the best and how they make sure they get there. Motivational, inspiring and honest, this is a rare opportunity to learn from three of Ireland’s all time top athletes who have tasted success and keep coming back for more.
