They came from all corners of Tyrone to board the coach for an unforgettable trip to Croke Park.

 

The latest social initiative outing organised by the Tyrone GAA Health and Wellbeing Committee was another major success, with around 60 gaels from as far apart as Owen Roes and Newtownstewart to Stewartstown and Brocagh.

 

The group was taken on a guided tour of the stadium, and given fascinating insights into behind-the-scenes aspects.

 

And they were able to get their hands on those iconic trophies, the Sam Maguire and Liam McCarthy Cups.

 

Accompanying the party were committee members Tracy Monaghan and Cuthbert Donnelly, who ensured the event ran smoothly from start to finish.

 

Three stadium tour guides enhanced the experience with their warmth and knowledge of the history of Croke Park, details of which they imparted in a most informative and entertaining manner, which mixed brilliantly with little stories of Tyrone teams down through the years.

 

A visit to the GAA museum was followed by a guided tour of the world-famous stadium where Tyrone famously won three All-Ireland titles.

 

The tour took in a visit of the hospitality suite where players and their families are hosted after matches, followed by the dressing rooms and player warm-up areas.

Then the group re-traced the steps of many famous All-Ireland winning captains, including Peter Canavan and Brian Dooher, by climbing the Hogan Stand to the spot where Sam and Liam are handed over on emotion-charged September Sundays.

 

At Level Seven, the party visited the press area and viewed the camera positions for live televised games, with another informative commentary on the story behind print and broadcast media coverage of gaelic games from Croke Park.

The tour was rounded off with a delicious meal in a corporate suite

 

Tracy Monaghan said: "It was another brilliant trip, thoroughly enjoyed by all who took part. Both bus journeys saw multiple stories being told with serious craic and laughter the whole time as well. An absolutely mighty and appreciative bunch to have away and on our return."

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