In Ireland they came in their thousands to see a magical figure
MUHAMMAD ALI visited Ireland three times including taking part in a sold-out fight at Croke Park at the height of his powers.
Yesterday, President Michael D Higgins paid tribute to the champion boxer. He said: ‘As a sportsman and humanitarian, and as someone who struggled for a very long time with one of the most debilitating illnesses, he offered courage in the face of great difficulties.
‘He was intent on going on communicating right to the very end. He will be missed not only by his close friends and family but by those who heard him and were influenced by him, all over the world.’
Ali’s first visit to Ireland in 1972 saw him beat Al ‘Blue’ Lewis in the 11th round, but the impact of his visit was felt far beyond Croker.
In the best traditions of Irish sport, it seems many more attended the bout than actually paid for tickets according to reports at the time.
He returned in 2003 during the Special Olympics accompanying the USA team.
An Irish photographer caught a touching moment between Nelson Mandela and Ali when they mock-sparred, and the South African president landed a punch on the champ.
In 2009 in the best tradition of American presidents, Ali came back to get in touch with his Irish roots. Claimed by Ennis in Co. Clare, and counter-claimed by other parts of the western county, his wife said at the time he was overwhelmed with emotion.
The family story goes that Muhammad Ali’s ancestor Abe Grady emigrated to America in the 1860s.
Abe settled in Kentucky, where he married an African-American woman. Their son also married an African-American lady and their daughter was Ali’s mother.
Odessa Lee Grady later married Cassius Clay Snr. Living in Louisville, they had a son in 1942 who we grew to know as Muhammad Ali.
Distant cousin Imelda Grady presented the champion with a family photograph, and said she was very emotional during the day.
Yesterday, the mayor of Ennis Cllr Pat Daly said: ‘He was one of the most recognisable men on earth and remained a magical figure, known and loved throughout the world throughout his life.
‘The people of Ennis and County Clare are very proud of their association with Mr. Ali and his passing will be particularly felt in Ennis where his visit seven years ago marked one of the greatest days in the town’s history with 30,000 people lining the streets.’
Clare Council will open a book of condolence at Áras Contae an Chláir on Tuesday.