More than Cowen

The suggestion by John O’Sullivan, Co. Cork (MoS Letters, October 15) – that Offaly is famous for being the home county of former taoiseach Brian Cowen and nothing else – was way off the mark.

The Faithful County has pro- duced no shortage of sporting heroes with some outstanding All-Ireland football and hurling winners, including Irish Daily Mail hurling columnist Michael Duignan.

On the international sporting front, Pat Smullen has proved himself as one of the best flat racing jockeys in Europe.

Golfer Shane Lowry is another who has been keeping the Offaly flag flying, while a notable success this year was the Rose of Tralee win by Jennifer Byrne.

It is a pity the said letter writer did not put in more thought before delivering his missive.

Noel Coogan, Navan, Co. Meath.