The Buckley family from Fair Street in Mallow has for many years been associated with the sport of boxing, and on Saturday last at Bishop Lucey Park in Cork city, a plaque was unveiled by the Cork Ex-Boxers Association to honour Paddy, John L., Dave, JJ and Dan, whose exploits in the ring made them famous all over Ireland. It was a proud moment for Joe Buckley, son of Paddy, as he unveiled the plaque, assisted by Deputy Lord Mayor Cllr. Dan Boyle, and Master of Ceremonies Michael O’Brien of the Cork Ex-Boxers’ Association paid glowing tributes to the family who put their town on the map with their exploits in the ring. Over 80 members of the Buckley families were present to witness the unveiling.
It was a wonderful gesture by the Cork Ex-Boxers Association to honour the boxing Buckleys in such a fashion, and the family members who attended the event in such large numbers were honoured and delighted to see Paddy, John L., Dave, JJ and Dan immortalised among the many other great boxers from Cork and beyond.
In an address of thanks, Joe Buckley thanked the Cork Ex-Boxers Association for remembering his father, grandfather and uncles, and also paid tribute to his grandmother Peg, and aunt Kitty. He also remembered Buff Herlihy, a boxing legend who lived just doors from the Buckley brothers home in Fair Street.
Also remembered were Elizabeth, Mary, Sheila, Margaret and Bride, wives of the Buckley brothers, and referring to the present day, Joe mentioned Luke and Kenneth from the latest generation of Buckleys who are carrying on the great boxing tradition.
After the unveiling, a reception was held in Glen Boxing Club, bringing to a conclusion a very special day for the family.