The hurling community of Ballycastle, Antrim and further afield were greatly saddened to learn of the passing of one of Ballycastle’s finest sons, Robbie Elliott. The term legend gets handed out to easily in sport these days, but Robbie Elliott carried that title with great humility. Robbie served his beloved club with great distinction and experienced senior county championship success in four different decades. Having won the first of his seven county championship titles in 1948, Robbie’s final county success came over 27 years later, when at the age of 44 he lined out at full forward in the county final win against Sarsfields. In between these title wins he had picked up winner’s medals in 1950, 52,53 & 54. As one of five brothers, he played alongside Jim, Brendan, Raymond and Dessie in these victorious teams. His only sister, Ann, married Brian McShane, who’s brothers Paddy, Seamus and Sean all played alongside Robbie in the 1964 final against Loughgiel. Aside from winning championships with the club, he also had the honour of representing his county and country, playing at full forward for Ireland against the Combined Universities in 1954 and winning the All-Ireland Junior title with Antrim in 1959. Robbie’s passion for his club, and for hurling in general, didn’t end when he hung up his boots. He spent many years as a manager, coach and committee member over the next few years and was honoured to be elected as club president in 2016. He loved nothing more than coming along to Pairc Mac Uilin to watch the black and amber playing whether it was underage Go Games, senior hurling or camogie. As recently as last Saturday he watched on as our senior team booked their quarter final place with a win against St.Enda’s. And no season would have been complete without Robbie attending the club dinner dance and regaling everyone with a few tunes. Grace will never be sung so well again!
Whilst Robbie will be remembered by so many for his association with hurling and the GAA, he was, first and foremost, a great family man. Married to Jean for an amazing 77 years he was at his happiest when surrounded by his two daughters, Doreen and Kathleen, his 5 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Our sincerest condolences go out to all of his extended family.
Robbie will be sadly missed by everyone who was lucky enough to have known him. He loved the black and amber. I just hope he knew that we all loved him too.
Rest in Peace Robbie – The Legend.
Go raibh suaimhneas síoraí air