One of the founding members of Cork’s famous Dragon Boats has passed away, prompting an outpouring of tributes to a man who has ‘left behind a legacy of kindness, support and positivity’.
Mark O’Connor was a driving force in the club that stages the spectacular races on the Lee every year. The club was one of three featured in a special RTE documentary last year, Dragon Hearts. The doc followed men and women across Ireland through a full season of racing and training. Cork’s dragon boat club featured alongside Carlow Warriors, the Donegal Dragons and Sligo’s Medb’s Dragon Warriors, named after the mythological queen. The series told the stories of “ordinary people bound together in the worst of circumstances” through their illnesses and highlighted their triumphs in sport.
On Leeside, everybody connected to the club knew Mark O’Connor, from Togher on the southside of the city. He was one of the founder members of the Cork dragons, a coach, and an ‘amazing friend’ to all of those who joined in the sport.
The Cork Dragons have paid tribute, saying: ‘It is with deep sadness we announce that Mark O’Connor a founding member, legendary coach, team mate and amazing friend to us all has passed.
“Our hero Mark was the heart of the Cork Dragon’s and has left behind a legacy of kindness, support, positivity and encouragement to everyone he met. He was the bravest, most courageous and honest man and will be irreplaceable. We are sending our sincere condolences to Tina, Dylan and family. Rest in Peace Mark. “
A member of one of the other big community groups boating on the Lee, Meitheal Mara, paid tribute saying: “I’m so very sad to hear the news of Mark’s death.
“What a fabulous source of fun and positivity he was with the Cork Dragons. He was always available on the water and ashore to help with events and training and did everything with that great big smile. It was lovely to have had him out rowing with us on the Fionnbarra last autumn. Mark will be so sadly missed.”
The funeral arrangements are: reposing at Sullivan’s Funeral Home, Turners Cross on Sundayfrom 5.00pm until 6.00pm. Requiem Mass on Monday February 23rd at 11.00am in The Church of the Way of the Cross, Togher followed by funeral to St. Michael’s Cemetery, Blackrock.
The family have asked for donations in lieu of flowers to Marymount.
If you or somebody you know would like to know more about the Cork Dragons and their great work with cancer survivors and for charitable causes in Cork – you can find our more information on their website.