Tipperary's Rachael Blackmore to be honoured with Professional Excellence Award

Griffith College, Ireland’s largest private higher education institution, is to honour broadcaster Joe Duffy and sportsperson Rachael Blackmore at its annual graduation ceremony this November.

The College’s Distinguished Fellowship Award will be presented to Joe Duffy in recognition of his public service contribution in Ireland.

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Mr Duffy is one of Ireland’s leading broadcasters and a household name to generations of Irish radio listeners.

Professor Diarmuid Hegarty, President of Griffith College, said: “We are delighted to confer this distinguished fellowship award on Joe Duffy. Joe is synonymous with the best traditions of radio broadcasting. His commitment to public service has given a voice to Irish people for many decades; in doing so, he has made a significant contribution to the national debate.”

The College’s Professional Excellence Award will be presented to Rachael Blackmore, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to Irish sport.

In a storied career, Ms Blackmore won the Grand National, Cheltenham Gold Cup and was leading jockey at the Cheltenham Festival.

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Professor Diarmuid Hegarty, President of Griffith College, said: “Rachael Blackmore is one of Ireland’s sporting legends. Her record of achievement over the past decade has been recognised nationally and internationally. Rachael is a role model for what can be achieved when talent and dedication merge.”

Mr Duffy and Ms Blackmore’s awards will be presented at Griffith College’s Dublin campus graduation ceremonies on November 4 and 5 respectively.