Train man Terry pulls rank to fly the maroon flag

With the All-Ireland final just around the corner, the city’s much loved tourist choo-choo is now proudly flying the Galway colours . . . despite a family clash of loyalties.

Train man Terry Mannion hails from close to the heart of Abbeyknockmoy hurling territory in North Galway, but his wife Ellen, is Kilkenny through and through

Both of their children, Chloe and Tadhg, were born in Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny, but for the next nine days or so – and hopefully longer, if Galway capture the Liam McCarthy – maroon will bedeck the train.

Back in 2012 – when the same teams contested the All-Ireland final – Terry got his train idea from a similar service being operated in Kilkenny.

“I’ve a lot of Kilkenny connections, so I’m well outnumbered if it comes to a contest of loyalties, but for the next week or so the Galway colours are going to reign supreme,” Terry told the Galway City Tribune.

The tourist train is now in its third season having moved base to Spanish Parade, probably the city’s number one tourist location, close to the City Museum – a service that has been welcomed with open arms by local businesses.

“While everyone is talking about the All-Ireland this week, the train has been involved in a whole series of initiatives like the purple flag award, tidy towns, the arts festival, the comedy festival and the Christmas market,” said Terry.

If Galway win the All-Ireland on Sunday, the maroon colours may have to stay on the train a little longer, but after that it will be flying the European Capital of Culture 2020 flags.

Local retailer and councillor, Niall McNelis, said that the train had been a fantastic addition to the city, and especially so in the context of families. “It is really one of those perfect family treats and long may it continue,” said Cllr. McNelis.