An Post Issue Stamp to Mark 50th Anniversary of Ronnie Delany’s Olympic Gold

16 August 2006

Fifty years ago Ronnie Delany overcame home favourite John Landy on the last lap to win the Gold Medal in the 1500m at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, setting a new Olympic record in the process.  Delany became the first Irishman to win an Olympic athletics title since Bob Tisdall in 1932. 

The new stamp features a painting by Dr. Thomas Ryan RHA, painted in 1957 upon Ronnie’s return to Dublin.  The painting depicts Ronnie in front of Irish tricolour adorned with the Olympic rings.

Speaking at the event, Minister Dempsey said: “I am delighted to launch this stamp celebrating Ronnie Delany’s Olympic win fifty years ago.  In an era of saturation sports coverage and international live sports events at our fingertips, it is hard to imagine the impact that Ronnie’s sprint to victory would have had on that memorable day 50 years ago.

Commenting on the stamp, Ronnie Delany, who attended the launch with members of his family, said:  “It is a singular honour to be featured on a stamp in my own country, celebrating my Olympic achievement as an Irishman some 50 years ago.  I feel a deep sense of appreciation to An Post, the Irish Government and all those connected with the design and production of this emotive stamp.

An Post Chairperson Margaret McGinley said:  “Ronnie Delany’s achievement in winning the 1500m Gold Medal in that famous race in Melbourne has more than stood the test of time.  It is fitting that we are marking with this stamp today the 50th anniversary of what remains one of the most remarkable feats by an Irish athlete in our sporting history.

Designed by Steve Simpson, the stamp and special First Day Cover are available from main Post Offices, GPO Dublin, by phone at 01 705 7400 and online at www.irishstamps.ie

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