Published Monday, 20 September 2010
The 80-year-old veteran of 62 seasons has been one of the major voices of GAA on Irish radio, with his unique commentary style proving popular with generations of fans.
He debuted on RTÉ in 1949 with an Irish language commentary on the Railway Cup final. Sunday's final was Ó Muircheartaigh's 25th, taking place in the year of his 80th birthday.
Announcing his retirement on RTÉ Radio 1's Morning last week, Mícheál said: "After much consideration, I've decided that some 62 seasons after my first transmission, this Sunday's All Ireland Final is to be my last.
"I have always regarded my long association with RTÉ, broadcasting Gaelic Games, as a massive privilege.
"It brought the National Broadcaster and the GAA together from the time that 2RN went on the air in 1926.
"It enabled me to meet and get to know generations of great sportsmen and women and many of those associated with them. It was an honour for me to be at the source of this wonderful entertainment, to be part of a continuous and successful venture."
RTÉ Director-General Cathal Goan has paid tribute to the legend.
"In 60-something years Mícheál has become one of the most deeply resonant voices of the GAA on RTÉ," Mr Goan said.
"To say he is unique would be to understate the professionalism and the depth of the man. Equally, it doesn't capture the colour of his work, the lyricism and richness of his delivery, or the deep, powerful connection he has made both with listeners and players.
"His voice has defined GAA broadcasting for a generation, and will echo down the generations to come."
Although this was Mícheál's last All-Ireland commentary, he will be in the commentary box for the International Rules Series between Ireland and Australia in October, and will continue to contribute to RTÉ Radio on a regular basis.