My father in law celebrated his 80 birthday this weekend. His a gas man. He took up running at the age of 55 and has completed over 30 marathons all over the country and in New York and London and plans to compete in the Dublin City marathon this year. He believes that fresh air and a good walk can solve a lots of our problems. Most medics now agree with him. He eats drinks and sleeps sport. Rugby Soccer hurling it does'nt matter. He is a avid watcher of sport on tv. Up for the Irish V Italy game a bit of dinner and ready for Arsenal v Spurs not a bad Sunday. His attitude has got me thinking of the value of sport in our little country. Just a indication of this I had last week after our great win in the rugby game with Australia I went in around the Milk Market for a stroll. Everyone was talking about the win. A women came over to me and said that it brightened up her day and that she would be looking forward all week to the next match. I also believe that the up and downs in sport,the great wins,the narrow disappointing losses prepare us for the many ups and downs we get in life. We can learn from our sporting disappointments how to overcome the more serious setbacks we get in life. So take part for as long as you can. Help any way you can in your local sports club. Watch you favourite team on the telly. Don't be too upset if you lose. Remember you always have the next game. I suppose its not a bad philosophy for life. Happy Birthday Grandad. Thanks.             Keep the faith