Brendan O'Reilly


Brendan O'Reilly was an Irish Olympic athlete, broadcaster, journalist, actor, singer and songwriter from 1966 to 1970.

Biography

Athletics career

O'Reilly studied in America at the University of Michigan and was a high jumper. He set the Irish high jump record and also set the Irish javelin record. He finished second behind Derek Cox in the high jump event at the British 1953 AAA Championships. The following year he claimed the title at the 1954 AAA Championships.
He represented Ireland at the 1956 Olympic Games in Melbourne.

Professional career

O'Reilly studying drama at the University of Michigan and acted in the 1971 film Flight of the Doves playing Police Inspector Michael Roark, and also played roles in After Midnight and the television series Mystic Knights of Tir Na Nog
He is survived by his wife Dr Johanna Lowry O'Reilly, historian and author, eldest son, musician and film maker Myles O'Reilly, restaurant general manager and musician Kelan O'Reilly, Dublin, Rossa O'Reilly, hospitality investment and Hannah Lowry BL.