Defend the Yellow Mantle

A powerful, grit-filled Irish drama charting the epic rise and legendary spirit of Kerry’s 1958 Rás Tailteann cycling hero, 'Ironman' Mick Murphy.

Experience the extraordinary life, fierce passion, and unmatched determination of one of Kerry’s toughest sporting icons in Defend the Yellow Mantle. Written by Ballymacelligott man Maurice O'Connell—who also takes the stage as the lead actor—this powerful and deeply moving production explores the early family life and heroic cycling career of Mick "Ironman" Murphy. Hailing from Sugrena outside Cahersiveen, Murphy rose to legendary status by winning the grueling 1958 Rás Tailteann. Staged by the acclaimed Backroom Drama Group, this inventive piece of Irish theatre expertly blends intense monologues, colorful live narration, mime, poetry, and song. Following standing ovations and packed houses across Munster, Defend the Yellow Mantle is a heart-pounding, humorous, and inspiring tribute to pure grit and the unbreakable human spirit.