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1965- 1974

1966

In 1966 the standing area of the lower Cusack Stand was replaced with seating.

1966

On April 12th 1966 Croke Park was used as a venue for a pageant as part of the 50th Anniversary commemorations of the 1916 Rising. The pageant was opened by President Eamonn de Valera and had a cast of some 800 who played out scenes from Ireland’s struggle for Independence. Later in the year the GAA invited 600 survivors of 1916 to the All-Ireland Hurling Final.

1967

In October 1967 a visiting Australian Football team called the ‘Galahs’ defeated All-Ireland Football champions Meath 3-16 to 1-10 at an exhibition game in Croke Park.

1970

In 1970 a modern 60 x 30 handball court was built at Croke Park to host the third World Handball Championships.

1971

In 1971 the McNamee Commission reported on many aspects of the GAA including improvements for Croke Park. The recommendations focused on match day facilities for spectators as well as improved facilities for GAA players.

1972

On July 19th 1972 Muhammad Ali fought Al ‘Blue’ Lewis in Croke Park amidst a fanfare of publicity. Lewis went down in fifth round but was saved by the bell and lasted until the eleventh round.

1974

Between June 16th and July 14th 1974 the Tailteann Games were revived and staged in Dublin under the name of the Willwood Tailteann Festival while the opening ceremony was held in Croke Park.