This is a first for me in more ways than one, on Friday night I was presented with 2nd prize in The Arts category in the 2008 AIB Photojournalism Awards run by the Press Photographers Association of Ireland. I was stunned out of my seat and couldn't believe when my name was called out. (Neither could my wife, my harshest critic).
The last award I won was for beating comedian Dylan Moran in a game of Bomb Jack (brilliant arcade game, circa 1985)when we were both about 15 years old, it was in the back of a sports shop called 'The Sports Den' - a hastily organised competition held by both Dylan and I, the prize was a small trophy lifted from the shop) I can't remember if Dylan stole ot or if I did. I still have posession of said trophy and whilst it wasn't officiated by the Guinness Book of Records and was an unofficial competition it is a small treasure I hold over the great comedian.
I am not going to name drop any of the people that attended the awards but suffice to say it is a highly regarded awards night that is attended by most of the newspaper industry. More than 120 photographers submitted over 1900 photos in 10 categories and only one other freelance (Valerie O'Sullivan - well done) won an award which I am sure made it sweeter for both of us.
Enough from me and over to you Buzz, what do you reckon?
Buzz: Where is the photo you won the award for?
Me: Here:
Buzz: Hmm, not bad I suppose
Me: Not bad? It is a good one...
Buzz: So you didn't come first?
Me: There are no such things as losers in a competition like this
Buzz: Fair enough, and actually I do like the photo can I see the award?
Me: Please ignore the marks on my hand from your F***ing nails when I play with you
Buzz: Ah, don't be such a whingeir...Who were you on assignment for when you took the photo?
Me: The Examiner
