PPI's.

What was the biggest thrill for me at this year's PPI Awards?
The award for 'Music Programme - General'.
The winner being 'The Lock In' on Spin 1038, hosted by one young Dara Quilty.
I first met Dara when he was working part time with the 98 Thunders. He said he wanted to try his hand at going on air and I suggested he make a demo and hand it into Toni Tenaglia (who was the PD at the station).
About two days later, Toni called me into her office and said "You've got to hear this"!
It was Dara's demo.
It's a fabulous feeling when you hear raw talent for the first time. When you can tell the person just has 'it' naturally. Well, that's what I heard with Dara's demo.
From that, he landed some overnights on 98. I was lucky enough to be the person who airchecked him in those early days and I've never come across someone so eager and willing to learn. Also, someone so able to put into practice what he was being taught, while also adding his personality to the mix.
He eventually moved to Spin, doing weekends and fill-ins. This is where he truly came into his own.
Now, Dara holds down the late night show 'The Lock In'.
He also recently started work witrh RTE2 TV hosting a two hour daily show.
This award is proof to me that the talent coming through on Irish radio these days is better than ever. We are starting to see entertainers with real savvy getting the jobs and wanting to make radio great. They know formats, but also know how to use them for the listener's benefit.
That's huge.
Way to go Dara!
The first award of many :-)

Oh and a Huge Well Done to KC in Cork on his PPI award.
Both of these guys are humble enough to be thankful and grateful. They are worthy and classy winners.