To Win Just Once

Fans of the Saw Doctors (Sunday, Sept 2 on the Terrace Stage) are probably aware that a musician who played with that great band for a time won the lottery in Ireland a few years back. Tony Lambert won 1 million Euro ($1.3m) in the Irish national lottery in 1993. Whatever happened to that guy? Irish Fest Director Ronan Collins found out for us.

(Hot Press) "I think the high point of my time with the Docs was the gig in Tuam. Nothing could get close to the vibe we had that day. It was like the boys were coming home. Why did I leave (the band)? I wasn’t wanted anymore. I was never a member of the band. I was just paid to play the keyboard parts. When I was asked to play "off stage" by the manager, I realised I wasn’t needed any more. They, or he, had had enough of my ill-earned fame. I understand completely. Can you imagine a really great band suddenly getting famous because their session keyboard player has won the lotto? It’s a nightmare for them. But it was just stuff that happened and there was nothing I could do to stop it.

"So what I am doing to earn a living? I won the lotto! It wasn’t a large win but it was enough for me. I bought some houses and made some profit. I live in a country house that has tiny overheads. I have a studio in my home and I keep writing and jamming with the local stars. I have a great life.

"I had a great time playing great gigs with the Saw Doctors and recording great albums. I will never forget those times and I wish them the best of luck. I hope that they can remember our good times together. And you too."