[1] Born in Moneygall on the Offaly-Tipperary border, Ó Riain was educated at Coláiste Éinde, Colaiste Caoimhin and De La Salle College Waterford where he trained as a national school teacher.
Ó Riain first enjoyed sporting success during his studies in De La Salle.
Ó Riain's growing expertise as an administrator was further rewarded in 1958 when he was elected as one of top Tipperary delegates on the Munster Council.
His three-year tenure marked some major developments, including the inauguration of Scór, the Australian Football World Tour, the setting up of the Commission on the Affairs of the GAA, the launching of the Club Development Scheme, and the decision to build a modern handball court in Croke Park.
On completion of his term as President in 1970 Ó Riain took over as chairman of the Tipperary County Board.