Born in 1941 in Dublin Pike, Bob O’Keeffe grew up on the family farm, now the site of Landon’s Potatoes. He attended school in Upper Glanmire, where hurling was not widely played, but the O’Keeffe family were active in Cork City primary school sports. His sister Pauline was among the medal winners of the era, highlighting the family’s sporting pedigree.
When White’s Cross GAA was founded in 1957, Bob quickly became a key figure. By 1958, he was lining out at corner back, earning a reputation as a brave and skillful hurler. Contemporary reports praised the White’s Cross full-back line as one of the strongest around, capable of matching some of the best sides of the time.
The team faced formidable opponents, including Cloyne, whose ranks featured Paddy Joe Ring, brother of the legendary Christy Ring. While victories were hard to come by, Bob’s performances stood out for their courage and consistency.
His defining moment came in 1964, when White’s Cross stunned East Cork by winning the East Cork Hurling League—a triumph still regarded as one of the club’s proudest achievements. Bob’s brother Eustace also featured on that historic team. Known for his willingness to push forward from corner back, Bob played with a style that was ahead of its time. In an era dominated by uncompromising defenses—think Tipperary’s infamous “Hell’s Kitchen”—his attacking instincts were rare and refreshing.
Bob continued to represent White’s Cross for several years before transferring to Sarsfields, where he enjoyed further success. His connection to the club endured long after his playing days: in 1997, his landscaping company undertook the levelling of the White’s Cross pitch, a lasting contribution to the club’s future.