By Kathleen Mullane
“Athea in Shock”
The entire parish and beyond were in a state of shock during the past week when news filtered through about the terrible tragedy that had occurred in Wales resulting in the so unexpected death of Benny Collins, son of Mary Ellen and Denis of Church Road, Templeathea. Benny was devoted husband of Melanie and much loved dad of his son Harry, who had been with him on the beach at the time of the tragedy and thankfully has survived. Benny will be laid to rest on this Friday in Swansea and our thoughts and prayers will go with his parents, his wife and son, his sisters Catriona and Helena and brothers Denis, John and Leo. Benny will be sadly missed also by all his patients, of whom many have expressed their gratitude on Facebook, at him being a gifted Physiotherapist. There will be a special Mass here in Athea at a later date for the repose of his soul. ‘May he rest in peace’.
The wedding took place recently of Una Nolan, daughter of Marian and Willie, Upper Athea, to Kevin Sheehy, son of Ann and Eamon, Abbeyfeale, at the Church of the Holy Spirit, Muckross. A great day was enjoyed by family and friends at The Malton Hotel in Killarney. Congrats and good wishes go to the newly weds.
Congrats to Maireád Tierney of Templeathea, daughter of Margaret and Ted, who got engaged to Shane McEnery of Moyvane. A great party was enjoyed on Sunday night at Collins’ Bar by family and friends.
Athea Parish Festival got off to a great start on Thursday last with the senior citizens afternoon tea party at the Top of the Town. A good crowd attended and all enjoyed the food, music and get-together etc. Friday saw the barman’s race taking place on the street with teams from Collins’, Batt’s, Brown Joe’s and Top of the Town taking part which was a good laugh – and Collins’ Bar retained their title again this year. Well done to all those who took part.
“The Real McCoy” was a great laugh again on both Saturday & Sunday night and of course the Fancy Dress parade on Sunday was a laugh a minute. Minnie & Mickey Mouse were on hand along with clown Tommy to entertain the kids and all enjoyed the 2 bouncy castles at the Sports Hall. The 5k run/walk was run in dry but windy conditions and well done to all who took part, adults, young people and even babies!. The following were the deserving winners.
Men:
1st. Donal Leahy, Time: 19:18. 2nd. John Burke, Time: 20:40
3rd. Eoin O’Connor, Time: 20:55
Women:
1st. Elaine O’Keeffe, Time: 22:43. 2nd. Margaret Lillis, Time: 23:43. 3rd. Mary Sheahan, Time: 25:28.
Children:
1st. Seamus Leahy, Time: 22.35. 2nd. Eoin O’Shea, Time: 26:17. 3rd. Conor Mullane, Time: 27:27
All gathered in the hall after the race for the Prize-giving which was sponsored by Derek Curtin. Thanks to all those who gave out the teas, sandwiches, cakes etc. Unfortunately tug-of-war and slow bike race was postponed because of the rain.