By Kathleen Mullane

‘Oh What a Night’ 

Well, if you remember that song “Oh what a Night”? -Well, this well and truly could have been “The Anthem” of last Friday night’s commemoration celebration of the 1963 Jnr County Team and the 1968 Senior County Team, both who were celebrating their ‘55th’ and ‘50th’ anniversaries. From early evening onwards team members, GAA followers, photographers, dignitaries and a whole lot more descended on The Devon Inn in Templeglantine. Many of those attending hadn’t met for years and the sense of excitement, joy, camaraderie etc filled the air!

The teams were presented with maroon crested ties which they proudly donned for the photos, all looking so well. After much chatting all sat down to a lovely meal for which the hotel must be complimented. John Hunt was M.C. For the night and did a brilliant job, introducing the various speakers – e.g. The ‘Bomber Liston’, John Cregan, Liam Lenihan, Seamus Flanagan (who brought the Liam McCarthy Cup with him), all who praised the gallant men of ‘63 and ‘68. Paul Curry, chairman, thanked everyone for their support for the club – buying draw tickets etc. (fund-raising is continuous as there’s still a lot of work to be done) even this week new track lights have gone up. The players were presented with their booklets (so well put together by Jamie Kelly of Clash. Well done Jamie) and they also received a medal. It was an emotional night for all of them especially for the families who collected their award on behalf of their deceased family members.

Sincere thanks is extended to all who gave spot-prizes in the ‘Lucky Dip’ draw which helped to defray some of the expenses of the night. The top prize of the ‘Red Cow Voucher’ went to Anne-Marie Horgan, The Garage, Athea. A surprise guest who appeared on the night was none other than Brendan Grace, who gave everyone a great laugh. Dancing with Neily O’Connor had everyone out on the floor all night – followed by the disco with Declan O’Carroll. In all it was a fabulous celebration which will be spoken about for a while. Well done to all the organisers and everyone who made the celebration so special and memorable.

Congrats to Mary Kelly of Coole West who celebrated her 80th birthday last week along with her family in Kerry at the Castlemartyr Hotel. They all had a great celebration.

Next Saturday morning we will have our own ‘St. Francis of Assisi’ when Fr. Duggan will bless all your animals at 11am outside the church. All are welcome with their dogs, cat, rabbits or any animals they may have – I presume ‘bulls’ and the like are prohibited!

Thanks to all who gave to the Epilepsy collection last weekend. A total of €595 was raised for the cause.