Local Notes: All the latest news from Kiltimagh
Winners of the Stroke Competition at Balla Golf Club, sponsored by Brendan's Bus Hire and the Rumble, sponsored by Archers Store in Castlebar, were, front row, from left: Carmel Henry, John Cannon (representing Archers, Castlebar), Club President Maureen McDonnell, Club Captain Nora Heraty, Julie Loftus. Back row: Martina Fitzgerald, Gus Heraty, Jimmy Sheridan, Mary Jo Cannon , Club Captain Danny Lyons, Caroline Bourke, Martin Moylette, Tom Jennings, Pat Mohan, John Walsh and Mary B Prendergast. Missing were Carmel Kilgallon and David Walsh. Picture: Trish Forde
A group of family members, friends and fellow runners from Kiltimagh are preparing to take on the 2026 Dublin City Marathon in memory of the late Shane Freeman, affectionately known throughout the community as 'Peach'. The group is raising funds for Mayo Roscommon Hospice.
The marathon challenge, which will take place this October, has been organised as a tribute to a man whose positivity, resilience and love of life left a lasting impact on all who knew him. It also aims to support the vital work of Mayo Roscommon Hospice, whose care played a significant role during Shane’s illness and continues to provide support to families throughout the region.
Before his cancer diagnosis, running was a major part of Shane’s life. He successfully completed the Dublin City Marathon in both 2017 and 2018 and greatly enjoyed the friendships, camaraderie and sense of achievement that came with the sport.
However, just five months after crossing the finish line in his second marathon, Shane was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at the age of 44.
Over the following six and a half years, he faced his illness with remarkable courage, determination and positivity. Those closest to him recall that while cancer became part of his journey, it never defined him. Instead, Shane remained focused on what mattered most - his family, his friendships and creating meaningful memories with those around him.
As his illness progressed, Mayo Roscommon Hospice became an invaluable source of support for both Shane and his family. The care provided extended far beyond medical treatment, offering comfort, guidance and practical assistance during some of the most difficult moments.
Family members have spoken of how the hospice team provided the time and space needed for important conversations and precious moments together, helping Shane live with dignity, comfort and purpose throughout his illness. Their support continues today through bereavement services and counselling for families coping with loss.
In organising the marathon challenge, participants said they wanted to honour Shane in a way that reflected the person he was.
Running was an important part of his life, but the challenge also represents the friendship, community spirit and determination that he embodied throughout his life. Every mile covered by the runners will celebrate Shane’s memory while helping to ensure other families can access the same compassionate care and support that meant so much to his own family.
Representing “Peach’s Runners” in the 2026 Dublin City Marathon will be Barry Freeman, Mark Freeman, Jonathan Caulfield, Sandra Caulfield, Ger Brennan, Paul Brennan, Alan Gill, Martin Donahue, Martin Gallagher, Caitlin Woods, Julie Higgins, Denise Groarke, Brian Kelly, Lucy Foley, Eugene Hussey, Vinny Kelly, Sonia Gilmartin, Barry O'Donnell, Noelle Kilduff, Mike Ryan, Vanessa Ryan, Michelle Carney, Chris Fraser, Avril McGreal, Willie Hughes, Margaret Nestor, John Geraghty, Colette Tuohy and Gerard Geoghegan.
Together, the group will run in memory of a much-loved husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend whose legacy continues to be felt throughout Kiltimagh and beyond.
Organisers are encouraging people to support the fundraising effort and help Mayo Roscommon Hospice continue the invaluable work it carries out for patients and families across the region.
Donations can be made through the fundraiser, with all proceeds going towards supporting the services provided by Mayo Roscommon Hospice.
For those taking part, the challenge is about far more than completing 26.2 miles. It is an opportunity to remember a treasured friend, celebrate his life and ensure that his spirit, determination and love of community continue to inspire others for years to come.
Kiltimagh Youth Theatre will present its latest production, ‘Locozade’, at the Town Hall Theatre, Kiltimagh, on Saturday, July 11th at 5pm, with doors opening at 4.30pm.
Written especially for the group by Adrian Lavan, ‘Locozade’ is an original Old West-themed comedy featuring a talented cast of young local performers. The production runs for approximately 35 minutes, allowing audiences plenty of time to catch the Mayo v Louth match afterwards.
Admission is €5 per person or €10 per family, while under-18s can attend free. Organisers are looking forward to welcoming a large audience for what promises to be an entertaining afternoon of local theatre.
There was another enjoyable evening of cards at the weekly 25 Card Drive, with a fine turnout and plenty of close competition throughout the night.
First prize went to Joe Corry and Seamus Larkin, who finished on top after a strong performance. Second place was claimed by Chris Flatley and Manus Kilcoyne, while joint third place was shared by John Feeney and Kevin Heffernan and the pairing of John Clancy and Danny Doherty.
The Last 10 prize went to Philip Moore and Jack Pidgeon, while Adrian King and Dave Molloy claimed the spot prize. Raffle winners on the night were Geraldine Turbitt, Manus Kilcoyne, James Walsh and Martin Regan.
Another full house of 24 players competed in Round 3 of the Summer Poker League at Teach O’Hora on last week, playing for a prize pool of €840.
Following a heads-up deal to share first and second prize money, Pat Boyle went on to defeat Paul Walsh to claim the Round 3 title. John Borza finished third, while Michael Higgins took fourth place. The remaining finalists were Noel McGreal (5th), John Reynolds (6th), Isaac Boyle (7th), Nigel Maughan (8th) and Michael Sheridan (9th).
Boyle's victory moves him to the top of the league table on 66 points. Paul Walsh and Gerry Groarke are tied for second place on 62 points. The remainder of the current top twelve is Michael Higgins (58), Michael Sheridan (54), John Borza (51), Keith Lydon (50), Majella Gilmartin (49), John Reynolds (49), Thomas MacDonagh (39), Nigel Maughan (36) and Derry O’Sullivan (35).
The Summer League runs over 15 weeks, with a €50 entry fee each round that includes a rebuy or add-on. €5 from every entry and rebuy contributes to the league final prize pool, with the balance paid out on the night. At the conclusion of the league, the top twelve players in the standings, together with two qualifiers, will contest the Grand Final for a prize pool of approximately €3,500.
Kiltimagh Writers will launch their new anthology, ‘Kiltimagh Writers Review’, at Kiltimagh Museum this Friday, July 10th at 5pm as part of the Coillte Come Home Festival. The publication features poetry and short stories by local writers. Admission is free and all are welcome.
Preparations are well underway for this year's Coillte Come Home Festival, which takes place in Kiltimagh from tomorrow, Tuesday, July 8th to Monday, July 13th.
Organised by Kiltimagh Tourism Festivals, the six-day celebration will feature a packed programme of music, comedy, sport, family entertainment and community events. Highlights include performances by Ruaile Buaile and Spring Break, Coillte Come Laugh, the popular Busking Competition, Kids Tractor Run, Race2Glory, Murray's Funfair and the return of the Coillte Come Home World Cup for young footballers.
Festival organisers are also encouraging local clubs and community groups to become involved by including their events in the official festival programme.
Further information and festival updates are available on Kiltimagh Tourism's website www.kiltimagh.ie.
Michael Green from Bohola was the winner of the Kiltimagh Knock United Soccer Club 50/50 draw last week, taking home €280. In the previous week's draw, Michaela Kilkenny from Aghamore collected €327.
The club congratulated both winners on their success. The club also thanked everyone who continues to support the weekly fundraiser. Proceeds from the draw help fund teams, coaching programmes and the ongoing development of club facilities. Tickets are available online and from local shops and pubs each week.
The death has occurred of Larry Gill of Killedan, Kiltimagh.
Larry died peacefully at Mayo Hospice on Sunday, June 28th, surrounded by his wife Theresa, sons Damian, Jason and Robbie, and daughter Laura.
Larry was predeceased by his brother Christy, sister Pia, and parents John and Maureen. He will be sadly missed by his heartbroken family, grandchildren Max, Isla and Rian, daughter-in-law Kait, partners Kate, Ciara and Mark, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, neighbours, work colleagues and his many friends.
Larry’s remains reposed at O’Hora’s Funeral Home, Kiltimagh, on Wednesday evening. His Funeral Mass was held on Thursday in the Church of the Holy Family, Kiltimagh, followed by burial afterwards in Kilkinure Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
