Local Notes: Celebrating 50 years of Ballyglass FC
Ballyglass ladies legends played out a hard fought match as part of the Ballyglass soccer club reunion weekend. Aficionados watching the game were of the opinion that it is only a matter of time before Carla Ward comes calling to strengthen the Irish squad. Picture: Tom Quinn
Congratulations to Ballyglass FC on reaching this incredible milestone, their 50th anniversary on the Bank Holiday weekend.
It was very special for the club to honour two of the founding members, Michael Keaveney and Tommy Joe Walsh, whose vision and dedication in 1975 laid the foundation for a club that continues to thrive today. Their rich legacy remains at the heart of Ballyglass and will go on for many generations to come.
There were three nights of fabulous entertainment with David Conor & Band, Concorde and the Black Pudding Club. Large crowds attended the functions on all three nights. Congrats to the chairperson Fergal Burke, the entire committee, and the many volunteers who made the tremendous weekend happen.
The result of the Ballyglass FC 50th anniversary raffle is as follows: 1st (€1,200 Centre Parks Voucher), Thomas McEllin; 2nd (€500), Gary Walshe; 3rd (€250 Blue Book hotel voucher), John Corbett.
Thanks to all who sold and purchased tickets and to the Riaun Group who sponsored prizes.
In the Homeland U16 Division 1 Final, played in Islandeady on Thursday evening week last, Castlebar Mitchels narrowly beat Ballintubber by 4-15 to 1-20 after extra time.
Firstly, let it be said this was a fine exciting contest between two excellent teams and congratulations to the Mitchels on their win. It was a magnificent incident-filled game of football between two well-coached sides whose development and rivalry going forward will indeed be watched with interest.
Ballintubber felt aggrieved at normal full-time by a harsh red card decision and indeed the lack of another decisive decision (unconscious as they may have been) as full-time approached. Ballintubber were greatly inhibited by the loss of their captain Tiernan O Toole (early in the second half) and the dismissal of Cillian Reilly for a retaliation offence.
All of that said it is important to emphasise the positive especially the kicking of a series of two-pointers by both sides. Conor Hoban had quite a few and Cillian Reilly also a fine effort for Ballintubber. It is amazing how Under 16 boys can master the craft of raising orange flags while some intercounty stars cannot do so!
Both of these teams are wished well – they contain some amazingly talented players who hopefully will go forward and represent the county at many levels.
Ballintubber Cycling Club will host the annual Ollie Roache Memorial Cycle on next Sunday, June 15th.
There will be a choice of two scenic routes for participants to choose from – 80k and 40k - taking in the wonderful scenery of our area including Moore Hall, Lough Carra, and Ballintubber Abbey, to name a few highlights.
The commencement times are 9am and 9.30am at Ballintubber Resource Centre (F12T2C9). Please register online at www.eventmaster.ie.
Ballintubber Abbey staff were honoured to welcome Carole Coleman from RTÉ Radio 1 to Ballintubber Abbey and the ancient Tóchar Phádraig Pilgrim Path recently. The radio programme recorded on that day was broadcast last Tuesday, June 3rd, as part of RTÉ Radio 1’s News at One.
Carole explored the spiritual and cultural richness of the Abbey and its surroundings, place of pilgrimage, prayer, and living history for over 800 years. She also took a moment to chat with some very special visitors, the students from Mount Pleasant National School, who were present on their Communion Retreat. It was a heart-warming reminder that the next generation is already learning about their local heritage.
Ballintubber GAA Lotto jackpot stood at €10,400 on Sunday night, June 1st, when the numbers drawn were 6, 16, 25 and 29.
There was no jackpot winner. Consolation prizes went to John O'Malley, Colie Fahey, Paul McGuiness, Sadhbh Larkin, Vincent and Sal Mahon and Aisling Hughes.
The jackpot stood at €10,500 on last Sunday night. You can play Ballintubber lotto on the Clubspot app.
Ballintubber Abbey personnel were honoured recently to welcome Gerry Quinn and his son Kevin to Ballintubber Abbey.
Gerry, a former president of the Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland and presenter of the award-winning Quinn Irish Radio Programme (broadcasting every Sunday morning on WHK1420 AM since 1980), has been a powerful voice for Irish heritage in the USA for decades.
His visit was facilitated by Michael Larkin, and warmly hosted by Suellen McKenna, Manager of Ballintubber Abbey Trust. During the visit, Gerry shared his deep appreciation for the Abbey, saying:
“I am deeply honoured to be standing on those sacred grounds, where, from the time of St Patrick, thousands of individuals and families have knelt and prayed here on this most sacred ecclesiastical site.”
He was presented with a copy of the Ballintubber Abbey Strategic Plan 2025–2028, and kindly pledged to share the story of the Abbey with the Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland and the many listeners of his radio broadcast.
Mayo Cancer Support Association at Rock Rose House in Castlebar will be holding its annual church gate collection in the Ballintubber parish on the weekend of June 21st and 22nd.
They would appreciate your continued support for this local charity, which offers free emotional support to all affected by cancer and their families. See www.mayocancersupport.ie for details.
If anyone can volunteer to assist with the collections, please contact Rose on 083-4890754.
The Christian community welcomes its newest member Grace Delia Mulkeen, baptised in Holy Trinity Abbey, Ballintubber, on last Saturday, June 7th. Congratulations to her parents and family.
Congratulations are extended to Karina O’Sullivan and Keith Downey who were married on Friday, June 6th, in the Holy Trinity Abbey, Ballintubber. We wish them health and happiness all the years of their married lives.
On Sunday, Junst 1st, the historic walls of Ballintubber Abbey echoed with harmony as the University of Southern Indiana Chamber Choir with conductor Daniel Craig performed a spectacular concert. They were joined by the inspiring voices of the Ballintubber Abbey Choir and the Mayo Male Voice Choir, creating an evening full of soul and spirit.
A heartfelt thank you has been extended to Declan Durcan for organising the special event.
All proceeds from the concert go directly towards the creation of the new Cultural and Heritage Visitor Centre, a transformative project that will restore the derelict East Wing of the Abbey and give new life to 800 years of faith, heritage, and history.
Every donation brings the project one step closer to rebuilding this sacred space for future generations.
Help write the next chapter in Ballintubber Abbey’s remarkable story.
Donate today and be part of preserving something truly timeless.
There was no winner of the jackpot of €12,600 in the Ballyglass FC Lotto Draw held on June 2nd last when the numbers drawn were 1, 11, 18 and 36 were the numbers drawn.
There were also no Match 3 winners. The consolation prize winners were Padraig Heverin (x2), Michelle Gannon, Katie Loftus and Sean Connor. The house prizes went to Margaret Noonan and Dean O'Malley.
Play now to be in with a chance to win next week’s jackpot by going to the Ballyglass FC social media pages. Thank you for your support.
If you would like to be part of the group of volunteers who keep Ballyglass village looking its best, contact Breege on 087-6292164 to get your name added to the group. Nothing is too strenuous, just some sweeping, weeding, gardening and litter picking one evening per week.
Many hands make light work!
The winners in Ballyglass Cards on Monday, June 2nd, were: 1st, Tom Fitzpatrick and Seamus Hughes; 2nd, Pat Griffith and Philip White; Patricia Jennings and Margaret Mannion; 3rd, Peter Glynn and Tomas Solan; Dinny McDonagh and Francie Conway. The last 9 winners were Jimmy Sheridan and Mary Morrin and Richard and Mary Carney and the raffle prizes went to Tom Fitzpatrick and Seamus Hughes.
Congrats to all the winners and thanks to all the players for their continued support. The 25 progressive games continue every Monday night at 9pm.
A big thank you has been tendered to St Patrick's National School, Kilmaine for the final school visit to Lough Carra before the summer holidays. LCCA personnel are already looking forward to the visitations of a whole new group of schools in the autumn.
If your school or youth group would like to get involved and learn more about the Lough Carra education programme, contact can be made at education@loughcarra.org to find out more.
These visits are made possible through funding from the Local Authority Waters Programme and are delivered in collaboration with the Lough Carra LIFE Project. A special thank you has been tendered to Tara Smyth for generously volunteering her time. Tara brought a wealth of fantastic outdoor education ideas, plenty of energy, and lots of smiles - her support made a real difference.
World Otter Day fell on Wednesday, May 28th. While these elusive mammals are rarely seen, they leave behind some tell-tale signs especially the remains of a shellfish feast at one of their favourite dining spots at Lough Carra. Otters also usefully leave their distinctive-smelling spraint (droppings) at elevated vantage points, such as rocks.
So if you are visiting the lake keep your eyes peeled, and you might just spot a clue or two. Otters are sensitive to water quality, and the measures undertaken to improve water quality in Lough Carra will also hopefully improve the number of otters present.
Ongoing conservation efforts to protect Carra’s otters are being led by the Lough Carra LIFE Project and the NPWS, alongside research into the genetic diversity and movement of the local otter population. Please report any sightings.
The summer cemetery Mass programme is as follows: Burriscarra on Saturday, July 5th, at 7.30pm; Killawalla on Sunday, July 6th, at 10am and Ballintubber Abbey on Sunday, July 6th, at 11am.
Ballintubber Abbey Visitor Centre and Gift Shop is open daily. Guided tours are available seven days a week, including Sundays after Mass.
A selection of souvenirs, gifts, books and cards are now available in the gift shop.
All eight local village signposts are for sale in Ballintubber Abbey gift shop! Ballyheane, Clogher, Carnacon, Ballyglass, Mayo Abbey, Killawalla and Ballintubber are available in the gift shop. This would be an ideal gift, especially for those away from home.
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PARTRY/TOURMAKEADY/KILLAWALLA
Spraoi na Locha, a new Irish summer camp, will take place at Coláiste Muire, Tuar Mhic Éadaigh from July 14th to 18th, from 10am until 3pm daily.
The camp is open to all 4th, 5th, and 6th class primary school students and this camp is suitable for all levels of Gaeilge. Students will improve their Irish through a wide range of fun activities, such as sports, drama, arts and crafts, cooking, and the camp's fittest family challenge. The cost is €60 (camp t-shirt included). Registration opens this June.
For more information, contact spraoinalocha@gmail.com.
Congratulations are extended to Mary Staunton, Tourmakeady who celebrated her 95th birthday recently. She is wished many more years of good health and happiness in the future.
Mary is a weekly attendee at the social club get-together in the Halla every Thursday and is always a great supporter of community events.
May Mary be blessed with many more birthdays and joyous occasions in future years.
The weekend lotto jackpot on Monday, June 2nd stood at €17, 400 in the Tourmakeady CLG draw.
The numbers drawn were 9, 14, 23 and 25 and there was no jackpot winner. The draws take place on Saturday nights weekly and there are two online prizes of €40 and also a €40 Cairde prize each week. All funds raised support club development and the support of patrons is deeply appreciated. You can play online at www.smartlotto.ie.
The annual 2025 Cúl Camp will be held at Páirc Naoimh Muire, running from July 21st to July 25th. Places can be booked at kellogsculcamps.gaa.ie.
The winner of the Tourmakeady National School lotto bonus ball school fundraiser on Saturday, May 17th, was Nancy Heneghan, Srah, with ball number 45. The winners on May 24th with ball No 20 were Tom and Aislinn Naughton, Gortfree.
The latest draw was on June 7th. Congratulations to the winners and many thanks for the continuing support.
Tuar Mhic Éadaigh Social Club is due to meet again this Thursday, June 12th, from 2 to 4pm. Why not pop along for a social get-together, light exercise, bingo, make new friends and enjoy the company? New members will be made most welcome.
Congrats to Katelyn McDonald, daughter of Martin and Caroline McDonald, Cappanacreha, Tourmakeady who recently celebrated her 21st birthday. She is wished every happiness and success on her coming of age.
Volunteers are needed to read and perform Eucharistic Ministry in both Partry and Tourmakeady churches. Interested persons are asked to please give your name to Fr Jarlath or email partrytourmakeadynewsletter@yahoo.ie.
The Knitting Circle comes together on Monday nights in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh from 7.30 to 9.30pm. Further details are available from 087-7657191.
It’s that time of the year again to prepare for Killawalla Community Day on Sunday, June 29th. It will be a fun day for all the community, young and all.
Thanks to everyone who has supported the 50/50 Bonus Ball Community Day fundraisers to date. The next draw is on Saturday, June 14th, at 8pm.
The latest Killawalla Community Council lotto draw took place on Sunday night, June 1st, in Pakie McEvilly’s.
Killawalla branch of the Pioneer Total Abstinence Association will say the Rosary at the village Grotto after 10am Mass every Sunday for June.
The Christian community in Killawalla welcomes its newest member Honor Mary McGing who was baptised in St Patrick’s Church, Killawalla, on Saturday, May 31st.
Congratulations to her parents and family.
Corley’s of Ballintubber was the venue on Saturday week last for a retirement function for James Reynolds of Partry.
James was retiring as front-of-house manager at the National Museum in Turlough Park, Castlebar, and over 30 of his work colleagues from Turlough Park were present for the event.
James, who was accompanied by his wife Julia, was the recipient of several presentations in recognition of his sterling 24 years of service to NMI. Much praise was lauded on James for his empathy, friendship, honesty and dedication down the years. He is wished good health and great happiness in his retirement.
Partry AFC weekly draw takes place on Wednesday nights each week. Congrats to Neil Donnelly, Ballintubber and Johnny and Nonie Horan, Partry who were recent winners.
Thanks to all for their continuing support of the club.
A clothing collection to raise funds for Partry National School will be held on Tuesday, June 17th. If you wish to contribute used/unwanted clothes, shoes (pairs only), handbags and belts, please drop them off at the school before June 17th.
Partry Bingo sessions take place in the comfortable confines of Partry Centre on Monday nights each week. There are lots of generous prizes and a lovely atmosphere to savour by patrons. All are welcome.
Partry Residents' Association draws take place on Saturday evenings with generous prizes in the weekly numbers draw.
Congrats to Donal and Helen O’Mahony and Sean and Cathal Horan who were recent winners of the draw. The latest draw was on Saturday night last, June 7th.
All proceeds are invested in local developments and village enhancement.
Tickets are on sale from Jim O’Neill at 087-2860565. The support of the community is greatly appreciated.
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BREAFFY/ BALLYHEANE/ BELCARRA
The Belcarra 8K Race is officially back and better than ever – and this year there is an online registration option at www.clubforce.com.
Please note tickets cannot be bought in advance for the kids' run at 11am. They must register for that on the day or through Belcarra National School. A family entry refers to a maximum of two adults and three Under 16s entries for the 8K run.
Join the Couch to Belcarra 8K running programme, kindly led by Ann Heaney. Preparations have commenced and will continue every Sunday until the Belcarra 8K on June 22nd.
Belcarra Community Council is looking for four or five strimmers and volunteers to help out in the old burial ground.
It needs a light strim, bare rake and a bit of care to make space for flowers to grow. The weather is unpredictable at the moment, but the organisers are hoping for a dry evening in the next week to get the job done. If you can spare a little time and lend a hand, please message the Facebook page.
On July 13th, there is a One Club Handball Legends Competition at Belcarra Handball Club.
The club is calling all past and present members for an epic showdown in the 60x30 alley for a Mixed Doubles event. Bring the buzz, the banter, and enjoy the game.
It’s the Nestor Cup 2025 – make it legendary.
Belcarra Handball Club was thrilled to launch its new afterschool handball training for boys, which was due to kick off on last Friday, June 6th.
This is a fantastic chance for boys to get moving, pick up an exciting, fast-paced sport, and be part of a fun and encouraging team. Whether they’re total beginners or have played before, everyone is welcome.
The venue is Belcarra Handball Alley after school on Fridays from 2.45 to 3.45pm Spread the word and join the action - handball is back in Belcarra, and it’s for everyone!
The death has occurred recently in the United States of Mary Burke, formerly of Curraney, Belcarra.
The deceased was a sister of Ann Connor and Peggy Kilgallon to whom sincere sympathy is extended.
May she rest in peace.
Plans are well advanced for a major benefit dance in aid of a great cause.
The benefit dance is entitled 'Bring Breege Home' and will be held in Breaffy House Hotel on July 4th at 9pm. Music will be by Concorde and local artists. It is sure to be a great night with some fabulous entertainment, raffle and great spot prizes.
Tickets, modestly priced at €20, will be on sale soon and everyone is urged to come out and support the worthy cause.
Belcarra Community Council’s Lotto jackpot stood at €12,000 on Sunday, June 1st, when the numbers drawn were 24, 27, 30 and 32 and there was no jackpot winner.
The Lucky Dip winners of €30 were Alan English, Lorraine Nolan, Ger Prendergast and Caroline Heneghan.
Thanks as always for the support of patrons. Tickets are on sale in Cunningham’s Costcutter, Cuffe Car Sales, Nestor's and Flukies.
The death has occurred of Mary (May) Cahill (nee O'Connor), Abbeybreaffy Nursing Home and late of Falfadda, Ballyvary and Plovervale, Breaffy, Castlebar.
Predeceased by her husband Edward (Ned), brothers Mike, Ted, Tom, Jack and sister Delia, she is deeply regretted by her loving son John, daughter-in-law Sunee, granddaughter Araya, sister Julia Prendergast, sister-in-law Maisie Connor, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere sympathy is tendered.
Mary’s remains reposed at Kilcoyne’s Funeral Home, Thomas Street, Castlebar on last Friday evening, June 6th. Her Funeral Mass was celebrated in St Joseph’s Church, Keelogues on Saturday with burial ceremonies taking place afterwards in Keelogues Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
There was no winner of the jackpot in the Breaffy GAA Lotto draw on May 27th when the numbers drawn were 8, 12 and 15 with the bonus number 5.
There was also no Match 3 winners.
The jackpot stood at €15,700 on Tuesday, June 10th. Thank you for your ongoing support of Breaffy GAA.
Mayo Stoma Support Group will meet in the Ellison Hotel in Castlebar from 7 to 9pm on June 12th. Refreshments provided.
Text or WhatsApp 086-2444376 to book your place.
The comfortable confines of Ballyheane Centre are the venue for enjoyable bingo sessions on Wednesday nights each week at 9pm. There are generous prizes and refreshments are served.
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BALLA/MANULLA
Balla GAA Lotto draw was held on Thursday, May 29th, in Flukies for a jackpot of €4,400.
The numbers drawn were 9, 24, 33 and 35 and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Gerard Flanagan (online), Niall Nestor (online) and Mike Ralph (cash sale).
The next draw will be held on June 12th. Thanks to all who support Balla GAA lotto draws.
Congrats to Manulla FC's Ethan Canny, Seamus Murphy, Conor Moran and Jack Ryan who will be representing Mayo Schoolboys/Girls and Youths AFL U14s at the Kennedy Cup 2025 tournament in Limerick.
This very prestigious competition takes place every year and comprises each of the 30 affiliated soccer leagues entering a squad of 20 U14 players to proudly represent their league over an entire week of competition. It is a huge event, with underage clubs from around the country, represented in the tournament.
The tournament will be held this year at the University of Limerick and is running from June 9th to June 13th. Everyone at Manulla FC wishes the lads and their teammates all the best.
Manulla FC U12 girls are in full swing preparing for their trip to Newcastle in July for the Trans World Soccer tournament.
In order to assist them with funding, the girls and their management team have added a re-turn bottle bin to the Manulla FC grounds. They will be looking for support in recycling plastic bottles to help their funding. They have entered the 'Small Town Big Difference' campaign showcasing their work on encouraging people to return their bottles to Manulla and how they are helping the community. Peruse their video and assist them with the project.
The annual general meeting of Manulla FC will take place on Thursday, June 19th, at 9pm in the clubhouse. All members welcome.
Any nominations or motions should be emailed to the club secretary by Thursday, June 12th. The email address is manullafcsec@gmail.com.
Manulla FC Club Lotto jackpot stood at €1,200 for last Sunday night's draw.
Balla Secondary School students were excited to share this year's yearbook. It is a wonderful collection of memories, achievements, and activities from throughout the year which has been compiled by a group of Transition Year students. Congrats to everyone involved!
The students hope that people enjoy browsing through the pages and reliving some of the highlights from an incredible year.
The fifth-year Link Modules class at Balla Secondary School were delighted to welcome Orla Gillespie from Mayo Cancer Support to the school recently to hear about the work they do. Orla was presented with a cheque from some recent fundraising by the class.
The Christian community has welcomed Mae Broderick, Churchfield, Balla who was recently baptised in St Cronan’s Church. Congratulations to her family and relatives.
Applications for the monitored personal alarm are available at Balla Community Centre for eligible people aged 65 or over. Please contact Balla CRD at info@balla.ie or 087-1850860 for further information.
The following are the weekly events at Balla Community Centre:
Tuesday - Sheer Fitness Class at 6.30pm and Women’s Healing Circle at 7pm;
Wednesday - Physio-led Pilates at 7pm and 6pm respectively;
Friday - Balla Active Age Group meet at 3pm. New members will be made most welcome.
Saturday - 25 Card Drive at 9pm.
For further details on any of the above, ontact Balla CRD at info@balla.ie or call 087-1850860.
Balla Bingo takes place on Sundays at Balla Community Centre or online, commencing at 8pm sharp.
There is a generous €12,000 prize fund at the weekend Sunday session. Don't forget to buy your books before 12 noon on Sundays.
Balla Bingo would welcome volunteers to assist on Sunday nights. Contact Balla CRD at info@balla.ie or phone 097-1850860 for information.
A 25 Card Drive is held every Saturday night in Balla Community Centre. Call the centre at 094-9365843 for more information.
Manulla 25 card game takes place at 9pm in the local centre on Sunday nights. New players are always welcome.
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ERREW AND CLOGHER
Suddenly it’s June and the commencement of Clogher Loop walking season. Join the group for free each Tuesday at 7pm at the Clogher Heritage Cottage, Newtown F12 PF99. The walks will continue every Tuesday for June July and August.
Choose one of three walks - a 3k gentle amble, a 5k medium workout, or (for the more determined or very determined) an 8k slog. Tea and chat for all participants in the Cottage afterwards.
Martina Jennings, who is the CEO of Mayo Roscommon Hospice, was presented with the proceeds of the Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail Annual Walk, which took place from Aughagower to Murrisk on May 10th.
Members of the Tochar Valley Network, Clogher Environmental Group and project workers from the Clogher Community Employment Scheme were on hand at Clogher to hand over the cheque valued at €2,802.60, which will support the much-needed children’s hospice here in the West of Ireland.
Well done to all.
The results of the card game held in Clogher on Friday, May 30th, were: 1st, Michael and Michael Joe Giblin; 2nd, Jimmy Connor and Tommy Lyons and Gus Sweeney and Joe Thomas; 3rd, Sean Hopkins and Peter O’Malley and Martin and Thomas Fitzpatrick.
The last 10 winners were Majella Corbett and Margaret Mannion.
The 25 progressive game continues every Friday night. Everyone will be made welcome.
The Community Futures steering group are still busy with the results of the Community Survey and Community Day. The five-year plan is being drawn up and preparations are being made for the launch of the document which it is hoped will take place in July.
On Wednesday, July 2nd, at 7pm, past pupils of Errew Monastery Boys’ School are invited to attend the third Errew Prayer Service for the deceased members of the community. There will also be a group photograph in front of the Monastery to mark 50 years since the school closed and the boys joined Errew Girls’ National School.
The prayer service is to remember deceased family, friends and the late Franciscan Brothers and afterwards all will visit the Monastery cemetery at 7.30pm led by Brother Conal Thomas. All are welcome and refreshments will be served afterwards.
Please park all cars at the Community Centre and walk up the avenue to the Monastery. Older members can be dropped off at the Monastery but space for cars is extremely limited. All inquiries to errewcc@gmail.com.
