Local Notes: Charlestown's golden oldies roll back the years in GAA tie
The two teams from Charlestown Sarsfields GAA Club who took part in the annual Michael Byrnes Memorial in Fr O’Hara Park on St Stephen’s Day.
The annual challenge for the Michael Byrnes Memorial Cup took place in its usual St Stephen's Day slot as the good and great descended on Fr O'Hara Park to take part in an event that always generates a terrific amount of interest as the club honoured the memory of one of our greatest Gaels who was taken long before his time.
The Byrnes family were well represented with Michael's parents, Michael and Sadie, and sister Maureen and husband Damien in attendance along with several other members of the extended clan. The day held up well with conditions remaining dry throughout as proceedings got underway with the senior Sarsfields ladies taking on the Gaelic Mothers & Others team in an interesting curtainraiser that provided plenty of thrills and spills as the ladies ran themselves into the ground with the scores flowing freely at both ends. The Sarsfields ladies senior team had it all to do to stave off the challenge of a determined and fired up Gaelic Mothers & Others team who had plenty of talent on show as they pushed their opponents all the way to the final whistle in an enjoyable encounter.
The main event featured a clash between the Over-30s and their Under-30 counterparts which threw in at 12.15pm approximately with both teams stacked with some iconic talent. The Over-30s went big once again as they rolled out some of the big guns from yesteryear with the likes of David Tiernan, John Casey, Aidan and Dermot Higgins, Podsie Horkan, Paul Mulligan, Brian O`Connell, Pat Breheny, Ryan and Dean O'Connor, Vinny Doc, Darragh McMeel, Mark Caffrey, Liam Breheny, Ronan Kenny et al adding some real stardust to a team that was led by the inspirational Anthony Conway who once again led from the front and had his charges well fired up as they brought some serious intensity to the paddock and were in no mood to take a backward step throughout.
The Under-30s had plenty of talent of their own to call upon with Paul Towey Sean Dunleavy, Ciaran Honeyman, Niall Towey, Gavin Honeyman, Eoin Flannery, Jack Mahon, Ruairi Cullen and Gareth O'Donnell providing plenty of skill, physicality and fitness not to mention motivation as they were determined to run the legs off their older counterparts and strip them of their title and restore some pride after last year's narrow defeat in the final.
The referee for the occasion was the incomparable James Breheny who added another string to his considerable bow as he took to the role of referee like a duck to water and applied a very commonsense-like approach to the application of the rules with the whistle being used very sparingly, to say the least, which curried favour with both teams.
The game was a slow burner with the Over-30s using their guile and craft to navigate their way to the goals which involved lots of slick passing and interplay that yielded plenty of profit it must be said as they kicked some good scores with the likes of Paul Mulligan, Mark Caffrey, David Tiernan and Podsie Horkan providing some timely reminders that class always remains permanent as they guided over some delicious points to keep the reigning champs on the front foot.
The Under-30s countered with some good scores of their own with Paul Towey leading the way in this regard as he clipped over some nice points ably assisted by Gareth O'Donnell, who was a useful source of possession at full forward for the younger brigade and kept the scoreboard ticking over in their favour with some tidy shooting. His eligibility for the Under-30s team raised some eyebrows before the throw-in as the Over-30s queried his age seeing as he had turned 30 recently but the spirit of goodwill prevailed as the Over-30s withdrew their objection. They then got on with the job of retaining their title which involved straining every muscle and sinew in the process as the scores dried up and pace slowed and bodies began to seize up which played very much into the hands of the younger lads who laid siege to the over-30s goal in the hope of securing a late winner. The auld lads held firm, however, with John Casey pulling off a terrific point blank save at the death to deny Jack Mahon who held his hands in disbelief as Casey rolled back the years and kept his goal intact with some remarkable reflexes.
The final whistle was greeted with a sigh of relief on all sides as fuel tanks were running on empty with referee James Breheny reading it correctly as he sensed the time was right to call a halt. There was a lot of contention and debate over the final score but when young James had the maths done he was happy to announce that the spoils were shared which led to all manner of consternation and objection in the Under-30 camp as they were adamant they had won by at least a point. They weren't long pulling their horns in when David Tiernan and company bared their teeth with Michael Byrnes Senior on hand to present the cup to the captain marvel Anthony Conway as the club constitution decreed that in the event of a draw the cup stays in the hands of the reigning champs, which gave rise to all manner of celebrations as the old brigade took hold of the Michael Byrnes Memorial Cup for another year.
There were some standout performances on both sides of the divide with David Tiernan producing some moments of wizardry as he beguiled and charmed with that magical left foot. Aidan and Dermot Higgins remain in tremendous shape as they ran and ran and ran until their opponents had nothing more to offer. Enda Casey shaped well when in possession but getting the ball proved the hard part with Vin Doherty also flitting in and out with some deft touches. Mark Caffrey was as economical as ever in possession with Tony Conway leading the line well albeit his movements were slightly restricted at times.
John Casey's last gasp save was worth the admission fee alone but heaven help us we'll never the end of it for the rest of the year! Podsie's left peg remains a true work of art as he dazzled and weaved some pretty patterns when given the ball with Darragh McMeel continuing to move and play like a man many years younger. Ronan Kenny looked like he was making a pitch for inclusion on the Lions tour of 2025 as he biffed, bashed and swatted his way over the gain line and made some notable yardage for the golden oldies when in possession.
The younger generation had their stars to with Paul Towey, Sean Dunleavy, Gareth O'Donnell, Paddy Walsh who had a foot in both camps, Ruairi Cullen, Jack Mahon and others making some good plays but, all in all, the older generation held sway and bullied their way to victory.
The game had a charitable undertone as always with over €1,200 raised, which was a noble effort indeed with all the proceeds going towards the Charlestown branch of St Vincent De Paul. It was a rousing effort from all concerned as everybody dug deep and supported this most worthy of causes.
The Michael Byrnes Memorial Cup continues to be an integral part of the club calendar and after the presentations were made everybody adjourned to the sanctuary of the dressing rooms for some refreshments with tea and cake providing some welcome sustenance to the players and supporters as the post-mortem begun in earnest. It was a cracking end to a wonderful day with the club paying homage to a special event in memory of a wonderful Gael whose memory continues to burn brightly in the hearts and minds of all who knew and admired him.
Congratulations are extended to Lauren O'Donnell, daughter of Eamon and Sharon O'Donnell, Ardara, Charlestown and Gary Keane, son of Michael and Pauline Keane, Carn, Charlestown on their recent engagement.
Congratulations are also extended to Abigail Doherty, daughter of David and Mae Doherty, Tavneena, Charlestown on her engagement to Mickey McDonnell, Cloonfad, Co Roscommon recently.
Congratulations are extended to Nicola Meehan, daughter of Tom and Bernie Meehan, Rooskey on her recent engagement to John Morgan, Newry, Co Down.
The wedding took place at St John Evangelist Church, Tubbercurry, Co Sligo of Kiefer Craig, son of George and Brenda Craig, The Square, Charlestown and Helen Gilmartin, daughter of Pat and Marion Gilmartin, Drimrue, Tubbecurry, Co Sligo.
The ceremony was performed by Fr Vincent Sherlock, PP Tubbercurry. Bestman was Shaun Walsh, friend of the groom, and the groomsmen were Philip and Cian Craig and Luke Colleran, brothers and friend of the groom.
Maid of Honour was Maria Gaffney, sister of the bride, and the other bridesmaids were Teresa Gilmartin, cousin of the bride, and Jackie Walsh, friends of the bride. Flower girl was Grace Gaffney, niece of the bride. The reception was held in Lough Rynn, Mohill, Co Leitrim. We wish Kiefer and Helen health and happiness and many years of marital bliss.
Swinford Butterfly Garden AGM takes place on Monday, January 8, at 8pm in the Cruinniú Office (across from the AIB Bank, Swinford).
All are welcome to attend.
If anyone would like to receive a Silver or Gold Pioneer Pin or indeed become a member of the Diocesan Pioneer Association, please e-mail achonrypioneers@gmail.com or contact Thomas on 087-2344338.
Could you spare two hours a month to help the Community Coffee Morning team team? You will meet new people, have some fun, all the while helping others along the way. For more information, contact Patricia (086-8514682) or Sinead (087-2997049) or email info@charlestown.ie.
Mayo Flourish Social Prescribing Service, in conjunction with the HSE and delivered through The Family Centre, Castlebar, is now available in the Charlestown/Carracastle and surrounding East Mayo area.
Lisa is the link worker in the area and is available to confidentially meet you to discuss ways in which you can connect with your local community.
Do you sometimes feel your life could be more enjoyable? Have you recently experienced a change in life such as retirement, a health issue, becoming a parent, change in employment, new to your area, relationship changes, etc? If so, Flourish is maybe for you.
Flourish will also be running programmes in the East Mayo area over the winter period. Contact Lisa for further details on 086-2599699 or email lmarren.flourish@thefamilycentre.com or check out the website www.familycentre.com.
Flourish Social Prescribing Service is free of charge.
Charlestown District and Development Association is seeking to encourage the wearing of Hi-Vis materials in the local area when people are walking or running the roads.
They kickstarted this initiative a fortnight ago by distributing vests of all sizes (kids/adults) to members of the local East Mayo Athletics Club before their recent training session.
The association is, of course, also encouraging non-running groups and individuals to be seen, so if you happen to require a hi-visibility vest, you can collect one at the following locations: Charlestown Recreation Centre (CBD Sports Complex) from 10.30am to 1.30pm, Monday to Friday (except Wednesdays when it is 10.30am to 12 noon); Charlestown Development Association (Barrack Street, 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday).
Supplies are somewhat limited but the Development Association will do its best to meet any potential demand. They encourage all of you walking, cycling or running the roads and footpaths to please come on board with this initiative and help make the roads and paths safer for everyone.
The weekly bridge game will resume in Walsh's Bar, Main Street, Charlestown on Wednesday, January 10th, and the club would like to wish all their members and players a very happy and prosperous New Year.
Achonry Accord Counselling Service has relocated from Charlestown to the Bishop's House, Ballaghaderreen.
It offers marriage and relationship counselling in a secure setting, facilitating couples and individuals to explore, reflect upon and work to resolve difficulties that arise in their relationships. Contact 094-9022214 or email accordcastle-bar@gmail.com.
The weekly 25-card drive will resume in Walsh's Bar, Main Street, Charlestown on Tuesday, January 9th, at 9pm. All are welcome and new members are especially welcome.
St Vincent De Paul respects the dignity of those who contact them, offering assistance and advice when sought, assisting people towards long-term self-sufficiency in a relationship of friendship, trust and confidentiality. If you need them, please contact 086-8892098.
Charlestown and District Development Association's annual general meeting will take place in the coming weeks. More news anon.
The library is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12 noon to 7pm and Saturdays from 11am to 4pm.
There has been a terrific response to the library since its re-opening and people are encouraged to pop in and say hello to the new librarian Elizabeth and pick up a book from the well-stocked shelves with something for everyone available and on display.
Mayo Cancer Support offer a range of emotional support to people with cancer and their families. For more information, call 094-9038407.
'We Are Mayo' book is a great read
'We Are Mayo', which was penned by Dr Tom Brett and Sean Rice, has been getting lots of traction recently with a mention on the Joe Duffy Live Line programme generating several online sales.
It's a fabulous production with some beautiful images and photography with the hardback version in the bookshops only enhancing and adding to a terrific book which would be a lovely present to gift someone over the Christmas period. The book is available for purchase in all bookshops and can also be bought online.
I would heartily recommend you put it on your shopping/Christmas gift list as it portrays Mayo in a wonderful light and showcases some real hidden gems that are well deserving of a visit and view when making the journey through the huge landscape that is Mayo. The book retails at €25 and is a steal at that price.
The Mayo branch of Enable Ireland requires volunteers in all areas of the county to work with children with a disability.
Volunteers usually work one-on-one with a child within their home but also within their community or at the Enable Ireland centre in Castlebar. No more than three hours are required per week and work can be arranged around a person's availability. Training is provided.
If you are interested, please contact Fiona at 087-6808350 or email fscully@enableireland.ie for further information. This is a rewarding activity and volunteers are very positive about their experience.
Life after bereavement can feel very lonely. Trained facilitators conduct a weekly bereavement support meeting at the Family Centre, Knock Shrine, each Wednesday at 11am.
There is also a special meeting for bereaved partners/spouses on the first Thursday of each month at 11am. No appointment needed.
Further information from Monica Morley at 094-9375320.
Active retirement meetings take a break for the Christmas holiday period and will resume in the third week of January 2024. The committee wish all its members a very happy and peaceful Christmas and a healthy and happy New Year.
There was no winner of the Curry GAA Lotto jackpot of €2,900 in the weekly draw held on Tuesday night, December 26th, when the numbers drawn were 1, 5, 14 and 27. The following were the winners of the five €20 prizes: Michael Henry, Nicole Loftus, Paul Cunney, Tommy Henry, and Gary Maye.
Tickets can be bought in several outlets or via the club's Facebook and Twitter pages.
GROW is a mental health support programme based on lived experience. This means GROW groups are a meeting of peers, who are striving to develop and maintain good mental health.
If you'd like to know more, you can call your local GROW office on 1800 558 268. You can also register for 'Welcome to GROW', an online orientation session. This will give you an introduction to how meetings work and an opportunity to ask questions. You can also search for a group close to you by using 'Find a Group' and just turning up. No registrations are needed.
There was a good turnout at the weekly darts competition held in Walsh's Bar, Main Street, Charlestown on Sunday night, December 24th, as The Magician and the Boom Boom fought out a terrific scrap in another exciting instalment of the weekly classic.
Governor Gus was imperious in his role as match referee and ensured good order prevailed throughout with both men behaving impeccably as a result.
Boom Boom made the better start and dashed his way into a one-set lead with some sizzling finishing which put the Magician on the back foot as he struggled with his accuracy and precision. Boom Boom tightened his grip on the match as he raced away with the second set to leave his opponent in a spin as he just couldn't string any together with his darts.
Boom Boom was in bullish form ahead of the start of the third set as he whipped the crowd up into a frenzy and they responded in spades as the venue took on a real Ally Pally feel.
Boom Boom continued to plunder his way through the trebles with a treble eighteen, double eighteen sealing the first leg as the Magician cut a very forlorn figure in the background. Boom Boom was in the zone and he continued on his merry way in the second leg with a super bull eye finish leaving him one leg away from victory as the Magician bore a very disgruntled look as he just couldn't generate any momentum or traction when among the darts.
The third leg went the way of all the previous ones as Boom Boom fired all the big numbers to win the race to the doubles and when there the outcome was never in doubt as he wrapped it up in three with a cute treble ten, double eight finish to seal a terrific victory, his sixth of the year which sees him finish the season at number three in the world rankings which is testimony to his consistency and durability as he remains one of the toughest players to beat on the circuit.
It was a day to forget for the Magician as he never laid a glove on his opponent but he had another very good and steady year and is a fixture in the top five as he looks to push on and regain some form in the New Year. Well done to Boom Boom and he celebrated in style to bring the curtain down on another epic year at the nerve centre of darts in the town.
There was no winner of the Charlestown Sarsfields GAA Lotto jackpot of €9,500 in the weekly draw held on Sunday night, December 24th. The numbers drawn were 12, 14, 25 and 30.
The winners of the two €50 weekly prizes were Nikki Murphy and Tomás Goldrick.
To coincide with the Christmas season, the club also gave away two €150 online One-For-All vouchers and the winners were Angela Haran and James Kilroy.
Next week's jackpot will increase to €9,700 unless the jackpot was won on New Year's Eve. Tickets are on sale in a number of outlets in the town and are also available on the online platform which can be accessed via www.smartlotto.ie or the club's Facebook page. The club would like to thank all who played and supported the weekly lotto in 2023, the support is very much appreciated.
