Local Notes: Climbers scale Reek in memory of James
The McNeive family: mother Bernadette, twins Michael and Matthew with (2nd from left) Colin White, the National Advocacy and Projects Manager of the Irish Kidney Association.
Over 100 climbers gathered at the summit of Croagh Patrick recently, marking the final stage of the 'Summit for James - 5 Peak Challenge', a five-day, five-peak fundraising tribute in memory of the late James McNeive, a popular teacher and community figure from Knock.
The challenge concluded on Mayo’s iconic Croagh Patrick after an incredible journey climbing the highest peaks across Scotland, England, Wales, and Ireland. Over 30 dedicated climbers, including family, friends, and teammates, scaled Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, Snowdon, and Carrauntoohil before finishing at the mountain James held dear.
James McNeive, aged 28, tragically passed away last August in a road accident. The fundraiser has raised over €124,000 for charities close to James’s heart, reflecting his passion for community, education, sport, and health causes.
At the summit, Fr Richard Gibbons, Parish Priest of Knock, led a moving blessing in strong winds, as climbers, family, and supporters reflected on James’s enduring spirit. Among those present were James’s mother Bernadette, twin brother Michael, sister Fiona, girlfriend Catherine Carr, and a strong contingent of friends and GAA teammates from Aghamore.
James’s younger brother, Matthew McNeive, who faces kidney failure and undergoes dialysis, courageously took part in three of the five climbs. This personal connection deeply influenced the choice of beneficiaries for the fundraiser, with the Irish Kidney Association being one of the key recipients. James had hoped to help Matthew through a paired kidney exchange, showing his generosity even in difficult circumstances.
Architect and broadcaster Dermot Bannon, whose son was taught by James, joined the group on Croagh Patrick, adding a special tribute from the wider community.
Every participant self-funded their journey, ensuring that all donations go directly to local and national charities, including the Irish Heart Foundation, Make-A-Wish Ireland, Daisy Lodge, Mayo Mindspace, and schools and clubs where James taught or played.
Support extended globally, with 40 Irish expatriates participating in a 'Warm-Up Downunder' climb on Mount Maroon in Australia, organised by James’s cousin Lorna Egan and friend Ciaran Harrison. Former Mayo footballer Brendan Harrison completed all five peaks in James’s memory.
The McNeive family plan to carry on James’s legacy through the establishment of the James McNeive Foundation, which will continue supporting the causes that mattered most to him.
Matthew McNeive summed up the challenge’s meaning: “James was the heartbeat of our family. He had this gift for lifting everyone around him. We chose charities that reflect the things he cared about - education, sport, mental health, and organ donation. He never wanted me to struggle and always looked for ways to help.”
Donations remain open and can be made at www.idonate.ie.
Summer excitement is building in Kiltimagh as the town gets ready to welcome young footballers to this year’s Kellogg’s GAA Cúl Camp, running from Monday to Friday, July 14th to 18th, at Kiltimagh GAA grounds.
The camp is open to boys and girls aged six to 13 and promises a week packed with football, fun, and friendship - right in the heart of the local community.
Led by coach Eugene Lavin, the Kiltimagh camp is part of a nationwide programme, but locals know that the real magic happens when these activities come to their own club. It’s a brilliant opportunity for young players in the area to build skills, get active, and deepen their connection with their club and teammates during the summer break.
Limited places are still available, and families are encouraged to act fast. The final deadline for online bookings is 12 noon on Thursday, July 11th, with the booking link available through Kiltimagh GAA’s social media channels.
Each day runs from 10am to 2pm, with sessions designed around fun, learning, and age-appropriate games.
The cost is €82.50 for the first child, €75 for the second, and €65 for third and subsequent children. For children attending a second camp elsewhere without receiving additional gear, a reduced fee of €60 applies.
For families in and around Kiltimagh, this is a great way to get children outdoors, active, and involved in Gaelic Games in a safe, welcoming, and well-organised environment.
Kiltimagh is set to come alive with music and entertainment during the upcoming Coillte Come Home Festival and the organisers are looking for buskers to be part of the excitement.
Talented singers, instrumentalists, and street performers of all ages and styles are invited to showcase their skills on the streets of Kiltimagh. Whether you play guitar, violin, or any other instrument, this is your chance to perform in front of enthusiastic crowds and be part of one of the town’s biggest cultural events.
The festival promises to be a lively celebration, with Kiltimagh buzzing with music, energy, and community spirit. Buskers can secure a spot in the competition, by registering on the Coillte Come Home social media channels.
There was a strong turnout once again for the weekly 25 Card Drive, where a competitive evening of cards saw several familiar names among the prize winners.
Top prize on the night went to the pairing of Philip Moore and Jack Pidgeon, who finished ahead of the field with a solid showing across the tables. Second place went to Joe Boyle and Denis Regan, who were not far behind.
Third place was shared between three duos: Flor Higgins and Colette Lavelle, Anne Rowley and Geraldine Turbitt, and the pairing of Michael Carney and Michael Costello.
The 'Last 10' prize went to Hilary Foley and Danny Doherty, while the spot prize was claimed by Mary and Liam Moran.
Winners in the evening's raffle were Martin Regan, Michael Costello, Philip Moore and Alo Langan.
Kiltimagh GAA Club is holding a scrap metal collection to help raise funds. The event takes place at Gilmartin Park on Sunday, August 17th, with a skip on-site from 9am to 5pm.
This is a great opportunity to tidy up around the house, farmyard, workshop or business premises while also supporting the continued growth and development of your local GAA club. All types of metal can be donated. Whether it’s a single piece or a trailer full, it will all make a difference.
The initiative is part of the club’s fundraising efforts, with proceeds going directly toward supporting activities for all within the club - from underage boys and girls, to adult teams, and a growing cohort of coaches and volunteers.
If you are unable to deliver your scrap to Gilmartin Park, collection can be arranged on the day. Just ring Karen on 087-0612079, Joe on 086-8077209 or Paddy on 085-1744117 to make arrangements.
Colm Kelly topped a competitive field of 21 players to win Round 5 of the Summer Poker League, held in Teach O’Hora on Wednesday night.
After a closely contested tournament, he overcame Nigel Maughan in a gripping heads-up finale to take first place. Gerry Groarke secured third prize, while AN Other finished in fourth position. The remaining finalists included Derry O’Sullivan in fifth, Paul Walsh in sixth, John Reynolds in seventh, Keith Lydon in eighth, and Thomas MacDonagh in ninth.
In the overall league standings, AN Other continues to lead the table with 107 points, maintaining a narrow advantage over John Reynolds, who is on 97. Close behind are Gerry Groarke with 83 points, Michael Higgins on 81, and Michael Sheridan just one point further back on 80. Enda Ruane follows with 78 points, with AN Other 2 and Pat Boyle both tied on 70. Paul Walsh has accumulated 68 points, while Nigel Maughan and Kieran McGee are level on 63, and Derry O’Sullivan rounds out the current top twelve with 58 points.
The league, which runs for 15 weeks, sees poker tournaments take place every Wednesday night at 8pm in Teach O’Hora. Entry costs €20, with an optional rebuy or add-on also priced at €20. From each buy-in and rebuy, €5 is directed towards the final league prize pool, with the remaining funds paid out on the night. At the end of the league, the top 12 players on the table, along with two additional qualifiers, will go forward to compete in a grand final for a total prize pool of approximately €2,500.
Coillte Poker Cup Set for Friday Night in Cill Aodáin Hotel This coming Friday night, July 11th, will see the return of the ever-popular Coillte Poker Cup, taking place as part of the Coillte Come Home Week Festival. The tournament, which features Texas Hold 'Em poker, will be held in the Cill Aodáin Hotel and is scheduled to start at 7pm sharp. Entry is priced at €30, with an optional rebuy or add-on available for €20. Players will have the opportunity for rebuys and late registration up to approximately 9.30pm.
The Coillte Poker Cup is confined to registered players on the Mayo Poker Tour and, due to high demand, numbers are strictly limited. Walk-ins on the night are not guaranteed a seat, so advance booking is strongly advised. Those wishing to take part are encouraged to contact 086-8988306 as soon as possible to reserve a place at the table.
The Kiltimagh Community First Responders (CFR) group is currently being reactivated, with progress underway to restore this important local service. Led by John Conlon, the group aims to provide immediate assistance during cardiac and other medical emergencies, helping in the critical minutes before professional emergency services arrive.
While not yet fully operational, efforts are focused on recruiting and training local volunteers to respond quickly when needed. John Conlon will lead upcoming training sessions and encourages both former responders and new volunteers to get involved.
The group will soon announce training dates and details on how to become certified responders. Interested residents can contact the team at kiltimaghcfr25@gmail.com for more information.
As part of the relaunch, the group has also shared the locations of defibrillators around Kiltimagh. These devices are currently placed at Youth Reach, Kiltimagh GAA pitch, the Church, the Community Centre, Teach O’Hora, and Cleary’s. Residents are encouraged to familiarise themselves with these locations.
The Kiltimagh CFR group thanks the community for its support and looks forward to building a strong network to enhance local emergency response.
Claremorris Colts RFC extends warm congratulations to youth player Tom Smyth on his selection for the Connacht Rugby Under-17 squad ahead of their summer training programme and upcoming Interprovincial series.
The talented Kiltimagh teenager, who has just completed his Junior Certificate at St Louis Community School, has been involved with the Colts from an early age. He first picked up a rugby ball on the sidelines during the club’s Minis Rugby sessions on Saturday mornings while his older brothers, Liam and Michael, were training. Since then, he has progressed steadily through the age grades, earning recognition for his strong ball-carrying ability, fearless tackling, and impressive speed and agility.
Tom, a son of Gary and Dymphna Smyth, now completes a unique family achievement as the third Smyth brother to be selected for a Connacht Rugby Youths squad. In a remarkable coincidence, all three brothers were named Player of the Year in their respective age groups at the Claremorris Colts end-of-season awards two years ago.
A gifted all-round sportsman, Tom also plays basketball for both his local club and school, and lines out for Kiltimagh GAA. He is currently part of the Mayo GAA youth player development academy.
