Local Notes: Kilmovee Shamrocks U14 girls are Division 3 League Cup winners.

Kilmovee Shamrocks U14 girls team who overcame Tourmakeady by 2-07 to 1-03 in the Division 3 League Cup final.
There was no winner of the Charlestown Sarsfields GAA lotto jackpot of €17,200 in the weekly draw held on Sunday, June 15, and the following were the four numbers drawn; 4, 10, 24 and 31.The winners of the €50 weekly prizes were Sean Melody and Michelle Murray. The jackpot increased to €17,300 for the latest draw which was held on Sunday, June 22.
Sympathy is extended to Fr. John Doherty, Bulcaun, Charlestown, on the death of his sister Mary who died at St Attracta’s Residence, Hagfield, Charlestown recently. Deepest sympathies are tendered to the bereaved.
The Sarsfields host Westport in Fr O’Hara Park for the county U12 summer league tomorrow Wednesday, June 25, with the throw-in timed for 7pm.
The Sarsfields travel to Ballaghaderreen to take on the Ballaghaderreen/Kilmovee amalgamation in the East Mayo U16 A championship on Thursday, June 26, with the throw-in timed for 7pm.
The Sarsfields travel to Belmullet to take on the hosts in round 8 of Division 1A of the county senior league on Saturday, June 28, with the throw-in timed for 7pm.
The Sarsfields travel to Swinford to take on the hosts in the East Mayo Minor B Championship on Wednesday, June 25, with the throw-in timed for 7pm.
Charlestown Sarsfields suffered a humbling 5-16 to 0-9 defeat to Ballina Stephenites in round 2 of the premier junior championship played at James Stephens Park, Ballina recently. The scoreline tells all one needs to know as the very weakened and depleted Sarsfields side were put to the sword by a sharp and slick Stephenites outfit who sensed blood early doors and went for the jugular in somewhat ruthless fashion.
The Sarsfields lined out without a host of regulars and had to work hard to put a team on the field with several youngsters drafted in to make up the numbers so the final score is in no way a true reflection of their worth overall.
The management team did their best with what was available to choose from and credit to the lads who lined out they did their best in trying circumstances.
Honourable mention to the likes of Paddy Joe Dunleavy, Thomas Holton and Ben Crean who were the pick on a tough night for the green and white with this defeat all but eliminating them from the competition with one group game remaining.
Sympathy is extended to Kitty Walsh, Barrack Street, Charlestown, on the death of her sister Vera Horan who died in New York, USA recently.
There were great scenes of jubilation and joyousness evident in McHale Park recently when St Attracta’s NS, Charlestown, secured a fantastic double success as the boys and girls captured their respective Cumann na mBunscol finals at Hastings Insurance McHale Park recently.
This was an evening that will live long in the memory with two thrilling finals showcasing the wonderful talent, skills, commitment, spirit, team work and tenacity that each and every player displayed as they represented their school, families and club with tremendous pride.
The girls were first up and they did it the hard way as they stared defeat square in the face at one stage against a very good and gallant Behy NS (Ballina), before staging a remarkable comeback as they forced extra-time with pretty much the last kick and then powered their way to victory in overtime, displaying true determination and a never say die attitude that captured the hearts and minds of all lucky enough to witness their outstanding courage. The team made extraordinary progress throughout the past year and this victory was the culmination of their dedication and commitment to training which was never less than top class.
The boys followed up with a superb victory over Gaeilscoil na Cruaiche, Westport. The foundations for their victory were laid in a very strong first half performance as they took the game away from their opponents with some sparkling football.
Their display was all the more laudable as the game was played against a backdrop of difficult conditions with wind and rain making the sod wet and slippery underneath. The boys made light of this however as they kicked on and ran out convincing winners with their first half display giving them the impetus and platform to display their full range of terrific skills.
The celebrations and joy in the immediate aftermath from both victorious squads was a very special and treasured moment shared with wonderful support from students, teachers, family members, past pupils and friends. The journey home from Castlebar to Charlestown and to the school will be one that will be long savoured and will stay rooted in the hearts and minds for many a long year.
Special days like Tuesday, June 3, do not happen without the input of so many and for this the school are indebted and grateful to so many. A very special thanks to the coaches Gemma Higgins, Principal Mr McDermott, Mr. Neary, Ms. Tierney and Mr. Kelly who helped out on final days. ‘The school really appreciate the terrific enthusiasm, interest you invest in each and every student’.
A special thank you to all at Charlestown Sarsfields GAA and LGFA for the excellent coaching and fantastic support given to the school which is very much appreciated by the staff and students of St. Attracta’s NS with this magnificent double county final success a further indication of the school and community’s ability to compete with and beat the best that’s out there in the county.
The death took place at Mayo University Hospital of Kathleen Henry nee Lynch, Church Street, Charlestown and formerly of Moatefarrell, Co Longford. Her remains were removed from Horkan’s Funeral Home, Lowpark, Charlestown to St. James’ Church, Charlestown, and burial took place after solemn requiem Mass to the Cemetery of the Resurrection. She is survived by her husband Jarlath, sisters Mary and Helen, brothers Pat, Philip, Michael and Seamus, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
The late Kathleen was a true lady who had a lovely gentle and friendly demeanour. She was a kind and considerate woman who made a deep impression on all who knew and admired her. She forged a terrific bond with her husband Jarlath and together they made for a good team as they lived their lives in the best way they knew how. Kathleen always had a wide, beaming smile on display and had a friendly greeting to offer whenever you met or encountered her. She was a good neighbour to all in Church Street and her untimely passing has caused widespread regret and sorrow in the community of which Kathleen was such a valued member. The large crowds who attended the removal of her remains and subsequent burial was ample proof of the esteem and affection in which she was held as Kathleen was many things to many people. She leaves a treasure trove of outstanding memories which her husband Jarlath and extended family will cherish and hold dear to in the deep dark days and weeks that lie ahead. The town has lost a special lady in the true sense of the word and deepest sympathies are tendered to the bereaved.
Charlestown Swimming Pool is open for the new summer season with a detailed timetable of activities available to the general public in terms of lessons, stroke development, water safety and other super courses all of which can be viewed on the Swimming Pool’s splendid Facebook page which gives up to the minute bulletins on all that’s happening in and around the pool on a daily basis.

The East Mayo Athletics Club have are running a nice competition at the moment as they continue to raise funds in aid of their track development plans. They are offering two Oasis Premium Tickets for the band’s Croke Park Concert on Sunday, August 17, with entry by way of the East Mayo Athletic Club Facebook page where you can click and follow the link or they have cards in a number of shops and businesses in the community with each line costing €5 with five available for €20. The club would appreciate your support with demand for the tickets sky high at the moment as the Oasis tickets remains the hottest ticket in town so to speak. The winner will be announced on Sunday, July 27, so get you entry in fast as they count down to some Roll With It and Wondewall which will be belting out before a full house in Croke Park on the Sunday night in question.
Charlestown Sarsfields defeated Moy Davitts in a thrilling East Mayo U14A championship fixture played at Fr O’Hara Park recently. The Sarsfields prevailed on a scoreline of 6-8 to 3-14 in a game of many twists and turns with the Sarsfields just about getting over the line with the Moy Davitts lads giving them a real run for their money in a high scoring very enjoyable contest.
The Sarsfields have been scoring goals for fun all year and this priceless commodity stayed with them and just as well it did as they got a real challenge from a Moy Davitts team that carried plenty of threat of their own in what turned into a real shootout in the true sense of the word.
The Sarsfields have some real proven goal getters in their ranks however and they came up with the goods when the need was greatest with Liam Giblin, Michael Haran, Cillian Doherty, James McCann, Ryan Rowley and Cillian O’Grady all doing the damage from a Charlestown Sarsfields perspective as they followed up their division 3 league success with another super performance putting them firmly in the frame for an East Mayo title which looks well within their scope on the back of this victory against a very good and stylish Moy Davitts side.
The garden is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 2.30pm and is well worth checking out as the committee have a fantastic display of shrubs, plants and vegetables on display with the place looking an absolute picture as it embraces the long evenings and warmer temperatures. The raised beds are a huge addition to the garden and the committee continue to beaver away making subtle and significant changes to make it bigger and better with so much to recommend as it continues to draw lavish praise and admiring glances across all strands of the community and beyond.
Charlestown Sarsfields senior ladies lost out narrowly to Moy Davitts in the semi-final of the Melissa Patterson senior league played at the Moy Davitts GAA grounds recently. The Moy Davitts shaded it on a score line of 1-13 to 2-6 with the Sarsfields ladies coming up just short in a game that was evenly contested throughout.
The Sarsfields were missing their county contingent which weakened their hand but Moy Davitts, too, were also depleted with both sides having to make light of their losses The Sarsfields were always in contention with their ability to score goals once again coming to the fore but the Foxford ladies stayed strong and kicked some good points coming down the home stretch to eke out the victory and qualify for the final with the Sarsfields left to lick their wounds as they look to put this defeat behind them and focus on their preparations for the senior championship which kicks off in late Summer.
Mayo Karate Academy are enrolling new members for karate classes in Claremorris. These classes are suitable for children aged 5 years and over and they take place in Claremorris GAA Sports Complex. For more information contact Alan on 087 4636841.
Women’s Box-Fit classes take place every Tuesday evening at the old Clooonfane School from 7.30-8.45pm. The cost is €60 per eight week block or €10 per session. The instructor is Keell Stevens, 5 time National Champion. For more information contact 089 4977388.
A Summer Music and Yoga Camp takes place at Carracastle Community Centre from Monday-Friday, July 14-18. The cost is €80 and is limited to twelve (12) places. Booking deposit €20 and there is a payment plan available. Contact Olivia on 085 1971372 or email o.sharkey@gmail.com. This is a fun introduction to music and piano, mindfulness, relaxation and yoga.
A Brick by Brick Lego Camp for 5-12 year olds takes place at Kilmovee Community Centre from July 14-16 (inclusive) from10am-12pm. The cost is €40 and for more information contact legocamp2023@gmail.com or 087 6648408.
There was a good turnout at the summer bridge game held in Walsh’s Bar, Main Street, Charlestown on Wednesday, June 11, and the following were the prizewinners; 1st Paddy and Patricia Colleran, 2nd Mike Wingrove and Margaret Kenny, 3rd Mary O’Connell and Carmel Moffitt, 4th Mary Lynskey and Tom Dunne, 5th Ruth Connor and Noelle Spellman. A game takes place every Wednesday at 8pm in Walsh’s Bar, Main Street, Charlestown with guest members from other clubs more than welcome.
The following were the winners of the 25 drive game held in the Yeats County Inn, Curry on Tuesday night, June 17; 1st Mary O`Hara and Joe Mahon. Raffle winners were Mary O’Hara and Teresa McIntyre. A game takes place every Tuesday night at 9pm and all are welcome.
Activator Pole and Chair Exercise class takes place in the Charlestown Arts Centre from 12 noon-1pm on Friday, June 27. Lift access available and all are welcome, €2 fee.
Training takes place at Fr O’Hara Park for the group on Wednesday evenings at 8pm. No experience necessary and new members are most welcome. It is an opportunity to improve your fitness in a fun and supportive environment.
Dance Fitness classes – Clubbercise takes place on Friday nights at 8pm in the Arts Centre. Come and join in the fun and enjoy a good workout to 80s, 90s and 2000s classic anthems and disco. PM or WhatsApp on 087-4217407if you would like to join in the fun on Fridays.
Massive congratulations are extended to Thomas O’Brien who was recently crowned Connacht Lollipop champion. He is now in the running for the Tonstix Lollipop Person of the Year Award as he goes head to head against the other three regional winners and nominees. Thomas is a vital cog in the smooth running of St Attracta’s NS, Charlestown as he has the hugely responsible job of keeping the children safe as they cross the road to and from school each and every day. He takes his job very carefully and is extremely dedicated to his role with his kindness, sincerity and caring nature endearing him to one and all. His nomination is much deserved as Thomas always has a smile on his face and executes his duties with professionalism and dignity and has the children’s safety and wellbeing to the forefront of his mind at all times.
Now let’s take it one step forward and help Thomas become national champion. Voting is now open and show your support and give Thomas the national title he deserves. Yon can vote by logging onto the St Attracta’s NS Facebook Page, the Charlestown Facebook page or all other Charlestown connected social media pages. Every vote counts and Thomas would be a worthy winner, so get voting and let’s see him crowned national champion.
The Sarsfields host near neighbours Ballaghaderreen in Fr O’Hara Park on Tuesday, July 1 in the East Mayo U14A championship with the throw-in timed for 7pm.
Dance classes with Gina continue at Carracastle Community Centre on Wednesday evenings at 8pm. Learn to jive, waltz, quickstep and linedance. The cost is €10 per person. For more information and to book contact 085 7704647.
There was no winner of the Curry GAA lotto jackpot of €2600 in the weekly draw held on Monday night, June 16, and the following were the four numbers drawn on the night; 6, 11, 17 and 19. The following were the winners of the €20 weekly prizes; Margaret Walsh, Masey Haran and Jonathan McCarrick.
The jackpot increased to €2700 and the latest draw took place on Monday night, June 23. Tickets can be bought in several outlets or via the online platform and by logging onto the Club’s Facebook and Twitter pages respectively.
A great play and cast are ready to entertain you. Cloonacool Players perform J.M. Synge`s hilarious satire ‘The Tinker`s Wedding’ on Sunday, June 29, at 7.15pm in the gloriously green field, at the t-junction in Cloonacool village. This is your last chance to see this outdoor production from the ever popular actors Olive Giblin, Peadar Conway and Dennis Ross leading the action and directed by Eileen Davey. An evening of surprises, laughter and entertainment not to be missed.
Alone is a national organisation that enables people to age at home. They have a National Support and Referral Line for older people. If you need advice, support or information call 0818 222 024, seven days a week from 8am-8pm.
Senior Line is Ireland’s national telephone service for older people open every day of the year, 10am-10pm. Freephone 1800 80 45 91. Callers may feel isolated, alone and may wish to discuss a problem in confidence, or for company during the day. Senior Line’s older volunteers are trained to listen, to support, to discuss options and to refer callers to other helpful services, if necessary. Senior Line 1800 80 45 91 is open every day of the year at the above times.
Charlestown Sarsfields make the long trek to Belmullet to take on the locals in round 8 of Division 1A of the county senior league on Saturday, June 28, with the throw-in timed for 7pm. The Sarsfields are in dire need of a win as they look to move away from the basement end of the table and will be hoping to field as close to full strength as possible in order to have some chance of putting it up to the Belmullet men who are sitting mid table in the league but far from safe either it must be said. Both teams have a real need for victory with the Sarsfield hoping to get a fillip as they strive to hold onto their division 1 status.
There was a good turnout at the weekly darts competition held in Walsh’s Bar, Main Street, Charlestown, on Sunday, June 15, as Podsie and the Duke squared off in another intriguing instalment of the weekly classic. Governor Gus was immense as always in his role as match referee and ensured good sportsmanship prevailed throughout. This was the umpteenth clash between the two old rivals and ranks up there with all the great clashes of the past as the two men traded blow for blow in a classic contest. The Duke made the better start winning the first set in the best of five with a typical swashbuckling 136 finish in the final leg giving the start he so craved. Podsie didn’t dwell on that loss however and roared back to life taking the next two sets with some brilliant arrows. The Duke looked floored as he began the fourth set but again he re-floated his challenge in some style as he reeled off three legs on the bounce to set up a fifth set decider. All bets were off as Podsie began the fifth set and he once again showed his character and class as he swept into a two-leg lead with some sensational throwing.
It was the Duke`s turn to front up and this he did in classic style as he snatched victory from the jaws of defeat in the third leg with a magnificent 170 finish keeping his hopes alive with Podsie loitering with some intent on double top. It was Podsie who closed out the match however as he galloped away with the fourth leg with a closing treble fifteen double eighteen blast doing the trick nicely and sealing his seventh victory of the season which led to some wild celebrations among his huge fanbase. The Duke and Podsie shared a warm embrace as both chatted long into the night which ended another epic clash in an age old rivalry that never fails to entertain.