Local Notes: All the latest news from Charlestown.
Senator Mark Duffy, Ballina, pictured at the Sam Maguire home coming in Ballaghdereen with Councillors Liam Callaghan, Sean Moylan, Michael Frain and Director of Services for Roscommon County Council Chris Fylnn
There was no winner of the Charlestown Sarsfields GAA lotto jackpot of €23,300 in the weekly draw held on Sunday, August 16, and the following were the four numbers drawn; 1, 8, 16 and 18. The winners of the 3 x €50 prizes were the following; Philomena Ruane (online), Philip Craig (lucky dip -annual ticket) and Padraic Kivlehan (lucky dip). The jackpot in the latest draw held on Sunday, August 23, was €23,400.
The death took place at St. Attracta’s Residence, Hagfield, Charlestown of Christy Corley, Hagfield, Charlestown. His 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. He is survived by his wife Rose, son Jimmy, daughters Mary, Monica and Sandra, daughter-in-law Margaret, sons-in-law Michael, Matthew and Cameron, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.
The late Christy was a hardworking man who was a very well respected and prominent member of the commnuity of Hagfield and beyond. He worked for Mayo County Council for years and was a dedicated and committed employee who knew the value of a good day’s work for a good day’s pay. Christy was a good neighbour and friend to all in Haghfield and could always be depended upon to help out or lend a hand in times of crises. He was a devoted family man and formed a good bond with his wife Rose as together, they ensured the family’s needs and wants were met at all times. He lived a good and long life and the large crowds who attended the removal of his remains and subsequent burial was ample proof of the esteem and affection in which he was held. He leaves many memories which his family will cherish and cling dear to in the deep, dark hours, days and weeks that lie ahead. Deepest sympathies are tendered to the bereaved.
Charlestown Sarsfields senior ladies team made the short trip to Kilmovee to take on their neighbours Kilmovee Shamrocks in round one of the county senior championship on Sunday, August 16 last. The two teams have a lot of history in the championship as they have drawn together in the same group for a many number of years now which always adds a little spice to a long standing rivalry.
The Shamrocks have generally had the better of the rivalry over the years and this continued in their latest joust with Kilmovee prevailing on a score line of 2-14 to 2-8 in a game that had a lot of twists and turns with the Sarsfields showing commendable battling qualities in the second half having looked dead and buried at a number of different times in the game.
The Shamrocks have the hex on the Sarsfields at senior championship level and they started well surging into a 0-6 to 0-1 lead with the Sarsfields struggling to get a handle on the slick Kilmovee forward line spearheaded by the Cafferky sisters who were very much on it from the throw-in. The Sarsfields enjoyed a resurgence in the latter stages of the half however, scoring four points to haul themselves back into the contest as they trailed 0-8 to 0-5 and would have grabbed that ten minutes in when Kilmovee looked like they were going to run riot.
The second half proved eventful and exciting in equal manner. Kilmovee looked to be out the gate when they led 2-12 to 0-7 with just ten left on the clock with their elusive attacking line continuing to inflict major damage on the scoreboard. The Sarsfields introduced some youth from their bench with Siofra McGuiness making a huge impact as she scored two fine goals, one from the penalty spot to hand the Sarsfields something of a lifeline as the Shamrocks wobbled close to the finishing line. They had enough in the tank to see it out however but the Sarsfields can take real heart from their closing ten minutes as this young team threw everything at their opponents and made a real game of it when all had looked done and dusted up to that.
The Sarsfields fielded in essence a very young and inexperienced team with a few old heads providing a modicum of experience in the enforced absence of skipper and county captain Ella Brennan who is currently recuperating from the dreaded cruciate ligament injury. They had fine performances from the likes of Heather Johnson, Clodagh Murphy, Cailin Durkin, Siofra McGuinness who made a real impact when introduced, Ava Casey, Shona Mahon and Chelsea Doherty Plenty of positives for Sarsfields manager Tom Carney to take from the game, not least of which was the battling qualities displayed by the girls as they kept going right to the final whistle and never took a backward step at any stage in the contest. They are in a tough group however with Castlebar Mitchels next up on the schedule and this is a game the Sarsfields have to win to have any chance of progressing from the group.
They will be at home which is a big plus and if they can start better and tidy up their ball retention and passing they will give the Mitchels a stern test of their credentials.
Congratulations are extended to Kieran Sloyan, Cloonlyon, Charlestown and Sinead McGovern, Drumreilly, Co. Leitrim on the occasion of their wedding which took place at St Mary’s Church, Drumreilly recently. The reception was held at the Landmark Hotel, Carrick-on Shannon. Kieran and Sinead are wished every good wish for the future, health and happiness and many years of marital bliss.
JKA Sligo -Karate Club are enrolling new members. Classes are based in Curry and Moylough for children, teens and adults. Contact Shane for more details on 086 7777399.
Charlestown Sarsfields U16 girl enjoyed a whopping victory over Claremorris in Division 1 of the county U16 championship played at Fr O’Hara Park recently. Th Sarsfields were far too powerful and strong for their opponents and pretty much ran amok on the scoreboard as they piled it on in clinical fashion. A fine victory for the Sarsfields girls and one which keeps them firmly in the mix for a play-off place as this is a team with serious designs on winning the competition outright.
The Annual Ireland West Airport 5k Runway Fun Run takes place on Saturday, September 19, at 7.15pm. Register now at irelandwestairport.com/runwayrun and sign up for an event that continues to grow in popularity yearb on year.
Charlestown Sarsfields minor lads qualified for the county minor C championship semi-final on the back of their comfortable 4-19 to 2-14 victory over Burrishoole/Islandeady in the final round of group games played at the Parke GAA grounds recently. The Sarsfields, by the virtue of this win, topped the group and can now look forward to a county semi-final against near neighbours Swinford in what should be a cracking contest.
The Sarsfields were much the better team throughout and had the extra bit of firepower in attack with Danny Breheny, Cian Towey and Liam McCaffrey all leading the line with conviction as they punished their opponents’ with some deadeye finishing. The Sarsfields, while never in any great danger of losing, will be disappointed at the concession of 21-4 with the defence needing to tighten up ahead if they have designs on winning the competition outright. That said they were impressive from midfield in with Sean Breheny driving the team forward at every opportunity as he, Michael McCarthy and Ryan McDonagh dominated the middle third battleground with the forward line doing the rest in terms of converting their chances.
The Sarsfields gaol scorers were Danny Breheny, Liam McCaffrey, Mike Giblin and Ryan McDonagh as they gear up for a real tilt at winning the competition with the players and talent there to do so.
Minor’s showdown V Swinford Charlestown Sarsfields take on Swinford in the Division 3 county minor semi-final in Fr O’Hara Park on Tuesday (this evening), August 25, with the throw-in confirmed for 7pm. The Sarsfields will be hoping to be at full strength as they square up to their neighbours and will be looking to the likes of the Breheny twins Danny and Sean, Michael McCarthy, Mike Giblin, Cian Towey, Mason McCudden, Ryan McDonagh and Matthew Murphy to drive them on in what looks an interesting contest on paper.
There was no winner of the Curry GAA lotto jackpot of €5000 in the weekly draw held on Monday August 17, and the following were the four numbers drawn; 1, 2, 13 and 16. The winners of the 3 x €20 prizes were the following; Emer McDonagh, Regina Henry and Oisin Frizzell. The jackpot in the latest draw held on Monday, August 24, was €5100.
Johnny’s Bar Fantasy League is back to coincide with the start of the new Premier League in England and to join the league check out the Johnny’s Bar Facebook page where you’ll find the details and the key code to enter. The Fantasy League has always proved popular with supporters of all premier league clubs in and around the town and there’s sure to be plenty of competition for what’s always a nice cash prize on offer.
Well done to Damien Melody who scooped the lotto jackpot of €500 in the recent draw held in Johhny’s Bar, Main Street, Charlestown recently.
The 2026 Eugene McLoughlin Memorial Run once again hit all the right notes as it drew large crowds to the town to witness a splendid display of machinery power its way through the streets, townlands and villages in the immediate vicinity of Charlestown and beyond. The tractors and high powered vehicles drew gasps of admiration from a very appreciative crowd who were blown away by the display of horse power with each and every vehicle in tip-top condition for the event.
Upwards of ninety tractors took part which was one of the best ever in its long and stellar history and those that entered put on some display as they thrilled the watching crowds and provided great entertainment on their arrival back to the town after completing the designated route.
There were also a number of other vehicles that took part such as motorbikes, vintage cars etc which added to the excitement and variety with the committee pulling out all the stops to ensure that everything ran smoothly and on time. That it did which was a credit to all involved as the event once again took centre stage in the town’s social calendar and has created a niche of its own with the third Sunday in August one that everyone in the town looks forward to with glee.
The committee covered all bases in terms of organisation and preparation and a terrific day was had by all associated with the run with crowds and community coming out in big numbers to support and participate.
There was an auction held which generated great enthusiasm with a signed All-Ireland winning Mayo jersey attracting big interest with the bidding exceeding four figures such was the clamour to have it in their possession. The highest bid was credited to a local person and let’s just say they were pretty chuffed when the hammer went down in their favour. This was but one of a number of items that were up for auction and the public responded in kind as all items were shifted in a matter of minutes.
There were lots of activities to entertain the younger generation with a bouncing castle, slides et al to mention but a few which kept everybody royally entertained with plenty of energy expended by all who took part and participated. There was music galore with Pat’s Country Roadshow, Stuart Moyles and Mad for Ceol keeping the pot boiling nicely as they got everybody bopping and hopping with the streets alive to the sounds of dancing, singing and jiving. All the above acts put on a terrific show and more than contributed to a wonderful day all round.
There was a boon and spin-off for all the local businesses with the extra footfall generating some welcome custom as the tills were ringing from early in the afternoon as people splashed out and invested their hard-earned cash in the local economy which was warmly welcomed by the local traders. Trade was brisk throughout the day, and this extended well into the evening as the music and entertainment kept people on the ground and in the streets.
The Gardaí also played their part as they put a very well policed traffic plan in place which ensured the smooth flow of vehicles in and out of the town with little or no disruption caused to people on their respective journeys. The McLoughlin family were well represented and were very much hands on and involved in all aspects of the running of the event which commemorates the late Eugene so well and in such a poignant manner. All proceeds from the run go to CROI which does such a fantastic job in the area of heart and stroke prevention and the 2026 version was right up there with the very best in an event that continues to capture the public’s imagination like no other in the town.
Well done to the committee on a great job and all eyes turn to 2027 which they hope will be every bit as good if not better than 2026.
The Charlestown Boxing Club re-commences for the new season in September and they still have a few spaces left for local boys in the 8-11 age bracket. Contact the club through their Facebook page if interested or alternatively call 086 3182097 for more information.
With the new season ready to kick into action in September the Cubs Basketball Club are looking for new coaches to join their team as the growth in the numbers coming through the doors continues to swell exponentially. The club would welcome any expressions of interest and if you feel like you have something to offer in this regard then all you have to do is DM the club’s Facebook page. The club remains the fastest growing of its kind in the community and fields team at all levels in both genders from U10 to U18 respectively.
Charlestown Sarsfields U16 lads enjoyed a fine 3-11 to 2-10 victory over Moy Davitts in the final round of group games in the county U16 championship thus securing a semi-final clash with Islandeady as they overcome a tough challenge from their East Mayo rivals with goals from Dylan Pilcher, Brian Egan and Artiom Gavrilliuc proving pivotal to the outcome. The Sarsfields withstood a late rally from a gallant Moy Davitts side with all eyes now focused on the semi-final with the carat of a final play on offer to the victors.
Charlestown Sarsfields U16 lads travel to Islandeady to take on the locals on Thursday, August 27, in the county U16 C semi-final with the throw-in confirmed for 7pm.
There was a good turnout at the weekly 25 -drive game held in the Yeats County Inn, Curry on Tuesday, August 18, and the following were the prizewinners; 1st Darby Leonard, 2nd Vera Scally and Miko Sheridan. Raffle winners were; Darby Leonard, Mary O’Hara and Veronica McCarrick.
Limerick Hurling team had a year to remember as they captured their sixth Liam McCarthy Cup in eight years, an unprecedented run of success for the Treaty County as they continue to surf the wave and grab as much as they can with the current golden generation of players at their disposal. They also won the Division One National league title, the Munster Championship and the pre-season Munster senior hirling league competition which was quite astonishing when you factor in the serious level of competition they had to contend with. They have dominated the hurling scene in the last decade and won with any amount of class with hurling at an all-time high in the city and county. Their haul of cups winged their way to Charlestown last week care of Pat Davern a former player with Limerick in the 1980s and 1990s and now a county board official who brought all the above silverware to the Byrnes household in Lowpark, Charlestown where Michael and Sadie Byrnes reside and they were proud and privileged to host the same with all cups standing proudly on their kitchen table.
Pride of place had to go the Liam McCarthy which overshadowed all other. Michael is a proud Limerick and Ballybrown man who still retains a deep passion and gra for his county with their dominance of the hurling landscape filling him with glee and bringing great joy to the household. He and his wife Sadie have been and remain terrific supporters of the Sarsfields club since their arrival to the town in 1977 with Michael a man who invested some amount of hours in and around Fr O’Hara Park as he worked tirelessly to improve and develop the facility and spent countless hours doing the same. His support for the Sarsfields never wavered and he still retains a deep interest in all things related to the club and follows their fortunes on and off the field avidly.
His good wife Sadie is no less committed and Mayo’s victory in the All Ireland made a good year even better as Michael has very much taken the green and red to his heart and was as happy as any of us when Mayo finally got over the line just four short weeks ago. The Byrnes household was elated to have Liam and friends on the table with daughter Maureen, husband Damien and son Christian also present to get some lovely photos taken with the visiting cups. One should never underestimate what winning a Liam McCarthy Cup or Sam Maguire means to people from the respective winning counties. We in Mayo have witnessed the emotional scenes of joy that have played out in all the towns, villages and townlands that Sam has travelled to date with Michael Byrnes and his family experiencing similar feelings as his county and connection to the same remains his badge of identity no matter where you end up in the world. A great day for the Byrnes clan and one that will stay with them for many a long day.
Congratulations and best wishes are extended to Brendan Towey, formerly of this parish on his recent marriage to Roisin Farren, Co Derry which took place at the La Cala Resort in Malaga, Spain recently. Brendan is a well known former Charlestown Sarsfields player of some renown who gave good service to the club at underage and senior level and was a very talented footballer indeed with a keen eye for a score. He saved his best score perhaps when he convinced Roisin to become his bride with a large contingent of family, friends and former Sarsfields teammates making the trip to join the celebrations. Brendan has been based in London for a number of years and he is son of Eileen Towey, Lavey Manor, Charlestown, and the late John Towey, Rooskey. Brendan and Roisin are wished every good wish for the future, health and happiness and many years of martial bliss.
There was a good turnout at the weekly darts game held in Walsh’s Bar, Main Street, Charlestown on Sunday, August 16, as The Magician and Boom Boom went toe to toe in the latest instalment of the weekly classic. Jovial John has settled in nicely into the referee’s chair and handled everything with aplomb. The Magician was on it from the very first dart and blazed into a two set lead with Boom Boom still very much in dry dock as his darts bore all the hallmarks of man bang out of form. This pattern persisted into the third set with the Magician moving seamlessly into what looked an unassailable lead as he was just one leg away from victory with Boom Boom still unable to muster any kind of a challenge. The inevitable happened in the very next leg as McGowan finished clinically on the bull to claim a bloodless victory, his third of the season with Boom Boom bearing a very forlorn look as he just couldn’t get anything going on a real blowout for him and his supporters. A tough night at the office for the number three seed but joy for the Magician as he ended a long losing streak in finals and celebrated accordingly.
