Local Notes: All the latest news from Claremorris
Connacht award recipient Joe Reapy of Davitts GAA Club, Mayo, with family and Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Gael Jarlath Burns during the Gradaim an Uachtaráin at Croke Park in Dublin last Friday. Picture: Seb Daly/Sportsfile
Congratulations to Joe Reapy of Davitts GAA Club who has been honoured with a Gradaim an Uachtaráin (President’s Award) 2025 by the GAA for his outstanding contribution to Davitts over many years.
These prestigious annual awards, organised with the support of AIB and broadcast by TG4, are made by GAA President Jarlath Burns to acknowledge outstanding commitment and long service across the club and county network.
Uachtarán CLG Jarlath Burns said: “It is often said that while the GAA is about games, it is, in truth, always about people. These awards present us with an opportunity to shine a light on a small group of inspirational people who in their own right are ambassadors for the thousands of volunteers who power the GAA.
“I am delighted that for my first Gradaim as Uachtaráin we have assembled a diverse list of people who each have made a lasting contribution to ensuring that the promotion of Gaelic games go from strength to strength. I congratulate all of our worthy recipients and wish to acknowledge the support of TG4 and AIB for this scheme.”
Joe’s lifelong dedication to Davitts GAA is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the club’s success and legacy. From his early days as a player, winning County Under 21 A titles in 1984 and 1985 (the latter as captain) to his years of service as a manager, selector, and club PRO, Joe has left an indelible mark on the Davitts’ community.
As the club PRO, Joe’s efforts to document and promote Davitts GAA have been extraordinary. His comprehensive match reports and encyclopaedic knowledge of games, events, and club history make him an invaluable resource. Whether it is adult or underage teams in GAA or LGFA, Joe’s meticulous record-keeping and storytelling have strengthened the club’s sense of identity and pride.
Joe’s organisational talents truly shone in 2024 during Davitts GAA’s 50th-anniversary celebrations. He played a pivotal role in orchestrating a weekend of events that celebrated the club’s rich history and vibrant community spirit. One of his standout contributions was the creation of a historical gallery in the clubhouse. This initiative not only enhanced the clubhouse but also served as a permanent tribute to the individuals and moments that shaped Davitts GAA.
Another monumental task Joe undertook was the compilation of the club’s history in a commemorative book. True to his meticulous nature, Joe dedicated 18 months to this project, ensuring it was a masterpiece worthy of the club’s golden jubilee. His dedication involved researching hundreds of articles, stories, photos, and match reports, checking and rechecking in his quest for accuracy. The result was a book that not only celebrated Davitt’s milestones – but also preserved its heritage for generations to come.
Joe received his award at an event in Croke Park on Friday night, which was broadcast live on TG4.
The death has occurred of Tony Flanagan, of Manchester and formerly of Ballyclogher, Balla.
Tony, who died suddenly but peacefully in Manchester, was the brother of Irene Guilfoyle, Claremorris. He was predeceased by his father Ger, and is survived by his heartbroken mother Pattie, brothers Liam and Declan, sisters Irene, Pauline, Catherine and Breege, sisters-in-law Maggie and Grace, brothers-in-law Michael, Mick, Paraic and Eddie, nephews Emmet, Gerard, Matthew, Darren, Michael, Nathan, Dean and Oisin, nieces Tara, Andrea, Amber, Ellie and Ciara, grandnephews Max, Odin, Rioch and Senan, aunts, cousins and a large circle of friends.
A small service to allow Tony’s UK friends say their goodbyes took place at the Manchester Irish Centre. Tony was laid to rest in the New Cemetery, Balla, after Funeral Mass in St Cronan's Church, Balla.
May he rest in peace.
Fundraising for the new Claremorris Community Recreational Centre is progressing well with a number of events planned, starting with LipSync Battle on February 22nd at the McWilliam Park Hotel, which will commence at 8pm.
The acts are busy fundraising, and the organisers are running a raffle for two tickets to the Six Nations clash of Ireland v France and a two-night hotel stay in Dublin.
For tickets for the LipSync show, or to enter the Six Nations raffle or support any of the LipSync Acts, log on to www.events54.com.
There are twelve acts from across the community performing in the battle and it should be a really enjoyable event. All the acts are united for one common goal, to develop a new indoor Sports and Recreational Community Centre for Claremorris and the surrounding areas. It will have a lasting legacy in the town and benefit generations to come.
This week we bring you details of the first six acts.
‘Foroige Fever’ is a group of leaders/parents representing the local Foróige Club. Foróige is a youth organisation with club meetings every Friday night.
“In Foróige, we know more than most the necessity of this facility in Claremorris,” a spokesperson for the organisation said. “We are delighted to take part on behalf of our young people, while also having some fun, to help raise funds for this important development for the town. Please support the young people in our community by making a donation or buying a ticket through our fundraising page.”
Foróige Fever is made up of Mark Duffy, Caitriona O’Grady (Conroy), Orla Sweeney, Dave Murphy, Elaine Lenihan, Jessie Turner, Bernadette Moore (Breslin), Barbara Hopkins, Gemma Marren and Anita Phillips. Foróige Fever’s main sponsor is Apache Pizza, Claremorris.
‘Wrinkle Warriors’ are taking part on behalf of the local Gaelic4Mothers&Others group - an initiative for women to meet other mothers in the area and play Ladies Gaelic Football in a fun, non-competitive and social environment. The group is keen to see this development come to fruition for the generations to come.
Wrinkle Warriors is made up of Annie Waldron, Fiona Kilcourse, Heather Varley, Gemma O’Neill, Gemma Farragher, Cait McGuinness, Anne Marie Gilmore, Andrea Kean, Deirdre Mulkeen Tracey Durkin and Aoife Conroy. The main sponsor of Wrinkle Warriors is Homecare Medical Supplies.
The ‘Jedward’ duo are Liam Heaney and Simon O’Farrell. They are taking part on behalf of Claremorris Colts Rugby Football Club, playing their part to help raise funds for this important development for the town. Liam and Simon have just moved up to the Colts’ senior XV this season and they hit hard, run fast and score big on the field, and are hoping to do the same on stage with a Eurovision-worthy performance, which they claim is going to be JEPIC. Their main sponsor is Phelan’s Motor Factors.
‘The Bleach Boys’ are so-called because of their recent hairdressing exploits ahead of a TY trip (and also of course their inability to spell Beach!), and are representing Claremorris GAA. The make-up of the outfit is Jonathan Brennan, Ethan Higgins, Tom Comer, Sam Smyth and Sé Lenihan.
The lads have proven over the years that they are handy movers on the football pitch; the challenge is to see if they can transfer their moves to the stage. Their main sponsor is Hillside Service Station.
The Highwaymen was the most famous supergroup in country music history and was made up of Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Johnny Cash. Only Fr Peter Gannon and his special guests could dare to recreate this masterpiece and we have no further details on the replica group, other than their main sponsor is Supermacs Claremorris.
The cowboys and cowgirls of ‘The Rancheros’ are Aline Felisbino, Aoibhinn O’Hare, Sienna Kelly, Amy Cummins, Nathan Heaney, Eoghan O’Hare, and David Lally. We hear that they are all set to take the stage by storm on February 22nd but, before that, this act has the little matter of the Leaving Cert Mocks to attend to. The lads and girls of this act know how important the Recreational Centre will be to the town, and they want to play their part in helping it become a reality. Their main sponsor is The Ranch Bar.
Details of the second six acts will be in next week’s issue.
A 25 card drive, organised by Taugheen Community Council CLG, will take place in the GAA Complex in Claremorris on Wednesday, February 26th, at 9pm. Tickets are available from Community Council members.
Anyone who’d like to support the game but cannot attend can buy a ticket, put their name and number on it, and they will be entered into a separate draw on the night.
Johnny Kirrane of Cartron, Claremorris, passed away recently at Mayo University Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.
Johnny was heavily involved in the arts and drama in the area and was instrumental in the establishment of the local radio station.
Predeceased by his parents James and Margaret, Johnny is survived by his wife Angela, son Shane, daughters Joyce and Maria, daughter-in-law Rachael, sons-in-law Adrian and Tad, five grandchildren, and his great-granddaughter. He will also be remembered by his cousins, extended family and friends.
Johnny was laid to rest in St Colman’s Cemetery after Funeral Mass in Claremorris Church on Thursday last.
May he rest in peace.
A Ladies Gym programme is currently taking place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings in Garrymore. The club thanks everyone who signed up for this programme and to Ciaran McGrath for coaching it.
Claremorris LGFA Mothers and Others team are hosting a fun run at Clare Lake on this Sunday, February 16th, at 10am. The run is in support of the proposed Claremorris Recreational Centre, leading up to the Lip Sync battle. Entry is €10 per person, €5 per child and €20 for a family.
Congratulations to Eva Harte who has been called up to the Mayo Under-14 Mayo LGFA panel for 2025.
Three members of Claremorris LGFA lined out for Mayo in their recent match against Meath. Siomha McNulty, Bree Hession and Alannagh Fitzpatrick were part of the team that was unfortunately beaten by Meath.
Garrymore has now formed a Rounders team.
Rounders is a fun mixed sport. Anyone interested in taking part can contact the team through their social media pages.
A practice session takes place on Sunday evenings at 5pm. Newcomers are always welcome.
Emily Bowens was the winner of the Claremorris AFC recent 50/50 jackpot. Emily won €705 on a ticket bought in Warde’s.
Congratulations to Deirdre Warde on winning €1,836 in Claremorris GAA 50/50 lotto last week. Deirdre bought her winning ticket in Gilligan’s.
The death has occurred of Mary Kilboyle (nee McGuinness), of Farmhill, Claremorris. Mary died peacefully in the care of Brookvale Manor, Ballyhaunis, surrounded by her loving family on February 3rd.
Mary was predeceased by her parents John and Bridie McGuinness (nèe McHugh) and her brother Patsy. Her loss is deeply regretted by her loving husband Seamus, children James, Fiona, Padraic and Declan, four grandchildren, brothers Noel and Fr Brendan, daughter-in-law Bernie, partners Teddie, Lisa and Eugene, sisters-in-law Doreen and Una, brother-in-law Sean, extended family, friends, neighbours and relatives.
Mary was laid to rest in Crossboyne Cemetery after Requiem Mass in the local Church of the Sacred Heart.
May she rest in peace.
This year’s successful Claremorris Under-21 side, which won the league without dropping points, was highlighted for its achievements at this year’s Mayo Football League Awards.
The exceptionally talented team scored 34 goals and only conceded seven in the process, and were rewarded with team and individual awards at the event. In total, five players made the League Team Of The Year (TOTY.)
Defenders Joe Gilmore, who showed significant diligence and composure at all times, and Jake Mullin, whose endless energy created constant problems for teams from right back featured on the TOTY. Midfielder and captain, James Morley, showed exceptional leadership and talent in all games, created opportunities on a consistent basis against very difficult opponents.
Also included are the attacking duo of Ben Smyth and Mark Maloney. They were a never-ending source of goals and assists across the league. Ben Smyth showed consistent selflessness, eventually finishing with 13 assists and getting seven goals of his own. The relentless Mark Maloney showed a ruthless nature in front of goal, scoring 14 goals in seven games, with two hat-tricks, with teams struggling with his pace and power. Mark was also awarded U21 Player of the Year.
While these five players were individually awarded on the night, the entire Under-21 team was made up of a hugely talented group of players who will no doubt go on to represent Claremorris for many years and deserve considerable recognition also.
Claremorris GAA club is hosting a table quiz in aid of the Claremorris Community Recreational Centre fundraiser, Lip Sync.
Representing Claremorris GAA are Jonathan Brennan, Ethan Higgins, Tom Comer, Sam Smyth and Sé Lenihan, with their act, The Bleach Boys. The club is asking for support for the lads by attending the quiz or by making donations. The lads are putting in a huge effort.
The quiz will be held in Killeen’s on this Friday, February 14th, at 8pm. The fee to enter a table of four is €40. The first prize is €200, with the runners-up getting €100. The event is sponsored by Claremorris GAA Club.
Hollymount Carramore GAA Club shares the exciting news that the club is holding a club dinner dance this year, and everyone is welcome. The venue is the McWilliam Park Hotel and the date is Saturday, March 1st. This promises to be a great night with music by Streetwise.
Tickets are available online or through club officers or underage management. Places are limited so don't be disappointed, so when you read this, put the paper down temporarily while you get your tickets.
The death occurred on January 31st last of John Maughan of Rathgranagher, Hollymount. John passed peacefully at Hollymount Nursing Home. He was predeceased by his parents Michael and Elizabeth, his son Michael, brothers Michael and Willie, sisters Bridie and Annie.
John will be sadly missed by his loving wife Nuala, son Sean, daughters Caroline, Anne Marie and Bernadette, sons-in-law Sean, David, daughter-in-law Heidi, sisters Sadie (Belfast), Kathleen (Canada), eight grandchildren, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.
John was laid to rest in Roundfort Cemetery after Funeral Mass at the nearby Church of Immaculate Conception.
May he rest in peace.
Claremorris Musical Society (CMS) has brought the curtain down on yet another show, and what a spectacular show it was. The Addams Family delighted audiences with its blend of humour, heart, and hauntingly good music.
After months of rehearsals and four thrilling performances, CMS can sit back knowing it was a job well done.
Before looking ahead to their next production, the society wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this show such a resounding success.
CMS extends its gratitude to the audiences who filled the theatre with energy, laughter and encouragement, night after night. Each reaction, standing ovation and cheer was truly appreciated.
Behind the scenes, a talented and hardworking team brought this production to life. Director Donna Ruane, musical director Deirdre Lee, and choreographer Jay Molyneux created a world that was both spooky and spectacular, guiding the cast to deliver outstanding performances.
A very strong front line coupled with an extremely engaging chorus of Addams ‘Ancestors’ put in tremendous performances. In the role of Gomez Addams - David Alexander, was the consummate, passionate and eccentric patriarch of the Addams family, his performance capturing Gomez’s charismatic and loving nature perfectly, adding depth and credibility to the character.
Vivienne Lee played the role of Morticia Addams, the elegant and mysterious matriarch. Vivienne’s portrayal highlighted Morticia’s poise and wit, bringing a captivating presence to the stage with her performance.
Chloe Conor, a newcomer to the society, played Wednesday, the fiercely independent daughter caught between love and loyalty. Chloe’s heartfelt performance showcased Wednesday’s internal conflict and growth throughout the story.
Ryan McDonnell, also new to the society, embodied the mischievous younger brother, Pugsley. His amazing portrayal and beautifully toned singing added a playful energy to the production, capturing Pugsley’s adventurous spirit.
Uncle Fester was brought to life by Mervyn Fahy and the lovable oddball with a heart of gold got a great outing! Mervyn’s performance was both humorous and endearing, capturing Fester’s quirky charm perfectly.
Alice Beineke was brought to life with a wonderful portrayal by last year’s AIMS nominee Nicole Scott adding great depth to this character.
Paul Singleton’s terrific performance as Mal Beineke highlighted the character’s reactions to the Addams family’s unconventional ways with a highly charged and very physical performance.
Oisín Dowling played their son Lucas and his performance captured Lucas’s charm perfectly, as he navigated his way through the mysterious Addams Family.
Mary Dempsey’s hilarious performance of the eccentric and wise Grandma added a great touch of both humour and wisdom to the family dynamics.
The long-standing Addams’ butler was played by the versatile Ruadhán Gormally who brought great humour to the role.
Stage manager Dave Keane and his dedicated backstage crew ensured every scene change, prop placement, and transition was flawless. Special thanks also go to production manager and chairperson June Allison-Keane, whose tireless efforts kept everything running smoothly.
With a magnificent set and some very clever sound and lighting, this production really was a spectacular piece. The front-of-house team, led by Sophia Sheridan and Dee Hosty, ensured that every audience member was welcomed with a smile.
CMS would also like to thank its sponsors for their generosity. Their continued support allows the society to maintain the high standard of performances that audiences have come to love.
The dedication, talent, and enthusiasm of the cast, brought The Addams Family to life, making it a show to remember.
For now, CMS takes a well-deserved break, but plans are already underway for their 19th production.
Danny O’Brien brings his ‘Killa-Dan-Jaro’ show to Claremorris Town Hall on Saturday, February 22nd. The show starts at 8pm and was a sell-out at The Edinburgh Fringe as well as several Irish and international festivals. Tickets are available online and at the box office.
The death has occurred of Ann Pidgeon (née Gannon) of Mayfield, Claremorris and formerly of Streamstown, Westport.
Ann died peacefully, in the presence of her family, at Mayo Sacred Heart Hospital. She was predeceased by her husband Bernard Pidgeon and her brothers and sisters, Mary, Maud, Michael, Patrick, Richard, John-Joe, Rose and little twin Sheila.
Ann is survived by her children, John, Sheila and Bernard, eleven grandchildren nine great-grandchildren, her sister Josephine Cassidy, daughters-in-law Geraldine and Kathleen, and her son-in-law Joseph.
Ann was laid to rest in Crossboyne Cemetery after Funeral Mass at the nearby Church of the Sacred Heart.
May she rest in peace.
The death has occurred in Manchester, England of Anthony (Tony) Regan, formerly of Cultibo, Claremorris. Tony passed away at home in the company of his daughter on January 23rd. He was predeceased by his parents Edward and Mary Regan, and will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his daughter Laura, brothers John and Martin, sisters Christina and Marian, brother-in-law, sisters-in law, nieces, nephews, neighbours and friends.
A service of remembrance was held at St Bernard’s Church, Burnage, Manchester on Thursday, February 6th. Tony was laid to rest in Kilkinure Cemetery after Requiem Mass at the Church of the Holy Family, Kiltimagh on Sunday last, February 9th.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of John Murphy of Cummer, Galway, brother of Martin Murphy, Roundfort.
John died peacefully at Galway University Hospital following a short illness and was predeceased by his parents Patrick and Mary. He will be sadly missed by his loving wife Michelle, sons Wayne, Graham and Cody, daughters Hope and Jordan, his beloved granddaughter Ella, brothers Martin, Tommy, Patrick and Michael, sister Bríd, brother-in-law Derek, sisters-in-law Josephine, Bríd, Geraldine and Noelle, aunts, uncle, godchildren, extended family, neighbours and friends.
John was laid to rest in Cummer Cemetery after Requiem Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Belclare.
May he rest in peace.
