Local Notes: Charlestown Sarsfields Ladies win the senior shield final.
Charlestown Sarsfields Senior ladies team and panel and management who won the senior shield final recently against Kilmovee Shamrocks.
There was no winner of the Charlestown Sarsfields GAA lotto jackpot of €13,800 in the weekly draw held on Sunday night, October 20, and the following were the four numbers drawn; 7, 12, 18 and 28. The winners of the €50 weekly prizes were Majella Thornton and Patricia Cassidy. The latest jackpot increased to €13,900 and the draw was held on Sunday night, October 27. Tickets on sale in a number of outlets in the town and are also available on the online platform which can be accessed via the smart lotto or the club`s Facebook page. The club thank all who played and supported the weekly lotto, the support is very much appreciated.
Health Quarter Plus Charlestown Sports Performance Fitness and Wellness Centre are currently hosting Healthy Aging classes every Tuesday and Thursday at 9.30am for people over 60. Resistance exercises helps reduce the effects of osteoporosis and scorpenia, improves balance, strength and cardiovascular fitness, help you move better and feel stronger with the emphasis very much on fun and engagement. For more information contact 085 8416420.
Inspire is a Young Adult Faith Event (18-40) organised by Achonry Youth Ministry, and will be held in St Brigid’s Hall and Theatre, Tubbercurry, on Friday, November 15, at 8pm. The theme is the ‘Relevance of Faith in the Modern World’. Keynote speaker is Louth GAA Manager and former All-Ireland winner with Dublin Ger Brennan who will speak about life, sport and faith. Other speakers will join Ger for panel discussions and questions from the audience. It is free to register via https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/inspire-tickets-1024415382987.
Former Sarsfields stalwart Conor O’Donoghue lined out for St. Kiernan’s in the recent London Senior County Final. Sadly defeat was to be his and St Kiernan’s lot as they were edged out by first time winners North London Shamrocks in a well contested final played before a big crowd at the Ruislip GAA Grounds recently.
Conor had been a pivotal player in St Kiernan’s march to the final, lining out at wing-back and displaying his customary athleticism, fitness and power from his defensive station.Things began brightly for him and St Kiernan’s as he powered up the field to kick the first point for his adopted team but gradually North London Shamrocks, belying their nerves, grew into the game and gradually wrestled control of the football and went into the interval with a two point lead which was fully merited and deserved as they played the better football from midway on in the first half. St Kiernan’s never went away but they just couldn’t get ahead on the scoreboard as North London Shamrocks defended their goal with dog determination and always had the ability to secure the crucial scores at the other end when the need was greatest. St. Kiernan’s never gave up but despite the best efforts of Conor and his teammates the goals they needed to keep their challenge alive never materialised albeit they did score one but they needed a brace to put real doubt in the minds of the winners who held on for dear life at the end to claim their first ever London senior title.
This was a tough pill for Conor to swallow but he can be proud of his efforts as he was one of St Kiernan’s best players on the day and never took a backward step at any stage as he continued to carry the fight right to the final whistle. He had a great first year in the tough and physical London senior club championship and must have a good chance of getting a call-up to the London panel for their tilt at the Connacht and Tailteann Cup championships in 2025. His loss to the Sarsfields is incalculable as he was one of their best and most consistent performers for any number of years with his many former teammates and colleagues tuning in with interest to the final on the various links and social media platforms that were doing the rounds in the club in the lead up to the final.
The Basketball Season has begun in earnest with a number of teams from the cubs club in action last week. Well done to the Under-18 girls who showed plenty of quality in their tight three point victory over a very competitive Kiltimagh side in their first outing in division 1 of the league. The girls displayed commendable grit and determination to eke out the win which augurs well for their prospects in a very good and competitive division which contains lots of very good teams.
The U14 boys also shaped with promise in their division one opener against Crossmolina as they pushed the North Mayo lads to the very limit before losing out narrowly in another very good and high quality game.
The U11 boys took part in their first competitive blitz of the season and acquitted themselves well showing lots of promise and potential in a well organised competition run by the Westport Warriors Basketball club with the all associated with the team extending their sincere thanks to the Warriors Club as they were the hosts par excellence.
Special mention to the U16 and U13 boys teams who had their first outings in their respective leagues and played with lots of skill and class albeit the results didn`t perhaps go the way they liked.
That wraps up a busy week on the basketball front for the Cubs with another busy few weeks in store as all teams compete in the next round of fixtures at their various age grades.
Pottery classes take place in the Arts Centre, Barrack Street, Charlestown, on Monday mornings from 10am-1.30pm. There are limited spaces available. For more information call 086 8514682.
Newly designed Game Ready Gear Charlestown Sarsfields GAA club merchandise is arriving soon along with some old favourites like branded/crested hoodies shorts, socks, gloves beanie hats, etc. To avoid disappointment call into John in Casey’s Expert Hardware to place your pre-Christmas order now. Gear is also available for the underage wing of the club (Bord na n-Og) Charlestown LGFA and Charlestown Cubs Basketball Club also.
The Sarsfields travel to Robert McCallion Park, Swinford, to take on the hosts in the Canon Henry Cup on Friday, November 1, with the time yet to be confirmed (check sports pages for details).
St Joseph’s Community College (Charlestown) host Tuam Vocational School in Fr O’Hara Park in the Senior E Football Championship on Wednesday, November 6, with the throw-in timed for 12 noon.
www.charlestown.ie is your first point of contact for what’s happening in Charlestown at any time. All weekly events are posted on the above website address with everything from GAA/LGFA, Basketball, Pilates, Yoga, Athletics, Weekend Music, etc. We can only update if clubs / businesses send updates to the domain so please continue to do so.
Pilates with Taragh takes place on Monday nights in the Charlestown Arts Centre from 8-9pm.
The death took place at Mayo University Hospital, Castlebar recently of Dorothy Richardson (nee Breheny), Calva House, Carracastle, Co. Roscommon. Her remains were removed to St James’s Church, Carracastle, and burial took place after solemn requiem Mass to Carracastle Cemetery. She is survived by her sons Al and Derek, daughters Mary, Frances, Nuala and Clodagh, sister Noreen, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
The late Dorothy was a very well known and prominent member of the communities of Carracastle and beyond. She was a lovely, friendly lady with a terrific zest and relish for life and this served her well as she forged a good life for herself and made the best of every single day. She was devoted to her family and enjoyed regular and frequent interactions with them. The large crowds who attended the removal of her remains and subsequent burial was ample proof of the esteem in which she was held as people came from far and wide to pay their respects. The community of Carracastle has lost a good lady in the true sense of the word and deepest sympathies are tendered to the bereaved.
Hatha Yoga classes have commenced in the Town Hall Arts Centre, Barrack Street, Charlestown, on Thursday evenings at 7.15pm.
Salsa dancing takes place in the Town Hall Arts Centre every Wednesday evening from 7.30-8.30pm. New members are most welcome.
Congratulations to Keely Stevens Killeen, Charlestown, who won the All-Ireland U18 champion at the 46kg weight in the National U18 Championships held at the National Boxing Stadium recently. Keely was a comprehensive winner on the night and boxed a very clever fight, using all her class and experience to overpower her opponent in a boxing master class. Keely is now a five time All-Ireland Champion which is quite the achievement and one which flies under the radar somewhat as this is remarkable by any standards at national competition level. She’s a very grounded, focused young lady who has a super work ethic and is a very dedicated trainer who spends hours sparring and working on her fitness which stood her in good stead as she powered her way to another All-Ireland title. This latest achievement speaks volumes for her commitment and attitude as she continues to develop her craft and special mention must be given to her coach Darren Fahy and his assistant Alan Brennan who continue to work tirelessly to bring through the next generation of boxers all of whom have a real role model to emulate in Keely who has brought much glory and prestige to the club at the manner of her significant achievements. Keely is determined to go as high as she can in a very tough and demanding sport and we will continue to monitor her progress in the coming weeks and months with plenty more targets and belts to be fought for and won in the remainder of 2024.
Charlestown, Bellaghy and Districts Development Association monthly coffee morning takes place on Friday, November 1, from 11am-1pm in the Arts Centre, Barrack Street, Charlestown. Lift access available. All welcome for a cuppa and a chat.
Vision Ireland, Swinford, is seeking donation of household items such as chest of drawers, two seater couches and homewares. For more information contact Vision Ireland Swinford on 087 482 7468 or email swinford.retail@vi.ie.
There was a good turnout at the weekly bridge game held in Walsh’s Bar, Main Street, Charlestown, on Wednesday, October 16, at 8pm, and the following were the prize winners; 1st Hilary McDonagh and Tom Ginty, 2nd Michael and Patricia Brennan, 3rd Frances and Robert Healy, 4th Maura Kilcoyne and Nora McVeigh, 5th Michael Dee and Tommy O`Malley Youth 2000.
The Youth 2000 Connaught Autumn Retreat will take place in the College of the Immaculate Conception, Summerhill, Sligo on the weekend of November 8-10. Join the gathering for talks, testimonies and workshops. Donation only. Bring a sleeping bag. For more information, visit www.youth2000.ie or email connaught@youth2000.ie.
There was a good turnout at the weekly 25 Card Drive held in the Yeats County Inn, Curry, on Tuesday, October 22, at 8.30pm, and the following were the prize winners; 1st Darby and Breege Leonard, 2nd Kevin Maloney and Joe Mahon. Raffle winners were James Cafferty, Kevin Maloney and Colm Gallagher.
Activator Pole and Chair exercises take place in Charlestown Arts Centre at 12 noon on Friday, November 8, 15, 22 and 29. Lift access available. €2 contribution per class.
Learn to Dance classes with Gina continue at Carracastle Community Centre on Thursday evenings from 8-9.30pm. €10 per person, pay as you go. Learn to jive, waltz, foxtrot, quickstep and linedance. For more information and to book your class call 085 7704647.
Senior Strength and Conditioning classes with Sarah Timlin are held every Wednesday morning from 11am-12 noon at Carracastle Community Centre. Exercises are chair based and light weights are used. For more information and to book your place contact Sarah at 086 3879635.
The Christmas Craft Fair will be held at Carracastle Community Centre on Sunday, December 1, from 10am-2pm. If you would like to have a table on the day contact 085 7704647 to confirm your place and for more information.
The death took place recently at Mayo Hospice of Dan O’Donnell, Cloonaughill, Curry. His remains were removed to the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Curry and burial took place after solemn requiem Mass to the Cemetery of the Resurrection, Charlestown. He is survived by his brothers Jimmy and John, sisters Patsy and Margaret, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends. The late Dan, who was pre-deceased by his parents John Francis and Margaret, his sister Josephine, and brother and sister in infancy, was a good man in the true sense of the word. He was one of nature’s gentlemen who was a quiet-spoken, humble man who lived his life in the best way he knew how. Dan was a good neighbour and friend to all in the communities of Cloonaughill, Charlestown and Curry where he had forged many strong links and friendships. He was a hard worker who knew the value of a good day’s work for a good day’s pay and always had a friendly word or a smile for everyone in the neighbourhood whenever their paths crossed. The community of Cloonaughill has lost one of its best and nicest citizens as Dan was popular with everybody and we tender our deepest sympathies to the bereaved.
The Medjugorje Irish Centre organise pilgrimages to Medjugorje, April to June offering 7 nights Apartment accommodation B & B for €273 per person sharing. Airport transfers available on request. Telephone contact Ireland, 01 44 34 510 Medjugorje 00387 36 651 518 . Email reservations@med-irishcentre.com.
Marriage Counselling Rooms are now available at Convent Road, Ballaghaderreen and at Moneen, Castlebar. Enquiries to office in Castlebar 087 9972503.
Age Friendly Mayo is delivered by Mayo County Council and works to improve the services that older people have identified as being important to them, and the wider community, as they live healthy and active lives. The projects they offer, in conjunction with other organisations include; outdoor spaces and buildings, transportation, housing, respect and social inclusion, social participation, communication and education, civic participation and employment and health and wellbeing.
The key contributors to this programme are the Age Friendly Alliance and Mayo OIder Peoples Council. The Age Friendly Alliance brings together older people, service providers and businesses to change thinking about aging and how services to our older people are planned and delivered.
If you would like to find out more about this programme email agefriendlymayo@mayococo.ie.
Mayo Genealogy Group meet on the second Saturday of every month in Turlough House at 11am. All are welcome and new members are especially welcome.
The junior cycle Irish course which is suitable for 2nd and 3rd year students takes place on Wednesday, October 30 from 10am-2pm. Call or text Siobhan on 087 6151581 to enquire about the course or to book a place.
Una Nolan, Choir Director at Knock Shrine will provide two choir workshops in preparation for the Advent and Christmas seasons, the first in Swinford on Wednesday, November 6, at 7.30, and this will be repeated in Tubbercurry the following Wednesday, November 13, again at 7.30pm.
There was no winner of the Curry GAA lotto jackpot of €3500 in the weekly draw held on Monday night, October 21, and the four numbers drawn were as follows; 3, 5, 18, and 26. The following were the winners of the €20 weekly prizes; John A. Kennedy, Catherine Fox, and Linda Howley.
The latest jackpot increased to €3,600 and the draw took place on Monday night, October 28. Tickets can be bought in a number of outlets or via the online platform and also by logging onto the club’s Facebook and Twitter pages.
RHS Home Care is a non-commercial home care provider bringing professional homecare services to those who need assistance to remain living in their own homes. They are now recruiting new healthcare assistants in the area and would love to hear from you. Potential applicants must have required QQI Level 5 -two modules completed, care skills and care of the older person. Email CVs to jobs@rhshomecare.ie or call Aoife on 090 6625988.
Well done to Curry who retained their senior championship status for 2025 with a comprehensive 6-14 to 2-10 victory over Calry/St Joseph’s in the senior relegation final played at the Owenmore Gaels GAA grounds recently. Curry were full value for their victory with a three goal first half blast paving the way for a comfortable win as Calry/St Joseph’s struggled to contain a very accurate and clinical Curry forward line. The South Sligo lads were a little unlucky to find themselves in the relegation final as they suffered some narrow defeats in the vast majority of their championship games with lady luck most definitely eluding them on a number of occasions. It was a case of all’s well that end’s well however as they pulled a big performance out of the bag at precisely the right moment which was a source of much relief for all associated with the team and management as they can now rest up for the Winter period and re-focus for the new season safe in the knowledge they will be in the hat for the 2025 senior championship draw.
Mayo Genealogy Group in conjunction with his family and friends will present a tribute to the late Christy Lawless of Turlough on Saturday, November 9. Over the course of his life Christy contributed greatly to research of the history, heritage and archaeology of his native Turlough and the surrounding areas. He also contributed many articles on his research to Historical Journals over the years. This event will take place at the Museum of Country Life in Turlough from 11am – 1pm. Among the speakers are Patricia Conway, MGG, Martin Timoney, Historian and Archaeologist, Mick McCarthy, assistant Manager Rathcroghan Visitor Centre and Archaeologist, Clodagh Doyle, Keeper of Irish Folklore, Museum of Country Life, and Mary Gavin MGG.
Everybody is welcome to this day of History, Heritage and Archaeology. It is a free event, but booking is required through the Museum at 094 9031751.
There was a good turnout at the weekly darts competition held in Walsh’s Bar, Main Street, Charlestown on Sunday night, October 20 as Boom Boom and The Egg squared off in another intriguing instalment of the weekly classic. Governor Gus was imperious as always in his role as match referee and kept the game ticking over in admirable fashion. The Egg had the better of the opening exchanges winning the first set in four to give him just the start he craved. Boom Boom, stung by his first set reverse, hit back strongly, claiming the next two sets in stirring fashion as he found his range among the doubles and trebles. The Egg kept his composure however, working his way neatly back into the match as he grabbed the fourth set with a tidy treble twenty, double eighteen finish sending the match to a fifth set decider. The Egg began brightly, winning the first leg with some fine darts.
Boom Boom, far from deterred however, showed typical tenacity, winning the next two legs to put Casey on the back foot as his doubles started to misfire at the worst possible time. Breheny, sensing some vulnerability in his opponent, went for the jugular, banging in two ton pluses with his first six darts to which the Egg struggled to match as he hit two low scores in response to leave Boom Boom on the cusp of victory. He closed the match out in some style hitting a terrific 156 finish with his final dart nestling in the heart of the double eighteen bed to ignite wild scenes of celebration and joy in his loyal band of supporters. Boom Boom was thrilled to have clinched the victory in the manner he did with the Egg most gracious in defeat as he was quick to offer his hand in congratulations. This victory, Boom Boom’s seventh of the season was due reward for his determination and excellence as he once again underlined his consistency and ability to hang in when things aren’t going his way.
