Local Notes: Claremorris CNS hosts inaugural School League
Kyle Gleeson, captain of the winning team in the Claremorris NS School League Final, is presented with the inaugural Liam Smyth Memorial Cup by Sam Smyth, representing Smyth family.
There was great excitement at Claremorris GAA pitch last week as Claremorris CNS proudly hosted the final of its inaugural School League, a thrilling match that celebrated not only sporting spirit, but also school unity, community, and tradition.
The School League was a much-loved tradition in the former Claremorris Boys School, producing generations of talented footballers, many of whom went on to represent Claremorris and Mayo at the highest levels of GAA.
In the spirit of honouring that legacy, and embracing the future, Claremorris CNS reintroduced the league this year as part of its evolving identity as a newly amalgamated school.
Adding to the significance of the occasion was the introduction of the Liam Smyth Memorial Cup, a heartfelt tribute to a man whose dedication to Claremorris and local education was unmatched.
A lifelong supporter of youth sport, Liam championed opportunity and community at every turn. It is especially fitting then that this new chapter of school tradition will carry his name. In naming the cup after Liam, the community honours his legacy and ensures he will be remembered for generations to come.
The final match saw Team Amelia and Team Kyle go head-to-head in a fiercely contested battle full of skill, passion and sportsmanship. Both teams gave outstanding performances, showcasing not just talent but teamwork and determination.
In the end, it was Team Kyle who claimed victory and the honour of lifting the Liam Smyth Memorial Cup for the first time.
Special thanks go to Sam and Josh for presenting the cup on behalf of the Smyth family and to referee Martin Costello for officiating with fairness and encouragement.
What makes the CNS School League truly special is its inclusivity. While it certainly gives a platform to those already playing GAA, it is especially designed to encourage first-timers and those with little experience to give the game a try. It breaks down barriers, brings pupils from different classes together, and forges friendships that will last far beyond their school days.
The CNS School League is already a highlight of the school year, filled with fun, excitement and lasting memories - and with this year’s success, the school community is already counting down the days to next year’s competition!
Two Claremorris schools have received a significant funding boost under the national Safe Routes to School Programme, with St Colman’s College awarded €40,000 and Claremorris National School receiving €30,000 to enhance safety and promote sustainable travel for students.
The programme, designed to create safer walking and cycling routes to schools, aims to reduce traffic congestion at school gates and encourage more students to walk, cycle, or scoot to school. Both Claremorris schools are set to benefit from tailored infrastructure upgrades, which may include improved pathways, cycle parking, road signage, and other access enhancements.
“It’s great to see such high demand for this scheme in schools across Mayo,” Minister of State Alan Dillon said. “This scheme is not only good for students but also good for the environment. I would like to congratulate all the schools involved, especially St Colman’s College and Claremorris NS, who are showing leadership in making school travel safer and more sustainable.”
Mayo County Council has also been allocated an additional €190,000 to support rural schools located on roads with higher speed limits, including improvements such as enhanced signage and road markings to alert drivers and improve overall safety near school zones.
The investment marks a positive step toward a more active and environmentally friendly school commute for Claremorris students, while also easing local traffic pressure at busy drop-off and pick-up times.
Students from Claremorris National School are celebrating a major achievement after their sixth-class project, Christmas Creations, was named a category winner in the prestigious All-Island Junior Entrepreneur Awards.
The business, created as part of the Junior Entrepreneur Programme (JEP), earned the Finance Wizards Award, one of just 12 accolades presented from over 200 entries across the island. The enterprising students designed and produced a beautiful range of festive crafts, including winter logs and hand-crafted wooden decorations, which proved hugely popular thanks to their high quality and creative finish.
Their efforts resulted in profits of over €3,000, which the students thoughtfully used to fund their school tour, a JEP-related trip, class hoodies, and a donation to charity. The project was supported by their teachers Lisa Dillon and Breda Murphy, who helped guide the pupils through each stage of the programme.
The business officially launched at the Claremorris Winter Fair in November, following inspiration drawn from a visit by Harry Hughes and Orla Good of Portwest, one of Mayo’s leading entrepreneurial success stories.
Knock Museum has been announced as the Mayo County finalist in the Heritage category of the National Lottery Good Causes Awards 2025. The museum was recognised for its ongoing efforts to protect, preserve, and promote local heritage, and for its positive contribution to community life.
The National Lottery Good Causes Awards honour organisations, projects, and individuals across the country whose work has had a meaningful impact at a local level. Part funding from the National Lottery’s Good Causes Fund has supported initiatives in the heritage category that aim to safeguard cultural and historical resources for future generations.
Knock Museum’s selection as a county finalist highlights the importance of heritage work in rural communities and the value of continued public support for such initiatives.
Fifteen local voluntary groups out of a county-wide total of 226 have benefitted from funding under the Department of Rural and Community Development’s Local Enhancement Programme (LEP). The funding, which ranges from €200 to just over €2,000 per group, is aimed at supporting small-scale capital projects and improvements to community facilities.
In Claremorris and surrounding areas, a number of organisations have received funding to assist with facility upgrades and equipment purchases. These include Claremorris Community Radio CLG, Claremorris Handball Club, Claremorris Men’s Group, Claremorris Social and Family Centre, Claremorris & Western District Energy Co-operative, and Eastern Gaels GAA Club in Brickens, each receiving €280.60. Tidy Towns Claremorris was awarded €985.90 in recognition of its ongoing efforts to enhance the town’s public spaces.
Further afield, Davitts GAA Club in Ballindine secured €1,725.30, while Knock Foróige received €280.60 to support youth engagement activities. Garrymore GAA Club was awarded €1,760.55, and Mayo Gaels GAA Club in Mayo Abbey received one of the highest awards at €2,041.15.
Support for early years services was also evident, with Roundfort Community Playgroup and Taugheen Playgroup CLG both allocated €1,000 each. Taugheen Community Council CLG was among the top beneficiaries, with a grant of €2,041.15 to aid its ongoing community work.
Environmental and heritage projects were not left behind, with Birdwatch Ireland – Mayo Branch receiving €760 to support its activities in the Mayo Abbey area.
This year’s LEP funding supports the Government’s wider rural development strategy, Our Rural Future, and has prioritised small community-based organisations in areas where such support can make a tangible difference. The funds will allow local groups to carry out minor repairs, enhance facilities, and invest in much-needed equipment.
Minister of State Alan Dillon acknowledged the role played by Mayo County Council and the Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) in managing the applications and ensuring fair distribution of the funding. While modest in size, these grants are expected to make a meaningful impact at ground level, ensuring that local clubs, community centres and voluntary groups can continue to serve their areas effectively.
As the school year draws to a close, pupils across Claremorris National School have enjoyed memorable tours and activities.
Ms Murphy’s sixth class had an action-filled day at Shannon River Adventure, tackling climbing walls, obstacle courses, archery, and a hotly contested tug-of-war. The afternoon brought even more excitement with canoeing, kayaking, pier jumping, and the much-loved mud slide - an unforgettable experience for all.
Meanwhile, Ms Dillon’s sixth class embarked on a school tour to Dublin, travelling by train to the capital. Their first stop was Dáil Éireann, where they met several ministers and TDs, including Helen McEntee, Norma Foley, Mary Lou McDonald, Mattie McGrath, and Alan Dillon, whose kind invitation made the visit possible. A particular highlight was their visit to the courtyard of Government Buildings, where the group met Tánaiste Simon Harris. He was so impressed by the students’ thoughtful questions - on various topics including the proposed social media ban - that he invited them to visit his private office, a rare and special honour.
The day concluded with a fun-filled Sandbox VR experience, some shopping in St Stephen’s Green, and a well-earned meal at Heuston Station.
Not to be outdone, Ms Casey’s fourth class and Mrs Sheridan’s third and fourth class enjoyed a fantastic day at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. The trip included a tour of the historic castle, visits to the old schoolhouse and blacksmith’s forge, and exploration of the traditional farmhouses. The children were commended by staff for their excellent behaviour and enthusiasm. The visit wrapped up with a magical trip to Fossett’s Circus - the perfect ending to a day full of memories.
A busy and highly successful few weeks at Claremorris Golf Club culminated in the much-anticipated Lady Captain’s Prize, hosted by Mrs Cathy Doolan, on Sunday, June 15th.
A lively turnout set the tone for a celebration of golf, with Sarah Gallagher emerging as the outright winner of the prestigious event, carding an impressive 68 nett to take top honours.
Anna Marie Doherty was close behind with a fine 69 nett to claim second place, while the gross prize went to Riana Kean on 91. Mary Collins took third place with a 70 nett, followed by Dympna Clarke (72 nett, back nine) and Noreen McHugh also on 72 nett. Mary T. Coyne secured the Category 36–54 prize with a 75 nett, and the Past Captain’s Award went to Louise Grant, who also posted 75 nett. The front nine and back nine accolades went to Sinead Daly and Hannah Grant, respectively, both recording 32 nett.
In the nine-hole competition, Chris Jordan edged Eileen Mellett on the back nine to win Category A with 18 points, while Mary Coleman won Category B from Finola Mellett. In the beginners’ section, Camila Roche and Gloria Devane finished first and second respectively.
Tom Fanning Jnr won the men’s competition with a score of 66 nett. David Woolley finished second on 67 nett. The Gross prize went to Eoin Prendergast with a score of 76. Ray Woolley placed third with 68 nett, followed by Michael Lohan in fourth on 69 nett. Sean Sweeney was fifth with 70 nett on the back six, and Dermot Costello took sixth place, also with 70 nett, on the back nine.
Earlier in the month, the Carpe Diem TJ Farragher Cup was contested across three days, from May 30th to June 1st. Valerie Callaghan led the ladies' field with 38 points to take the top spot, followed by Bernie Divilly in Category 2 with 37 points. Catherine Brennan secured Category 3 with 31 points, and Finola Mellett claimed the 9-hole prize with 20 points. Among the men, David Woolley won with 41 points, with category wins going to Eoin Prendergast (Cat 1), Martin Murphy (Cat 2), Martin Devaney (Cat 3), and Padraig Mannion (Cat 5).
In the Claremorris Free Range Eggs-sponsored competition, Sarah Creighton won the ladies’ competition with 43 points. Christina Rush and Bernie Divilly secured Category 1 and Category 2, respectively, while Mary Coleman won the 9-hole category.
Scott Wright took the men’s overall prize with 43 points. In the individual categories, Ciaran McDermott (Cat 1), Liam O’Connell (Cat 2), Gerry Hughes (Cat 3), and Owen Hannon (Cat 4) were the winners.
In the June Bank Holiday Open Weekend, Marina Reilly claimed the top prize with 34 points.
Ballindine National School emerged victorious in the Cumann na mBunscol Division 2B Final, putting in a strong performance to defeat Currabaggan NS of Knockmore on a scoreline of 5-13 to 3-6 at MacHale Park in Castlebar.
This high-scoring encounter served as the opening fixture of this year’s finals and showcased the skill and determination of both teams. Ballindine’s Aoife Goggins was in outstanding form, contributing an impressive 4-5 to her team’s total in a match that was played with great spirit and energy from both sides.
Currabaggan made an early breakthrough, but Ballindine rallied strongly before the break, with points from Saoirse McDonagh, Neala Devane, and a goal from Aoife Goggins helping them to a 1-8 to 2-3 lead at half-time.
The second half saw Ballindine extend their advantage, with further goals from Aoife Goggins and Sadhbh McDonagh putting the result beyond doubt. Goggins’ fourth goal came in the 23rd minute, giving her side a commanding lead.
Despite the scoreline, Currabaggan continued to battle but they hadn’t enough to match the Ballindine girls. This result marks a memorable achievement for the Ballindine girls, who can be proud of their display in securing a county title.
Ballindine Scorers: Aoife Goggins (4-5, 0-2 frees), Saoirse McDonagh (0-4), Sadhbh McDonagh (1-0), Neala Devane (0-2), Lucy Duffy and Éilis McHugh (0-1 each).
Ballindine Panel: Lily Daly, Laura Fahy, Lucy Duffy, Neala Devane, Éilis McHugh, Saoirse McDonagh, Isabella McGowan, Annie Teresa Ward, Áine Rose Carroll, Lauren Gibbons, Hollie Sheridan, Aoife Goggins, Sienna O’Neill, Sadhbh McDonagh, Lily Mae Trench, Doireann Kearns.
Cúram Cúram Family Centre in Claremorris will host its next Women’s Social Gathering on Thursday, June 26th, at 7.30pm in the Cúram building. The evening offers local women an opportunity to come together for a chat and a cuppa in a relaxed and welcoming space. All are welcome to attend.
Meanwhile, the centre is calling on the local community for support in a nomination drive that could help secure vital financial backing from the AIB Community Fund. Cúram, which operates under the name Claremorris Social and Family Centre (Charity No. 20065485), is hoping to be among the beneficiaries of the €1 million fund designed to support community-based organisations across Ireland.
Nominations remain open for a short time, and members of the public are encouraged to visit aib.ie/community-fund and select ‘nominate here’. In the nomination form, supporters are asked to include the charity name, registration number, and to choose the ‘Social’ theme, selecting ‘Other’ when prompted. A short note on why Cúram should receive support from the fund is also required.
Staff at the centre extended heartfelt thanks to those who have already submitted nominations and urged anyone who has yet to do so to get involved. Every nomination counts towards helping Cúram continue its work in supporting families and individuals throughout the community.
Claremorris National School made local sporting history this week by securing the Mayo Cumann na mBunscol Division Four hurling title in impressive fashion.
In what was their first appearance in a county final since the school’s formation in September 2024, Claremorris NS delivered a dominant performance against Gaelscoil na gCeithre Maol from Ballina, finishing with a comprehensive 8-5 to 0-3 victory.
The newly amalgamated school, formed through the joining of Muire Gan Smál and Claremorris Boys National School, fielded a mixed team of boys and girls, marking a new chapter in the school’s sporting journey.
The final was played in perfect conditions at Canon Gibbons Park in Claremorris where the local side wasted no time in asserting their dominance. Kyle Gleeson opened the scoring with 1-1 inside the first minute and added a second goal just moments later, setting the tone for what would be a commanding display.
Captain Jack Veldon led by example, finding the net on three occasions in the first half and again in the closing stages, finishing with a remarkable 4-0. Gleeson continued his outstanding form to end the day with 3-3, while Flynn Cassidy also added 1-1, including a long-range free that found its way into the net. Adam Conroy chipped in with a well-taken point, adding further gloss to a confident team performance.
Leading 4-2 to 0-3 at the break, Claremorris never looked back, adding four more goals in the second half to cap off a memorable win.
The victorious Claremorris team included Flynn Cassidy, Judah Alexandre, John O’Grady, Jack Veldon (captain), Kyle Gleeson, Adam Conroy, and Nicole Ciweck, along with Ryan Walsh, Oisín Doherty, Lorenzo Apaw, Samuel Gomes da Silva, Aliesha Carney, Kuba Jankowski, Daniel Martin and Fionn Raftery.
The school’s staff and pupils expressed their pride in the team’s success and noted that the achievement reflects the positive spirit of the amalgamation. Earlier victories over Ballyhaunis, Carracastle and Ballaghadereen at the Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence had already showcased the squad’s talent and determination.
This final win not only marks a historic moment for the school but also highlights its commitment to promoting both hurling and camogie for all pupils going forward.
Registration for the Garrymore Cúl Camp is now open at www.kelloggsculcamps.gaa.ie.
The camp will take place from Monday, June 30th to Friday, July 4th. Early booking is advised. Registration must be done online.
Crossboyne community has expressed sincere thanks to everyone who turned up last Wednesday evening to help with the village clean-up in preparation for the Eucharistic Procession on Sunday.
Deirdre Cosgrove from County Meath was the lucky winner of last week’s Claremorris GAA Club 50/50 draw, taking home a prize of €967.
Deirdre entered the draw online, highlighting the growing reach and accessibility of the club’s fundraising efforts.
The club extended its sincere thanks to everyone who supported the draw. All funds raised go directly towards developing local GAA facilities and supporting underage coaching.
Tickets are available weekly in shops and pubs around Claremorris, as well as through the online platform.
Congratulations to John Hunt, who won €533 in Claremorris AFC’s 50/50 draw last week. John’s winning ticket was bought in Hanley’s, one of the many valued local venues where the club's fundraising tickets are sold.
Claremorris AFC expressed appreciation to all who take part in the weekly draw, whether online or in local outlets. Proceeds from the draw continue to support the club’s youth teams and development projects, ensuring football in the area remains strong for future generations.
The death has occurred of Kathleen Ruddy (née Tunney), better known as Kitty, of Derrycoosh, Rahins, Castlebar and Cloonrane, Ballindine, and formerly of Knappagh, Westport. Kitty died peacefully on June 11th at the Sacred Heart Hospital, Castlebar, surrounded by her loving family.
Kitty was predeceased by her beloved husband Joe, son Gerard, parents Jim and Nora Tunney (née Gibbons), sister Bridie O’Malley, and brother Paddy.
Kitty will be sadly missed by her daughters Marita, Noreen, Karina and Ann, her sons Pat and Joey, 15 grandchildren and great-grandson, her sister Mary, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and many friends.
Kitty’s remains reposed at Kilcoyne’s Funeral Home, Thomas Street, Castlebar on Sunday evening, June 15th. Funeral Mass took place on Monday morning in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar, followed by burial in Castlebar New Cemetery, Newport Road, alongside her husband Joe and son Gerard.
May she rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Tommie Flatley of Cloonmore, Ballyfarna, Claremorris. Tommie died peacefully at University Hospital Galway on June 12th after a short illness.
Tommie was predeceased by his parents Frank and Annie (née Connelly) and brother Micheal. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife Patricia, children Francis, Bernie, John, David and Adrian, grandchildren Olivia, Cathal, Aaron, Ruairí, Saoirse, Laura, Eoin, Aoife, Jessica, Ruby, Amelia, Conor and Liam, his sisters Margaret and Imelda, daughters-in-law Catherine, Anne, Lynsey and Jenny, son-in-law James, sisters-in-law Peggy, Mary, Bridget and Eileen, brothers-in-law Anthony and Jimmy, nieces, nephews, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
Tommie’s remains reposed at the Marian Funeral Home, Knock, on Saturday evening, June 14th. Funeral Mass was held on Sunday in the Church of Our Lady, Barnacarroll, with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Mary Jennings (née Cawe), of Ballinaya, Ballinrobe, and formerly of Taugheen, Claremorris. Mary died peacefully but suddenly on June 12th at Mayo University Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.
Predeceased by her beloved daughter Majella and parents John and Annie Cawe, Mary will be forever loved and missed by her devoted husband Jimmy, her children Breege (Biggins) and Tomas, son-in-law Joe, daughter-in-law Elaine, and cherished grandchildren Anne, Patrick and Oisín.
Mary will be fondly remembered by her brothers Mick, Jim and Mattie, her sisters Eileen (Vahey), Margaret (O’Neill), Ann (Reid) and Bridie (Lydon), brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends.
Mary’s remains reposed at St Joseph’s Funeral Home, Ballinrobe on Sunday evening, June 15th, with removal to St Mary’s Church, Ballinrobe.
Requiem Mass took place on Monday morning followed by burial in the New Cemetery, Ballinrobe.
May she rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Anne Maria Caulfield (née Logan) of Coogue, Knock. Anne Maria died peacefully on June 16th at Claremont Nursing Home, Claremorris, surrounded by her family.
Anne Maria was predeceased by her loving husband John, parents Pa and Bridie Logan, brothers Thomas and John Martin, and nephew Patrick. She is deeply missed by her daughters Colette and Stephanie, son David, daughter-in-law Bernie, grandchildren John and Sarah, brother William, sister Bernie (Muldowney), brother-in-law John, nieces, nephews, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
Anne Maria’s remains reposed at the Marian Funeral Home, Knock on Wednesday evening, with removal to the Church of St John the Baptist. Funeral Mass was held on Thursday morning, followed by burial in Knock Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Saoirse Duggan of Spotfield, Bekan, Claremorris. Saoirse passed away peacefully following a long illness, bravely borne, surrounded by her heartbroken family.
Saoirse is deeply missed by her devoted parents Tommy and Martina, her sister Éabha, her grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and her many friends, along with the wider Duggan, O’Brien, Heneghan and Mahon families. Saoirse’s laughter, spirit and gentle soul touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Saoirse’s funeral Mass of the Angels was held in Bekan Church on Wednesday morning, followed by burial in the local cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Michael (Mick) Brennan of River Walk, Collooney, Co Sligo, and formerly of Dalton Street, Claremorris. Mick died peacefully on June 17th after a short illness, at University Hospital Galway.
Mick was predeceased by his parents Paddy and Delia, his sister Marie (Gorman), and brother David. He will be dearly missed by his heartbroken wife Ena, daughter Tracy (Kennedy), sons Craig and Warren, son-in-law Robert, daughter-in-law Alicia, and his cherished grandchildren Leah, Cian, Ryan, Noah, Holly and Michaela. Mick will also be sadly missed by his brother Martin (Devon, UK), sister-in-law Wendy, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, kind neighbours and many friends.
Mick’s remains reposed at Church View Funeral Home, Collooney on Thursday evening last. Funeral Mass was held on Friday at the Church of the Assumption, Collooney, followed by burial in St. Nathy’s Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
