Local Notes: Claremorris native among winners at Irish Man of the Year Awards

Local Notes: Claremorris native among winners at Irish Man of the Year Awards

Claremorris native Luke Gibbons receives his Irish Man of the Year Award for Educational Excellence.

Claremorris man, Luke Gibbons, a current PhD candidate in Law at Trinity College Dublin and Research Ireland Scholar, has won the Educational Excellence Award in the Hi Style Rémy Martin Awards 2025. The award was announced last week at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Cork.

“I’m deeply honoured to be named Irish Man of the Year for Education Excellence,” Luke told the Western People. “This recognition is not mine alone, it belongs to every mentor, colleague and student who has shaped my journey. I’m especially grateful to my PhD supervisor, Professor Deirdre Ahern at Trinity College Dublin, and to the institutions that have empowered me: Harvard Law School, the University of Oxford, Emory University, and the European Academy of Diplomacy. 

"I am also grateful to Research Ireland and the Fulbright Commission for funding my research. Thank you all for believing in the transformative power of education.” 

Luke received the All-Ireland Young Sustainability Change Maker of the Year Award last November. This prestigious award celebrates individuals under 30 who excel in promoting environmental stewardship and sustainability. Luke is also the current Young Mayo Person of the Year.

St Colman’s College celebrates student excellence 

St Colman’s College, Claremorris, recently held its annual Awards Day, honouring the outstanding achievements of students across academics, sports, and extracurricular activities during the 2024–2025 school year. The event was attended by Mayo sporting legend Cora Staunton, the Guest of Honour who delivered an inspiring address to the assembled students, staff, and guests.

The ceremony recognised a wide array of student accomplishments. Senior Student of the Year was awarded to Dara Morley, while Malachy Devane received the Junior Student of the Year accolade. Commendations for Sixth-Year students were presented to Dara Morley, Craig Cassidy, Aaron O’Gara, Adam Molloy, Ronan Kelly, Aidan Naughton, Rio Mortimer, Darragh Beirne, Luke Woolley, Aodhán Tonra, Ben Sheridan, and Sean O’Connell. Fifth-Year commendations went to Sean Halleran, Cillian Gallagher, David Loughney, Mark Noonan, Darragh Monaghan, Ciarán Commins, Tom Hession, and Nathan Gill.

In sports, Darragh Beirne was named Senior Footballer of the Year, with Matthew Gilligan receiving the Junior Footballer of the Year award. The senior football team, captained by Darragh Beirne and Rio Mortimer and managed by Enda Campbell and Eoghan Collins, was celebrated for its achievements in reaching the Hogan Cup Final last March. The junior football team, led by captain Dara Flanagan, also received recognition. Juvenile footballers Mark Hurley, Eoin Delaney, Keenan Mortimer, and Shane Heaney were acknowledged for their contributions.

In handball, Michael Walczak was named First-Year Singles Handballer of the Year, while Jason Conroy and John Foody received the First-Year Doubles Handballers of the Year award. Senior Handballer of the Year was awarded to Aodhán Tonra.

Athletics awards included Junior Track and Field Athlete of the Year Michael Dore, Minor Athlete of the Year Kieran Walsh, and Athletes of the Year Sean Halleran, Kevin Tasca dos Santos, Mihai Jirebie, Sean Leydon, and John Gallagher. Jack Monaghan was recognised as Soccer Player of the Year, and Basketballers of the Year were Yehya Alshawi and Tyler Brennan.

The Spirit of St Colman’s Awards were presented to Cormac Walsh, Ronan Murphy, and Marc Reilly, with Odhran McTigue also receiving the Transition Year Spirit of St Colman’s Award.

Academic and extracurricular achievements were also celebrated. John Finn received the Technology Teachers' Association National Award for his Leaving Cert Construction Studies project. Luke Woolley was presented with the PJ McGrath Memorial Trophy for Engineering. Avram Petkovic was named Junior Woodwork Student of the Year, and Daniels Solovejs received the Junior Art Award.

The college’s VEX Robotics team, comprising Matthew Hession, Joseph Martin, Ronan Murphy, Marc Reilly, Pearse Diskin, Ethan Quinn, Eoghan McGeeney, Luke Killeen, and Cian Mangan, were acknowledged for their participation in the All-Ireland Finals in Cork.

Religious awards included the Papal Cross, presented to Aodhán Tonra, Luke Woolley, Aidan Naughton, Craig Cassidy, Ronan Kelly, Dylan Heneghan, Dara Morley, Evan Campbell, and Fionnán Sweeney. The Pope John Paul II Awards were bestowed upon Sean Halleran, David Heaney, Cillian Gallagher, Noah O’Brien, Oisin Gaughan, Nathan Gill, Kevin Duffy, Sean Clarke, Ciarán Commins, Jack Comer, Evan Dillon, Conor Monaghan, Alex Pilbrow, Patrick Dermody, Tom Hession, and David Loughney.

The event was supported by Claremorris Credit Union, represented by Jimmy Nally and Jarlath Sweeney, and attended by Fr Shane Costello, who presented the religious awards. Representatives from the Board of Management and Parents' Association were also present, underscoring the community's support for the students' achievements.

The Awards Day highlighted the diverse talents and dedication of St Colman’s College students, celebrating their hard work and accomplishments throughout the academic year.

No Name Club board member Sean Twomey (right) makes a presentation to Con Nolan for over 25 years of service with No Name Club.
No Name Club board member Sean Twomey (right) makes a presentation to Con Nolan for over 25 years of service with No Name Club.

Claremorris duo honoured  

There was great pride in Claremorris last week as two local people were recognised at the National No Name Club Youth Awards, held in the Tullamore Court Hotel. The event celebrated the achievements of young people and volunteers involved in the organisation, which provides safe, alcohol- and drug-free social spaces for teenagers.

Among those honoured was long-standing Claremorris volunteer Con Nolan, who received a special presentation in recognition of his extraordinary commitment to the No Name Club over the past 25 years. Con was one of the founding members of the Claremorris branch in 2000, and since then has played a central role in shaping and sustaining its success.

The club, which began with gatherings in the Dalton Inn, later moved to a premises on Mount Street thanks to the generosity of James and Patricia Keane, and is now based on James Street. Over the years, it has catered for groups ranging from 60 to 100 teenagers, offering a vital social outlet for young people in the area.

Con also served for two decades with the national No Name Club head office in Dublin, offering his time and experience at a national level. His award - a commemorative vase - was presented as a mark of the organisation’s deep appreciation for his tireless work and dedication to the youth of Claremorris.

Mount Saint Michael Transition Year student Diane Hession also brought pride to the town as she was nominated for the prestigious Host of the Year award. Diane is a committed member of the Claremorris No Name Club and was recognised nationally for her enthusiasm, leadership, and positive influence on her peers.

Speaking at the event, No Name Club chairman Dr Garrett Keenaghan praised all those involved, saying the awards celebrated not only individual achievement, but the strength of character and community values shared by nominees.

Claremorris can be proud of its continued contribution to this national movement. With strong volunteer support and a new generation of young leaders like Diane stepping forward, the No Name Club in the town continues to thrive as a positive force for young people.

Clár ICH showcases at a national level

Clár ICH, the Claremorris-based voluntary housing association, recently participated in a national seminar on the ‘New Solutions Innovation Fund’ - a €1.8 million initiative developed by Pobal in collaboration with the Department of Rural and Community Development.

The fund, which opens for applications on June 23rd, is designed to support social enterprises like Clár ICH in launching growth-focused local initiatives. The objective is to help deliver new services to target groups and develop innovative responses to community needs.

Clár ICH has long been recognised for combining practical housing solutions with broader social impact. Its recent involvement in a well-attended energy clinic in Ballinlough, Co Roscommon, further underlines the organisation’s environmental leadership. Despite being held outside the county, the clinic reflected the national relevance of Clár ICH’s work and its firm commitment to sustainable practices.

From delivering social housing to promoting energy efficiency, the organisation continues to set high standards for how local voluntary groups can contribute to regional and national goals.

Double delight for Claremorris National School 

There was great celebration in Castlebar last week as both the boys' and girls' football teams from Claremorris National School triumphed in their respective Cumann na mBunscol semi-finals, securing their place in the upcoming county finals.

The victories, achieved in Mulvey Park, Castlebar, mark a major sporting milestone for the recently amalgamated school. The teams have worked hard throughout the competition, and their performance last week was a testament to their determination, teamwork, and school spirit.

Staff, pupils and parents are all incredibly proud of the players and the coaching teams behind them. With the county finals now on the horizon, excitement is already building in Claremorris as both teams prepare for what promises to be an unforgettable occasion.

Bekan players shine on Mayo team

There was glory for Mayo at the All-Ireland Inter-county Pool Championships recently, as the Mayo Pool D team were crowned Junior B All-Ireland champions after a thrilling final. Among the squad were two familiar names to the Claremorris and Bekan sporting communities - Tom Larkin of Bekan and his son Cathal, both playing instrumental roles in securing the national title.

Trailing 7-12 at one point in the final, the Mayo side displayed remarkable composure and fighting spirit, winning all the remaining frames to complete an extraordinary comeback and take the title on a 14-12 scoreline.

The Larkin family of Bekan had even more reason to celebrate, as father-and-son duo Tom and Cathal were central figures throughout the tournament. Cathal, who also served as vice-captain of the team, played with distinction alongside his father, highlighting a proud day for Bekan and the wider Claremorris area.

The team’s All-Ireland victory marks a remarkable achievement to close out the pool season and adds another chapter to Mayo’s growing reputation on the national pool stage.

Meanwhile, the Mayo Ladies A team also made headlines at the same event, reaching the All-Ireland Senior Final before being narrowly defeated by a strong Wicklow side. Their performance in getting to the final was itself a major milestone, laying a solid foundation for further success.

Diane Hession, a member of the Claremorris No Name Club, was nominated for Host of the Year at the No Name Club National Youth Awards.
Diane Hession, a member of the Claremorris No Name Club, was nominated for Host of the Year at the No Name Club National Youth Awards.

Colts celebrate 16 years with awards night 

The McWilliam Park Hotel was the setting for a landmark evening in Claremorris last week when over 200 people gathered to celebrate the 16th anniversary of Colts Rugby Football Club at their annual awards night. From the early arrivals to the late-night disco that brought the night to a close, the event was a warm and lively tribute to the progress and passion of the club’s players, volunteers and families.

One of the highlights of the evening was the presence of Aoife Heaney, the Colts' first-ever Irish international and a current student at Mount St Michael Secondary School, which recently won the Connacht Schools title. Aoife, who played for Ireland at the U18 Six Nations Championship Festival in England, took part in a conversation with MC Liam Horan, where she described the thrill of competing at international level and her personal highlight - a tightly contested match against France.

In a special moment for the club, Aoife presented her first Ireland jersey to club chairman Fergal Byrne, marking a proud milestone in the club’s history. Later in the evening, Aoife was announced as the Colts’ Youth Player of the Year, her second time receiving the award.

Throughout the evening, awards were presented to players across all squads, celebrating individual effort, resilience and skill. In the U13 boys' team, James Larkin was named Most Improved Player, Oran Cowley took the 'Hail, Rain and Shine' award, and Ruari O’Dea was named Player of the Year. The U14 boys’ awards went to Shane Diskin (Most Improved), Riley Quinn (Hail, Rain and Shine), and Conor Fitzsimmons, who was both Player of the Year and Players’ Player.

In the U14 girls’ category, Ruby Judge took the award for Most Improved, Maeve Heaney was recognised for her commitment in all conditions, and Grace Jennings earned the top player title. The U15 boys’ awards went to Johnny Prendergast (Most Improved), Jack Mullaney (Hail, Rain and Shine), and Shane Heaney (Player of the Year).

The U16 boys’ accolades went to Aodhan Flatley, Cian Healy and Eoghan Loughney, while among the U16 girls, Lara McNulty was Most Improved, Sadhbh Doherty took the 'Hail, Rain and Shine' award, and Ruth Cunnane was named Player of the Year and Players’ Player.

In the U17 squad, Darragh Jennings stood out for improvement, Ruairi Staunton for his all-weather dedication, and David Loughney claimed Player of the Year. At U18.5 level, the winners were Tadhg Ferrick (Most Improved), Ronan Murphy (Hail, Rain and Shine), and Stephen Colleran (Player of the Year).

The U18 girls’ team also saw strong representation, with Emma Heffernan (Most Improved), Leah Judge (Hail, Rain and Shine), and Emma Gibbons (Player of the Year) taking the awards.

The senior team also enjoyed their moment in the spotlight. Cathal McHugh earned the 'Hail, Rain and Shine' title, Jack Colleran was chosen by his peers as Players’ Player of the Year, Liam Heaney was named Young Player of the Year, and Oisín O’Connor took home the Club Player of the Year trophy.

In his address, chairman Fergal Byrne expressed pride in the achievements of all award recipients and extended a warm welcome to Aoife Heaney and her family. He thanked the club’s sponsors, including the Claremorris Credit Union, Phelan Motor Factors, CBE and Donnellan Funeral Directors, for their continued support, and acknowledged the contribution of Siobhán Jennings and the organising committee in delivering another memorable evening.

Fergal also recognised the successes of Colts players and alumni throughout the season, noting that the U13 and U18.5 boys’ squads were both runners-up in the Connacht Plate and Bowl competitions respectively. He congratulated Mount St Michael on their Connacht title win and also praised St Louis Community School, Kiltimagh, on their strong showing in the Connacht C Schools Final.

Looking ahead, Fergal outlined the club’s next development phase at Colts Park, which includes the addition of a new stand and dugouts, following the recent installation of new fencing and floodlighting.

Founded in 2009, Claremorris Colts RFC has grown into a vibrant and inclusive sporting organisation, now home to more than 300 members competing across mini, youth and junior rugby. The club continues to promote the sport in a safe, fun and encouraging environment.

The evening ended with a disco for all ages - an upbeat finale to a night that captured the spirit, progress and community pride that defines Claremorris Colts RFC.

Defibrillator locations 

The Claremorris South Mayo Responder Group is encouraging all members of the community to familiarise themselves with the locations of defibrillators (AEDs) in the area, as part of an ongoing effort to raise awareness and improve emergency readiness.

Immediate access to an Automated External Defibrillator can be the difference between life and death in the event of sudden cardiac arrest. With this in mind, the group has compiled and shared an updated list of known defibrillator locations throughout the town and surrounding area.

A number of the devices are housed in public places and are available around the clock, while others are accessible during business or operational hours only.

Defibrillators are available as follows:

Bars, hotels and retail premises: Killeen's Bar, Lower James Street F12 FH27 (Business hours); Griffith's garage, Lower James Street, F12 H7F8 (Business hours); PJ Byrne's Bar F12 PD85 (Public Access), Certa, Station Road F12 VY99 (access office hours only); Tesco, Silverbridge Centre F12E4P8 (Business hours); Electric Skyline (Public Access); Mc William Park Hotel (Business hours); Gilligan's Bar, The Square ( Public Access); Lloyds, The Square (Business hours).

Sports and Leisure facilities: Claremorris Leisure Centre (Business hours); Alan Feeley Park F12 W1Y9 (Public Access); Colts Rugby pitch (Public Access); GAA Complex, Ballyhaunis Road (Business hours); Claremorris Soccer Pitch, Claremont, Claremorris, across from CBE F12 X921.

Public areas: Train Station (Business hours); St Colman's Church (Church hours); Primary Care Centre (Business hours); Clare Lake (Public Access);  Mayfield Entrance to College Green Estate F12NP96 (Public Access); Mayfield Entrance to Kilbeg Estate F12E8W8 (Public Access); Old Knock Road F12 K4X5; Claremorris National School Convent Campus - inside (access during school hours); Brookhill R331 Regional road, 35 meters south of Eirtcode F12Y6C0 (Public Access); Claremorris Garda Station (Public Access); N60 Main Balla Road F12VW62 - Parkatelva (Public Access); The Red Cross (Public Access); Dr Towley’s, Ballyhaunis Road (Public Access). 

The group has emphasised the importance of public awareness regarding these devices and encourages any other local businesses or organisations with AEDs on their premises to get in touch so they can be added to the community list.

Public access defibrillators are available 24 hours a day, while those located in businesses and public buildings are accessible during opening hours.

The Claremorris South Mayo Responder Group continues to serve the local area through community outreach, emergency support, and the promotion of life-saving equipment and training. Residents are urged to familiarise themselves with the nearest defibrillator and to share this vital information with family, friends, and neighbours.

Cúram seeks community nominations for AIB Fund

Cúram Family Centre (Claremorris Social and Family Centre) is calling on members of the local community to help secure vital funding through the AIB Community Fund, which offers €1 million in financial support to charitable organisations nationwide.

To nominate Cúram, supporters are asked to visit www.aib.ie/community-fund and click on the ‘Nominate Here’ button. Nominators will need to input the charity name - Claremorris Social and Family Centre - and the charity registration number, 20065485. When selecting a theme, supporters should tick the Social category and choose Other. A short note on why the centre deserves support will complete the submission.

The team at Cúram expressed their gratitude to all those who have nominated them so far and are hopeful that strong local backing will secure a share of the AIB Fund. They emphasise that their continued success and ability to provide community supports depends on generous support from the public. Every nomination helps.

Cúram is deeply embedded in the fabric of the Claremorris area, offering a wide range of social, wellbeing and educational programmes for individuals and families. A successful nomination would directly contribute to the sustainability and development of these services.

Women’s Coffee Morning returns 

Cúram Family Centre will host its next Women’s Collective Coffee Morning on Thursday, June 5th, at 10.30am. All women in the local area are warmly invited to attend.

The morning promises to be a relaxed and welcoming event, with tea, coffee, and good conversation on offer. A guest speaker will also be in attendance, bringing an added dimension to what is always an enjoyable and sociable morning.

The cost is just €3 and the organisers are looking forward to welcoming familiar faces and new attendees alike. These gatherings are a great opportunity to connect, share experiences, and enjoy a cup of something hot in good company.

Countdown to Agricultural Show

Preparations are already in motion for one of the region’s most beloved summer events, as the Claremorris Agricultural Show Society prepares to host its annual general meeting this Thursday night, June 5th. The meeting will take place in the Western Hotel at 9pm.

All current officers and committee members have been invited to attend, while organisers are also extending a warm welcome to new members and volunteers. With momentum now building towards the 105th Claremorris Agricultural Show, set to take place on Sunday, August 3rd (August Bank Holiday weekend), additional hands and fresh ideas will be invaluable. Tea and refreshments will be served after the meeting, providing an informal opportunity for members old and new to connect as the countdown begins.

The Claremorris Agricultural Show, held annually at the Claremorris Athletic Grounds, is one of Mayo’s most enduring community events. Last year’s 104th edition drew large crowds and featured more than 250 competitive classes across a range of categories. These included cattle, sheep, horses, cookery, garden produce, crafts, vintage exhibits, and the return of the much-loved fowl section.

A highlight of the programme was a packed dog show with 18 separate classes, which drew keen participation and public interest. The show also continued its tradition of involvement with the Irish Shows Association, hosting a number of All-Ireland qualifiers including the prestigious Irish Bred Pony Foal Championship qualifier.

As always, this year’s show promises a full day of entertainment and competition for all ages, while continuing to showcase the best of rural life, craft, and culture in the region. Organisers are hopeful that 2025’s event will match - and even surpass - the success of last year.

Thursday’s AGM will mark an important milestone in planning and community engagement, and all those with an interest in supporting or participating in this year’s show are encouraged to attend.

Claremorris ladies honoured

There was a strong sense of pride and nostalgia at MacHale Park and later at the TF Royal Hotel in Castlebar recently as members of the 1976 Mayo ladies' team were honoured for their historic Connacht Final win. Among those recognised were several women from the Claremorris area, who played key roles in securing that milestone victory nearly five decades ago.

Teresa Higgins, Doleres Duggan, Ann O'Brien, Breege Murphy Walshe, Pauline Mulroy and Marion Cullinane - all of whom wore the Mayo jersey with distinction - were warmly acknowledged for their contributions to the team. The late Joan Gibney, another Claremorris player who featured in the historic win, was fondly remembered and represented at the event by her husband Bernard.

The day began at Hastings Insurance MacHale Park, where the Connacht Senior Final took place, and continued with a special reception at the TF Royal Hotel and Theatre. It offered a chance for former teammates to reconnect, reminisce and be celebrated for their ground-breaking achievement at a time when ladies’ football was still in its formative years.

Claremorris LGFA extended heartfelt congratulations to all the players honoured, with special recognition for the local women who helped shape the early history of ladies’ football in Mayo. The club described the occasion as “a lovely day meeting up and reminiscing” as memories of that 1976 campaign came flooding back.

The recognition event was part of a broader celebration by Mayo LGFA to honour the pioneers of the sport in the county. The 1976 Connacht Final victory marked one of the earliest successes in the county’s ladies' football journey and laid the foundations for the growth and development of the sport across Mayo in the decades that followed.

For Claremorris, it was a proud moment to see so many of their own acknowledged on a provincial stage, highlighting the town’s long-standing contribution to the game and to Mayo LGFA.

Busy month at Claremorris Golf Club 

May was a month of packed schedules and impressive performances at Claremorris Golf Club, with members and visitors alike producing outstanding results across a range of competitions. Supported by a number of generous local sponsors, the club welcomed both individual and team players to events that showcased the growing depth of golfing talent in the area.

The action began with the Flynn’s Pharmacy-sponsored competition from May 2nd to 4th. In the ladies’ section, Bernie Divilly took first place with 40 points. Claire Naughton won Category One with a strong 36 points, while Mary Collins topped Category Three with 38. In the nine-hole event, Deirdre McDermott edged out the field with 21 points to finish first, while Kathleen Carty followed closely with 20 points in second place.

The men’s competition saw Cathal Jordan produce an excellent 46-point round to take first prize overall. Darren Reilly led Category One with 39 points, Damien Connolly won Category Two with 37, Frank Curley posted 39 points to top Category Four, and Sean Sweeney claimed Category Five with a fine 40-point tally.

The Bank Holiday Open Weekend, which ran from May 3rd to 5th, was another well-supported event. Brian Finnerty of Ballinrobe Golf Club took top honours with 42 points. Cathal Hennelly also posted 42 points to finish second, and Sean Sweeney’s consistent form continued with a third-place finish on 40 points.

The competition sponsored by Green's Menswear and JG Sports followed from May 9th to 11th. Mary Collins once again impressed, securing the ladies’ top prize with 40 points. Claire Naughton matched that total to win Category One, while Angela Prenty topped Category Two with 35 points. In the nine-hole section, Eileen Mellett was the winner with 22 points.

In the men’s competition, Martin Lynskey posted an excellent 44 points to take first overall. Brian Farragher also scored 44 points to lead Category One. Brian Burke took Category Two with 36 points, Andrew Finn won Category Three with 41, and Declan Hughes led Category Five with 41.

From May 16th to 18th, the Old Arch Bar and Bistro sponsored a stroke-play competition that saw some strong scoring. In the ladies’ section, Sara Creighton won the Nett competition with a score of 72. Noreen McHugh claimed the Gross title, and Louise Grant won Category One with a 77 Nett.

Michael Connolly produced a superb round of 65 Nett to take first place in the men’s section, while Niall Maxwell was awarded the Gross prize. Brian Farragher posted 71 Nett to win Category One, Shane McDonagh scored 70 to take Category Two, and both Eamon Doherty and Sean Feerick finished on 69 Nett to win Categories Three and Four respectively.

The Club Fundraising Scramble, held from May 20th to 25th, was a major highlight of the month. The team of Gary and Michelle O’Sullivan, Brian Burke and Phelim Munnelly posted an outstanding score of 54.0 Nett to take first place. Second place went to the team of David Grant, Robert Connolly, Ciaran McDermott and Claire Baily with 55.4 Nett. Third prize was claimed by Tom Fanning, Ger Noone, Rossa Higgins and Chris Byrne with a 55.8 total.

Other top finishers included Fintan Gilligan, Liam Byrne, Paul Muldoon and Michael Gaughan, who took fourth place on the back nine with a score of 56.5. Fifth went to Eamon and Niall Monaghan, Ryan O’Shea and John McDonnell, also on 56.5. Sixth place was secured by Pat, Patrick and George Garvey along with Ryan Kilkelly on 57.1. The team of Darren Reilly, Steve and Damien Walsh, and Ryan Connolly followed closely with 57.2, while Cathal Jordan, James Cooney, Mark Kerrisk and Declan Mulligan posted 57.4 for eighth place.

Ninth place went to Niall Sheridan, Danny Roche, Steve Walsh and Derek Dempsey with a 57.5 Nett score on the back six, edging out Ronan, Alan and Enda Gurren and Niall Broderick, who also posted 57.5.

The Gross prize was awarded to Billy Pierik, Cathal Hennelly, Peter Geraghty and Eoin Prendergast with a solid score of 63. In the All-Ladies category, the team of Hannah and Louise Grant, Charlotte Mannion and Christina Rush came first with a 62.2 Nett, just ahead of Martina Hennelly, Cora Judge, Mary Collins and Bernie Divilly who finished second on 62.3.

The Nine-Hole winners were Sean and Paul Kenna, Fintan Gilligan and Seamus Owens. The Veterans’ Prize went to Martin O’Brien, Brendan Mellett, Ger Conroy and Eugene Mellett. The Ladies Nine-Hole was won by Angela Prenty, Breda Kilkenny, Mary Cunnane and Gerardine Forde with a score of 36.6 Nett.

In the long drive competitions, Niall Monaghan won the men’s event while Deirdre McDermott claimed the ladies' prize. Nearest the pin on the 2nd hole was George Garvey with a remarkable shot just 12 inches from the flag. Cathal Sheridan was closest on the 7th with a shot landing 36.5 inches from the pin, while James Prendergast finished just over two feet from the cup on the 10th.

Claremorris Golf Club wishes to thank all sponsors, players, volunteers and supporters for contributing to a thoroughly enjoyable and competitive month on the fairways.

Paul claims GAA 50/50 prize 

Congratulations to Paul McGuinness who scooped the Claremorris GAA 50/50 jackpot last week. Paul entered the draw online and came away €909 richer. 

The club thanked all who took part in the draw and continues to support it every week. Whether buying tickets in local outlets or online, the generosity of the local community helps to support vital club initiatives and facilities.

John wins Claremorris AFC draw 

The latest Claremorris AFC 50/50 jackpot was won by John Joyce, who picked up €565 after his ticket was drawn last week. John bought his lucky ticket in Warde’s. 

The club expressed its appreciation to all who entered and reminded supporters that each ticket sold helps fund youth development and club improvements.

Died in England

The death has occurred of Tim Kelly of Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, UK, and formerly of Lissaniskea, Bekan, Claremorris. Tim died peacefully on April 27th in Good Hope Hospital.

Tim was predeceased by his wife Mary, his parents Tom and Winnie Kelly, and his brother Eamon. Tim is deeply missed by his devoted partner Marion, sons John, Anthony and Christopher, grandchildren Tommy, Luke, Mairead and Malachy, sisters Mary Conway (Dublin) and Ann Marie Duggan-Hughes (Knock), brothers John, Tom and Kevin (Birmingham), and Noel (Lissaniskea, Bekan), along with nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, neighbours and friends.

Reception of Tim’s remains took place at the Abbey Catholic Church in Erdington on Tuesday evening, with Requiem Mass on Wednesday morning followed by burial in New Hall Cemetery, Sutton Coldfield. 

May he rest in peace.

The late Alice Costello

The death has occurred of Alice Costello of Laurel Park, Newcastle, Galway and formerly of Shessaugh, Claremorris. Alice died peacefully at University Hospital Galway following a short illness, surrounded by her loving family.

Alice was predeceased by her parents Michael and Nora and her twin brother Johnny. She will be sadly missed by her sisters Nora Burke (Galway), Evelyn Grant (Claremorris) and Brenda Hession (Carras), brothers Seamus (Shessaugh) and Frank (Galway), brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbours and friends.

Alice’s remains reposed at Gilligan’s Funeral Home, Claremorris on Saturday evening, May 24th. Removal took place from her residence in Shessaugh on Sunday to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Crossboyne for Funeral Mass, followed by burial in Crossboyne Cemetery. 

May she rest in peace.

Death of Una Donnellan

The death has occurred of Una Donnellan (nee Long) of Lower James Street, Claremorris. Una died unexpectedly but peacefully, surrounded by her loving family in the exceptional care of Mayo University Hospital.

Una was predeceased by her husband Vincent, son Finbar, parents Nora and Patrick Long, brother Dick, and grandchildren Susan, Jennifer and Gary. She is deeply regretted by her children Patrick, John, Deirdre, Una, Siobhán, Jackie, Sandra and Claire, 22 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, brother Billy, sister-in-law Eileen, nieces, nephews, neighbours and many friends.

Una’s remains reposed at the Family Funeral Home, Lower James Street, Claremorris on Monday evening, May 26th. Removal took place from her residence on Tuesday to St Colman’s Church for Funeral Mass, followed by a committal service at Shannon Crematorium. 

May she rest in peace.

The late Ann Gibbons 

The death has occurred of Ann Gibbons (nee McDonnell) of Coolroe, Claremorris. Ann died peacefully at home surrounded by her family.

Ann was predeceased by her parents Eddie and Winnie McDonnell, and her brothers-in-law Frank and recently Tommy. She is deeply regretted by her husband Hugh, sons Paul, Jason, Stephen and Richard, daughter Jenny, son-in-law Eamonn, partners Nicola, Louise, Raissa and Sarah, brother Eamon, sister Eileen, grandchildren Ava, Darragh, Grace, Aideen, Evelyn and Alice, nieces, nephews, the extended Gibbons family, neighbours and friends.

Ann’s remains reposed at St Colman’s Funeral Home, Claremorris on Tuesday evening, May 27th. Removal took place from her residence on Wednesday morning to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Crossboyne for Requiem Mass, followed by burial in Crossboyne Cemetery.

May she rest in peace.

The late James Peter O’Malley 

The death has occurred of James Peter O’Malley, better known as 'P', of Dalton, Ballyfarna, Claremorris.

Predeceased by his parents Margaret and James and brother Michael, he will be deeply missed by his sister Margaret Kilcourse (Ballyhaunis), brothers Tommy and Patsy (Manchester), nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.

P’s remains reposed at the Marian Funeral Home, Knock on Thursday evening with removal to the Church of St. John the Baptist, Knock. Funeral Mass was held on Friday morning at 10.30am, followed by burial in the local cemetery. 

May he rest in peace.

The late Eddie O’Brien

The death has occurred of Eddie O’Brien of Corbally, Barnacarroll, Claremorris, and formerly of Ballincourty, Aherlow, Co Tipperary. Eddie died peacefully in his 88th year, surrounded by his loving daughter and granddaughter.

Eddie was predeceased by his wife Mai, parents Paddy and Josephine, sisters Mary and Noreen, and son-in-law Oliver. He will be sadly missed by his daughter Mary (Connor), granddaughter Marie (Morley), Marie’s husband Declan, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews, his loyal four-legged companion Rosie, and a wide circle of relatives and friends.

Eddie’s remains reposed at the home of his daughter Mary on Thursday evening, May 29th. Removal took place on Friday morning to the Church of Our Lady, Barnacarroll for Requiem Mass, followed by burial in Kilkinure Cemetery, Kiltimagh.

May he rest in peace.

The late Ann McDonald 

The death has occurred of Ann McDonald of Kilglasson, Hollymount.

Ann passed away unexpectedly in Valencia, Spain. She will be deeply missed by her loving husband James, her cherished daughters Kathryn and Alison, and her adored grandchildren Emma and Obadiah. She is also mourned by her brother Brendan, sister Patricia, extended family, relatives and many friends.

Ann’s cremated remains were laid to rest in Roundfort Cemetery yesterday (Monday) evening, June 2nd.

May she rest in peace.

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