Local Notes: School pupils enjoy Harvest Fair

Final defeat

Ballinrobe’s bid to capture the Sweeney Cup for the Mayo Intermediate Football Championship came to a heartbreaking end with a two-point defeat – 1-11 to 1-9 – at the hands of Kilmeena in an exciting final at Hastings Insurance MacHale Park, Castlebar.

A huge Ballinrobe crowd, including many who had travelled from overseas and far-flung parts of Ireland, cheered the team on but they were eclipsed in the closing stages by a Kilmeena side that won last year’s All-Ireland Junior Championship.

However, the club’s mood remains buoyant for the future, as indicated by a letter to members from secretary Annette Conway three days after the decider. Here are some key excerpts from her correspondence:

“I am writing to convey our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been a part of our recent run to the Mayo Intermediate Football Championship Final. While the final result may not have been in our favour, the pride we feel in our team and management is immense.

“Their dedication brought us to our first final appearance in 21 years. Alas, there can only be one winner and we congratulate Kilmeena on their success and wish them well in the Connacht Intermediate Championship.

“Nevertheless, we stand tall with our heads held high.

“I want to emphasise a few points that left a huge impression during the lead-up to the final, and in so doing I thank everyone involved:

“The outpouring of support from our community, with flags, window displays, signs and other messages of encouragement, was quite something to behold. The local schools organised parades, held jersey days, created headbands and transmitted uplifting messages of goodwill.

“Former Ballinrobe players from around the world sent their good luck messages to the team, demonstrating the enduring bonds this club forms. The parents and young members of our club wore our colours with pride – MacHale Park was a veritable sea of maroon and yellow.

“The hard work of many club members, led by chairperson John Sweeney, treasurer Gerry Donnelly and PRO Sarah Gibbons. Our sponsors Ballinrobe Races continue to stand by our side, quietly lending a helping hand on many occasions.

“From the moment we reached this final, I was determined to use it as an opportunity to nurture that sense of pride in both the club and our town. I enlisted the support of three exceptional individuals: Sarah Gibbons (PRO), Gerry O’Malley (ex-PRO), and Liam Horan (ex-secretary).

“Together, we worked diligently to promote our club. The 55 flags that a team of club members put up around the town on Sunday week last ignited a palpable positivity. While we may not have achieved victory, I am convinced we are a stronger club today than we were just two weeks ago – and we can become even stronger.”

Annette listed ways in which members and supporters can ensure that the enthusiasm generated by the run to the final is harnessed. These include supporting the club in the remaining games of the season; participating in the weekly Lotto which now stands at €20,400; attending the club’s dinner dance on Saturday, November 25, in the Castlecourt Hotel, Westport; and supporting the upcoming fundraising campaign for a major Flanagan Park redevelopment.

“This will include the development of the second pitch and a building programme that will give us new and expanded dressing room facilities, a meeting room, a new press/commentary box, a kitchen and new toilet facilities. This redevelopment is at the planning stage. Together, we can make it happen. Your support will be crucial. We have record numbers of players playing for the club – it is our duty now to provide facilities that allow teams to practice their skills, develop their teamwork and enjoy their involvement in our club,” wrote Annette.

She also invited local residents to “consider getting involved in the club at any level, adding that “the club’s door is always open, and there’s a place for everyone to make a difference”.

Ballinrobe Bridge results

The following were the results of Ballinrobe Bridge: 1st, Kathleen and Phil Walsh; 2nd, Nancy Hughes and Michael McTigue; 3rd, Paul Waldron and Mary O’Connor; 4th, Mary Keane and Mary Dalton; 5th, Claire Mitchell and Marian Sheridan; 6th, Joan Tighe and Aneta O’Neill.

Mass broadcasts

Masses from St Mary’s Church, Ballinrobe, can now be viewed on churchtv.ie/ballinrobe.

Santa visit

Santa is all set to make his grand appearance in his special Ballinrobe grotto on Saturday, December 2. Booking slots are now open.

Don’t miss the opportunity to find out if you’re on Santa’s naughty or nice list. Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, it’s the perfect chance to embrace the festive spirit and create cherished memories with your loved ones. Reserve your slot today at www.calendly.com/believeinballinrobe.

Feedback process

Ballinrobe Town FC has announced a significant shift in its annual feedback process. In a note released by the club, they express their commitment to continuously enhancing their operations. This year, however, they are taking a player-centred approach.

The survey aims to gather insights into the club’s strengths and areas in need of improvement, allowing every player, regardless of age, to voice their opinions. Parents of players under 18 are encouraged to assist their children in completing the survey, which is expected to take no more than five minutes.

The feedback collected through this initiative will play a vital role in shaping the club’s priorities for the year 2024. Participants have the option to submit their feedback anonymously, providing an opportunity for candid and honest input.

To participate, individuals can access the survey at the club’s Facebook page.

Macra news

Three Lakes Macra na Feirme will host a Members’ Night at the Bowers Bar, Ballinrobe, on Wednesday, November 15, at 8pm. An open invitation has been extended to anyone interested in learning more about Macra.

For additional details, contact Ciara Murray at 087-188 8082.

Nutrition presentation

The Carra Bar in Ballinrobe Racecourse will host a presentation on nutrition by Evan Regan, at 7pm tomorrow night (Wednesday). The event is being organised by Ballinrobe GAA Club.

Apart from winning his first Mayo Senior Championship medal with his club Ballina Stephenites last week, Evan is Head of Performance Nutrition for the Mayo senior team and also works with Munster Rugby Academy.

This presentation is targeted at coaches, parents and players to show how they can approach nutrition for optimum performance in sport.

LGFA AGM

Ballinrobe Ladies Gaelic Football Association will hold its annual general meeting on Friday, November 10, at 7.30pm in Tacú Family Resource Centre (Level 1), Main Street, Ballinrobe.

Training tops

Lake District AC training tops are now on sale and can be ordered on the club’s website.