Lanesboro Ballyleague Notes
Clonbonny Pitch Reopens
The first game in almost 18 months was played in Clonbonny on Sunday last. The new pitch and clubhouse looked excellent. It was indeed a proud day for everyone involved with Rathcline GAA seeing such a fine pitch and clubhouse available for all ages within Rathcline GAA. The club executive can be rightly proud of the wonderful facility provided and it is hoped that every adult player and parent will encourage their young player to make full use of the wonderful facility. The reward for the club will come in terms of on field success and every player must be surely inspired to achieve and strive for excellence. The facilities are in place and the whole community along with the Rathcline diaspora must be very proud of their clubhouse club grounds and the members of the executive who worked so diligently from start to finish doing such a wonderful job in the name of their club and community. It is time for congratulations to all those concerned.
It was fitting that the first game in the new pitch was between Rathcline and our old adversaries Cashel in the Reserve League Division 2. It was a wonderful start for the club aided and abetted by the Rathcline team that ran out convincing winners before a large crowd.
The club were due to open their Leader Cup campaign on Sunday next but because of the county U21 playing their Leinster semi-final the following Wednesday the opening game in the league will be a home game in Clonbonny on Sunday 27th March against Mostrim.
Sympathy
We would like to extend our sincere sympathy to Paddy and Anne Fayne and family, Cullentra on the death of Veronica Fayne, Delvin, Co. Westmeath, wife of Joe Fayne and sister in law also to John, Brendan, Albert Fayne and their sister Teresa Gillooly.
Local Man caught in Earthquake
Local man Colm Kennelly son of Chris and late Paddy Kennelly, Rathcline Road, who works and lives in Japan, was one of the lucky people to escape the strongest earthquake ever to hit Japan. The magnitude of the tremor hit 8.9 created a tsunami and much fear too many countries throughout the region and as far away as the east coast of USA. This earthquake was followed by hundreds of aftershocks culminating in other tremors, thirty of them have measured more than magnitude 6, and Japan’s meteorological agency has warned that there is a 70% possibility of a tremor of magnitude 7 or higher in the next three days, and a 50% risk in subsequent days. Japan, since 2004, has had at least one major earthquake each year and Colm has experienced almost the all. This one he commented was “the worst by far” and he had great fear of his house coming down. We wish him a safe passage through these turbulent times and look forward to seeing him back in town in the future.
Lough Ree Golfing Society
On Saturday 5 March we had our annual scramble at Strokestown Golf Club.
All 27 golfers teed off at 11 am at various tees and all finished at approximately 3.45 pm in time for our AGM.
The golfers were blessed with a beautiful sunny March day. The course was in excellent condition despite the hard winter. The golf was good and each team produced a net score under par from 63 to 69.
Many thanks to Strokestown Golf club for their wonderful hospitality: the society was treated to tea and scones before the start and very welcome soup and sandwiches afterwards. The Society pays special compliments to the course committee for the great condition of the greens and fairways.
The annual AGM was held in the clubhouse after the prize giving. This was the 18th AGM and judging by the large attendance the society is going from strength to strength. The following outings are proposed for 2011: April, Mountbellew, May, Roscommon, July, Mullingar and possibly New Forrest in September. Dates and time to be announced later.
The new committee for 2011 were elected at the AGM: Captain: Sean Brennan, Secretary: Frank Conmy, Treasurer: Joe McGrath, Committee Members: Brendan Whitty (ex officio) and Charlie Brennan. See you all on the fairways during what is expected to be another successful year for Lough Ree Golfing Society.
Search for a Star DVD
The annual Shannon Gaels Minor, Club Search, for a Star once again proved to be a remarkable success. Search for a Star take on a life of its own each year and keenness to take part in the show can be seen by the numbers volunteering and taking to the stage. This year there was a cast of 135 taking to the stage. This is an extraordinary figure from a small community and it is a credit to the minor club that they can create such an interest within so many to take part. The show played to a full house on both nights and the community spirit that the show evokes brings back memories of local plays in times gone by and the sense of community spirit, pride and achievement of the success of our own.
The DVD launch took place on Friday night last in the Yacht Bar where a great night of entertainment and craic took place. On Sunday evening last in the clubhouse the Shannon Gaels Minor Club hosted a launch of the DVD for all the youngsters that participated in search for a Star. Both launches were a great success and it was an acknowledgement and gratitude to all those that helped out in making Search for a Star such an outstanding success again this year.
The DVD is now on sale in O’Brien’s at a price of €15. If you were not lucky enough to get to the show make sure you get a DVD and see the marvellous talented people of the parish. It is guaranteed to give you a couple hours of great entertainment.
Official Opening of Woodland Walk
The official opening of the new woodlands walkway took place on Monday last. This woodland walkway meanders through the woods and it is signposted excellently and there is not a better way to enjoy a walk than through the woods and being in touch with nature throughout. Lanesboro Tourism Co-Op together with Coillte took the initiative in creating this walk and both groups should be rightly proud of the wonderful amenity they have produced for locals and strangers alike. The walkway adds greatly to the development of our town and area. The opening was performed by Lanesboro Tourism’s Bridgie O’Brien. The opening was well represented by dignitaries; Pat Brady Coillte, longford County Manager Tim Caffrey, CEO Longford Community Resources Adrian Greene, Longford County Council Director of Community & Enterprise Frankie Sheridan, Sue Moles of Dúchas, Longford Environmental officer Gary Brady, Mary Fleming, Adie Farrell, Cllr Mark Casey and many more interested parties.
The opening was also done in conjunction with National Tree Week, 6th to 12th March, which this year is aptly themed for our occasion “Celebrating the year of the Forest – Celebrating Forests for People”.
All of this would not have been possible without the wonderful contributions of Coillte under the leadership of Pat Brady, Albert and Mairéad Gill and Lanesboro Tourism and the local FÁS group under the excellent leadership of John L Farrell to whom we should be all greatly indebted for this magnificent amenity.
Rathcline Ladies GAA
Registration is now due for all ages U14 up to senior level. Registration fee is €35 for all minor ages and €50 for senior ladies. Could everyone that hasn’t yet registered this year please be at the clubhouse in Clonbonny at 12.30p.m. on Sunday 20th March. Junior match on Saturday time to be arranged. Training for Under 14’s on Sunday at 12.15.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
All is set for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade through Ballyleague and Lanesboro on this Thursday. Trojan work has been done by the organising committee and I urge everyone in the community and even those from outside of our twin communities to come along and enjoy what always had been a wonderful parade. The Lanesboro Ballyleague Parade has gained huge acclaim from everybody that attended the parade and this is in no small way due to the wonderful efforts put in those that entered floats.
WOW Day
On Wednesday March 15th the pupils and teachers of Lanesborough Primary School will
have their first WOW day- Walk on Wednesday (weather permitting). This is part of
of the schools project to receive their fifth Green Flag.
The school has received the other flags for their work on Waste and Litter Management,
Water and Energy Conservation. The school has 4 designated pick up points around the town and will be meeting at 9am on that morning. They will then walk together to school. The aim is to try to encourage people to leave the car at home and walk, cycle, carpool or take the bus in order to reduce our carbon footprint. If the WOW day is a success the school will plan other WOW days in the future. The school is encouraging parents to join with them on this venture.
Barbequed Pig
Last year one of the highlights of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade was the barbequed pig by local butcher Terry Mc Loughlin. This year Terry will once again barbeque a pig and the proceeds will be donated to Lanesboro Social Services. You are encouraged to support this very worthwhile cause.
Death
The area was saddened to learn of the death at Mullingar Regional Hospital on Tuesday last 8th March of Pat Dowd Thureen. Pat original from Knock before moving to Thureen recently fell into ill health. He was a quiet spoken man with a real genuine nature. His words were always word of encouragement and warmness. Pat was a plasterer by trade and needless to say anything he did he did it meticulously. Pat was a man who never seen anyone in need and was a wonderful neighbour. His passing will leave a great void in the heats and minds of everybody that had the pleasure to know him. His remains reposed at his residence until removal on Wednesday to St. Mary’s church Lanesboro and following his Requiem Mass on Thursday his remains were interred in Clonbonny Cemetery.
To his wife Bernadette, sons Peter, Stephen, Padraig and David, daughter Siobhan, sister Pauline, relatives and many friends we extend our deepest sympathy.
Walking & Holiday Club
A new venture ‘Chris’s Walking and Holiday Club’ was recently formed and is attracting walkers from Lanesboro, Ballyleague, Ballymahon, Strokestown and Roscommon.
The first outing was a 10k canal walk along the recently opened canal from Killashee to Clondra. It is hoped that a healthy mix of male and female walkers will be interested in joining this healthy lifestyle. It’s a great way to lose weight, get fit and make new friends. The walks will be planned over distances between 8k and 16k and will vary from Canal Walks to Forest walks and various sections of the Suck Valley Way. As the club grows it is hoped to get a medium sized group together and organise a walking weekend away or a foreign walking holiday. As the walks are finalised all walkers will be notified of the upcoming weekend walks. To make contact with organiser Christine Mc Donogh you can do so by phoning 087-9368306 or emailing Christinemcdonogh@gmail.com
Lanesboro Gun club
The club would like to extend its deepest sympathy to David Dowd and his family on the passing of his father, Pat, last week. May he rest in peace.
Lanesboro Bridge Club
The results of the Lanesboro Bridge Club competition held on Wednesday 9th March are N/S 1st Maura Hanley & Mairéad Gill, 2nd Marie Sheeran & Mary Mc Gushin, 3rd Frank & Francis Brennan. E/W 1st Brid Mc Dermott & Una Lawlor, 2nd Mona O’Flaherty & Bernadette Gillen, 3rd Peg Clarke & Patsy Canavan.
Church Gate collection
Lanesboro Community Games will hold a church Gate collection on Saturday and Sunday next 19th & 20th March at all Masses. Your usual generous support will be welcomed.
25 Card Game in Peer Inn
The 25 drive held in the Peer Inn on Sunday night last threw up the following winners: 1st Mickie & Tom, joint 2nd Packie & Tom and Joe & Tom. The table prizes were won by Johno & Brendan and Edmund & Joe. The game continues every Sunday night at 9pm
Ballyboro Scouts
Congratulations to the Ballyboro Scout troop who came first in the ‘County Challenge’ held on Saturday last in Lough Key Forest Park. This competition requires scouts to compete in areas such as first aid, pioneering, water activities and backwood cooking. A word of congratulations the Ballyboro cubs that were placed in second place in their section of this competition.
On St. Patrick’s Day, the scout’s ventures are holding a cake sale after the St. Patrick’s Day parade in St. Mary’s hall. You are invited to go along and enjoy a cup of tea and the freshly baked goods.
St. Faithleach’s GAA
Senior Club Social & Presentation Night: We held our Annual Senior Club Social & Presentation Night in the Club House on Saturday Night last. M.C. on the night, Derek Thompson welcomed the large crowd to the Club House. St. Faithleachs GAA Club President, Mickey Kelly congratulated the Senior Club on their achievements during 2010 & wished both Senior & Minor Players all the best for 2011. Presentation of Medals followed to our Junior B Mid-South Championship Winning Team by Roscommon Connaught Championship Winners, Martin Reynolds, Steven Ormsby and Darragh Hussey. Club Chairman, Frank Curley presented Player of the Year Trophy 2010 to Derek Murray, Sponsored by Ray Deegan, Lakeview Filling Station & Club-Person of the Year 2010 to Jimmy Mangan. Minor Chairman, Jimmy Brennan presented Ladies Players of the Year Trophy 2010 to Qona Cox & Lorraine Connor. Hugh Congratulations to all. Chairman Frank Curley expressed sincere thanks to all the club sponsors for 2010 & a special word of thanks to all involved in the Club especially those who were involved in the donation & building of our new dressing rooms & all volunteers who at present continue to work on the completion of the dressing rooms. He congratulated all our club representatives on the Roscommon County Teams, Senior & Minor & congratulated our Minor Club on their achievements during 2010 along with all Managers, Mentors & Players. He wished our senior management & players for 2011 the very best of luck for the year ahead. He thanked all our lotto sellers & all who supported our lotto & all who supported the club in many ways during 2010. Many thanks to Rubens Catering, Emmet Durney & Geraldine for the excellent food on the night, thanks to Fran Deffew, Music on the night, bar staff, all who supported our raffle on the night, congratulations to all the raffle winners on the night & thanks to all who sponsored spot-prizes for the raffle. Thanks to all who helped with the organisation of the event, the social committee & all who helped out in any way. A great night was had by all.
Junior & U16 Ladies: See fixtures for details for upcoming games.
Minor Team: Our Minors were defeated on Sunday last by Strokestown. Team: C. Farrell, S. Sweeney, D. Gibbons, J. Sweeney, R. McDermott, A. Kelly, K. Healy, D. Rooney, N. McCaffrey, C. Gannon, K. Farrell, C. Farrell, K. Kelly, N. Mc Weeney, D. Healy. Subs: J. Kelly, J. Walsh. See fixtures for details of next game.
The yearly Lotto €50 is due in the coming weeks.
Cards: Every Tuesday in the Club House, 9.00pm. All welcome. Last week’s winners: 1st, Annie/ Kathleen. Joint 2nd, Sonny/Padraig & Padraig/PJ. Last game, Mark/Noreen. Ticket Winners – Jacinta, Annie, Tom, Tim, John O.
St. Faithleachs GAA Club ‘ROSE’: Our St. Faithleachs GAA Club Rose Night takes place on Saturday 2nd April. With the success of last year, we hope to have 12 more ladies to take part this year. Ladies interested in entering, please contact Bernie Cotter or Mary Kenny. (Age between 18 & 27 years)
Upcoming Events: St. Patricks Day Parade, Deal-or-No Deal. ‘Night at the Dogs’, 15th April followed by Music in the Club House with Colm Mulligan. Tickets now on sale at €10.
Club Membership: 2011 Club Membership now overdue. Please contact Padraig Murray, Registrar for Senior/Junior Players, Sheila Collier, Registrar for Junior Ladies & all Minor & Under-Age Girls, Sean Cox, Registrar for all Minor & Under-Age Boys.
Sympathy: The Club extends deepest sympathy to Donal O’Grady & Family, Ballyleague on the death of Donal’s step-mother, Bridget O’Grady, Tubber, Co. Clare.
Gaeltacht Grant Competition: As part of their promotion of the Irish language, Cumann Lúthchleas Gael, Ros Comáin is offering a number of grants to students who wish to improve their knowledge of the language. Applications are invited from full time secondary school students in Co. Roscommon. Each grant is worth €200. Students are to apply with a short essay as Gaeilge (300 words) entitled: “Tá sé mar aidhm ag Cumann Lúthchleas Gael tacaíocht a thabhairt don Ghaeilge, damhsa Gaelach, ceol, amhránaíocht agus cultúr Gaelach” plus an application form which can be downloaded from the Scór section of www.gaaroscommon.ie. Completed applications should be forwarded to Tomás Ó Muirí, Oifigeach Cultúr agus Gaeilge, Roscommon County Board Office, 5 Castle View, Castle Street, Roscommon on or before Friday 18th March 2011, or via e-mail at irishculturalofficer.roscommon@gaa.ie.
Applications after this date will not be accepted.
Shape up with Bonnie
A new course of Pilates shaping up with Bonnie will commence in St. Mary’s Parish Hall on Thursday 31st March at 7pm. Pilates is suitable for all ages. Everyone is welcome and all you need to bring is a mat. For further details contact Bonnie 087-2238237.
Lanesboro Community Games
The Lanesboro Quiz team took part in the County Quiz completion in Edgeworthstown on Monday 7th March. In a large field of 18-20 teams, the Lanesboro team came 8th.
Lanesboro’s under 16 Chess team, having qualified from Longford, faced Summerhill Co. Meath in Mullingar on Friday 11th. The Summerhill team who have been playing together for almost 5 years won the tie. However the Lanesboro team made up of Mark Lyons, Lara O’Sullivan, Stephen Tobin, Ethan Kelly, Daniel Mullooly and Brian Lyons, played very well and showed very good promise for future years. In addition to many of the matches being very close, Mark Lyons succeeded in checkmating his opponent.
The Winners of the Lanesboro Art Competition took part in the county finals in Keenagh hall on Saturday.
On Saturday 19th, Sunday 20th, the Community Games group will be having a Church Gate Collection. As this is the main source of funding, your support is very much appreciated.
Rathcline GAA
Congratulations to our Reserve League 2 team on continuing their winning ways after beating Cashel on Sunday last with a final score of 1-12 to 7 points. Keep up the good work lads. It was the first home game on the new all-weather pitch and it was great to see such a large crowd in attendance. Thanks to everyone who turned out. It would be great if this support continues into future home and away games. The crowd can act as an extra man on the pitch and this will hopefully lead to success for Rathcline teams for the coming year and beyond. Your club needs your support.
It was noted by so many people on Sunday how well Clonbonny looked. Special thanks must go to the field committee for preparing the pitch, Johnny Hanley and Packie Reilly for marking the pitch and everyone who helped out over the last couple of weeks. There has been a lot of work done in Clonbonny recently but there is also a lot more to be done over the next couple of months. The club would appreciate anyone who is willing to help us in finalising the ground work this year.
The next game for the Reserve League 2 team will be away to Ardagh on Sunday. The team will be hoping to make it 3 wins out of 3. Please check local fixtures for confirmation of time. Pictures of the league games have been uploaded to the Rathcline GAA Facebook account and people are more than welcome to log on and view the club material. Anyone who wants to be included on the Rathcline GAA text messaging service should forward their name and mobile number to (086) 3318970 or email secretary.rathcline.longford@gaa.ie.
The Players Fundraising Committee have embarked on a fundraising campaign which started last weekend and which will take place over the next couple of weeks. The first event is Spring Clean – Scrap Metal Collection. This will take place every Saturday until April 2nd. This gives a chance for people to donate any unwanted scrap metal which they may have lying around and also assist the club in generating much needed funds. We would greatly appreciate any donations of scrap metal. Collection service available and collection is on-going. For more information on collection depot or collection arrangements please contact any of the following players: Kevin Hanley, Alan Fayne, Ryan Fallon, Michael Hanley, Conor Casey and James Hanley.
Congratulations to our Longford U21 players James Carroll, Fiachra Beirne and Patrick Mullooly on their victory over Meath in the quarter final of the Leinster U-21 Football Championship.
The club would like to remind everyone that membership is now due. Membership of €20 for non-playing members should be paid to Denis Crinigan, Peter Skelly or to any member of the executive as soon as possible. Final call for players’ membership of €50, which must be paid immediately to Brendan Rhatigan. Given that matches have already started in the club at both senior and minor level, it is vital that membership is paid so as to be covered by the players’ insurance injury scheme. There was no jackpot winner of the fortnightly lotto. The winning order of numbers drawn was 2, 6, 4, 3, 7, 5. The €20 winners were Eileen Mullen – Moher, Charlie & Alicia McDermott – Lisnacusha, Kevin Murray – Derrygeel, Abbey Oates – Caramanagh and Thomas Mullen – Cloontymullen. A reminder that is it Rathcline’s turn to do the lotto again this coming weekend.