Lanesboro Ballyleague Notes
John Kenny rides the Rás
An Post Rás is the oldest international cycling race to take place in Ireland. During its 63 years it has come through Lanesboro and Ballyleague many times. The Rás takes place over 8 gruelling days with 36 teams taking part with 17 international teams joined with 19 county teams.
This year, more than any, there is a greater interest in this year’s Rás in our locality. John Kenny, son of Goretti and the late Noelie Kenny, Ballyleague will be part of the Meath Avonmore team. John is a teacher in St. Patrick’s Classical Secondary School, Navan has had a keen interest in racing all his life. In his younger days he represented both Athlone and Longford cycling clubs before giving it up to concentrate on his education. More than five years ago John returned to race cycling and joined the Navan Avonmore Cycling club. In over the 2 years John graduated from A4 level to A1 which is the highest category in Irish cycling.
Over the past few years John has competed at the highest level in the country with some great results including a stage win in the Gorey 3 day.
This year John had been really clocking up the miles and hours on the road in an attempt to achieve his lifelong ambition of riding in the Rás. He was really delighted when he was asked to represent his Navan Road club in this year’s Rás.
It is going to be a really tough eight days of riding through the highways and byways of Ireland covering 1,260 kilometres and 37 categorised climbs, not to mention competing with the international teams representing 14 countries.
We wish John and his team mates the very best of luck and safe cycling.
The Rás, coming in the Ballymahon Road, will pass through Lanesboro and Ballyleague at approximately 3pm, this coming Sunday 18th May and we encourage everyone to come out, line the streets and give John and all the cyclists a warm Lanesboro and Ballyleague reception.
Pictured above it the team with mechanic and team manager: Left to right, Stephen Byrne, John Murray, John Kenny, Simon O’Dea (mechanic), PJ Nolan (team manager) and Niall Doggett.
Blood donations needed in Longford
This Tuesday 13th, Wednesday 14th, and Thursday 15th May the blood transfusion services will be in the Longford Arms Hotel from 4.30pm top 8pm. Giving blood is one of the greatest things any person can do and it is a great credit to the huge number of locals who donates on a regular basis. If you have not done so before there is no better time than this week. Young and old are invited to the Longford Arms this week and the staff of the Blood Transfusion Service look forward to meeting you.
Graduation Mass
The ‘Grad Mass’ for the Leaving Certificate students of Lanesboro Community College will take place in St. Mary’s Church on Thursday week 22nd May at 8pm. All students, their friends and family are invited to go along and share in one of the special occasions for the Leaving Cert year students.
Tickets for 1Direction draw on Saturday
With tickets for the fabulous 1direction concerts completely sold out and being resold at extraordinary prices, Rathcline has a unique offer for anyone still looking for these scarce tickets. For only €2, yes, only €2 you have the opportunity to win not one but 2 Premium level tickets along with €100 spending money. That is the offer for Saturday night 24th May and the second prize is exactly the same prize offering, only this time, for Sunday 25th May. Even if you did not win the first two prizes you may be able to console yourself with the third prize of €50.
Tickets are on sale throughout the town and you should not delay with buying yours as there are only a limited number of tickets on sale. The draw will take place in the Yacht Bar on Saturday week 17th May at 11pm.
Lanesboro Bridge Club
On Wednesday 2nd and Wednesday 9th April the President’s competition took place. The club President, Mairéad Gill, presented a beautiful prize which was won by Eileen Kelly. Second prize was won by Bernadette Gillen while the third prize was won by Mona O’Flaherty.
The sessional winners were Mary Mc Gushin and Katherine Harrison.
The competition was organised and scored by the hard working secretary Gemma Douglas and the equally hard working tournament director Cyril Hussey.
The results of the competition held on Wednesday 7th May are N/S 1st Brid Mc Dermott and Una Lawlor, 2nd Katharine Harrison and Philomena Walsh and 3rd Gemma Douglas and Elish Gray. E/W 1st Eileen Kelly and Una Clarke, 2nd Mae Casey and Noreen Dunne and 3rd Maura Hanly and Cyril Hussey.
Death
On Wednesday last 7th May the sad news broke of the death of Ellen Ginty, Knock. Nellie, as she was more commonly known was an integral part of our town and community for as long as I can remember. Nellie, was in her 96th year was predecease only last December by her husband Phil. Nellie was a most talented lady and she was involved in all knitting, sewing and crochet classes where her skills were really outstanding. Nellie was a most affable lady and her warmth created a glow no matter where she went. In recent years she had been in ill health but still her passing saddened every heart that had the pleasure to know her.
Her remains reposed at her residence on Friday last until they were removed to St. Mary’s church. Following her Funeral Mass on Saturday she was laid to rest alongside her husband Phil in Clonbonny cemetery. To her daughters Angela, Eileen and Marian, sons Tom, Philip, Seamus Gerry and Joe, relatives and many friends we extend our sincere sympathy.
Ladies Mini Marathon
The ladies Mini Marathon will take place on Monday 2nd June in Dublin. There is a bus booked to go the mini marathon. At present there are just 13 seats remaining. If you want to avail of a bus ride to and from Dublin you should contact Pam Farrell after 6pm by phoning her at 087-4146987.
Bord na Mona Walk
A walk sponsored by Bord na Mona and the North Midlands Peatlands Park committee will take place on the cut bog over the bogs of Bord na Mona on Sunday 18th May at 11am. The meeting place is the car park at Curraghroe Church. The event will take approximately 4 hours and you are asked to bring suitable clothing and footwear.
Have you signed up yet?
Tax reclaim forms are still available in the porch of St. Mary’s church. With your support in filling out and returning the forms offers the parish the opportunity to recouping this money and use it towards the repaying of the outstanding debt on our now magnificently refurbished church. This is money that you have already paid in tax and it is a great opportunity for your parish to avail of that money. This is applicable to PAYE workers and I urge everyone to get a form in the church porch and return it as soon as possible.
Roscommon Races
The sign of the summer is truly with us when we see the first race fixture of the new season coming up on Monday next at Roscommon Racetrack. This will be an evening meeting with the first race starting at 5.55pm. Roscommon races is a great place to meet with old friends for a social evening as well as enjoying top class racing and only a short distance from home.
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Fiona, Siobhan and Gerard Condon formerly of Main Street on the death on Wednesday last 7th May, following a time of illness, of Patsy Condon. We also extend our sympathy to her partner Chris Brett.
Postscript to Croagh Patrick Climb
Fabian Walsh was reminded by the Rathcline GAA Croagh Patrick climb that took place last Saturday of the time the late Gerry Kirwan, The Green, climbed the ‘Reek’ with his young daughter Geraldine on his back. Fabian remembers another exploit of Gerry’s when he cycled to Westport climbed the ‘Reek’ and then cycled home. Perhaps it is an achievement the Triathlon club could replicate.
When does it become littering?
As you know it is a very short drive from the hill of Barnacor to the corner in Lanesboro. This short journey is now covered with 172 election posters. The intensity of the number of posters has made this short journey a hideous sight. The extent of the postering must surely be classified as littering. Fair play to our local candidates they were both selective and conscious of numbers when erecting their posters. I will not even mention the scale of the posters throughout the town and other approach roads. The no poster appeal by Ballyleague Village Renewal has proven to be a mighty decision when you see what has happened our community.
Computer Science Club
A new and exciting for Lanesboro and Ballyleague! A meeting to establish a ‘Computer Science Club’ aimed for ‘National School Kids’ will take place on Friday May 16th at 9:00pm in the Co-op hall. The purpose of the club is to deliver Coder Dojo, technology and science in a fun and learning environment. For more details please contact Lewis Hanly 087-2057673
Lough Ree Golfing Society
A very enjoyable day’s golf was had by all at Moate Golf Course on the 24th April 2014. The society was celebrating the 21st anniversary of its foundation. Six fourballs in all took part and all enjoyed the magnificent weather, the superb conditions and some very good golf. A big thank you to Moate Golf Club for the excellent condition of the fairways and greens and to the catering staff for the lovely food.
The following were the main prize-winners: The ladies prize was won by Fiona Gillen, nearest the pin on the short par 3 fourth hole was Timmy Glynn, the front nine was won by Jackie McDonnell with 16 points and the back nine was won by John Martin with 19 points. Third prize went to Alan Farrell with a great score of 38 points, second was Colm Dardis with another very good score of 40 points and a very popular winner of the first prize with a glorious 41 points was John James O’Shea. John James has been playing golf with the society from the beginning and we are all delighted he was first on the 21st anniversary of the first outing of the society.
The next outing is to Portumna Golf Course on the 26 June. The tee is booked from 11.15 to 11.53. As it is an open day we need to send on the list of names to Portumna at least a week beforehand.
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the Gaffney family, formerly, St. Anne’s Rathcline, on the sudden and tragic death of Padraig Gaffney in Australia. We fondly remember Padraig and the entire family when they lived with us for so many years. Our sympathy goes out to his parents Brendan and Ruth, brothers Paul, Alan, Mark, sisters Eilish and Miriam and friends both here and in Australia.
First Aid Course
A first aid course will take place in the rathcline GAA clubhouse on Monday night next 19th May at 7pm. It is very important that everyone has the benefit of knowledge in first aid as you never know when this course will become very vital for you when somebody is in need of first aid. Everyone from the wider community is invited to take part: the course is being facilitated by Shannon Gaels minor club who will make you feel very welcome. Come along on the night or you can register by contacting Sean Kenny, Seadna Ryan or Brendan Keane.
Thank You
The organisers of the recent church gate collection in aid of Cystic Fibrosis would like to sincere thank everyone that contributed the significant €760.
Rathcline GAA Lottery
The numbers drawn on Saturday night last 10th May in the Rathcline GAA Lottery were 5, 13, 22, 24, 33 and 38. There was nobody with the four required numbers and the jackpot of €100 was not won. The four winners of €25 were Caroline Rhatigan, Aughaloughan, Alan Maxwell, Thureen, Niall and Breda Walsh, Clonbonny and Ray Flanagan, Clonmee. The jackpot for Saturday night next will rise to €200.
Lanesboro Tidy Towns
The Lanesborough Village Enhancement Plan 2014-2018 was launched on Thursday. This Plan will guide the programme of actions over the coming years. There are a number of projects currently in progress including the creation of a butterfly garden at the library by Ballyboro Scouts, a tree survey by Ballyboro Scouts and Lanesboro NS, a litter and chewing gum survey by Lanesboro CC, bilingual wooden signs at the playground and recycling area, a heritage trail by Shannonside Heritage, and landscaping of the river bank on the parish hall side. The weekly clean up continues on Thursdays from 8 to 9pm and thanks very much to all those who have helped to date.
Cemetery Sunday dates announced
The dates have now been fixed for Cemetery Sunday at the three cemeteries in the parish. As usual the first cemetery grave blessing will be Rathcline on Sunday 6th July, Lanesboro 13th July and finishing in Clonbonny on Sunday 20th July.
People with family graves in each cemetery are asked to tend to their graves and to ensure that their cemetery is in pristine condition for this very special day for every family.
Shannon Gaels Minors
Next weekend will see Longford minors take on Kildare for a place in the Leinster semi-final. The game is scheduled for Saturday -although there may be a change to Sunday – see fixtures for day and time in Longford Leader. The club would like to wish Shane, Gareth and Cian and all the panel and management the very best of luck.
Our U14 team were beaten in the semi-final of the Paddy Bolger Memorial tournament organised by St. Faithleach’s. The panel put up great performances in reaching the semi-final and also in the semi-final only to be beaten by Oran who were the eventual winners.
The club would like to thank St. Faithleach’s for inviting us into the tournament and for pitting our players against clubs from different counties – it is a wonderful experience for them. The club would like to also thank St. Faithleach’s for the extreme hospitality shown, it was much appreciated.
Our U16’s will play Clonguish Óg in the league semi-final on Thursday next in Newtownforbes at 7.30pm. Good luck to them.
Our minors are winding down as we get closer to the Leaving Cert. All players will be notified by text of arrangements.
We are very proud of all the parents of all our U6, U8 U10 and U12 players. The turnout for coaching every Friday evening from 7 to 8pm is absolutely magnificent and everyone must be commended for their exceptional efforts.
First Aid course: the club will hold a first aid course in the clubhouse in Clonbonny on Monday evening next. It is essential that a great number of parents attend as you never know when a little first aid knowledge will be a great assistance both on the field and at home. If you are interested please contact Sean Kenny, Seadna Ryan or Brendan Keane or turn up on the night.
Lough Ree AC
Athlone I.T. was the venue for the Roscommon Co. Championships for the U12 age groups and upwards. Great credit to those that travelled, as the weather on the day was anything but pleasant. However, the good news was that all events were transferred into the new indoor facility, except for the 100m and the javelin which went back outside when the weather improved.
The following are Co. Champions for 2014: U12 age group – Caoilinn Flood, High Jump, Róisín Brennan, Shot and Turbo Javelin. Caoilinn was the surprise packet here. The visit to the coaching course in Claremorris brought her “on a ton” up to that she was very inconsistent. Not surprised Róisín had a double as she is useful at any event she takes up and must be the makings of a good Pentathlete and she has the attitude to go along with it.
Elenora Klevina won the U13 Javelin at her first attempt. In the U14 age group Orla Keane had a double, winning the 80m and the 200m while Leah Wyse won the Shot. Indeed, she could have challenged Flood for the surprise of the day award! Last, but by no means least, Clodagh Kiely won the Hurdles and Long Jump in the U15 age group.
Silver medals came the way of Rachael Donlon, in the U12 Turbo Javelin, Leah Wyse in the U14 80m and 200m and Orla Keane in the U14 Shot.
The boys were thin on the ground, which makes one worried about the future of local football teams!
Congratulations to Fermoyle NS on winning the Co. Longford primary Schools 2nd class relay. It was one of the many events staged at the Mall on Friday evening last. The winning team was Aoife Kennelly, twins Polly and Josie Myhill and Sinead Connerton. Well done girls! Compliments must go to Longford A.C. for organising such a fine event. They were quite pleased with the turnout.
Shannon Gaels Minors
Next weekend will see Longford minors take on Kildare for a place in the Leinster semi-final. The game is scheduled for Saturday -although there may be a change to Sunday – see fixtures for day and time in Longford Leader. The club would like to wish Shane, Gareth and Cian and all the panel and management the very best of luck.
Our U14 team were beaten in the semi-final of the Paddy Bolger Memorial tournament organised by St. Faithleach’s. The panel put up great performances in reaching the semi-final and also in the semi-final only to be beaten by Oran who were the eventual winners.
The club would like to thank St. Faithleach’s for inviting us into the tournament and for pitting our players against clubs from different counties – it is a wonderful experience for them. The club would like to also thank St. Faithleach’s for the extreme hospitality shown, it was much appreciated.
Our U16’s will play Clonguish Óg in the league semi-final on Thursday next in Newtownforbes at 7.30pm. Good luck to them.
Our minors are winding down as we get closer to the Leaving Cert. All players will be notified by text of arrangements.
We are very proud of all the parents of all our U6, U8 U10 and U12 players. The turnout for coaching every Friday evening from 7 to 8pm is absolutely magnificent and everyone must be commended for their exceptional efforts.
First Aid course: the club will hold a first aid course in the clubhouse in Clonbonny on Monday evening next. It is essential that a great number of parents attend as you never know when a little first aid knowledge will be a great assistance both on the field and at home. If you are interested please contact Sean Kenny, Seadna Ryan or Brendan Keane or turn up on the night.
Rathcline GAA
Rathcline would like to convey their sympathies to the Ginty family on the passing of Nelly Ginty, Knock. May she rest in peace.
Saturday was a miserable day but that did not deter the hardy souls that travelled from the parish to climb Croagh Patrick. It was tough going in rainy and windy conditions, but the Rathcline crew walked and climbed to the top. Thanks to everyone that made the effort and raised money. By all accounts the few Lucozade’s afterwards went down a treat.
A reminder that Rathcline have One Direction tickets up for grabs around the shops and businesses in the parish. It’s only €2 for a line and someone out there will win a pair of tickets and €100 spending money for a hugely anticipated concert.
On Friday evening our reserve team played Ardagh in Clonbonny. Rathcline secured a hard fought victory. Playing some smart football in the first half they picked off some great scores. Ardagh came out in the second half and put it up to the lads that led to a frantic last ten minutes, but Rathcline showed that extra stamina to pull away by three points in the end. There were some great performances all over the pitch, Joey Rooney’s constant running and positional awareness created space for James Hanley, and a special mention to Dave Happy Gilmore, his transition from rugby to football is now complete after a wonderful goal in the first half. The team now travel to our neighbours Cashel this weekend, the best of luck!
There was no jackpot winner in this week’s Rathcline Lotto. The €25 winners were Caroline Rhatigan, Alan Maxwell, Niall and Breda Walsh and Ray Flanagan. Numbers drawn were 5, 13, 22, 24, 33 and 38
Rathcline Minor Club
Congrats to the U 14’s who took part in the St Faithleachs tournament at the weekend. Thanks to all in Faithleachs for the invitation and a great day was had by all.
Best of luck to the U 16’s who play Clonguish on Thursday in the Shield semi-final.
The minor club are running a first aid course on this coming Monday in the club house at 7pm. A worthwhile course to do for anyone that is involved in football in the area. Please contact Sean Kenny or Seadna Ryan to book a place.
The club would like to wish everyone involved in exams the best of luck in the junior and leaving cert.
Rathcline Ladies
Hard luck to the senior girls who were beaten by Colmcille at the weekend.
The U 16’s were beaten last Thursday by Slashers. Rathcline got off to a slow start and Slashers scored a few goals in quick succession. But the girls stuck at it and put in a determined display. Check details on fixture list for next match.
St. Faithleach’s GAA
U16 Girls – D2 Championship Final: Congratulations to our U16 girls and their management, John Hegarty, Carol Donlon, Maggie Curley and Padraig Banahan who became winners of the D2B Championship in Croghan on Monday last on a final scoreline of St. Faithleachs 4-09 Castlerea St. Kevin’s 2-05 Team: Denise McCaffrey, Katie Browne, Megan Banahan, Natasha Hegarty, Jade Farrell, Sarah Hoare, Leona Hoare, Marie Kelly(0-2), Amy Curley(0-1), Lauren Cox(0-1), Sarah Scally(1-0), Jillian Banahan(0-1), Caoimhe Glennon, Ellen Irwin(3-2), Laura Farrell, Isobel Farrell(0-1), Jennifer Brennan, Claire Curley, Orla Costello, Kate Mullooly, Keeley Byrne(0-1).
U16 Boys – D2 League Final: Congratulations to our U16 boys and their, Gerry Nerney, Jimmy Mangan, Aidan Dooney and Seamus Carberry, winners of the D2 League Final in Strokestown on Sunday. The final scoreline was: St. Faithleachs 3-10 Kilmore/Shannon Gaels 0-07. Team: Michael O’Donnell, Karl Nerney, Colm Mangan, Mark Gill, Gavin Carberry, Cormac Gannon, Luke Parker(0-1), Conel Connelly, Darragh Kelly, Ryan Guinan, Conor Smith, Darren Nerney(1-0), Jordon Donlon(2-4), Daniel Foley(0-1), Steven Walsh(0-4). Subs: Sean Farrell, Joe Gill, Evan Tynan, Daniel Cox, Daniel McDermott.
Adult Football League: Seniors had a win over Kilmore on Monday evening last in Ballyleague.
Junior B – D4 League: Our juniors have a game against Fuerty on Wednesday evening next 14th May at 8.00pm in Fuerty.
Junior A Ladies – Championship: Our junior ladies were defeated by Michael Glaveys in Ballinlough on Saturday evening last. Next game is away to Ballinameen. See fixtures for confirmation of details.
U14 Boys – D3 League: Our U14 boys had a win over Kilbride on Thursday evening last in Kilbride. Final Score – St Faithleachs 5-09 Kilbride 3-06. Team: M.O’ Donnell, C. Reynolds, TJ. O’Neill, A. Hegarty, I. Trautt, R. Banahan, R. Trimble(0-2), J. Browne, C. O’Brien(0-2), M. Dunne(1-1), D. McDermott(0-1), N. McGovern(1-0), L. Ormsby(3-3) Subs: K. Trautt, C. Rohan, K. Gallagher, J. P. O’Reilly, Ó. McGowan, D. Kilcoyne, M. Silva, J. Tucker. Next game is away to Elphin this coming Thursday 15th May at 7.00pm.
U14 Girls – D1 League: Our U14 girls have their 1st League game against St. Dominic’s this coming Wednesday 14th May at 7.00pm in Ballyleague, followed by a game against Boyle on Friday 16th May at 7.00pm in Boyle.
Paddy Bolger Memorial Tournament: The Annual Paddy Bolger Memorial 11-a-side U14 tournament took place on Saturday last at St. Faithleachs club grounds. Well done to all teams who took part; Oran, Fenagh, Shannon Gaels, Ballintubber A&B, St. Dominic’s, Kilbride and St. Faithleachs. Congratulations to the winners, Oran and to the runners-up Fenagh. Special thanks to Liam and Eamon Bolger who presented the Paddy Bolger Memorial Cup and medals for the event. Many thanks to the organisation committee, to the referees Marty Parker, Tommy Donohoe and to the clubhouse and shop staff on the day. Thanks to all who supported the event and to all who helped out in many ways on the day. U12 Girls – Championship: Our U12 girls have game is against Elphin this coming Thursday 15th May. See fixtures for confirmation of details.
U8 GoGames Blitz: The U8 blitz takes place this coming Saturday 17th May in Tulsk. Games commence at 11.00am
Roscommon Minor Ladies: Hard luck to Joan Geoghegan with the Roscommon Minor Ladies, defeated in the Connacht Championship B Final on Monday last in Ballyhaunis. Final Score: Roscommon 1-10 Leitrim 3-12. Well done to all involved throughout the championship campaign.
Roscommon U14 Girls: Hard luck to Jillian Banahan, Ellen Irwin, Marie Kelly, Sarah Scally and Keeley Byrne with the Roscommon U14 girls squad, defeated in the Connacht Championship final on Sunday last in Ballyhaunis. Final Score: Roscommon 3-02 V Mayo 5-06. Well done to all involved throughout the championship campaign.
Gaelic 4 Mothers & Others: LGFA “Gaelic 4 Mothers & Others” initiative sees women playing Ladies Gaelic Football in a fun, non-competitive and social environment. St. Faithleachs GAA Club is holding training sessions, Monday evenings at 7.00pm. If you are interested in taking part, please come along for further information and details.
Church Gate Collection: Many thanks to all who supported St. Faithleachs GAA minor club for their Annual Church Gate Collection last weekend. Your support is much appreciated. Thanks to the clubs collectors during the weekend.
Garth Brooks Night: A special Garth Brooks Night will take place in St. Faithleachs GAA clubhouse on Sunday 1st June at 9.30pm. Admission €5. Music on the Night by: Evan O’Donnell. Prize on the night includes Two Premium Level Stand Tickets for Garth Brooks Concert in Croke Park, Monday 28th July. Lines currently on Sale: €2 or 3Lines for €5. Proceeds in aid of St. Faithleachs Ladies GAA Club and St. Faithleachs Minor Club.
CÚL Camp 2014: St. Faithleachs GAA Cul Camp will take place from Monday 14th July to Friday 18th July (from 10.00am to 2.30pm). Sponsored by Daybreak Ballyleague and SuperValu Lanesboro. Applications forms will be available through local schools, from the clubhouse or at training sessions. Fee – €35 (2nd Child, €30, 3rd Child €25)
Lotto: The numbers drawn were – 4, 7, 13 and 20. There was no jackpot winner. The five winners of €20 were – Tom Ryan, Ann Egan, Majella Kelly, Liz Tarmey and Brendan Bannon. The next draw is on Tuesday 20th May for a jackpot of €11,200. The team in charge: Gerry Donlon and Padraig Kenny.
Cards: Takes place every Tuesday in the clubhouse at 8.30pm. All are welcome. Last week’s results are – winners, Frank/Sean, runners-up, Jack/Brendan, Kevin/Joe and Pat Joe/Tim. The last game winners were Peggy/Brendan.