.Anna Chute (Junior Sportsperson/Wellbeing/Attendance) and Jamie Lee O’Connor (Nano Nagle/Wellbeing) at the Presentation Secondary School awards on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
THE end of the academic year is nigh and that means it’s time for schools around town to hold their annual awards.
The Presentation Secondary School Tralee Awards were held on Wednesday and it was a vibrant celebration of the remarkable academic achievements and commendable attributes of the students.
“The ceremony featured a diverse array of award categories, each designed to recognise the unique strengths and contributions of our students,” said Principal Mairead Finucane.
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Among these were awards for Diligence, showcasing the persistent effort and dedication of the students ; Student Leadership, highlighting those who have taken initiative and guided their peers with integrity; the Nano Nagle Award, named after the school’s foundress, honouring a spirit of service and compassion; and the Ceist Award, celebrating their ethos and commitment to holistic education.
Deputy Principal Chrissie Kelly and Principal Mairead Finucane with winners Olivia Dillon (Ceist), Niamh Hennessy (Senior Achievement), Maiya Rivas McHugh (Leadership) and Niamh Lynch (Nano Nagle) at the Presentation Secondary School awards on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
“The atmosphere was electric as students from various year groups were honoured for their hard work, participation, and the endless efforts they have put into not only their studies but also their growth as individuals within our community,” said Principal Finucane.
“The joy and pride on the faces of teachers, and fellow students were a testament to the supportive environment that Presentation fosters.”
Grainne Bradley (STEM), Keelin Hickey (Diligence) and Ailisha Daughton (STEM) at the Presentation Secondary School awards on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
“As we continue to nurture and develop the potential of every student, days like today remind us of the bright future that lies ahead. Our students are not just learners but leaders, innovators, and compassionate citizens of the modern world. We look forward to seeing all that they will achieve in the years to come,” concluded Principal Finucane.
Special mention was made for sponsor Lee Strand who once again provided a brand new laptop to one 6th year student (Saoirse Doyle) who won the Lee Strand Award. SCROLL DOWN FOR PHOTOS AND FULL LIST OF AWARD WINNERS…
Attendance award winners, In front; Zara Kirby, Maggie Scanlon and Narisara Janthong. At back; Saoirse Mehigan, Danielle Shanahan, Jane Cheng and Jane Lynch at the Presentation Secondary School awards on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Favour Owoeye (Enterprise), Kate Fitzsimons (Wellbeing) and Claire McMahon (Wellbeing) at the Presentation Secondary School awards on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanShauna Harris (Sports Volunteer), Emma Quirke (Senior Sportsperson), Nicole Walker (Senior Athletics), Jennifer Olanrewagu (Senior Basketball) and Lauren O’Driscoll (Senior Badminton) at the Presentation Secondary School awards on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Exchange students who received awards at the Presentation Secondary School awards on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanOlivia Crean (Arts winner) at the Presentation Secondary School awards on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean....................
UNIVERSITY Hospital Kerry (UHK) is still looking for nominations in the People of UHK Awards for 2024.
These awards celebrate the contributions made by UHK staff across all departments and disciplines, recognising their dedicated to patient care and service.
With only two weeks left until the nomination deadline on May 30, they are encouraging the public to participate by nominating deserving individuals or teams who have gone above and beyond to make a positive impact on patient experiences.
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Whether it’s front-facing clinical staff or behind-the-scenes support service members, every contribution is valued and worthy of recognition.
They invite the public to cast their votes now and help the hospital recognise the compassion of UHK team members who work so hard to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families.
To nominate, simply click here or pick up a nomination form from the UHK main reception.
MUNSTER Technological University will lead a new first-of-its-kind decentralised green biorefinery demonstration initiative funded under the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU).
The €8.7 million “Rural BioReFarmeries” project will advance the development of farm-centred bioeconomy approaches through the deployment of green biorefineries across grassland regions of Europe.
Two primary green biorefinery and anaerobic digestion demonstration sites in Ireland and Denmark will optimise the conversion of grasses, clover and green biomass residues sourced from local farms into value-added products such as human and animal grade protein, bio-based food packaging, flavours, anti-microbials, fertiliser and energy, in collaboration with upstream research and industrial sites in Netherlands, Ireland, Denmark and Poland.
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Speaking about the new initiative, Project Coordinator James Gaffey, Co-director, CircBio, MTU, said: “Grassland valorisation and emerging grass-based value chains represent a major strategic opportunity for the EU bioeconomy. By improving the efficiency and circularity of our vast European grasslands, we can produce, not only forage, but also food, high value materials and energy.
“Green biorefineries are a key enabling technology which can help rural grassland farmers to address challenges such as income diversification, accessing sustainable inputs for their farms, displacing unsustainable products and contributing to our climate and sustainability targets.
“Rural BioReFarmeries builds on the latest research of various EU countries to optimise green biorefineries by overcoming existing limitations and implementing these business models on the ground with farmers, cooperatives and other industries across multiple sectors”.
The project will work intensively with primary producer partners on the ground, including within the dairy and pig sectors, while also linking these farms to upstream industries (e.g., food and flavour, animal nutrition, packaging, microalgae, fertilisers) creating new value chains and replicable business models and training activities which will be transferred across rural regions of Europe.
Rural BioReFarmeries brings together 19 partners from eight countries including Munster Technological University, Aarhus University, Carbery Group, University College Dublin, Kilpatrick Innovation (Trading as NuaFund), Carbon Harvesters, Barryroe Cooperative, Farm B, Wageningen University, Carhue Piggeries, SEGES Innovation, PaperFoam BV, Alganed BV, Poznan University of Technology, Agricultural University of Plovdiv, Sapienza University of Rome, MTU Australo Alpha Lab, University of Galway and Trinity College Dublin.
PEIL FAOI 7/8/9: Our Under 7/8/9 outdoor academy was a great success last Sunday i gCathair Sailí! More of the same at 11am in Caherslee on Sunday next (18th May). Bí linn! Fáilte roimh chách!
PEIL FAOI 11: (i) Our trip to the U11 Kilmacud (Na Crócaigh) Tournament took place on Sunday last and what a great outing our youngsters and their mentors had! It was a wonderful festival of football involving many top teams from various GAA clubs around the country.
The games took place at University College Dublin; we wonder if some of our lads will enrol and study there in a few years! 25 of our boys made the journey, had a great time and played really great caid! All arrived home safely, TG….happy and tired! Buíochas mór leis na meantóirí flaithiúla cróga a thóg ár bpeileadóirí go Baile Átha Cliath.
(ii) Another enjoyable U11 GoGames session took place on Thursday last. We welcomed Milltown to our Connolly Park HQ. Brilliant football was played by our boys….skill, accuracy, combination play and determination were hallmarks of The Rock players! Well done, all! We look forward to another interesting outing on Thursday next at 6.30pm. Expect text!
(iii) Our usual Sunday session will take place this coming weekend…..11am ar an Domhnach. (Tim McMahon)
PEIL FAOI 13: Action resumed on Sunday last after our mini-break and we played in the County League Phase 2. Expect text, boys. Training will take place on Tuesday night at the MTU.
PEIL FAOI 15: Another positive week for this group of young men! (i) On May Day we welcomed An Ghaeltacht to Connolly Park for the semi-final of the County League (Division 2). A slow/poor opening few minutes by us allowed the Gaeltacht boys to take a 7 points to 2 lead in the opening quarter.
Then a well-worked goal by Harry Murphy brought us right back into the tie. Micheal Cotter pointed a number of well-taken free kicks which gave us the advantage as we approached half-time. The teams were evenly matched throughout the 2nd half and a mighty goal by Barry Laide gave us a nice lead entering the final stages. Thankfully, we courageously and determinedly withstood a strong late rally by imreoirí láidre na Gaeltachta and we took the win. An scór…AdeS: 2-13; Gaeltacht: 0-15. Bua breá agus…and with it a place in the Division 2 final.
(ii) On Friday evening last we travelled to Listry to take part in this year’s U15 Féile Peile. We were drawn to play against An Ghaeltacht (arís!) in our opening match. It was a 20-minute game that was played at a fast and furious pace and was a tense affair. Thankfully, we were strong, we played well and we grabbed the spoils again. This meant that we had qualified for the semi-finals. A coin was tossed to determine who would proceed to the semi-finals as group winners.
Unfortunately, Lady Luck didn’t smile on us as it was the Keel/Listry lads who headed for Austin Stack Park the following morning as group winners. Saturday was a positive experience for our young lads making their way in the game. We took to the playing pitch in Austin Stack Park as deserving runners-up in our group; we were among the top underage footballers in the county.
We faced Firies in the opening game of the day. The first half was ‘tight’ and, ag am sosa, Firies just edged it on the scoreboard. Unfortunately, in the second half we had some bad luck when the leather sphere that seemed to be goal-bound just deflected off the upright; then a few players suffered injuries; sometimes things just don’t go our way! Mí-ádh! Firies took the laurels….AdeS:1-1; Firies: 0-8. Congratulations to the final winners.
(iii) Our Division 9 team was busy training during the week in preparation for the County League semi-final v Killarney Legion. Good luck, boys!
(iv) The big one! The Division 2 final v the John Mitchel Club boys. Keep an eye out on Club website and social media for match details. Please come out and support this young Rockie team in a town derby County League final! Thanks to our faithful fans! (Ger Hobbert)
IOMÁNAÍOCHT FAOI 15: Though unsuccessful in Féile Peile Chiarraí, two Rock lads, Ben Litchfield and Haulie Cotter, will compete in the All-Ireland Féile Iománaíochta in Wexford on 22nd June. Go n-éirí go geal leo!
PEIL FAOI 16: The Rock was well represented by Alex Touhy and Rory Ó Loinsigh in the recent exciting Kerry U16 football squad game v Laois. Maith sibh, a leaideanna!
SCHOLARSHIP: Best wishes to our members who are preparing for their ‘cúpla seachtain ag labhairt na Gaeilge’ in the Gaeltacht. Guímid gach rath orthu.
AN GAELCHOLÁISTE: Gaelcholáiste juniors win Munster final! Éacht agus mórghaisce déanta ag foireann peile sóisearaí na mban i nGaelcholáiste Chiarraí! Buaicphointe na Mumhan bainte amach acu!
Thugadar Corn na Mumhan abhaile leo ar an 26ú Aibreáin. Ba bhua stairiúil é don scoil agus ceithre chúl agus naoi bpointe den scoth faighte acu in aghaidh fhoireann chumasach Chill Fhíonáin. B’iad Ellen Ní Luasaigh agus Emer Ní Dhuilleáin na Stacaigh bhródúla ar an bpainéal. Moladh mór tuillte acu agus borradh tagtha faoi spórt na mban i GCC! (Dáithí Ó Loinsigh)
FAOI 17: Our Minors (U17) played away to Laune Rangers on Monday last (6th) in the last group game of the Central League. Well done, boys, on a good performance! Panel: Olivier Lata; Leon Sweeney, Gabriel Maszorek, Max Maszorek; Rian Walsh, Adam Johnston, Alex Touhy; Cormac Bastible, Jack Diggin; Rory Lynch, Jack Shanahan, Tadhg Falvey; Brian Kavanagh, Jay O’Connor, Jayden Moriarty; Jake Carmody, David Mullins, Max Grzybowsky, Aodhán Horgan. Bainisteoir: Theo Ó Duigín. Roghnóirí: Liam Lynch, Frankie Murphy, David Courtney. An Charraig Abú! (T.Ó Duigín)
FAOI 21: Good wishes to our U21s in their first round game in the county championship in Connolly Park on May 22nd (Wednesday) v Rathmore.
CLUB GEAR: Club merchandise from O’Neills. Log into www.austinstacks.ie
GO RAIBH MAITH AGAIBH: Thanks to all club lotto supporters and especially to: (i) Hussey’s Deli and Newsagency, Cé an Phrionsa; (ii) The Burger Shack, Móin an Bhealaigh; (iii) The Brogue, Sráid na Carraige; (iv) Siopa Chaoimhín de Barra, Ollmhargadh Grósaera na Carraige; (v) PC Books, Sráid na Carraige (vi) O’Flynn Interiors, Sráid na Carraige.
KERRY SENIORS: Best wishes to Joe, Dylan, Armin, Joey and Kerry v Monaghan i Staid an Ghearaltaigh. Good luck to Aoife Ní Dhuilleáin agus Mná na Ríochta in their next important game.
CIARRAÍ FAOI 20: Mór-chomhghairdeachas le Michael Tansley (cúl báire), Daniel Kirby (10), Paddy Lane and their Kerry colleagues v An Mhí in the All-Ireland semi-final on Saturday last i Staid Semple. Our Rock boys did well agus b’iontach an bua a bhí acu…..le haon chúilín amháin! Go n-éirí leo sa chraobhchluiche v Tír Eoghain.
CIARRAÍ FAOI 17: ‘Well done’ to Wayne and his Kerry minors who gave of their best v Cork in last Monday’s Munster final. The Rock boys on the panel: Ben Ó Murchú (an captaen), Fionnán Ó Riain, Rónán Ó Cearúill, Gavin Ó Cathasaigh, Ryan Ó Drisceoil. Maith sibh!
.Kerry musicians Louise Kimmage, Mary Walsh, Aoife Hobbert and Grace Heffernan who played at a concert in Ennis last Saturday night.
IT was a memorable evening for four of Kerry’s talented concertina players — including a girl from Tralee — who played in a high profile concert in Glór Theatre, Ennis last Saturday night.
Last September, Aoife Hobbert (Tralee), Grace Heffernan (Asdee), Louise Kimmage (Faha) and Mary Walsh (Listowel), successfully auditioned to be part of the Irish Concertina Orchestra for 2023/24, featuring 40 of Ireland’s best young concertina players.
The programme was most ambitious where they had the opportunity to learn from many esteemed musicians as well as world famous Riverdance composer, Bill Whelan, the band Notify and Cormac McCarthy, who is one of the most in demand pianists, composers and arrangers in Ireland.
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This special concert was the brainchild of renowned concertina virtuoso, Padraig Rynne. The evening featured a number of pieces which they had been working on over the past seven months.
The Irish Concertina Orchestra was accompanied on Saturday night by NOTIFY, Music Generation Clare Concert Orchestra, arranged and conducted by Cormac McCarthy and the Concert’s repertoire featured a newly composed and specially commissioned piece of music by special guest Bill Whelan.
GARDAI are investigating a two-vehicle road traffic collision near Killarney on Tuesday.
The collision occurred on the N22 at Knockeenduff at approximately 7:50am and involved two cars. The driver of one vehicle, a male in his 50s, was transferred by air ambulance to Cork University Hospital. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening at this time.
The driver of the other vehicle was taken to University Hospital Kerry to be treated for non-life threatening injuries. A technical examination of the scene was carried out by Forensic Collision Investigators. The road has since reopened.
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Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses to this collision to come forward. Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling on the N22 at Knockeenduff between 7:30am and 8:15am are asked to make this footage available to Gardaí.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Killarney Garda Station on 064 667 1160, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
A ONE-DAY programme of events will take place in Fenit on Thursday to celebrate St Brendan.
Tomorrow is the centrepiece of the St Brendan the Navigator Festival which has been happening all over Kerry these past days and weeks.
The day will start with a 5.30am Sunrise Gathering at Locke’s Beach in Fenit and will be followed by a Dawn Service for Health and Wellbeing with Father Francis at 6am.
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Later in the morning, there will be a Fitness Session with George at the beach. There will be a Mass at St Brendan’s Church in Fenit at 10am led by the students of St. Brendan’s National School. Visitors will also be able to enjoy a Treasure Hunt with Mary and Claudia from the Playground at 11am
The Official launch of the St Brendan Audio Guide by John Griffin will take place at St Brendan’s Statue at 12noon.
An ‘Art Session with Amanda’ is scheduled for Locke’s Beach at 6pm, and the day winds down with a Procession of Lights and Flags that will lead the way to St. Brendan’s Statue to mark the “Keeper of the Flame” event.
The day then concludes with the St Brendan Perpetual Trophy Sailing Race at 7.30pm, with music and the presentation of the trophy taking place at the West End in Fenit.
Mary Lucey of Career Ahead has some advice for pupils and their parents for the transition from primary to secondary school life…
I deal with many school students who encounter a variety of problems both with the initial transition into secondary school and during their first academic year.
I feel many of these problems can be averted or avoided by introducing some simple steps or following practical advice even at this stage of sixth class.
New Opportunity
Many students (and parents) are terrified at the prospective of transitioning to secondary school. Be positive about the move. Encourage your child to see it as a new opportunity.
An opportunity to study lots of new subjects that they will really like and enjoy. They will have access to specialised dedicated rooms and equipment, ie kitchens, science labs, woodwork rooms, computer labs, music rooms, etc
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They will meet new people and potentially make great friends. They can play a variety of sports in and after school. They can join clubs and lunchtime groups that will cater for their specific interests ie musical, drama, science, film etc.
If there isn’t a club, they can propose to the school that they will set one up. They will undoubtedly have questions and concerns, so discuss these openly and honestly, not over-emphasising the impending change as this will only cause stress.
Practical Preparation
Visit the school, initially when it is not packed with students, after school hours perhaps. Then again, on a busier day. Arrange for your child to go with another friend who is starting secondary school on the day too.
Take a walk around, allow your child to establish where their base classroom is, what other rooms do they need to know, where is the principal’s office, where do they go if there is a problem, where they eat their lunch, how to locate the first-year lockers.
Transport can be daunting for a first year if they are getting a bus, so locate where buses are parked.
It is important to remember there might possibly 30 buses waiting outside a secondary school – so put a plan in place that enables them to locate the correct bus and a plan in place in case they ever end up in the wrong location after school!
Bullying
The prospect of bullying is a serious concern for many parents. Research has indicated that students with a high level of confidence/self-esteem are less likely to be bullied in school.
Encourage your child to be comfortable in their own skin and to adhere to their own values. Explain the difference between banter and bullying. Bullying is defined as repetitive, intentional hurting of someone.
For the remainder of 6th class, give them control over their homework and organising themselves for school each day.
Over the summer holidays, ensure they engage in activities they are good at, encourage them to assert themselves, even in small ways, ie ordering food in a restaurant, asking questions themselves in shops about prices/stocks, speaking on the phone rather than just texting, giving them a small budget to manage on a weekly basis etc. All these actions will lead to more confidence/self-esteem.
Making Friends
Lots of parents worry their child will find it difficult to make new friends and if new friends will have a bad influence on their child.
If they are very outgoing this will come easy to them. If they are very shy and it is a genuine concern, establish other students who are starting in first year and discreetly arrange some meet ups before the school year commences.
Also, you can ask students in senior classes that you may be aware of to keep an eye on your son/daughter. Encourage your child to try and be-friend just one or two people initially.
Re-assure your child that expanding their circle of friends is a gradual process. Encourage signing up for some out-of-school activities – these are a great way to make friends with similar interests.
Again, the confidence/self-esteem of a child will determine how much negative influence another child may have on them.
Revision
Many students struggle with the increased workload in secondary school. Students often complete homework but the concept of “study” in addition to homework is completely new to a first-year student.
Encourage them for the remainder of the year to make a study plan and stick to it. Introduce the concept of revision and what it means.
This can be expanded upon with the move to secondary school which will enable them to they stay on top of their new secondary school subjects.
Information
Review school documentation/website/social media together, these will outline rules, regulations, expectations, and ethos of the school.
The child will have a clearer picture of what is expected of them and what actions to take when faced with a new situation in secondary school.
Questions
Remember school is for learning and nobody expects students to know everything. Remind them they can ask as many questions as they like when they start in their new school.
Finally, students will be anxious initially and that is to be expected. Being well prepared will reduce the level of anxiety.
Remind your child that all the other students feel the same, irrespective of how confident they may manage to appear on the outside!
• Contact marylucey@careerahead.ie or www.careerahead.ie 087 9338941 for more information.
The new Kerry Rose for 2024 will be selected this Friday night at the Height Hotel in Killarney. It’s time to meet the contestants…
Alanna Starnes
Alanna Starnes
Alanna Starnes (22) is a proud native of Laois who found her heart in the beauty of The Kingdom and now calls Kenmare home. She leads as Front Office Manager in Sheen Falls Lodge, a role deeply rooted in her upbringing in the hospitality life.
Introduced to the hospitality world from her first steps and embracing the fast-paced industry, she completed her degree in Bachelor of Business in International Hotel Management and Hospitality Management in 2023.
During the hustle, she finds solace in singing, a passion she has nurtured since primary school. Notably, she and her sister serenaded their social media followers daily during the first Covid-19 lockdown, even gracing the TV screens twice.
.AMANDA O’SULLIVAN
Amanda O’Sullivan
Amanda O’Sullivan (22) is from Dromid, near the scenic coastal village of Waterville. She is a 4th Year Bachelor of Education student in Mary Immaculate College and is set to graduate next October. She was recently selected as the Skellig Coast Community Rose and works part-time as a waitress in the Lobster Bar, who sponsored her.
Amanda aims to teach in a Scoil lán-Ghaeilge as she is passionate about Irish and has been a teacher of the Aonad lán-Ghaeilge summer camp for many years. She enjoys traditional Irish singing and set dancing and has competed in many competitions over the years.
Amanda is a social butterfly who likes meeting new people and seizing all opportunities that come her way, starting with this year’s Kerry Rose Selection.
Aoibhe Joy
Aoibhe Joy
Aoibhe Joy (21) is a vivacious young woman hailing from Ballybunion, Co. Kerry. She is completing her undergraduate studies in UCC and plans to pursue a master’s degree in Play Therapy.
During the day, she works at Aras Mhuire Nursing Home where she recently won a charity event in aid of the home, the Listowel Community Rose. Apart from her commitments, Aoibhe loves to unwind by visiting the mesmerising Ballybunion beaches, playing football for her local club, Beale GAA and exploring Kerry’s scenic landscapes with her friends.
With her outgoing personality, Aoibhe is always open to new experiences and enjoys travelling. With the unwavering support of her family, she is excited about what this journey entails.
.Aoife O’Sullivan
Aoife O’Sullivan
Aoife O’Sullivan (25) is a primary school teacher hailing from the picturesque parish of Churchill. Aoife has a huge interest in sport, both as a participant and a spectator, and is a member of the Abbeydorney Ladies Football team as well as the Cillard Camogie team.
She also helps to coach Cillard’s youngest stars- the U6/U8 team on Saturday mornings. Aoife enjoys playing music and has performed in many community events, she has a grá for Gaeilge and also enjoys helping out on the family farm.
Aoife is looking forward to taking part in the Kerry Rose Selection this year and is grateful to have the opportunity to honour Ashling Murphy as part of the experience.
Claudia Ward
Claudia Ward
A native of Tralee, Claudia Ward (23) holds a degree in Microbiology from UCC and is completing her second degree in Quality Management Systems with Data Analytics at MTU this year. Returning to Tralee after university to work at Kerry Dairy Ireland, the Rose of Tralee Festival has always been a cherished part of her life.
A pure Kerry girl at heart, she is committed to making a positive impact in both her local community by volunteering with The Irish Girl Guides and MS Ireland and on a broader scale by volunteering with The European Solidarity Corps.
Her dedication to effecting positive change has earned her the opportunity to represent Ireland in a European Union initiative showcasing female leadership.
.Debora Canty
Debora Canty
Debora Canty (21) resides in Causeway, next to the stunning Meenogahane. Debora recently finished her fourth year at MTU studying Social Care and has received a Social Care Ireland Award.
Debora now works in the Family Resource Centre in the lovely Ballyheigue and a Children’s Residential in Kerry. Debora adores her job and the children she works with. In the upcoming year or two, Debora intends to pursue a master’s degree in Occupational Therapy and continue working with young people.
Debora loves spending time with her friends and family, meeting new people and trying new things. In the last year Debora has found a love for exercising and getting outside and loves to take her two dogs with her.
Emer Dineen
Emer Dineen
Emer Dineen (23) is from charming Castlegregory in Co. Kerry. Having graduated University College Dublin, Emer is now a paediatric radiographer based in Temple Street hospital, covering both Tallaght and Connolly’s paediatric wings.
A love of working with and helping children was furthered when lifeguarding in the summers off from college. Emer loves Gaeilge and more recently has begun learning Irish Sign Language, which has arisen from a desire to better understand Lámh- a manual sign system designed to help people with communication in Ireland.
Volunteering at Barretstown is very important to Emer and her family. The sense of fun and adventure there is magic! Emer loves meeting new people and trying different experiences.
.Emma Browne
Emma Browne
Emma Browne (20) is living in Scartaglin, Co. Kerry. Emma graduated from Kerry College of Beauty in 2023 with an ITEC and CIBTAC qualification.
Emma is currently working in Marion’s Beauty Salon, Castleisland, as a full time beautician. Emma loves to go for drives and walks in her spare time and can often be found strolling the sandy beach of Inch. Emma loves to socialise and meet with her friends and family.
Emma also loves meeting new clients and enjoys the energy they bring to the salon. She enjoys making them feel beautiful in their own skin, whether it’s nails, eyebrows, or facials.
Grace Kearney
Grace Kearney
Grace Kearney (25) is a proud north Kerry woman from Ballyduff. As one of six children, Grace grew up in a lively farming household that was never short of a character visiting.
This came in very useful in her chosen career as a Home Economics and Religious Education teacher in St. Joseph’s Secondary School, Ballybunion.
As well as learning the concertina, Grace enjoys going for walks and playing football with Abbeydorney Ladies Football team. Grace has grown up watching the Rose of Tralee every year and so, is delighted to get the opportunity to partake in the Kerry Rose Selection.
.Iminathi Siphungu
Iminathi Siphungu
Iminathi Siphungu (18) was born in South Africa and is living in Listowel. A full-time student, Iminathi is in 6th Year in Presentation Secondary School, Listowel.
She is currently studying for her leaving cert exams and hopes to become a solicitor in the future. Iminathi has a love of sports, going to the gym, dancing, music and singing. She also has a passion for fashion and self-expression.
She enjoys spending time with loved ones and friends, helping others and making a positive impact in her community. Iminathi is delighted to have Mayfair Healthcare as her sponsor and is looking forward to Selection Night!
KATRINA GALVIN
Katrina Galvin
Katrina Galvin (29) from London has strong Irish roots between Kerry, Cork and Wexford. Katrina grew up in Kerry, becoming a strong advocate for dance and performing arts in the county.
She has a BA Hons. in Voice and Dance from University Limerick and professional dance training from Trinity Laban Conservatoire, London. Katrina is a qualified ballet teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance and is also a classical soprano.
Her love for teaching and inspiring children’s love for dance and performance brought her to open her own school, Sparrow Academy of Dance and Stage. Katrina won the “Rising Star” award in the Connect Kerry Women Business Awards.
She loves dancing, singing and performing and is always thankful for the support of family and friends. Katrina wishes all the Rose entrants the very best of luck!
.Lorraine Lawlor
Lorraine Lawlor
Lorraine Lawlor (26) lives in Tralee. She graduated from the Munster Technological University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Business majoring in Management. Lorraine is currently working in The Bank Of Ireland as a Mortgage Services Specialist.
She loves to go walking in her spare time and can often be found strolling the sandy beaches of Banna and Ballyheigue. Lorraine also enjoys attending spinning and boxing classes in the Kerry Sports Academy.
She loves to socialise and meet with her friends. Lorraine is a volunteer with ALONE and enjoys her weekly visits to her client.
NICOLE O’CONNOR
Nicole O’Connor
Nicole O’Connor (28) is from the beautiful town of Listowel. For the past four years she has worked in Aldi, Listowel, where her career has progressed significantly becoming deputy store manager within her first two years.
About four years ago, she was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease which has had a huge impact on her life. Colitis Ireland helped her with understanding her diagnosis and because of this she has done an abseil of Croke Park and is planning a skydive with the Irish Parachute Club in Tulllamore, Co. Offaly, both in aid of Colitis Ireland.
She has raised just under €2,500 and hopes to continue to raise more in the future. An adventurer at heart, Nicole loves to travel and has a dream of travelling to two new places every year. She also loves to explore new beaches by walking along the shore with her two nephews on either hand.
.Sara Ní Chualáin
Sarah Ní Chualáin
Sarah Ní Chualáin (20) from Ballyferriter is currently studying Speech and Language Therapy in University of Galway.
Having just finished her second year, Sarah aspires to work as a Speech and Language Therapist at home and abroad in the future. Currently, she plays basketball in Galway and football at home with Cumann Peil Ban Daingean Uí Chúis.
She loves travelling and hopes to visit as many countries as possible once she finishes her degree. She would be honoured to represent the Kingdom as the 2024 Kerry Rose as she has been inspired by many Roses over the years and would love to be that inspiration for another young girl.
Sarah has really enjoyed these past few weeks, getting to meet new people and share some amazing experiences with all of the other Kerry Rose entrants.
Shauna Dineen
Shauna Dineen
Shauna Dineen (23), from Causeway, is an English and Geography teacher. She qualified in 2023 and has been teaching in Cork City ever since. She loves to share her knowledge of both subjects with her students and is very passionate about guiding them toward their full potential. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom, as she collaborated last year with the Irish brand Gym Plus Coffee on a project related to mental and physical health. Shauna is currently training for a half marathon, so many of her weekends are spent running in Kerry, taking in the scenic views.
THE Kilmoyley Tidy Towns’ 5k/10k fundraising run will take place once again this year on Sunday, May 26 at 10am.
The event is a very popular way of getting the community together as well as welcoming running enthusiasts from outside the local area.
It will follow the usual 5k route from St Erc’s Primary School to the School Cross on to O’Sullivan’s Lerrig Stores up to Lerrig Lough turning right at the Kilmoyley GAA on to the Church and back to the primary school.
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The event never disappoints in being a truly enjoyable day, so dust off the runners and get the pushchairs ready.
Entry is €15 for 10K, €10 for 5K and €5 for children U16. There is also a Family Offer – for each adult with three children, one child goes free. Check out the Tidy Towns Kilmoyley Facebook page for further details.
THE North Munster bridge community will hold its first annual President’s Charity Bridge Day on Sunday, May 19th, at 2pm at the Tralee Bridge Centre next to Casement Train Station.
This event is spearheaded by Liam Lynch, the North Munster Bridge President. It celebrates the close of the bridge season with a special focus on supporting the heroic efforts of the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) volunteers, including the crews of the ‘Robert Hywel Jones Williams’ and ‘Lizzie’ lifeboats.
Registration is on the day of the event and the entry fee is €15 per person. The event is supported by Bon Secours Hospital Tralee.
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You can join fellow bridge enthusiasts for a day of competition and camaraderie, with opportunities to win numerous prizes across all bridge grades.
All proceeds from this charity bridge day will directly benefit the RNLI, aiding in their critical sea rescue operations along our coasts.
“Join us to support a vital cause while enjoying the game of bridge we all cherish,” said Liam Lynch. “It’s an excellent opportunity for players of all levels to come together, compete, and make a real impact on our community and beyond.”
CRIME figures in Kerry were down overall in the first three months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.
The crime figures for the first quarter (Jan 1 to March 31) of 2024 in the Kerry Division were revealed at the meeting of the Joint Policing Committee on Friday afternoon last.
It showed that Property Crime was down 10% with 320 incidents compared to 357 in the same period last year; Crimes Against The Person incidents were down 2% (169 from 173); Criminal Damage And Public Order incidents up 1% (304 to 308) and Drugs and Offensive Weapons incidents down 24% (117 to 89).
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There were 29 burglaries, exactly the same as 2023, 11 thefts of vehicles (-8%) and 26 thefts from vehicles (-24%). There were 173 thefts from shops (-9%) and 55 thefts of other property (-26%).
Assaults causing harm were up 6% (from 31 to 33) while minor assaults were up 20% (85 up to 102). Criminal damage incidents were down 13% from 83 to 72.
Public order offences were up 4% (100 to 104) and drunkenness offences up 16% (114 to 132).
Possession of drugs for sale or supply incidents were down 40% (20 to 12), Possession of drugs for personal use incidents were down 22% (79 to 62). Possession of offensive weapons incidents were down 31% (16 to 11).
Traffic collision ‘material damage only’ incident were up 10% (296 to 327), Non-Serious Injury Traffic Collisions were down 26% (from 38 to 28). Intoxicated while driving incidents were up 31% (from 70 to 92).
.Launching this year’s Tralee Food Festival which takes place from May 19-21, were Festival Directors Ken Murphy and Oliver Hurley with organising committee members Ken Tobin and John McCarthy at the Island of Geese. Photo by Dermot Crean
THERE’S just days to go until this year’s Tralee Food Festival and the full programme of events from Friday to Sunday, May 17-19 has been revealed (see programme below).
It’s hoped to build on the success of last year’s achievements and elevate the festival for both locals and visitors to the town of Tralee.
The 2023 festival highlighted the Island of Geese, Domnick Street and the Square areas of the town with exciting additions of the Abbey Car Park and Garvey’s Indoor Market being added this year.
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The newly named area ‘Sound Bite’, located in the Abbey Car Park will focus on food trucks and live music showcasing a variety of local music and entertainment until 10pm on the Friday and Saturday night.
Local artists and bands such as Noel McAuliffe & Shane Murphy, the renowned Killarney Pianoman Jack Patrick Healy, Aftershock the Band and Tralee Musical Society all hope to rock the Sound Bite stage over the weekend.
Garvey’s Indoor Market will showcase delicious samples of fresh local produce as well as a BBQ Demo from Award Winning Chef Mark Doe who promises to get you BBQ ready for summer!
This year’s festival itinerary incorporates a World of Food Section, Kids Zone, Workshops, Demonstrations, Food Trucks, Market Traders, Live Music, an amazing Taste Trail as well as a ‘Celebrity Cook Off’.
Sponsors include: Cara Credit Union, Calor, John Lane & Sons, Kerry County Council, Lee Strand, Garvey’s Super Valu, Yummy Cafe, John Doughs, Rural Food Skillnet, O’Shea Insurance Brokers, Higgins Waste & Recycling Services, The Ashe Hotel, ef Signs, Total Cleaning Supplies, Clifford’s Cash & Carry, Convivium, McCaffrey’s, The Brand Geeks, The Rose Hotel & Mike Williams IT Support.
See the full programme of events below and more information on this year’s Tralee Food Festival visit www.traleefoodfestival.com .
GARDAI in Tralee are appealing for information regarding a burglary at a bookmakers in Tralee at the weekend.
Between 10pm on Saturday, May 11 and 9am on Sunday morning, entry was gained into Versus Bookmakers on Russell Street, via a skylight on the building.
A quantity of cash was stolen from the premises. Gardaí are appealing for anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area around that time to contact them at Tralee Garda Station on 066-7102300.
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Separately, Gardaí are appealing for information regarding an incident involving damage to a parked vehicle. This happened on Thursday, May 9 in the area near Liber House in Monavalley.
The owner of a vehicle parked their car at 8.45am and returned to it at 6.45pm that evening. When they came back, they discovered their blue Ford Fiesta had been substantially damaged.
It is suspected another vehicle collided with the Fiesta. If anyone witnessed the incident, or has any information, they are asked to contact Tralee Garda Station.
THE 2024 Tralee Magic All Stars Basketball Awards Night will be held next Monday, May 20, to celebrate the achievements of the basketball community over the past year and recognise the significant contribution of the players, coaches and volunteers.
The awards night will celebrate the next generation of hoopers from the Shooting Stars Academy, with an All-Star player from each junior team in the club recognised.
This is awarded, not necessarily to the most technically gifted player, but to the teammate who exemplifies selfless play and commitment and dedication to his team and sport.
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There will also be awards presented to Division and Cup Champion teams; All Ireland Club Championship Qualifiers; County/ Regional representatives for 2023; International representatives for 2023; the Club person of the year; Young Club Person of the Year and the Tralee Magic Hall of Fame inductee.
The awards take place at The Rose Hotel on Monday, May 20 with presentations commencing from 6.30pm.
.The opening of the exhibition at Siamsa Tíre on Friday.
AN exhibition entitled ‘Picture This and Imagine That: The Voyages of St. Brendan the Navigator’ was opened at Siamsa Tíre on Friday last.
It is part of this year’s St Brendan The Navigator Festival programme taking place across the coast of Kerry this month.
This exhibition combines two separate exhibitions by two very different artists, each working in uniquely disparate media. De’Angeli is showing 28 water colour paintings (courtesy of Robert and Dr. Olive Pierse, who are the owners of this collection), and Nora Donnelly’s work takes the form of an Art Installation of sound and projection.
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Italian Artist Daniel De’Angeli was inspired by the account of St. Brendan’s Navigatio to make wonderful water colour paintings on the subject.
It is over 20 years ago since this collection was last exhibited in Kerry. This series of watercolours on paper were first exhibited in Dublin in 1987 and 1988 and toured in Ireland, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Malta.
In 2003 it returned to Ireland and was exhibited in St Brendan’s Church in Fenit and Ardfert Cathedral and in 2005, in Kerry County Library.
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Dr. Nora Donnelly says that she was ‘blown away’ when she first saw De’Angeli’s work. She was so moved and inspired that she decided to make some art that would call on its substance, its heart and spirit and bring it into another area, winding it in and out of sound.
She includes the moods of the ocean and the chanting of monks as well as sounds from all areas and levels of contemporary life in her Installation.
She also makes a nice tight link between her work, the Navigatio and the inspiring Celtic imagination as is evidenced in the Catalogue Essay that accompanies her installation.
This exhibition and the festival is sponsored by Garveys and Muckross House Trustees. The exhibition is free of charge and will be open to the public until May 31 during Siamsa Tíre opening hours Monday – Saturday.
.Gearing up for this years 3 Peak Challenge, Kevin Murphy Chairperson Killarney Cycling Club – centre, Niamh Cronin and James Doyle Down Syndrome Kerry Denis Cronin, committee member Down Syndrome KerryFiona O’Donoghue, Anne Marie Houlihan and Lisa Barton, members of Killarney Cycling Club.
CYCLING enthusiasts are encouraged to saddle up for Down Syndrome Kerry in partnership with Killarney Cycling Club on Saturday, 15th June, 2024 for this year’s Three Peaks Challenge.
The event, the only one day cycle event Down Syndrome Kerry is associated with this year, promises to be a fabulous day of cycling and fun.
Chairperson of Killarney Cycling Club, Kevin Murphy said, “we will guarantee plenty of laughs and refreshments along the way, there are two routes available; 100km or 75km, to meet all abilities, covering some of the most beautiful landscapes in Ireland. This is the perfect warm-up for anyone thinking of doing the Ring of Kerry cycle this year or anybody looking for a really well run sportive with great craic compulsory.
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The 100km route challenges the stronger cyclists and the 75km route gives cyclists the chance to become familiar with Moll’s Gap which is part of the Ring of Kerry route.
The cycle sets out from Killarney, heading out the Cork Road. The 75km route (one peak) turns right at Loo Bridge for Kilgarvan and onto Kenmare, while the 100km route, (three peaks) heads over the county bounds to Ballyvourney, onto The Top of Coom and then Kenmare.
Both routes continue on over Moll’s Gap, passing through the picturesque Ladies’ View and back into Killarney, where all participants will be treated to a burger and drink at the finish line.
All cyclists who register online will be entered into a raffle for some great spot prizes kindly donated by our sponsors, winners collecting their prize at the finish line.
Funds raised from this cycle will help Down Syndrome to continue to provide vital services such as speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and job coaching to their members.
You can register for the cycle which is €40 for Cycling Ireland members, €20 for accompanied under 16’s on event master:- https://eventmaster.ie/event/dW04CnGSwV
.Looking forward to the Spa NS Donal Walsh 6k Challenge on May 26. Photo by Dermot Crean
SPA National School will once again hold the ‘Donal Walsh Spa 6K Challenge’ this month.
This hugely popular event was first held in 2014 and has become a firm favourite on the community calendar in the Spa.
Over the years the event has gone from strength to strength but the upcoming event on Sunday, May 26, promises to be better than ever. The whole school community is busy organising another family fun day in honour of Donal, their past pupil.
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“Everyone seems to really enjoy this day out!” said school principal Peter Linehan. “We want to yet again honour Donal in a special way and so the committee is working to create an event where people of all ages and fitness levels can come together for a few hours, have fun and ‘live life’ just as Donal urged us all to. The “live life” message is just as relevant today as it was in 2014!”
“It really is a triumph of hardwork and teamwork. Huge credit must go to our parents’ association who have been working tirelessly over the past few weeks to ensure that everything will be ready on the day,” added Peter.
The school will certainly be a hive of activity with a fabulous market in operation and children from 6th class coordinating fun games and challenges for young and old all day.
The Parent’s Association is also organising a beautiful food court on site with hot food, ice creams, teas and tasty treats also being served up as well. There will be face painters, live music and Ronaldo Fanzini, King of Mayhem will host a lively show to entertain everyone.
However, the main event of the day will again be the ‘Spa 6K Challenge’ a 6 km looped run/walk starting and finishing at the school. Donal’s parents Fionbarr & Elma will yet again officially start the run/walk at 11.30 a.m.
Everyone is welcome to come along and register from 10.00 a.m. on the morning, but they can also pre register at the school. Please call 066 7136618 or e mail info@spanationalschool.ie for full details.
Lotto results: Lotto Tue 7th May 2024. Numbers drawn were 5, 6, 23, 29. No winner. Lucky dip winners of €20 were Phil Quirke, Doreen Tobin, Ann O’Sullivan, Gene & Madeline Kelly, Colm Ó Conchubhair. Our next draw will be tomorrow night and the jackpot will be €1,850. Why not try your luck in our lotto. The links is as follows:https://www.klubfunder.com/Clubs/Na%20Gaeil%20CLG/lotto
RIP: Our sincere sympathy to former players David & Mark Byrne and their families on the passing of their dad Tom Byrne last week. May he rest in peace.
Bingo: Na Gaeil Bingo tonight at 8pm sharp. Our Mini Accumulater Jackpot House tonight is €270 in 47 calls. We also have a Raffle and Split the Bucket at half time. Bus available on (087) 2817577. Over 18s only. Hope to see you all there for an excellent night out.
Volunteers: The club are looking for people to help out at bingo on Monday nights. If you can spare 2 hours every 5 or 6 weeks then Niamh (087-9863667) would be delighted to have you on board.
Scór: Scór is very much a ’niche’ activity within Na Gaeil. Of course we’re first & foremost a football club, but Scór is the cultural arm of the GAA and is a really great thing to be involved in – especially for kids. It gives them confidence & is good fun! If you’re reading this & think you might like your child to be involved, please contact Margaret at 086 0855008. Or better again, if you’re a parent with maybe something to offer to our small but enthusiastic Scór committee, please get in touch….
Fundraiser: Dearbhla Quirke, daughter of Mary & Jerome, is heading to Uganda volunteering for 3 weeks in July and must fundraise €2,650! She will be working as an Occupational Therapist over there in a paediatric rehabilitation centre. If you’d like to donate please click on this link: https://nurtureafrica.enthuse.com/pf/dearbhla-quirke/post/6702388 Any donations would be greatly appreciated!
Changes to Car Park: We would like to make patrons aware of the new disabled parking bays and the yellow box for ambulance parking which have been added to the club’s car parks recently. Please keep them free at all times.
Family Fun Run: St. John’s Parochial School will be holding a Family Fun Run on Sunday May 19th in the Town Park starting at 11am. To register email info@jschooltralee.com or contact 066-7128142 during school hours. Entry fee is €10 for individuals or €15 for a family.
Senior Men: Our senior men will play Castleisland Desmonds tomorrow night at 7.30pm in a back-game in the Co. League. Then next Sunday the lads are away to Fossa at 3pm.
Kerry (Ladies) Munster Championship: Good luck to the Kerry Ladies, especially Deirdre Kearney, Mary O’Connell, Bríd O’Connor, Eilís O’Connor and Jadyn Lucey, when they play Cork in the Munster Final next Saturday in Mallow at 4pm.
All-Ireland Senior Championship (Men): Good luck to the Kerry team as they take on Monaghan next Saturday in the first round of the All-Ireland Series. The game goes ahead in Fitzgerald Stadium at 3pm.
Kerry Hurling: Best wishes to the Kerry senior hurlers, especially the Na Gaeil lads, who play Offaly in Round 4 of the Joe McDonagh Cup next Sunday in Tullamore at 1pm.
Kerry U20s: Well done to the Kerry u20s who are through to the All-Ireland final v Tyrone after a tough battle with Meath last Saturday. Match details for the final have not been confirmed yet but it is due to go ahead this coming weekend.
Kerry Minors: Well done to the Kerry minors who defeated Tipperary last Tuesday night in the Munster championship semi-final. They will face Cork in the Munster final in Páirc Uí Rinn tonight at 7.30pm.
Return of underage training 2024: Our juveniles are back in training for the 2024 season. Contact details for the various age groups are as follows: U5’s – Denis Sugrue (087) 2808719. U7’s – Shane Moriarty (086) 8380434. U9s – Bryan O’Mahony 087 9585331. New members are always welcome and can contact the relevant team coach above.
U7s: Our U7’s group braved a wet Sunday morning session. The group concentrated on handpassing, soloing, kicking and finished with a game. Thanks to all the players & coaches for an enjoyable morning. Keep up the practice during the week. Our U7’s Thursday evening training returns on Thurs 16th at 6pm.
U9 Boys: Our u9 boys will host Listowel Emmets tomorrow night at 6.30pm.
U15 Boys: Unfortunately no joy for our u15 Féile team last Friday night in Ardfert. They lost to Ardfert in their first game by 3-5 to 1-1 and beat Tarbert/Moyvane in Game 2 by 2-10 to 0-2. However it was Ardfert who topped the group and went through to the Féile semi-finals.
Minor Co. League: Our u17 boys had another hard fought win in Round 3 of the Central Region competition last Monday evening in Sneem when they got the better of Na Fianna by 1 point. The result means the lads have topped their Div 1B group and will play Laune Rangers in the semi-final.
Development Squads: Congratulations to Na Gaeil’s Joseph Field, Danny Brick, Eoin Tansley & Tom Slattery who have been selected on the North Kerry u14 Development Squad.
Girls Training: Na Gaeil Ladies juveniles (u8/u10/u12) are back training for the new season. New members are always welcome. For more information contact Eddie on 087-6791460.
New Jerseys: A huge thank you to Sinead Quirke of IJL Construction for donating a new set of jerseys to our u14 girls team.
U18 Girls: Our minor girls put in a great performance against Fossa last Tuesday night in Killeen but unfortunately they lost by 2 points. That game was their final game until after the exams.
Big Screen: All football championship games will be shown live on the big screen in the bar throughout the season.
Sponsorship Opportunity: If you have a business and would like to promote it with Na Gaeil we have various sponsorship packages available to suit all budgets. Enquiries to Donal (087-2577729) or Terry (086-8293261) or Colm (087-9080465) or Mike (086-2440158) or any member of the club Executive.
Club History: During the year Michael Golden spent many hours putting together a list of notable club results & other information about the club since its foundation in 1978. This can now be found on our website (www.nagaeil.ie). Click on “Club News” then “Weekly notes” and select ”Old results by Michael Golden”.
Hire the Hall: The hall in the clubhouse is available for parties or other events. Please emailnagaeilclubhouse@gmail.com if you’d like to make a booking.
Na Gaeil cycle club: Cycle each Saturday at 9.30am and Wednesdays at 6.30pm from Na Gaeil club. Everyone is welcome to come for a nice friendly cycle.
Cards: The weekly 45 card game is held every Wednesday night starting at 9pm. Everyone is welcome.
Notes: If you’d like anything included in the club’s weekly notes please send it to me at pro.nagaeil.kerry@gaa.ie before 9am on Monday and I’ll do my best to include it.
Academy Training
Academy training for U7 to U11s boys and girls continues every Friday evening in Caherslee GAA grounds from 6pm. All newcomers are welcome to come along and give hurling and camogie a try. The club will provide hurleys and helmets. We now have a tea/coffee station on Friday evenings where parents can come and say hello and mingle while the boys and girls have some fun.
Tralee Parnells U13 camogie team that played Causeway last Thursday night
U13 Camogie
Tralee Parnells U13’s girls created a huge first impression in Causeway last Thursday night, narrowly defeated by a strong Causeway team. Huge potential and great resilience. Many thanks to Causeway for hosting the game and to Tommy Guerin for reffing.
U15 Feile Preparations
Both our U15 hurling and camogie teams have qualified to go to the National Féile na nGael competition which is being held this year in Wexford.
This will require a huge club effort to fund both groups of players on their féile adventure. If any business owners are interested in sponsoring the teams to help alleviate the cost, please contact any member of the respective management teams.
U17 Hurling
Tralee Parnells Minor Co League kicked off last Sunday with a home game vs Lixnaw and came away with a great win: Tralee Parnells 4-14 Lixnaw 0-12
Cul Camp
The summer Cul Camps are open for booking at https://www.kelloggsculcamps.gaa.ie/. There are still a few places left for the Tralee Parnells camp on 12th to 16th August.
Senior Hurling
Our Senior hurlers were due to play Lixnaw last Friday evening but the game didn’t go ahead. They play the last round of the Co League in Caherslee next Friday evening vs Ballyduff.
Our B team played St Brendans B in Caherslee last Wednesday evening in Round 4 of Div 2 Co League. After taking an early lead with a great goal by Sean Woulfe, a youthful St Brendans team gradually got back in to the game and ran out winners in the end on a scoreline of Tralee Parnells 2-10 St Brendans 4-19. Parnells are away to Causeway B next Wednesday at 7pm.
Kerry GAA Hurling Development
Kerry GAA and Hurling Development are delighted to announce and launch the Hurley and Helmet Scheme 2024.
Single Hurley(22″ to 28″) – €15.00
Single Helmet – €35.00
Hurley and Helmet – €50.00
This is fantastic value representing a saving of at least 50%. We have a tight schedule to process orders, so please note that the closing date is Friday 17th May at 11am Sharp. As the system is automated, we cannot accept any order after this point.
Your local GDC will liaise with your local club/school to have a collection date once all equipment arrives in the county.
Once you click the link, click on “buy tickets” where you can see your options. Hurley and helmet sizes are straightforward, helmet colour is 2 colours max. If you select a hurley only, type N/A in helmet colour to proceed.
Kerry U16 Camogie
Kerry U16s put in a fantastic second half performance and secured a valuable win against a strong Armagh side in Round 2 of the All Ireland Championship. Well done to our Parnells players who were all simply outstanding, Anna C, Caoilainn, Eimear, Jessica, Anna O, Orla, Georgia and Emma. Missing on the day Siofra Murphy. Congratulations to all the team and Managers – special mention to Lynda and Brian.
Congratulations
To Donnacha Buttimer, Parnells senior player, who was a member of the Churchill Scor Sinsir Quiz team that won the All-Ireland Final in Killarney last Saturday.
Thanks
To O’ Connell’s Pharmacy, St. Brendan’s Park for sponsoring the medical kit for our Senior hurlers and their continued support of the club.
Co. Fair
Thanks also to all Parnells volunteers that helped out at the Kingdom County Fair last weekend.
Lotto
Last week’s lotto numbers: 5, 7, 16, 18
Lucky dip winner: Katie Trant
Next draw 20th May
We thank all our players for your continued support
We are pleased to announce that our Dingle Way Challenge is back for another year. This event takes place on Sunday 2nd of June.
Please find details of the two routes below we have available this year for you to choose from.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first timer, looking for a challenge this year’s Dingle Way Challenge promises an unforgettable journey through the rugged beauty of the West Kerry peninsula.
The allure of the 2024 Dingle Way Challenge lies in the diverse landscapes of the routes. For the Ultra route (42Km) starting at Coumeenole, through the lovely town of Dingle, onto Lispole and finishing in Annascaul.
The Standard Route (30Km) will start at beautiful Ventry beach, through the lovely town of Dingle, onto Lispole and finishing in Annascaul.
Register on-line through Eventbrite, Registration fee: €75 (transaction charge will be added)
Check in on the morning of 2nd June will be in St Pat’s GAA Club, Blennerville, Tralee and buses will be available to take you to the start points of the Routes. More detailed information on the eventbrite page Dingle Way Challenge 2024 Tickets, Sun 2 Jun 2024 at 05:00 | Eventbrite.
Since our Eventbrite page went live, many have booked their place. There are limited numbers for this event so be quick you don’t want to miss this great day out!
Club Lotto
There was no winner of our club Lotto Jackpot of €2400 on Sunday night last the numbers drawn were 03,14,17 & 25. The five €30 euro consolation prizes went to:
1. Judy Keane c/o Keane’s Bar
2. Noreen O’Flaherty c/o Tommy Brosnan
3. Dom O’Brien c/o Rock Inn
4. Pat McMahon c/o Gala
5. Hannah Shanahan c/o T. Boyle
Next week’s Lotto will have a Jackpot of €2500 and the draw will take place on Sunday Night 19/05/2024 at 9pm in ?? club lotto can be played online through the club website www.stpatsgaaclub.com online at https://www.locallotto.ie/play.asp?LL_ID=1328&PC=0 from any club officer, or at the following outlets:
O’Shea Shop and Service Station Blennerville
Poff Motors Dingle Road
Seamus O’Sullivan Master Butchers Manor
Noyeks Mile Height
Byrnesworth
Skelper Quanes
Keane’s Of Curraheen
Betty’s Bar The Rock Inn
Many Thanks to all who contribute to our weekly club Lotto. The club cannot emphasize enough the importance of our members promoting the club Lotto among family, friends, and work colleagues. The lotto is now a critical source of funds for the club. We are appealing to all club members to promote our Lotto at this time to ensure our club’s future viability. Please have your Lotto entries in by 7pm, every Sunday night.
Blennerville Scouts (3rd Kerry)
Last weekend Blennerville Scout Troop travelled to Cronin’s yard located at the foothills of Carrantuohill. They were participating in the County annual camp and shield competition joining six other Scout Troops from around the County. Blennerville Scouts hadn’t participated in the event for a number of years and their participation this year was warmly welcomed and acknowledged.
This was a new experience for these boys and girls, and they picked up a lot of new ideas from the more experienced scouts present. The beautiful weather on Saturday was ideal for the range of activities to be completed on the camp including the Campfire on Saturday night.
While the singing might not have challenged Bambi Thug it was sufficiently good for the Blennerville Scouts to be awarded the win the Best Singing award and they were also highly commended for their overall teamwork throughout the weekend. Well, done to their Leaders Majella Daly and Jason Hingston for bringing the Scouts to this event.
Healthy Club
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED PLEASE to keep fresh fruit and juice going on a regular basis rota for dry mornings. It is a great opportunity to mingle for 10mins and make new connections.
WALKING GROUP – many thanks to Julie O’Shea who will begin a walking group around the perimeter for parents/ guardians during the Sunday morning academy sessions. Join her from next week to get the steps in.
THURSDAY JOGGING. following on from our successful couch to 5K initiative there is still a small jogging group meeting at 7pm on Thursday evenings. let us know if interested in joining them.
OTHER SUGGESTIONS… the healthy club team are always looking for more volunteers & ideas & initiatives going forward. don’t be shy!
Juvenile Academy
St Pats Football Academy will now take place every Sunday Morning in St Pats Blennerville V92 RH98 from 10.30am-11.30am. Open to all boys and girls from Under 5 to Under 13. Contact Michael for further information on 086-3855428. Come along any Sunday, All New Members welcome!
U5
Well, done to our under 5s who braved the rain this morning for an energetic session on the astroturf. We’re working on kicking skills and tackling with small sided little matches. We’re getting the hang of it! Thanks to all the parents for your help out! Well, done to Súin and Rían Hayes for getting stuck in and winning players of the week. Keep up the practice boys and girls
U7
Well, done to all our under 7s who made it out today. Big change from yesterday.
We went through all our basic skills of picking up the ball, soloing and taking shots at goal.
We played a game at the end and as cold and wet as it was, they seemed to enjoy it.
Well, done to Cillian who was player of the week.
U8 Girls
We played Kerins O Rahillys today in our 1st game today and despite the wet conditions we showed great enthusiasm and appetite for hard graft. All the skills of the GAA were on display catching, kicking, hand passing and especially tackling. Thanks to Kerins O Rahillys for a great battle and we will see ye again during the year.
U9 Boys
A great session this week for our U9’s, they worked on their kicking and tackling with Noel and hand pass with James. We had a very competitive game to finish, and all the boys put in a great effort. The coaches would like all the boys to keep up the practice at home during the week.
U10 Girls
Well, done girls on your 1st game of the season on last Sunday morning, very impressive display of football from all the girls in tough conditions, everyone played brilliantly. Thank you to Kerins O’Rahillys who provided a great game of football. Great teamwork showed and all that practicing at home is really paying off. See ye all for next Sunday for training and well done again girls from all the coaches.
U11 Boys
St Pats U-11’s travelled West again last Thursday evening to play Dingle in Round 5 of the Lee Strand Co League Go Games. We had two teams lined out.
Our players tried their hearts out against two very good teams from Dingle. That was the last round. in this phase of the Lee Strand Co. League Go Game but next phase will start very shortly. We will be in contact with parents with details of same.
It’s really important all our players continue to attend training sessions and most importantly keep practicing the skills at home during the week. Naomh Pádraig Abú!!
U12 Girls
Our U12 girls played Austin Stacks Amber team in the last round of the North Kerry U12 Go Games group section last Sunday week. It was a welcome return for Grace Costello after missing the earlier games through injury and she played her heat out at centre back. Stacks dominated the first quarter and built up a good lead.
We took control in the second quarter and clawed back the lead to three points at half time. However, Stacks upped the gears in the third quarter and finished up worthy winners. However, the coaches were delighted with the application of the girls for the whole 50 minutes.
We did not train last Sunday as the majority of our squad were playing with Blennerville/Ballyard in the U12 Girls community games football. Training takes place next Sunday at 11:45am at the pitch.
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U13
We lost a competitive and sporting match against Currow. The lads showed great commitment and the improvement in tackling following the work undertaken at training this week was evident for all to see. We got some great scores, and we were delighted with the work rate from everyone. Back training tomorrow evening at 6pm.
U15
Another busy week for our under 15 panel of players starting with a good training session on the Bank holiday Monday and well done to all the players for getting there.
We haven’t had may training sessions on the pitch so far this year due to a combination of non-availability of pitches and in more recent weeks the number of games to play due to a backlog caused by the cancellation of games earlier in the season due to the wet weather.
We travelled to Asdee on Thursday 9th May to play Beale in the Lee Strand Co League Division Shield semi-final. This was close enough game in the first half and into the early part of the second half.
With about 20 minutes to go we were reduced to 14 players, and it didn’t look good for us. However, every one of the players raised their game and stood up to the challenge of being a player down and emerged worthy winners.
Well, done to the St Pat’s players Ródhan Culloo, Conor Sheehan, Aidan Berry and Stephen Enright who all contributed significantly to the win. We are currently waiting on details of the League Shield final.
Following the delight of the win in Asdee we were brought back to the more sombre experience of defeat in a Football Féile game on Friday evening when we played St. Senan’s A team.
St Senan’s play in a higher division in the Co league than ourselves and as the game went on the quality of their football asserted itself and they ran out worthy winners.
We are currently waiting on details of the Lee Strand Co. League Shield final and are looking forward to contesting a final.
St Brendan’s Board
St Brendan’s board play their first game in U21 Football County Championship Round 1 against Mid Kerry on Wednesday 22nd of May at 7pm in Ardfert.
Senior
Our senior Bs were scheduled to play away to Dingle last Saturday night did not take place.
Our seniors are scheduled to play Austin Stacks B in Round 7 of the County League on Saturday 18th of May at 7.30pm in Blennerville.
Best of Luck
To Kerry who take on Monaghan in the All-Ireland Senior Championship Group 4 Round 1 in Fitzgerald Stadium on Saturday 18th of May at 3pm.
To Kerry Ladies who play in the TG4 Munster LGFA Senior Championship Final against Cork on Saturday 18th of May at 4pm in Mallow GAA Complex.
Congratulations
To U20 Kerry who won their EirGrid All Ireland U20 Football Championship Semi Final against Meath at the weekend. They now take on Tyrone in the final on the weekend of 18th/19th of May.
To anyone who made their First Holy Communion during the weekend.
To Blennerville National School who make their Furst Holy Communion next Saturday at St John’s Church.
To all at the boys and girls from Blennerville National School on winning the cup for Best Primary School in Tralee Area at Primary School Sports on last Saturday at Tralee Harriers Athletic Club-Kerry.
Sympathy
The club would like to extend its sympathy to the families and friends of John Foley Dingle, Joanmarie Lynch, Ballybunion & Tralee, Bridie Stuart née Connell Tralee & Annascaul, Tom Byrne Oakpark & Carlow, Cyril Quigley Tralee & Kilkenny, and Martin Finnegan Tralee.
The half time score of 1-04 to 1-02 was symptomatic of a game where there were too many mistakes, too many turnovers and lots of misplaced passes.
The pleasing aspect was that we were in the ascendancy but in reality should have been much more ahead against a Spa side who were reduced to 14 men in the 6th minute when wing back Rian O’Neill was red carded for an off the ball altercation with Jack Savage.
We started well and had the first score of the game within a minute when Gearóid Savage slotted over after good play from Barry John who found him with a lovely popped pass into his chest with Gazza duly obliging.
We had to wait another 10 minutes for the next score with Barry John finding his range but in between we had wides from both Jake Foley and Ben Hanafin with Ryan Carroll short with another effort.
Spa were finding it hard to adjust to the loss of their defender and we took full advantage when turning them over in midfield with Gazza then winning the race for possession before finding Jack who rounded the keeper for the green flag.
At this stage we were comfortable at the back and with both Ben and Daniel Bowler winning their personal duels we had plenty of possession but failed to make it count on the scoreboard.
Spa replied with a pointed free from keeper Shay O’Meara but our response was quick when Ben Hanafin, a thorn in the opposition’s side all night, broke up field for a fine score; Jack quickly added another point but that was to be our last score of the half and we were brought back to earth when a Spa attack saw a ball flicked to the back post where Aidan Cronin was on hand to finish to the net.
The second half was a replica of the first – we had the better of matters but two promising early attacks broke down as the final pass went astray and the play continued like this to the end; however, we were nothing if not resourceful and try as they might Spa could not find an equaliser despite reducing the deficit to one point on more than one occasion.
Four points each was the outcome, with Jack and Barry John notching two each – a highlight of the second half was a crucial save by custodian Rob O’Connor who smothered a shot which if goaled could well have resulted in a different outcome.
David Moran made his reappearance in the final quarter and his presence was vital as we saw out the game.
It was not pretty, at times it was sloppy with both sides lacking cohesion, but the two points gained gets us off the mark and in good fettle for the trip to Dingle next weekend.
Team: Robert O’Connor, TJ Heaphy, Ross O’Callaghan, Stephen Nix, Ben Hanafin, Darragh McElligott, Daniel Bowler, Tom Hoare, Jake Foley, Ryan Carroll, BJ Keane, Paudie Griffin, Gearóid Savage, Jack Savage, Conor Hayes.
Scorers: Jack 1-03, BJ 0-03, Ben 0-01, Gazza 0-01.
Subs used: David Moran, Jake Hoare, Conor O’Sullivan.
Congratulations:
Kerry U20s overcame Meath in a nail biting finale on Saturday winning by one point, 0-12 to 0-11 to qualify for the All Ireland final, where they will play Tyrone next weekend – fixture to be confirmed.
Tomás Kennedy had a fine outing at full forward, scoring a point from play and being denied a goal in the 2nd half when the keeper pulled off a fine save – Darragh O’Connor and Ben Hanafin were part of the panel also with Maurice Horan on the management team.
Fixtures:
Round 7 of the county league takes place on Saturday evening next, 18th May when we travel west to take on Dingle where throw in is @ 19.30
The All Ireland U20 final will take place on Sunday 19th next in O’Moore Park, Portlaoise when Kerry take on Tyrone with a throw in time of 13.30
Tyrone were impressive winners on Sat last when defeating Roscommon and will enter the game as slight favourites; they accumulated an impressive tally of 3-18 en route to the final and will be looking to add to the title they last won in 2022 when defeating Kildare.
The first round qualifier in senior takes place on Sat 18th in Fitzgerald Stadium with Kerry taking on Monaghan – this game will commence at 3 pm.
As always, our fixtures will be on social media plus details will be sent from the club phone to those registered. If you would like to register for the latest updates, please text your name to 085 2095001.
Academy:
It was a quieter than normal morning in Pat Healy Park with our U8 and U10 Girls away to play St. Pats for their first Go Games and the damp weather not helping, but they still enjoyed a fun filled academy with their coaches despite the wet conditions.
All juveniles showed great determination and eagerness to learn and improve their skills and some parents took advantage of the teas and coffees on offer which are available every Sunday morning free of charge.
We would also like to thank Fiadh and Taylor from our U16 ladies for their help Sunday morning with the U6 Girls. It’s great to see them giving back to the club by volunteering and mentoring the girls. Academy continues next week at the same time of 10am. New members are always welcome to join our club, just come along Sunday morning.
U8 Girls
U8 Girls:
Our U8 Girls played St. Pats Sunday morning giving a terrific display. There was a great display of football by both teams.
The conditions were bad but the girls showed great determination and fantastic team work. Some great scores by the girls and we look forward to our next game. Thank you to St. Pats for having us.
U10 Girls:
The U10 Girls had a great battle on their hands Sunday morning against St Pats U10s. Both sides were very determined and didn’t hold back. There were some great skills on display and plenty of balls hit the back of the net.
Overall it was great for the girls to play their first match of the season against a very similarly matched team. Well done girls! Keep up the practice. Thank you to St. Pats for hosting us. We look forward to playing yet again soon.
U10 Boys –
We have been invited to a Blitz in Kilmacud Crokes GAA next Sunday 19th May. This blitz takes place every year and we are delighted to be invited up each year. Everyone is looking forward to a fun-filled day.
U13s A Team
U13 Boys:
Our U13 A team had their first outing after being promoted to Division 3 of the County League; they welcomed a quality SPA Killarney team to Ballyrickard Sunday afternoon and after a first half where neither team showed their full hand the 2nd half kicked into life with top football from both teams.
Man of the match Jamie O Regan marshaled a resolute defence spear headed by Kyle Power and Kyle Smith who kept another clean sheet in goals and with Jack Hanlon bagging 2 goals on the other end saw us leave as winners on the day with a score line of 3-07 to 0-09.
Our U13 B team had a classy win at home to Na Fianna Sunday evening in Ballyrickard 5-13 to 5-06 the final score.
Great shifts from Daire Hanlon and Fionn Smith supported by scoring forwards Jamie, Darren and Adam meant this was a great start to the County League campaign for our young guns.
U13s B Team
Clubzap:
It is vital that all players/parents are registered on Clubzap and added to the correct age group in order to receive details and information relevant to their group. Please ensure you have downloaded Clubzap and joined your group/s. If you have any queries please contact us through any of our social media pages, club phone (085) 209 5001 or simply ask someone at academy Sunday mornings who will be more than happy to help you.
Registration:
The registration officer will be in touch over the next few weeks with those who have not paid membership. If you are having any difficulty paying your membership again we ask you to reach out and we will be more than happy to help you.
LADIES NOTES:
U12 Girls:
U12 Girls were away to John Mitchell’s on Tuesday evening. This was another fantastic performance. The girls kicked some great scores, showcasing their skills while doing so. Everyone put in a massive performance from backs to forwards and should be very proud of themselves.
We had great support from the girls’ parents which drove them on so thanks to them too for coming to their games. Thanks to John Mitchels Gaa Club for hosting us. Training continues on Thursday at 6pm in preparation for their next game.
U14 Kerins O’Rahillys Team
U14 Girls:
Our U14 Girls Kerins O’Rahillys hosted Listowel Emmets in the Division 1B Co. League Sunday morning. Each and every one of our 13 players put in a tremendous effort, showed great spirit and played some lovely football. Well done to everyone and to our captain Emma Onyekwere. Congrats to Listowel Emmets on their victory.
U14 Strand Road Team
U14 Girls Strand Rd Blues Team:
Well done to our U14 Strand Road team, a great group of girls who played their second match of the U14 Co. League v ISG in Pat Healy Park, Ballyrickard. ISG were the dominant team from the outset but our young ladies showed great determination throughout. A huge effort put in by everyone in the second half brought us back into the game and our girls scored a number of goals.
U16 Girls:
We started this week with our U15 Fèile out in Fossa GAA; we lost our first game but still reached a semi Final, but unfortunately that was as far as we would go. The girls put in huge effort throughout each game on the day but it just wasn’t our day.
We were back to training on Tuesday and Thursday evening with mixed numbers due to school trips and minor games so overall everyone was busy.
It was great to see our players Fiadh and Taylor helping out at the academy training also on Sunday morning with the U6 girls and we encourage more of our players to volunteer to help out.
Senior Ladies:
Well done to our Senior Ladies Sunday morning in round 6 of the Credit Union Donal Curtin Cup, Division 4, where they played Kilcummin and won on a score line of:
KOR: 2-16
Killcummin: 1-4
Mothers and others:
This fantastic group of women are training hard in preparation for their upcoming blitz in Dingle which takes place in two weeks time. It’s great to see so many down in Pat Healy Park every Wednesday evening enjoying themselves while learning and improving their skills and of course having a laugh while doing so. Huge thank you again this week to their amazing coach Barry John who turns up every Wednesday to coach this group.
Condolences:
We would like to offer our sympathy to Ray Walsh on the death of his uncle in law John Foley of Dingle – John was the familiar face of Dingle GAA and a former serving officer of the club – ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
The scenic Foilmore pitch was the venue for the SFL Div 6B, round 6 game between St Michael’s Foilmore and Ballymacelligott on Saturday evenings last.
The Ballymacelligott team travelled without three of their full forward line. The difference in the end was South Kerry’s ability to take their scores despite our players putting in a great performance.
The first half opened with a point for St Michael’s Foilmore. Shortly after Andy Rogers took a 45 and Maurice O’Connell caught the ball turned and scored a great point.
Foilmore added another point followed by two from Skye Lynch (One from a free) Shane Gilroy added a point from play. This was Ballymac’s last score of the half and the South Kerry side added two more before the whistle blew for half time. Ballymac would rue the six wides in this half.
Half Time score was: St Michael’s Foilmore 0-4 Ballymacelligott 0-4
St Michaels/Foilmore opened the scoring of the second half with a point. Sean Rice followed with a fine point for Ballymac. Then the South Kerry lads looked like they had a goal and Conor Martin stepped up and made a great save. Foilmore added a point. With twelve minutes gone, Foilmore were in the lead 0-7 to o-5.
Maurice O’Connell brought it back to a one-point game with a point from a free. Conor Martin made another fine save.
Foilmore added a point and Shane Gilroy added one for Ballymac. Foilmore added two more points. Despite Ballymac’s great rally in the last five minutes producing two points from James Kenny and Maurice O’Connell, it was not enough. The final whistle blew.
Ballymac had lost by the smallest of margins. The squad played hard and fast football and were so unlucky not to score another three or four points- that on another night would go over the bar.
Conor Martin played a blinder in goal as did his back line. It was good to see James Kenny back on the field after his injury in Dr Crokes.
Full Time: St Michael’s Foilmore 0-10 Ballymacelligott 0-9
Team and scorers: Conor Martin, Ciarán Brosnan, Cian Godley, Jonathan Brick, Sean Rice Brian Cassidy, Seán Rice (0-1), Shane Gilroy (0-2), Skye Lynch(0-2) Cathal Culloty, Bryan Godley, Andy Rogers, Jack Tobin, Maurice O’Connell (0-3).
Subs Used: Josh O’Keeffe, Eoghan Leahy, James Kenny (0-1) and Eoin Culloty.
We wish a speedy recovery to Cian Godley who got injured at the game and to Shane McGillicuddy injured in our previous game.
Next Friday 17th May our Senior B team play top of the table Milltown Castlemaine at home in Ballymacelligott at 7.30 pm.
Senior Ladies
Next Senior Ladies game is away to Abbeydorney, keep an eye on social media for details
Under 16 girls
Ballymac U16 girls played Beale in the North Kerry League Wednesday night. Ballymac came out 2-12 to 3-3 on the night in a fantastic team display.
In all truth it is impossible to single out any player as it really was a great team effort with the U14 players, Emma, Aideen, Alice, Eva, Maeve, Tara, Sophie, Natalie and Holly stepping up in the age with great confidence. Many thanks to Beale on a very competitive match.
Minor Boys
We wish Jack Joy and Eoin Moriarty, who is also on the panel, the very best of luck tomorrow evening when the Kerry Minors play Cork in the Munster Final
Division 2 Semi final Central Region U17 Competition
Ballymacelligott v John Mitchel’s. at home in Ballymac on Tuesday at 7.30pm
Under 15 boys
Feile Finalists.
Congratulations to our u15 team who, today, reached the D3 Feile final in Caherslee.
A tough semifinal was won, aet, against a dogged St. Senans side.
This set up a final against Listowel. Despite our best efforts, today was not our day.
Well, done to our lads who have shown remarkable improvement over the course of this competition.
Next up is Central Region.
Under 13 Boys
Division 5
Ballymac 3-8 Legion 3-9
This was our first home game this season and we were very unlucky to be on the losing side.
We play Moyvane at home on Tuesday an Finuge (away) the following Sunday.
Academy
We had great numbers on Sunday morning, going forward Academy will be 11am to 12 noon.
New starters or returning players always welcome at our Academy.
Healthy Club will host a Fruity Childline Breakfast on Sunday 19th May 2024 at 12 noon (After Academy at 11 to 12 noon) at the field. Donations are welcome on the day to support this great cause.
Mothers and Others
Ballymac Mothers and Others made their pitch debut on a sunny Tuesday evening! It was great to see new faces and the return of not so new! If you are over 25 and interested in getting fit and being sociable, just pop down to the training pitch next Tuesday at 7pm! #communitymatters #weareBallymac #LGFA
Swap Shop
Swap Shop open on Sundays during Academy time at the main field or in committee room (under the stand) depending on weather. This is an opportunity for you to bring any used but good quality GAA gear- Ballymacelligott or other for the shop. At present, we have a range of football boots from 3.5 to size 7s. We also have skins and other GAA tops. Come check out.
Lotto
On Monday 6th May 2024, Ger Collins and Maureen O’Shea conducted the lotto draw.
The Numbers were drawn live on Facebook by Anna Collins and Jack Joy, who represent Ballymac GAA on the County Minor Teams. We wish Jack every success tomorrow night when Kerry Minors take on Tipperary in the Munster Semi-Final. Anna has to wait until July for her next outing with the Kerry Ladies Minor team.
The Numbers drawn by Anna and Jack were: 9,13.17 and 26.
There was no winner of this week’s Jackpot of €7600.00
Congratulations to the lucky dip winners this week:
€30.00 -Pat Ryan who purchased in O’Riadas.
€20.00 -Brendan Howard on Line purchase.
€20.00 -Sean Hennessy on Line Purchase
Next week’s Jackpot is €7700.00 and the draw will take place live on Monday 13th May.
Play Ball Lotto Ticket sales close at 6 pm sharp.
Tickets can be purchased here or from our regular sellers Paula Silles, Gene O’Keeffe, and Maureen O’Shea.
Quick Pick Envelopes are available at The Half Way Shop and O Riada’s Bar.
Pop €5.00 into the envelope with your name and contact details. We’ll generate a quick pick of 3 lines for you! You will be automatically entered into the draw. It couldn’t be easier! The closing time for entries in the Half Way and O’Riadas will be 4 pm on Mondays to facilitate the draw.
Senior Men – Our Division 2 team play at home to Desmond on Saturday at 7pm. All support would be greatly appreciated. Our Division 6 team play Spa Killarney at home on Sunday May 19th at 12 noon.
Senior Ladies – A wonderful Credit Union Donal Curtin Cup Round 5 contest ended in a 2 point win for Fossa against a John Mitchels side that gave everything they could in an effort to extend their interest in this years competition in this game played in Fossa last Sunday.
John Mitchels settled the better and full forward Jamie Finnegan landed a monster point in the second minute to put them in front.
Further points followed from the visitors through Ciara Falvey- Byrne and Grace Hamilton to extend John Mitchels lead to three by the eight minute before the home team scored 4 points in the row to leave them a point in front by the 15th minute.
John Mitchels responded magnificently, however, and points from Rachel Kilgallen and Grace Hamilton had them back in front before the home team scored 3 more points in a row to edge back in front of what was proving to be a pulsating game.
Rachel Kilgallen again reduce the lead to the minimum with a wonderful point and just on half time the home side added their 8th score to leave them 0-08 to 0-06 in front at the interval.
Fossa began the second half on the offensive and added 2 quick points but the visitors responded in kind with points through a Rachel Kilgallen free and another Grace Hamilton score to leave just 2 points between the sides by the tenth minute.
A wonderful move involving Sarah Kilgallen, Shannon Martin, Aoife O Brien and Simi Ogungsbesan ended with Rachel Kilgallen blasting the ball to the Fossa net to put the visitors back in front by a point.
Fossa responded with 3 quick-fire points and threatened to take a stranglehold of the game but some heroic defence from Anna Murphy, Diana O Keeffe and Julie Foley and some excellent goalkeeping by Kayleigh Collins held them at bay.
A great move involving Shannon Martin, Diana O Keefe and Jamie Finnegan resulted in Ellie O Rahilly being fouled and Rachel Kilgallen scored the resultant free to leave the minimum between the sides with 8 minutes remaining.
Fossa were then awarded a penalty but John Mitchels goalkeeper produced an incredible save from Erica Mc Glynn’s well directed effort and then reacted instinctively to clear the danger.
Fossa added a further point to put them 2 in front but Captain Diana O Keeffe drove John Mitchels forward and in a frantic last play of the game, Rachel Kilgallen shot into the side netting with virtually the entire opposition team defending their goal.
While the defeat leaves John Mitchels chances of making the semi-final of the competition hanging in the balance, they can take a lot of positives from the campaign up to now where they have proven more than competitive in every fixture. Training continues on Friday at 7pm. Further fixture details to follow.
Minor Team – Our Minor Boys play Ballymacelligott away on Tuesday evening at 7.30pm. This is the Central League semi-final so all support would be greatly appreciated.
Academy – Well done to all the boys and girls who had a great training session. Looking forward to seeing you all again next week.
Under 9 Boys – John Mitchels U9 Boys & Girls played each other in two highly contested games on Sunday Morning last.
With Academy numbers down due to Holy Communion & Community Games it was an ideal opportunity to pit these two highly competitive teams against each other & by God they didn’t disappoint with some fantastic defending & scoring from both sides!!
So much so that it was impossible to pick a clear winner with so many scores being kicked from both sides. Well done to all involved in what was a fantastic morning’s football. Training continues for John Mitchels U9 Boys next Sunday morning from 10.15am until then everyone keep on practicing!!!!
Under 8s and 10s Girls – Training continues next Sunday at 10.30am. New players always welcome.
Under 14 Girls – Training and fixture details will be issued by the manager to the team.
Under 12 Girls – Both our Green and Gold teams play Na Gaeil on Tuesday evening away. Times TBC. Thanks to a number of the Senior Ladies who took training with this group over the weekend.
UNDER 11 BOYS AND GIRLS.
Under 11 Boys – At training on Sunday we started with our usual warm up. We then introduced a few new drills which the boys adapted to quickly.
We enjoyed an intense 4 v 4 hand pass drill which was evenly contested and enabled the boys to practice their decision making under pressure.
Our next game is this Thursday 15th May against Ballyduff at home so looking forward to seeing all players available. Parents will be contacted by Whatsapp with details. We will train as usual on Sunday at the usual time of 10:30.
Under 13 Boys – Our 13s began phase two of the county league this week with two games. Both Teams were looking to start this campaign on the front foot. Our Gold Team started off the weekend away to Legion GAA.
A very tightly contested game with Mitchels not being able to convert scoring opportunities after some amazing build up play. Legion however on the other end were clinical in their finishing and put on a great display of scoring.
As the game progressed Mitchels found rhythm and began to find their shooting boots and got a foothold in the game. Legion held a short lead throughout but with great character shown from the Mitchels boys they clawed it back and ran out 2 points winners with a late but fantastically taken goal.
A fantastic game of football and credit to Legion for a very sporting game and we wish them the best of luck going forward. Our u13 Green Team took to the field at home on Sunday against Lios Pol/Annascaul.
A game full of action at both ends with both teams converting some brilliant scores and displaying some excellent footballing skills. The came game came right down to the wire with the boys from back west coming out the better by 2 points. We take a break from training this Monday and will train as normal Wednesday at 6.30pm.
Under 15 Boys – Our boys play Austin Stacks in the Division 2 League Final on Wednesday evening at 7pm. Venue TBC.
Under 16 Girls and Minors – Our Under 16 girls are in a plate final v Annauscal/Castlegregory with the date for the game to be confirmed. Our Minors are at home to Ballyduff at 7pm and they also have a game on Thursday evening v St. Senans. All game details will be sent out to parents groups by the management.
Bingo – Continues Wednesday and Friday at 8.30PM at the John Joe Sheehy Road. Over 18s only. ID must be provided on request.
Lotto – There was no winner of our lotto jackpot which this week was €3,300. This weeks numbers were 1, 5, 28 and 29. Congratulations to our lucky dip winners – Georgie Lowe, Aisling Lacey and Sinead Corkery. Next weeks jackpot is €3,350 and we would ask you to please support this important fundraiser for the club.
Membership – Membership is now due for 2024. You can pay online through Clubforce or call to our Club Registrar Georgie Lowe on Sunday from 11 am to 12 noon weekly.
Sympathies – We express our sincere sympathies to those who have recently experienced bereavement. We especially remember the families of Martin Finnegan, Tom Byrne and Bridie Stuart.
FINE weather made for a pleasant experience for all who went to the Kingdom County Fair at Ballymacthomas over Saturday and Sunday.
It was a celebration of local culture with competitions for cattle, sheep, goats, horses, a dog show, bonny baby, best dressed competition, arts and crafts and vintage show amongst the attractions on the days.
The Kerry Rose contestants paid a visit on Saturday while there was plenty to amuse the smallies with Little Rosebuds entertainment, Scottys Circus, the Westport Sheepdog Experience, fun fair/amusement rides, toy stalls, puppet shows, circus acts, balloon making and more.
Local photographer Domnick Walsh was in attendance to take loads of photos of the fun which you can see below.
CAHERSIVEEN is to receive €6.46 million to regenerate its town centre and support its position as a key tourism destination on the Wild Atlantic Way.
It’s part of a €164 million funding package announced to aid regeneration and revitalisation projects at 30 rural towns and villages across the country.
The regeneration plan for Cahersiveen includes a new amenity site at the waterfront and a new boardwalk. It also includes the renovation and extension of the historic Carnegie Building in Cahersiveen, which was former library of the town.
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Killorglin is getting a grant of €640,000 to repurpose a vacant courthouse as a heritage, cultural performance and events space. The project aims to revitalise the town centre, address dereliction and provide a centre hub for events and festivals.
Minister for Education and Kerry T.D Norma Foley has welcomed the funding for Cahersiveen and Killorglin. “Revitalising our town centres is a key part of stimulating the rural economy,” said Minister Foley.
“I welcome the confirmation of this investment of over €7 million in Cahersiveen and Killorglin by my cabinet colleague, Minister Heather Humphreys. It will both enrich and enhance the communities of Cahersiveen and Killorglin, creating vibrant, modern centres where families and businesses can thrive for years to come.”
.Nevaeh Sky Carey with Anne-Marie Murphy, Rayah-Lynn Murphy, Seamus Murphy and Kirsten Carey at the CBS Primary School First Holy Communion Day at St John’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean
THEY were blessed with the fine weather on Saturday as families of CBS Primary School pupils made their way to St John’s Church for First Holy Communion Day.
The second class pupils were well prepared for the special day by their teachers Daithi Casey and Gearóid O’Sullivan and it was a wonderful occasion for all with Fr Tadhg Fitzgerald as the celebrant.
Afterwards the families left the church in the sunshine to head off to enjoy the celebrations. Scroll down for photos…
TO PURCHASE HIGH RESOLUTION PHOTOGRAPHS, PLEASE CALL 087-9384810 OR EMAIL dcrean@traleetoday.ie
Helena Fakova with Roman Fako and Helena Dunova at the CBS Primary School First Holy Communion Day at St John’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Daniella Gedminate and family at the CBS Primary School First Holy Communion Day at St John’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanAibel Tom Jo with family at the CBS Primary School First Holy Communion Day at St John’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Oliver O’Sullivan with grandparents Jackie and Anthony Moriarty at the CBS Primary School First Holy Communion Day at St John’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanAimee Rae Shine and family at the CBS Primary School First Holy Communion Day at St John’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Oliver O’Sullivan with Emma, Grace, Darragh and James O’Sullivan at the CBS Primary School First Holy Communion Day at St John’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanLaura Fakova with Sona Brandova, Tibor Fako and Tibor Fako at the CBS Primary School First Holy Communion Day at St John’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Blessing Lanto with Joshua and Judith Lanto at the CBS Primary School First Holy Communion Day at St John’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanDanny Smith with Brendan, Ben and Claire Smith at the CBS Primary School First Holy Communion Day at St John’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Shane O’Brien with Louise O’Brien, Chloe O’Brien and Kevin O’Brien at the CBS Primary School First Holy Communion Day at St John’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanSeweryn Komorowski and family at the CBS Primary School First Holy Communion Day at St John’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Darragh Powell with Robert Powell, Ava Powell and Katie Hobbert at the CBS Primary School First Holy Communion Day at St John’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanKatie Houlihan with Kathleen Houlihan, Sophie Houlihan, Dermot Houlihan, Jack Houlihan and Aaron Buckley at the CBS Primary School First Holy Communion Day at St John’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.The CBS Primary School pupils from Mr Casey and and Mr O’Sullivan’s classes who made their First Holy Communion at St John’s Church on Saturday...
ST. Brendan’s Basketball Club held their annual awards last Friday night in the Lee Suite at the Rose Hotel with a crowd of over 200 people in attendance.
Teams from U11s up to Senior Men and Women were recognised with the MIP and MVP awards winners announced for the various age groups. The inclusive group of superstars were awarded their certificates after a hugely successful season in Moyderwell.
The Club Person of the Year on the night went to Amy Quirke, a thoroughly deserving recipient. The Club MVP went to the U12 Div 1 star player Jamie Quillinan.
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There was also a Special Merit Award on the night awarded to both Luke O’Hea and Rick Leonard in recognition of their achievements with the Tralee Warriors U20 teams in winning back to back National League titles as well as the inaugural Basketball Ireland Development League title.
The Girls Team of the Year went to the U16 Div 1 side that won the KABB League and the Boys Team of the Year went to the U12 Div 1 team that also secured the KABB Cup title and won the recent Castleisland Blitz.
The Inclusive Group of Superstars with their certs.
Club Chairman Fergal O’Sullivan thanked the club committee, players, coaches and managers for their service this season.
He commended the efforts of the fundraising committee and the tournament organising team that put in a huge effort to ensure the many tournaments and blitzes throughout the season ran smoothly and successfully.
He also made special mention of the many sponsors for their valuable and continued support for the club this year.
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He paid tribute to the efforts of volunteers in the club in particular for the 30th anniversary celebrations and the series of tournaments that were run to mark the landmark year for the club.
The Girls Team of the Year
He thanked the efforts of Cllr. Mikey Sheehy who was in attendance and Ann Marie Burke who prepared the application for the Sports Capital Grant of €16,000.000 announced on Friday.
The club now looks forward to the upcoming season and the next 30 years with much hope and optimism as it continues to grow and develop the game of basketball in Tralee.
Club Person of the Year Amy Quirke with Club Chairman Fergal O’Sullivan.Special Merit Award Recipients Luke O’Hea and Rick Leonard with Club Chairman Fergal O’Sullivan..Club MVP Jamie Quillinan with Club Chairman Fergal O’Sullivan.The large attendance at the awards..
Individual Award Winners on the night:
U11 Girls MIP Aoibhinn Collins
U11 Girls MVP Ava O’Sullivan
U11 Boys MIP Danny Moriarty
U11 Boys MVP James Tansley
U12 Boys Team 2 MIP Luke O’Connor
U12 Boys MVP Tristan O’Sullivan
U12 Boys Team 1 MIP Rory O’Sullivan
U12 Boys MVP Jamie Quillinan
Senior Men Div 2 Team MIP Shane Kelly
Senior Men Div 2 Team MVP David McCarthy
Senior Men Div 1 Team MIP Mikey Kelliher
Senior Men Div 1 Team MVP Padraig Fleming
Special Merit Award
Luke O Hea and Rick Leonard for their achievements with the Tralee Warriors U20 teams in winning back to back National League titles and the inaugural Basketball Ireland Development League title.
Club MVP
Jamie Quillinan Boys U12 Div 1
Club Person of the Year
Amy Quirke
Team of the Year – Girls
U16 Div 1 Team
Coaches: Claire O’Mahony & Linda Raymond
Manager: Deirdre Lynch
Team of the Year – Boys
U12 Div 1 Team
Coach: Padraig Fleming
Manager: Amy Quirke
.Chairman of Killarney Racecourse Billy O’Sullivan, meeting some of the Rose of Tralee Kerry Rose Entrants 2024, Emma Browne, Lorraine Lawlor, Debra Carty, at The Killarney Races May Festival, on Sunday afternoon, in Killarney. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan
THE May Killarney Races meeting kicked off this evening in fine weather.
There was great family fun at the opening day in Ireland’s most scenic racecourse and the Kerry Rose contestant added that extra element of glamour and style.
Sunday was an all jump racing card with the feature being the TOTE Killarney National. Monday is an evening meeting, all jump racing again with a start time of 4.40pm and gates open from 3pm.
Tuesday will close MayFest in style the feature race is The Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Race. Scroll down for photos…
First Flutter…Lauren Kiely, left, Aoife Scanlon and Fiadh Driver, at The Killarney Races May Festival, on Sunday afternoon, in Killarney. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan.Under starters orders…Clerk of the course, Paul Maloney, at The Killarney Races May Festival, on Sunday afternoon, in Killarney. Photo: Valerie O’SullivanStudying the form…Laura Horgan and Aoife Horgan, at The Killarney Races May Festival, on Sunday afternoon, in Killarney. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan.Winner Alright… delighted Molly and Hannah Ferris, whos Dads horse won at The Killarney Races May Festival, on Sunday afternoon, in Killarney. Photo: Valerie O’SullivanWinner Alright…a delighted Richard Ferris with his Daughters Molly and Hannah Ferris, his Mother Mary Ferris, and Cousin, Suzanne O’Sullivan, At The Killarney Races May Festival, on Sunday afternoon, in Killarney. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan.Edward O’Grady, left, champion Irish National Hunt racehorse trainer, Kay Russell, Racehorse owner, Liz Ryan and Aidan Ryan, waiting for their horse to race at the Killarney May Racing Festival on Sunday afternoon, at Killarney Race Course. Photo: Valerie O’SullivanWinner alright…Jockey Keith Donoghue, in a clearing the last hurdle as he comes up to the post, at The Killarney Races May Festival, on Sunday afternoon, in Killarney. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan.Pat Kelly, left and Frank Ryan, at The Killarney Races May Festival, on Sunday afternoon, in Killarney. Photo: Valerie O’SullivanSeamus Maher, left, Timmy Moloney and Tom Egan, at The Killarney Races May Festival, on Sunday afternoon, in Killarney. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan.Michael Kenny looking dapper at The Killarney Races May Festival, on Sunday afternoon, in Killarney. Photo: Valerie O’SullivanChairman of Killarney Racecourse Billy O’Sullivan, and race director, Terence Mulcahy meeting a selection of the Rose of Tralee Kerry Rose Entrants 2024, at The Killarney Races May Festival, on Sunday afternoon, in Killarney. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan.
GARDAI are investigating a two-vehicle road traffic collision near Killarney on Tuesday.
Mary Lucey of Career Ahead has some advice for pupils and their parents for the transition from primary to secondary school life…
THE North Munster bridge community will hold its first annual President’s Charity Bridge Day on Sunday, May 19th, at 2pm at the Tralee Bridge Centre next to Casement Train Station.
CRIME figures in Kerry were down overall in the first three months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.
