Corrib News Ezine May 2014 Broadcasting Icon Officially Opens New School Oughterard’s Meadhbh Plays for Ireland From Maam to Mongolia in a Mini! Local News and Club Round Ups Online ISSUE 03 Corrib News Ezine May 2014 2 Contact us on:
[email protected] www.facebook.com/corribnews www.corribnews.webs.com Inside this issue: June June 12th World Cup starts! June 21st—Family Fun Cycle 1pm The square, Oughterard June 22nd —Jumble Sale in aid of the Boxing club Oughterard Community Centre June 27th—Cocktail Night, The Boat Inn in aid of Corribdale Park June 30th—Second Print Edition of the Corrib News in the shops! June 27th—School Holidays July 14th to 27th July—Galway Arts Festival 15th July, Meadhbh Campbell and her teammates will travel to Romania to compete in the basketball Division B European Championships 18th July—Start of the Mongol Rally in Eyre Square (page 4) 25th to 7th July—Feile an Mháma takes place this year between Friday 25th and Sun the 27th of July. 28th July—Galway Races The Corrib News is published by a group of volunteers as a service to the community. It is an open access publication and will generally carry any material submitted to it as long as it is not potentially libellous or scandalous. The views and opinions expressed in the articles are not necessarily those of the Editorial Committee. In case of error of fact we will publish corrections once we become aware of them. THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS THE 7th OF JUNE Editorial 3 From Maam to Mongolia in a Micra 4 Scoil Chuimín & Caitríona News 6 Broadcasting Icon Officially Opens New School 7 The MayFly 10k Challenge 8 uachtarARTS update 10 Oughterard’s Meadhbh Plays for Ireland 11 New Business Update 12 Corrib Gym 13 Courthouse Update 14 Corribdale Park Update 15 Oughterard Heritage– Angling Museum 16 International Mayfly Angling Competition 17 Feile an Mháma 20 Cornamona Annual Pairs Hospice competition 22 Montessori 24 Rás Chonamara. 26 Corrib Trout Recipe 27 Green Ribbon Campaign 28 MAC Bilingual Camps 29 Out & About 30 Tidy Towns 32 Local Clubs Round up 33 Photographs and Posters 44 Corrib News Ezine May 2014 3 Editorial Welcome to the 3rd Online edition of Corrib News! Finally the Summer is here and it is great to feel some warmth on our skin and cast off the woolly jumpers for a while! But there’s no escaping the fact that the end of another school year is in sight and many of us will have our hands full entertaining the kids over the coming months and possibly looking for events or ideas to keep them busy. Thankfully you’ll find some great ideas inside this edition of Corrib News! M.A.C bilingual camps will be run over several weeks in Summer in Oughterard, Killannin, Moycullen and Maam. There is also a wonderful Jumble Sale planned for June 22nd in the Oughterard Community Centre, with all the proceeds going to the Oughterard Boxing club. With indoor bouncy castles and face painting there will be plenty to keep the kids busy. But you know it is no harm to teach the kids about having a sense of pride in the community so you might consider getting them involved in a tidy up of the area you live in. Tidy Towns Committees have been doing a splendid job in Oughterard and Clonbur. Well done to all involved. In the meantime you can catch up on all the happenings around Lough Corrib in this edition of the Corrib News. We bring you the details of the Scoil Chuimín & Caitríona official opening ceremony, The Mayfly 10k Challenge and the International Mayfly Angling Competition. Check out a budding young author, Adam Tierney, who describes his visit to Croke Park with the Oughterard GAA on page 40. We caught up with three lads from Maam, Corr na Mona and Cong who told us of an epic journey they are undertaking in aid of Cystic Fibrosis Galway Hospital Project. See their story on page 4. Read all about local Oughterard teen, Meadhbh, who will play basketball for Ireland in the European Champion- ships this Summer. As for photographs, check out the new section from pages 44 to 49. You might be able to spot your- self or someone you know at the International Mayfly Angling Competition, The Mayfly 10k Challenge or at the Community Games. Have you checked out the Oughterard is Happy video online yet? See page 47 for the link. Don’t miss our caption competition over on page 31 - there is a prize for the winner! Last but not least we have the lowdown on all the clubs latest news and events. We hope you enjoy it. Sinéad Grimes on behalf of the Corrib News Team Cover Boats at DerryMoyle, Oughterard—Greg Forde. Corrib News Ezine May 2014 4 From Maam to Mongolia in a Micra! My name is Terry Keenan and along with 6 of my friends (George, David, Adrian, John and Patrick) we have taken on the challenge of a lifetime in the form of the charity Mongol Rally in aid of Cystic Fibrosis Galway Hospital Project. The Mongol Rally, is an annual unsupported rally from London to Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia, but for us, as we are mostly West of Ireland folk, it will start in Eyre Square, Galway on the 18th of July. The idea of the rally is to bring a car of one litre capacity or less across one third of the world's surface, through rough terrain, deserts, rivers and god knows what else. We have chosen two Nissan Micras, painted in our national colours, which can be viewed on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/cysticfibrosismongolrally, . The rally is not a race, it's all about endurance and actually making it to the finish, it will take us across Europe, Russia, Kazakhstan and finally into Mongolia. Hopefully this will take us between three and four weeks in total. On Sunday the 11th of May we had our launch with Galway City Mayor, Padraig Conneely in Eyre Square, Galway. We have been gradually gaining some publicity and momentum since. Coming from Maam, Corr na Mona and Cong and doing this for a Galway based charity, Corrib News is the ideal way for us to increase awareness about our event and our charity. The charity, which is the important bit, is Cystic Fibrosis Galway Hospital Project, a subsidiary of CF Ireland. CF is something that I sadly learned about at a very young age, shortly after my First Holy Communion, my best friend and only classmate passed away from CF. Currently the charity is trying to fund the construction of a paediatric unit onto Galway University Hospital, something that may have been able to help my classmate, Brian, when he was alive. David, one of my friends coming with me has also been hit by the disease, his younger cousin Stephanie, sadly passed away from the disease just five years ago at the very young age of 14. On Sunday the 11 th of May we had our launch with Galway City Mayor, Padraig Conneely in Eyre Square Corrib News Ezine May 2014 5 From Maam to Mongolia in a Micra! So it is something we really care about and would love to publicise and raise as much money as possible for. It is important to point out this is purely to raise money for the charity. No donations go towards us, we have paid for everything ourselves up to now and will continue to do so, which includes cars, visas, petrol, accommodation, insurance, etc. We have had a few very generous offers from sponsors in the last week, helping us out with some of the rally costs. But I can’t stress enough that any donations will go directly to the charity. We are all regular Irish guys, five from Galway, one from Donegal, mechanics, carpenters and truck drivers, in our late twenties, so far we have done everything ourselves, but we feel the need to exceed our expectations on this and try our best to raise as much money as possible for this more than worthy cause. So far in the short time we've been public, we have done really well raising over €5,000 purely from family and friends on our donations page www.idonate.ie/cfmongolrally. We also have a website www.cfmongolrally.ie which is currently under construction. If you think you can help by donating we’d be delighted and you can stay in touch with us on our facebook page here www.facebook.com/cysticfibrosismongolrally, Terry Keenan Corrib News would like to applaud the boys for taking on this challenge in aid of the Cystic Fibrosis Galway Hospital Project, and would like to wish them the very best on their big adventure! Corrib News Ezine May 2014 6 Scoil Chuimín agus Caitríona’s News May has been a very exciting month here at Scoil Chuimín agus Caitríona. We enjoyed the Easter break and returned to the school ready to start all the preparations for the official opening day. As well as practising the mu- sic and songs each class also completed some wonderful art work which we then hung in the GP room to decorate it for the opening. (You can read all about the official opening next!) But we’ve also been busy with other school work too. Fourth class had a very interesting project which they did in collaboration with Baboró’s BEAST! (Baboró: Environment, Arts, Science and Technology) project. But instead of us telling you about it why don’t you see for yourself! Here is the link: http://youtu.be/CL9bq_BSw30 The children really enjoyed taking turns being directors, camera assistants, lighting technicians etc., for the day and it was an amazing experience. The end result is really brilliant and very informative too. The school held a very successful Golf Blitz on Friday 23rd May at Oughterard Golf Club . The turnout was great and a wonderful days golfing was had by all. We would like to thank all who were involved in organising the event, particularly Patrick Gillespie, Barbara McGauley and Richard McNamara. Angela and Micheál always put in a lot of behind the scenes work too! We would also like to say thanks to the parents association for doing the posters, the parents who attended afterwards and Gerry & Eoin McDonnell for the food on the night. Here are the details on the Golf Blitz winners! 1st Prize: Tom McDonagh, Walter McDonagh, Micheal Darcy (Snr), Micheal Darcy (Jnr) 2nd Prize: David Walsh, Richard McNamara, Pat Egan. Packie Kelleher 3rd Prize: Shane Concannon, Mike Kyne, Tim Mullins, Don Hoctor 4th Prize: Peter Lee, Richie Lee, David Lee and Deirdre Costello. Mens Longest Drive - Mark Gibbs Ladies Longest Drive - Maire Ni Mhaille Best Ladies Team - Linda Lee, Eileen Dixon, Maire Ni Mhaille, Ann Dolly Nearest the Pin - Gerard Cox Thanks to everyone for playing and thanks again to the organisers. A raffle was held by the PA on the night and we would like to thank all our sponsors. Here is the full list of prize winners. 1st prize - Tablet went to Martin Gibbons 2nd prize - Hamper went to Anna Rose Morley 3rd prize - Smyths voucher went to Alex Kelly in 2nd class! 4th prize - J.P. Keogh's voucher - Noel Caine 5th prize - 3 month membership to Ocean Fitness - Emily & Hannah Tuck 6th prize - 3 month membership to Ocean Fitness - Sarah Hammond 7th prize - 3 month membership to Ocean Fitness - Lyndsey Higgins 8th prize 3 month membership to Ocean Fitness - Sarah O'Toole 9th prize - Bottle of wine - Caitriona Molloy 10th prize - Bottle of wine - Cyril Foye 11th prize - Bottle of wine - Henry Curran Congratulations to you all - we hope you enjoy your prizes! The money raised from the events will go towards purchasing a bank of laptops and a laptop trolley and accessories for use by the whole school. The children will really benefit from the generosity shown by all concerned. Go Raibh Maith Agat! Corrib News Ezine May 2014 7 Scoil Chuimín agus Caitríona’s News Broadcasting Icon Officially Opens New School After more than 25 years of campaigning by successive boards of management, Scoil Chuimín agus Caitríona. Oughterard, held its official opening at 5pm on Saturday May 17th. The newly-built school, designed by Simon J. Kelly & Sons, was opened by national icon, Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh. Mr. O Muircheartaigh, a former teacher turned broadcaster, drove to Oughterard for the opening the morning after a strenuous climb up Carrauntoohil alongside a group of 32 All-Ireland winners from each county in Ireland as a fundraiser for the Alan Kerins Projects. The 82-year-old broadcasting legend, spoke eloquently for 15 minutes about his escapade the day before climbing Carrauntoohil, about education in the past and the importance of learning in modern day society. He was hugely impressed by the schools facilities and was especially interested in the rainwater harvesting system at the school, which feeds directly into the toilets, joking that “this might be a cure for the forthcoming water charges”. O Muircheartaigh, went on to challenge the children, who would be the scientists of the future, to invent a system that caught the rain before it even fell! Assuring them they would get a Nobel prize if they succeeded! Also among the guests was school patron, Bishop Martin Drennan, who blessed the building, Fr Alan Burke, the Rev Gary Hastings, Niall Malone, board of management chairperson and the MC for the day, Connacht Tribune editor Dave O’Connell, an ex-pupil of the school. Mr Malone said it was an historic occasion for the village, and paid tribute to the staff saying the amalgamation of the schools was not always easy, but the teachers all worked together and brought the project to fruition. School principal, Micheál Ó Domhnaill, addressed the packed hall and said “It is the collaboration of teachers, staff, pupils, parents and community that makes a great school. While literacy and numeracy are the cornerstones of primary education, the school aims to provide a holistic education,” he went on to thank the staff for their dedication and energy in their work at the school, and especially thanked the community, parents and parents’ associations over the years who had raised €65,000 for the project. The pupils themselves took an active part during the hour-long ceremony with the school band playing the “Kerry Polka” in honour of the day’s special guest, singing “A Mhuire Mathair” and finishing off with “This Little Light of Mine”. Everyone in attendance from past pupils, past head masters and teachers to the politicians and parents were then invited to the library for some refreshments laid on by Gerry & Eoin McDonnell and the Parents Association. The new school was finally opened to pupils at the start of this school year and the students have enjoyed the state of the art facilities such as the all-weather astro-turf pitch, a music room, out- door classroom, gardens and play areas, general purpose school hall, and handball court.. In addi- tion a new library will be operated by the school's senior pupils with assistance from the PA. The design of the school is so ground-breaking it is currently shortlisted for an Irish Architecture award. The award is decided by the public and You can vote for the school to win here: http://www.architectureawards.ie/index.php Maybe the long wait for the new school has been worth it after all! You can keep up to date with the happenings at the school on their website here: http://oughterardns.ie/ Bishop Martin Drennan, , Niall Ma lone, Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh and MC Dave O’Connell Corrib News Ezine May 2014 8 Saturday 24th May saw the 3rd annual Mayfly 10k Challenge, take place in the village of Oughterard. This year saw a welcome change to the event with the introduction of the children’s races which took place before the main 10k Challenge. The children enjoyed the novelty of racing down Camp Street cheered on by the fantastic supporters who turned out to view the spectacle. Each child was presented with a medal upon finishing and once they had caught their breath back, got ready to cheer on the adult racers. This year’s race was being run in cooperation with See Change, the National Mental Health Stigma Reduction Partnership, in an attempt to highlight the need to change Irish attitudes and behaviours to mental health issues. The main event began at 1:30pm, with local See Change ambassador, Fiona Kennedy, cutting the green ribbon and starting the race. The multi- coloured field ran through the town to much encouragement and applause from the many lo- cals who always turn up to support the event. The course is challenging, with a number of climbs in the early kilometres which can make the run a difficult one for even the most seasoned runners. However the scenic views of the mayfly fishing boats on Lough Corrib always provide a fitting reward and a welcome distraction from the gradient in the early part of the race. After the first kilometre, the runners were well spread out, with a number of local runners featuring at the head of the pack. However Galway City Harriers’ top road runner Matt Bidwell led the field from the outset. Matt completed the race in an amazing time of 00:33:43! Bidwell broke the course record held by last year’s winner, Corks’s Alan O'Shea’s, time of 33:45 by just 2 seconds. Second place was taken by James Ferry, in a time of 38:27 who was followed closely home by Larry Kelly in 38:36 . The first lady, Sinead Brody, GCH, came home in a time of 39:46, a full 2 minute improvement on her time last year (41:46), making this her second con- secutive win and setting an enviable ladies record for the course. (See photos from the event on page 44) The MayFly 10K Challenge 2014 Local See Change ambassador Fiona Kennedy starting the Mayfly 10k Challenge 2014 Corrib News Ezine May 2014 9 It is always a pleasure to see these athletes return to compete in the race each year. Deirdre Brophy took 2nd in 43:38 and Sile Dirrane took 3rd place in a time of 44:02. For many participants, this event was not about personal bests but simply about finishing the 10k which was achieved by all who entered the race. The weather held, and allowed the participants to enjoy the BBQ hosted by the Boat Inn on the Square in Oughterard. Local DJ Aidan Kenny kept the crowd entertained and the prize giving was held outside in welcome sunshine. The event was a success for the 3rd year running and hopefully is now well established as a well organised fun event for all on the running calendar. The proceeds of the event will go towards the development of Corribdale Park, a community recreation area, for Oughterard, this event is a crucial part of the funding for the local amenity. Park project co-ordinator Sinéad Grimes said “This year is especially important for us as we are hoping to receive full planning approval next month. This means we need to have funds in place, so we are really pushing forward with our fundraising drive this year.” she continued “Events like the Mayfly 10k are important fundraisers but are equally important for morale and project awareness – plus it’s a lot of fun to organise! Clíodhna Uí Ruadháin and Gerry Geoghegan are great to work with.” The organisers would like to thank SSE Airtricity, SEE Change, Cllr Thomas Welby, Finnertys Butchers and all at the Boat Inn for their support and sponsorship. These events could not take place without the help of the many volunteers who manned the registration desk, water stations and all who helped out in the organising of the event. Finally a thank you to all the competitors, without whom, there would be no event. Well done to all and see you next year! For a list of all participants finishing times check here: http://www.redtagtiming.com/results/Mayfly10km_20 14.pdf The MayFly 10K Challenge 2014 The fastest locality went to the ‘Raha Ramblers’ .. again! Event organiser Clíodhna Uí Ruadháin always does a great job on the mike. Corrib News Ezine May 2014 10 uachtarARTS News May has been a very active month for the Arts in Oughterard. During the very successful International Mayfly Festival, the ‘By the Lake Exhibition’ showcased the work of ten writers and artists from the locality. The evening of the official opening was a very enjoyable one. Poet Colette NicAodha launched the exhibition and read one of her poems relating to fishing. Some of the featured poets read their newly composed works in praise of the lake. There was a great interest in the exhibition with a steady stream of visitors each day. The exhibition continued until Saturday 31st May. uachtarARTS would like to thank Pat Joyce, of Joyces Supermarkets, for the use of the premises for the exhibition and thanks also to the Anglers Association for expanding the programme to include the Arts in 2014. Wisdom, uachtarARTS Bealtaine event was held on May 20th and many people came along and wrote in the Community Art Book. On Thursday 29th May a Poetry Reading took place at the uachtarARTS Gallery (Main Street, Oughterard). We would like to thank all those who came along to listen to local poets read their work, it was a most enjoyable evening. To find out more about the Clann Creative Writers Group and uachtarARTS you can follow us on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/ uachtarARTS Or email us on
[email protected] Pictured at the launch of By the Lake Exhibition: l to r Chris Mayhew, Margaret Larminie, Jack McCann, Collette Nic Aodha, Matt Molloy, Leah Beggs, Jess Walsh and Kathleen Furey. photo: Tom Broderick Pictured are Phyllis Furnace, Jess Walsh, (Project organiser) and Carmel Healy. Corrib News Ezine May 2014 11 This summer Oughterard teen Meadhbh Campbell will compete in the basketball Division B European Championships as part of the Under 18 Junior Women’s National Basketball team. Eighteen year old Meadhbh who is a leaving cert. student in St Paul’s Secondary School, Oughterard is the only representative from the west of Ireland to play on this team. The other players primarily coming from basketball strongholds in Dublin and Cork. On 15 July, Meadhbh and her teammates will travel to Romania where they will face Estonia, Latvia and Germany in the initial stages of the competition. In total the team expect to play up to eight games in order to receive an international ranking. In preparation for the European Champion- ships the team will also travel to Luxembourg in early July to play their international side in a challenge game. Meadhbh, who is also on the NUIG Mystics National League team, has been playing with Irish teams since 2012 and has previously taken on Luxembourg at Under 16 level. Having lost that game she says that she is looking forward to the international playing experience but also to settling the score! Irish international basketball players are completely self-funding and finance all aspects of their participation on the team themselves. This includes paying for travel, training sessions and trips abroad. As they are playing in the European Championships this year the team has been allowed to fundraise and earn sponsorship in order to lessen the financial burden. Meadhbh, along with her local club Corrib bas- ketball recently held a Table Quiz in Breathnach’s Bar and is currently selling raffle tickets which are available to buy from Breathnach’s Bar and Finnerty’s Butchers Oughterard. She would be very grateful for your support. Ireland will play their first game against Estonia on Thursday 17 July in Oradea. The results of this encounter and all other games will be available on www.fibaeurope.com or www.basketballireland.ie. Corrib News would like to take this opportunity to wish Meadhbh and her team mates the very best of luck in the European Championships and in all of their upcoming matches. We would also like to say Good Luck to Meadhbh and her classmates in the Leaving Certificate which they will have started when this goes to print! You can read a full interview with Meadhbh in the printed edition of Corrib News which will be out in the shops at the end of June. Oughterard’s Meadhbh Plays for Ireland Aoife O’Halloran Corrib News Ezine May 2014 12 New Childcare Service in Oughterard Exciting times ahead for Oughterard native, Hilda O’Halloran Caine and her colleague, Leenane native, Sarah Coyne, as they are set to launch their new Childcare Service in Oughterard. Home From Home Preschool & Afterschool Service is a brand new purpose built childcare facility located half a mile outside Oughterard town centre on the Glann Rd. Both Hilda & Sarah are highly qualified and have 20 years combined experience in the profession both locally & abroad, where they have both developed a key understanding of the importance of Early Years Education in the future development of young children. They have a clear vision for a quality, affordable, childcare service & look forward to providing such a service to the local community for many years to come. For further information on either their Summer Childcare Service or their Preschool & Afterschool Service please contact ‘Home From Home’ on 087 3911156 or email;
[email protected] Corrib News would like to wish Hilda and Sarah all the best in their new business. Corribdale Grounds News Corribdale Grounds is a fantastic amenity for the Oughterard community. The land is currently governed by the Corribdale Grounds Committee who manage the land and hold it in trust for the Oughterard Community. The Committee is a limited company and as a result there is an associated cost with running the business each year. Some of you may not be aware of the costs associated with keeping the grounds open on a yearly basis. The Committee’s accounts need to be audited and returned to the CRO yearly, the accounting fees can cost in the region of €1,000 annually. Insurance is another cost— currently the cost of insuring the grounds is approx. €300 per annum. The only income the Grounds Committee receive is the rental on the grounds from parties who wish to use the grounds to stage events. Currently our income is in the region of €1,000 per annum. As you can see the outgoings currently exceed the income and this is why the Corribdale Grounds Committee have to fund- raise on a yearly basis just to maintain the grounds so that they can be used by the com- munity. From time to time tree surgery is required on the grounds and the Committee is currently paying off a loan secured from the Credit Un- ion some years ago by members of the Com- mittee. We have paid €2,000 off the loan in the past two years. However, there remains €5,000 outstanding on this loan. We would ask that you please support the Committee in their fundraising efforts to keep the Corribdale Grounds open and in good order so that it may be enjoyed and used for the good of all in the locality. The Corribdale Grounds Committee Corrib News Ezine May 2014 13 Farewell to Paul, Hello to Eddie! It is with sadness we bid farewell to staff member Paul Fisher. We wish to thank Paul for all his hard work and dedication during the time he spent here at Corrib Gym. On behalf of all the staff & customers we wish Paul suc- cess & all the best in his new ventures. In contrast, we are pleased to welcome Eddie Caine to the team here at Corrib Gym. Eddie has qualifications in Gym Instruction, Indoor Cycling, Exercise & Physical Activity for Children and Strength & Conditioning. We wish Eddie every success here at Corrib Gym. Super Heroes Charity Bootcamp April 2014 On the 14th of April we held a charity night in order to raise funds for Special Olympics Ireland. It was a great success and we raised €300.00. We would like to thank everyone that donated their time, energy & funds to support Special Olympics Ireland. We hope everyone enjoyed the evening of fun and fitness. Website Since the launch of our website on the 24th of February it is proving to be very successful with providing the public with all of our latest news, activities in the hall, new upcoming fitness classes and special events. We continue to improve and work on this service to ensure that you provided with the most accurate and updated information. Visit us on : www.oughterardcommunitycentre.ie Summer Special This summer we will be offering yearly memberships of €250.00 for an adult, €150 for students & the unwaged. This special offer will run throughout June & July. Don’t miss out on this fantastic deal! (*Terms & Conditions Apply) Kids Fit’n’Fun Kids Fit’n’Fun classes commenced in the hall in May and are proving to be very popular with the children providing fun and exercise simultaneously. Corrib Gym will be running these classes throughout the summer so if you are interested in enrolling your child please call us on (091) 557775. There are three class categories available: ages 5-7, ages 7-8, ages 9- 11 Outdoor Bootcamp Outdoor Bootcamp continues to run throughout the summer. In conjunction with the Afterschool Club we will be offering parents the opportunity to drop in their children to the Afterschool Club while they participate in the Bootcamp Class. This service will be available throughout the month of July and there are limited spaces available. For more information please enquire at Corrib Gym reception or call us on (091) 557775. Corrib News Ezine May 2014 14 Courthouse Update Oughterard Courthouse Conservation & Heritage Company Ltd. is delighted that after four years of hard work involving fundraising, planning and a great deal of paper-work, grant approval has now been given by the Department of the Environment Community and Local Government towards the cost of the refurbishment and preservation of the Courthouse. Built in the 1840s, this historic listed building had fallen into disrepair and was in such poor condition that the Court Services vacated it in 2009 and returned it to Galway County Council. The project has progressed to the current stage with the help of Forum Connemara Ltd and a close working relationship with Galway County Council. The Council and County Manager, Martina Maloney have been fully supportive from the outset having agreed to lease the building for a nominal annual sum. Following an e-tendering process, Kesel Construction Claregalway, has been awarded the contract and all work will be carried out under the supervision of Conservation Architect Gerry Mc Manus and of Fionn Mc Mullan of Mc Mullan Architects, Kilcolgan. With the recent confirmation of approval of grant aid of €497,985 representing 90% of the estimated cost of Phase 1 of the project, the committee and Board of Directors propose to raise a further €25000 by way of our “Bricks and Slates” campaign. By giving €50 for a brick or slate, dedicated to someone special, the name will be recorded in an embossed register and also by way of way of a permanent plaque located inside the renovated building. Over the coming weeks, groups of volunteers will call to all households in the local area in order to explain developments and to encourage support for the “Bricks and Slates” fundraiser. The committee has made arrangements to raise a loan through Clann Credo so that ongoing payments can be made as the work of restoration progresses. Grant aid can be claimed only when invoices and receipts have been furnished. Well done to everyone involved. We look forward to being able to keep you up to date on the Court House project through Corrib News. Leslie Lyons on behalf of The Court House Conservation & Heritage Committee Photo Tom Broderick Contracts were signed on the Oughterard courthouse restoration project on Friday 23-May 2014. (Back row) Joe Conaty ( Forum Connemara), Courthouse committee members Geraldine Bresnihan, David Collins, Deirdre Forde, Chris Moran ( project manager, Kesel Construction ltd.) and Courthouse committee members Kathleen Furey, Leslie Lyons, Willie Dawson and Mary Kyne. (Front row ) Kevin Murphy (director, Kesel construction ltd. ), Cllr Thomas Welby and Brian Buckley ( Courthouse committee). Corrib News Ezine May 2014 15 We are delighted to report that planning has been provisionally awarded to the Corribdale park project. We have applied for funding under the 2014 Sports Capital Programme grants to part fund a section of shared use trails and fitness loop. This section refers to the grounds closest to the playground and also the section between the council car park and the GAA Pitch. This phase in- cludes a wheelchair friendly loop aimed at walkers / joggers and the family cycling group. The trails would have a number of outdoor fitness equipment pieces installed at various points along the way. The Sports Capital Programme (SCP) is operated by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport and provides grants to assist in the development of sports facilities. We are hoping for a positive out- come on this application. We won’t hear back about the SCP funding until after the summer but we will also re-visit available LEADER funding that may now be available to us. We plan to reapply for this funding in early June. We hope to have a further positive update in the next issue of Corrib News. We will continue to fundraise for the project with a Cocktail Night on Friday 27th June in the Boat Inn and a Moonlight Walk from Keoghs on the 9th August. More details to follow. Don’t forget the collection boxes on the counter tops in the local shops—your small change really can make a bigger change for Oughterard! If you’d like to help out with fundraising for the project we’d love to hear from you! Thanks for your continued support. Raymond McDonagh Carpentry Services House Renovations, Traditional Dressers, Fitted Furniture, Floors, Phone: 086-8364377
[email protected]. Corribdale Park Update Maam Women's Group Maam Women's Group celebrate their 20th Birthday this year. As part of the celebrations there will be a Heritage & Networking Day on Saturday 30th August in Maam Community Centre at 11am. This event takes place during Heritage Week and there will be workshops demonstrations, talks etc. Everyone is welcome. Main Street, Oughterard, Co. Galway Tel: (091) 557602 / Fax: 557603 Open: Mon—Fri :30am—6:30pm Closed for Lunch: 1:15pm—2pm Saturday: 9:30am—6:00pm For all your medical needs Plus cosmetics, Photographic & Veterinary requirements. Passport & I.D. Photos. Aftershave / Perfume Fine selection of Jewellery & Watches Corrib News Ezine May 2014 16 The Angling Heritage Museum Mary Kyne “Memories are the biscuits of life” so said the late poet Seamus Heaney. Indeed we in Oughterard tasted the sweetness of past memories at the Angling Heritage Museum which opened for the International Trout Fishing Competition for three days in May. The rich heritage associated with the mayfly, trout and salmon angling was realized when members of the community donated their heirlooms of cane rods, hand made mayfly boxes and nets, baits, briceen jars, spinners, gaffes, eel nets, wicker fishing baskets, numer- ous old and more recent photographs of anglers, their catches, trophies and medals provided much interest and recollections of the famous characters both local and foreign who fished the Corrib waters in the past. Old Jonson and Evinrude engines provided much interest among the more elderly anglers and were reminders of hasher times on the lake. The local school children of Scoil Muire, Doireglinna and Scoil Chuimín agus Caitríona’s project on “Exploring the flora, fauna and built heritage of the Owenriff River” was an informative and artistic display of life along the river bank. The children’s work was highly commended by all who visited the museum. Maith sibh a pháisti. David Collins projected the extensive archive of fishing photos in the possession of the Culture and Heritage Group at night on to the front of the Lake Hotel. The trad session, fly-tying demonstrations, music with Beat Club 8, lectures, art exhibition, heritage walks, whiskey tasting, Junior fishing competition at Mike Faherty’s Angling Centre and “Taste of Lough Corrib”– a food display” all combined to give locals and visitors an unique experience of what life in Oughterard is like during “Mayfly Season” The Angling Museum was a huge success thanks to all who contributed. Mary Kyne Corrib News Ezine May 2014 17 Oughterard Angling Association The Oughterard Angling Association had the honour of hosting the Connacht Cup which took place in Oughterard on Saturday, 19th April. The event was catch & release, where fish are measured, record- ed and then released. 48 anglers took part, however only 7 trout were caught on what was a flat, calm and sunny day. The Individual winner on the day went to John Connelly, Ballinalough & District Angling Club. Congratulations John. Oughterard International Mayfly Angling Competition - A Big Success The long and proud tradition of fishing the mayfly on Lough Corrib is alive and well in Oughterard, Co. Galway. This was evident on Sunday, May 11th, when the Oughterard Angling Club hosted the annual International Mayfly Angling Competition as part of the Mayfly Festival weekend. There was a massive entry of 145 national and international competitors into the event which is casting and dapping only, held from Oughterard Pier. The competion is a team and individual event and on what was ideal conditions for fishing trout on Lough Corrib there was some heavy bags of fish brought to the weigh-in on the pier at 6pm. Presentation of prizes was held in the marque at Faherty’s Bar, The Square Oughterard, and for their €25 competition entry fee anglers received a steak dinner. A big thank you to the committee of Oughterard Anglers & Boatman’s Assoc., Brian Higgins & staff in Faherty’s Bar, Tom & Patricia Tuck, Chefs Paul & Eoin, Justin Keogh and all who sponsored prizes, helped and took part in the competition. The results are printed overleaf. Results; Photo l-r – Chairman Connacht Council, Martin Kinnevey with Individual Winner of the Connacht Cup John Connelly. Children at the '.Junior Angling Competition Corrib News Ezine May 2014 18 Oughterard Angling Association Team Winners - Ireland (Tony Duncan, Eoin Kelly, Seamus Kelly & Kevin Molloy) Runners-up – Wales (Jed de Gregory, Brian Ferguson, Richard Morris, Pauline Lee) Individual Winners 1st Henry Curran 2nd Pauline Lee 3rd Johnny Faherty Winning Ladies 1st Pauline Lee 2nd Breda Cody Junior Winners 1st Louis de Gregory 2nd Cillian Tierney Heaviest Trout - Pauline Lee Report & photos by Kevin Prunty – PRO, Oughterard Anglers & Boatmen’s Assoc. www.oughterardanglers.com Individual Winner Henry Curran, Oughterard, being presented with his prize by Brian Ferguson, l-r - The winning team Tony Duncan, Eoin Kelly, Seamus Kelly & Kevin Molloy Junior Winner Louis de Gregory with Brian Ferguson, Sec. Oughterard Angling ClubA Winning Lady Pauline Lee with Sec. Brian Ferguson Corrib News Ezine May 2014 19 Oughterard Angling Association Fly Tying Part of the Mural on the Oughterard Community Centre wall done by artist Renske Boef and kids from the towns Youth Cafe. Mural Mark Coulton & Mark Regan doing a fly tying demo in the Boat Inn on Friday, 9th May. Pictured with Mary Kyne and teacher Ger Power in the Angling Museum are the children from 4th class in Scoil Chuimin & Caitriona, Oughterard. In the background you can see the project they did in conjunction with children from Scoil Muire Doirglinna, entitled 'Exploring the flora, fauna & built heritage of the Owenriff'. Corrib News Ezine May 2014 20 Need A Lift? Call Liam Felton Taxi Service Safe, Reliable, Dependable Don’t Take A Chance— Call Liam! Feile an Mháma 2014 At the top of the Corrib and at the foot of the Maumturks is the Maam valley, and for one weekend of the year we go cracked! Feile (festival) an Mháma takes place this year between Friday 25th and Sun the 27th of July. This little festival has being taking place over the last few years .The aim of the festival is to bring people in to the valley for a few days and show them what is here to see and what goes on in the valley . Last year we had a old photo exhibition in the community centre all weekend, walks and cycles on Saturday and Sunday, a BBQ and ballroom dancing on Sunday with the duck race on Sunday evening. This years events will start on Friday 25th July with golf competition at Oughterard golf club , mass on the graveyard and official opening in the evening . On Saturday 26th July we will have tours of local historic sites, food expo in the community centre, road bowling and a boat race on the Maam river. On Sunday 27th July it is family day with sports for kids and adults (with a difference) BBQ ,bouncy castle, tug-of- war and the duck race on the Maam river. Music in Keanes on Saturday and Sunday night. All events are subject to change and some more may be added. For information on Feile an Mhama you can call 091571192 or contact the community centre. You can follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/feileanmhama or see our web site at www.maamvalley.com Corrib News Ezine May 2014 21 OPENING HOURS Tuesday 10 - 6 Wednesday 10 - 6 Thursday 10 - 6 Friday 10 - 8 Saturday 9:30 - 5:30 4 Day Trip to Belfast The Culture and Heritage Group in association with the R.T.A. (Retired Teachers Association) Galway are going on a 4 day trip to Belfast on the 3rd of September visiting The Titanic Exhibition, Stormont, The Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills and returning by Brú na Bóinne visiting New Grange and Knowth. Full board €289. If you would like to join the group contact Mary Kyne 552128 or 0860779114. Corrib News Ezine May 2014 22 Cornamona & District anglers hosted their Annual pairs Hospice competition on Sunday the 27th of April. This was the 7th running of the event, which was started in 2008 as a fund raiser for the Galway Hospice and is run as a pairs event with teams being mixed in different boats. As the event is always staged on the last Sunday in April and at this time of the year it is always a guess as to what the fish will be on, it could be Olives, Mayfly or Buzzers. However the most important thing with wild brownies is weather conditions and the Gods weren’t smiling on us for the event 26 teams set out from the Carrick shore on the morning to brilliant sunshine and at that stage a very slight North Easterly, however this wind lasted for an hour until midday. From that time on we were left with a flat calm lake, bright sunshine and with thunder in the air, a very close and heavy atmosphere. It stayed this way until 5 o’ clock when the weather broke and we got some decent conditions for the last hour. The fishing proved really difficult for all involved and the score cards showed that most fish were caught in either the first hour or the last hour. The winning team were well known anglers Toby Bradshaw and Joe Crane, Toby’s catch of 3 trout including one cracker of 49 cm was enough to swing it and they finished 20 points ahead of Jimmy Molloy and Declan Gibbons in second place, Jimmy also had a good fish of 49cm. They in turn were just 20 points in front of Mike Keady and Kevin Kerrigan in third place who had three trout between them. The longest fish of the competition was a great fish of 54 cm caught by Peter Roche from Crossmolina, which was reckoned to be in the region of 5lb weight. In total 52 rods caught 28 trout with an average length of 39 cm. A special word of mention must go to Keith Nicholson’s party from Kent in England. For the last two years they have switched their weeks holiday in May to fish in this event. Keith Lawrence and Mick Priest from the group fin- ished 5th and won the overseas prize of a day’s guided fishing on Lough Mask along with 4th prize which was 2 rods on the Galway Weir (kindly sponsored by the IFI). Their compatriots, Keith Nicholson and Peter Thomason came 6th and they won a day’s fish- ing on Lough Inagh with an evening meal for 2 (sponsored by Inagh Lodge). The boys now think this was an elaborate ploy by Fáilte Ireland to get them to come back over again as they are Corr Na Mona and District Anglers Association Winners Martin Kinneavy &Toby Bradshaw with Joe Crane &Tom Sullivan Overseas Prizewinners Corrib News Ezine May 2014 23 now looking at availing of their fantastic prizes in July of this year. Two of this party, Keith and Mick have been coming to Cornamona every year since 1990 and hope to celebrate their 25th anniversary with a big bash next year! While we don’t have exact figures yet for this year’s event it is hoped that the club will have raised in the region of €2,000 for the Galway Hospice. To date Cornamona Anglers have donated in excess of €13,000 to the Hospice from this event. Stay up to date on all the events and results on https://www.facebook.com/pages/Corr-Na-Mona -and-District-Anglers- Association/190249597688237 Report by Tom Sullivan Corr Na Mona and District Anglers Association Dry Cleaning & Laundry Services John J Rafferty Dry Cleaning Done In-house My team and I are proud of the service we provide. Serving Tourists, residents, Hotels, B&Bs and Nursing Homes Camp St. Oughterard Tel: 091 552057 Mob: 087 6473334 Rafferty’s Laundrette Corrib News Ezine May 2014 24 Montessori By Josephine O’Donohue Montessori is a method of education first developed in 1902 by Maria Montessori which has had a profound influence on modern education methods. Maria recognised the importance of learning through using all five senses, touching, seeing, hearing, smelling and tasting. She realised that by using their senses children could develop an understanding of their world and this be- came the basis of her teaching method. The children in the first Montessori schools began to exceed the older children in the primary schools of the time. This proved the effectiveness of her methods and that children were capable of spontaneous and independent learning. Children learn about concepts such as shapes, measurement and numbers firstly by experimenting with specially designed concrete objects and then progress to a more abstract understanding of the concept. The sensitive period The Montessori method is based upon an understanding that there are periods in a child's life known as sensitive periods when they are particularly sensitive to certain types of learning. The early years from 0 - 6 are a crucial period in a child's development when they are especially sensitive to order, movement, small objects, language and sensory impressions. From birth impressions are unconsciously developed and stored to form the basis of future learning. Between two and two and a half the sensitive period manifests itself in patterns of behaviour that involve repeated performance of the same task such as moving objects, filling and emptying containers, tubs etc. The Montessori classroom In a Montessori classroom each child learns at his/her own pace, each aspect and stage of development is carefully monitored and activities are planned to enable them to take the next step. The objective of all activities is to help the child develop greater independence, a sense of responsibility, an increased attention span, enhanced co-ordination and preciseness of movement, self esteem, orderliness, respect for others and intellectual development. What distinguishes Montessori from other nursery, playgroups or infant teaching? 1. The teaching methods 2. The specially prepared "Environment" 3. The materials Corrib News Ezine May 2014 25 The teaching methods a. are focused on the individual child's needs and potential. b. focus on bringing a child to their highest possible intellectual, moral and cultural level. c. are based upon careful presentation of new materials to each child. d. ensure a calm, peaceful classroom. e. enable the child to learn individually or as part of a small group. f. gives the child freedom within limits. The environment The Montessori environment is carefully prepared by the teacher. It is structured to ensure a calm, orderly atmosphere where everything is educational and stimulating for the child. Spending time with nature and the outdoors are key parts of a Montessori education. The Materials Montessori materials are specifically designed to enable self directed learning and purposeful activity. Each apparatus has a control of error built into it so children can discover and correct their own errors. The materials provide a solid foundation for maths, geometry, language, art, music and science. Goldilocks Montessori Goldilocks Montessori in Magheramore's rural setting provides an enriching, natural and spacious environment with a purpose built building and large play area where the children can explore and enjoy flowers, trees and birds. With a limited intake the staff can support each individual child to reach his/her full potential. Just like your child, unique in lots of ways, challenging, interesting and fun. A SOLID FOUNDATION will always withstand. Remember we can never go back on those precious early days. Goldilocks' homely environment provides a good foundation and preparation for the challenges of starting school. We cater for children aged 2 - 5 including Tiny Tots, Montessori, ECCE scheme. For further information contact:
[email protected] Montessori By Josephine O’Donohue Corrib News Ezine May 2014 26 Rás Chonamara 2014 You always have to take your chances on the weather when running an event at Easter in Connemara, but this year the sun made a welcome extended appearance for the Rás Chonamara. Due to financial constraints, the organisers had to make the tough decision to go back to a one-day event. A lack of sponsorship meant costs were not going to be met, though it is hoped the event can return to three-day status next year. And it did not stop riders coming from all four provinces for both the A4 and A2/3 battles. The 30-plus competitors in the A4 race left Maam Cross on a route taking in a number of climbs alongside Lough Corrib and Lough na Fooey, while also passing through Cloughbrack, Finny Aill Dubh and Maam. Starting in a bunch, they rode the course as a bunch and finished as a bunch, which meant a headache for the finish-line organisers and number-takers. There was an attempt at an attack after about 30km. But as has been the case in many A4 races this year, the riders were not going to allow anyone to get away. All seemed happy to ride into the finish and take their chances in a bunch sprint – playing right into the hands of local Galway Bay CC rider Cathal Dillane. Dillane took the sprint and now joins the A3s, after accumulating the required points to be upgraded. Second place went to Warren Blackburn from SLCC, with David O’Malley (Covey Wheelers) third. The A2/A3 race took a similar route, but started and finished in Oughterard. On the climb in the Maam Valley, local stalwart Nigel Forde (Galway Bay CC) made an attack alongside Dave Nugent (Seven Springs CC) and Junior rider Daire Feeley (Donamon Dynamos). They were joined at the top by Galway Bay CC’s Donal Kelly and the group descended well and established a gap on the run into Maam. The four worked well, with all riders taking their turn at the front, only to be nearly caught by the main bunch at Corr na Móna. On the winding roads, the group once again established their lead and they had extended it to more than a minute over the main bunch by the time they hit Finny. They were joined by two other riders at this stage, Will Hennebry (Iverk Carrick) and a Dublin Wheelers rider. Feeley applied the pressure during the climb at Aill Dubh, turn- ing the heat on the Senior riders and leaving only Kelly and Nugent able to hold his wheel. The trio continued working together until Maam, when the second-year Junior once again tested the legs of his more experienced rivals. The pace proved too much for Nugent, but Feeley and Kelly continued to work well and stayed away from the chasers. Kelly, looking for the home-town win, made his move four kilometres from the finish – though by his own admission the effort required to stay clear working in a headwind had drained his legs of any real power. Feeley caught him and, as the duo hit the finish straight, Kelly did not have the kick needed to stay with the Donamon man. Feeley took the overall victory, with Kelly second, much to the delight of his friends and family at the finish. Hennebry and Nugent claimed third and fourth, with a trio off the front of the chasing main peleton sprinting for fifth and sixth. Gavin Dodd (Orwell Wheelers) and Jim O’Rourke (Tuam CC) edged out Galway Bay CC’s Tony Bourke. The race organisers would like to thank McCann’s Super Valu in Moycullen for their support, as well as all the volunteers who gave up their time and expertise over the weekend to make the event a safe and successful venture. Hopefully, we’ll be back in 2015 as a three-3 day event! Clíodhna Uí Ruadháin Corrib News Ezine May 2014 27 Baked Corrib Trout with Dill Yoghurt and New Potatoes by Gerry McDonnell Ingredients: 1 Corrib Trout (1 1/2 - 2 1/2 lbs) 1 Lemon 2 Springs of Rosemary 3oz butter Pinch salt & pepper 1 Scallion chopped 1 spoon olive oil 1 bunch fresh dill roughly chopped 1 tub natural yoghurt Juice & zest of 1 lemon. Method. Clean the trout, leave head on. No need to fillet. Put the chopped scallion, rosemary, butter and 1/2 lemon inside the trout. Place on tin foil and run the olive oil onto the outside of the trout. Wrap the tinfoil around the trout and place on a baking tray. Put in the oven for approx 10mins. Gas mark 6 , 400'f/200'c Remove from oven, leave in tin foil until ready to serve. Mix the yoghurt. Dill and lemon together. When the new potatoes are cooked drain and place into a dish with butter and chopped parsley and leave to rest. You can now remove the trout from the tinfoil saving the juice. Remove the head and bones, if fully cooked this should be easily done. Serve your trout with a green salad and a little of the juice from the cooking, alongside the new potatoes and dill yoghurt and enjoy! Note: Make sure not to overcook your trout! If it is not all used it is still beautiful served cold. Gerry McDonnell Oughterard Golf Club restaurant. Corrib News Ezine May 2014 28 Green Ribbon Campaign by Fiona Kennedy You may have noticed the boxes of green ribbons that have popped up around town the last few weeks. They’re part of a nationwide campaign being run by a group called See Change, the national movement to change minds about mental health. Experiencing a mental health problem is simply part and parcel of the ups and downs of life and can happen to any of us but the silence around mental health stops people seeking help and makes the experience of being unwell much harder. It doesn’t have to be this way. The chances are that you or someone you know will, go through a tough time at some point so why not talk about it and learn how to support each other? You don’t need to be an expert to start talking about mental health or have all the answers. Sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is to let someone know that you are there for them and simply listen. Although you can’t solve someone else’s problems, knowing the basics about how to support someone can really help you – and them. Tips on talking Take your lead from the person themselves and ask how you can help. If you think that someone might be experiencing a difficulty, make it clear that you’ve noticed that they don’t seem like their usual self and suggest that if they ever want to talk that you’ll be there. If you know someone has been unwell, don’t be afraid to ask how they are. They might want to talk about it, they might not. But just letting them know they don’t have to avoid the issue with you is important. Take the pressure off yourself by not trying to rush to find solutions or comparisons. We often fall into the trap of jumping straight in with something positive or wanting everything to be ‘okay’ but what the other person really needs is to be listened to. It’s okay not to have answers and to say that you don’t. It doesn’t always have to be a big conversation about mental health. There are lots of small ways of showing support -just be yourself and listen. Send a text or just ask someone ‘how they’re doing’ – and mean it. Little things can make a big difference. Try to avoid clichés. Phrases like ‘Cheer up’, ‘I’m sure it’ll pass’ and ‘Pull yourself together’ definitely won’t help the conversation! Being open minded, non-judgemental and listening will (Source: www.greenribbon.ie) While the campaign is just running for the month of May, the message is something that needs to carry on and be remembered through- out the year. So next time you’re out, why not pick up a ribbon, wear it with pride, and ask someone how they’re doing? I t’s that simple. Corrib News Ezine May 2014 29 M.A.C Bilingual camps are a unique programme of creativity, adventure and recreation conducted through the medium of both English & Irish. M.A.C bilingual ran a very successful Easter Camp. The kids really enjoyed the variety of exercises, learnt new skills and made new friends. M.A.C bilingual camps will be run over several weeks in Summer in Oughterard, Killannin, Moycullen and Maam. For dates see our flyer opposite. The camps run from 10am-3pm. Early drop off at 9am can be facilitated. The children participate in team activities, and are also divided into specific age groups and take part in the particular day ac- tivities, be it baking, science experiments, gardening or art ‘n crafts. They have a supervised lunch break and then a choice of team activities in the form of boxercise, soccer, rounders’ and gaelic. The children also get the opportunity to chill and relax for a time if they so wish. At this stage they can stretch out on the giant bean bags, read, work with Lego or play board games. The camp is popular so early booking is advisable in order to avoid disappointment. Bigí linn an Samhraidh seo! Camp cost: 1st child €75—2nd child €70—3rd child €65. M.A.C Bilingual Activity Camps Easter Camp children having fun on the Easter Treasure Hunt in the Shrubbery! Corrib News Ezine May 2014 30 Congratulations to Killannin Community Centre Lotto Winner! Killannin Community Centre Lotto Committee presenting a cheque to the winner Tom Kearns, Tooreeney, Moycullen, who won €15,400 on 28th April 2014. In picture from left to right is: Sally O’ Connor, Kathleen Connell, Tom Kearns Lotto Winner, Freda Ferriter and John Joe Donagh of Tullokyne Stores who sold the winning ticket. 99 Years Young! Phyllis Furnace from Oughterard, celebrating her birthday in Kilcummin Church. Phyl was 99 years old on Friday 23rd of May. Wishing her a very happy and healthy 100th year ! Corrib News Ezine May 2014 31 Congratulations to Mike Clancy from Oughterard who won €40,000 on the National Lottery Winning Streak Game Show . Spend it wisely Mike! Caption Competition! Can you come up with a funny Caption for this Photo? These adorable ducklings and their Mom were seen waddling down Station Road Send your caption to
[email protected] Thanks to Noelle McNamara for sending in the photo! Corrib News Ezine May 2014 32 Tidy town's would like to thank the following for turning up on May 30th for the clean up of our village! Maria O'Halloran, Marie Walsh, Rory Clancy and his son Sinnon, Jake and Ryan from Faherty's Bar, Harry Walsh, Whilma and Bernie, John Cronin. Jake and Ryan you're a credit for two young lads for the work you carried out on the day and special thanks to Brian for paying them to come on board with us. Special mention also must go to Rory Clancy from the Boat Inn, who on his time off to be with his kids, gave this time to the Tidy Towns. Also to Marie who was on night duty and gave up her morning to clean the village! We owe huge thanks to the rest of the crew all of whom have family and commitments, yet all gave of their time to make Oughterard a nicer place to live. Thanks to all at the Boat Inn for the well deserved cuppa and scone to wash down the dust afterwards! . Finally there is one person that we must add to that list, that is John Mc Donagh, he is invaluable to us and the Oughterard Community in all that he does! Thank You John . Thanks to everyone who took part in the tidy up.– follow us on Facebook for more updates www.facebook.com/pages/Oughterard- Tidy-Towns/684923711550873?fref=ts Lucy Walsh Oughterard Jumble Sale On Sunday June 22nd from 12pm—3pm there will be an indoor craft fair and car boot sale taking place in the Oughterard Community centre. We expect that this is going to be a large event, as we have had a great response already with bookings of 30 tables to date. Tables are ten euro each or two tables for fifteen euro all in aid of Oughterard Boxing Club. There will be an indoor bouncing castle for the children, supplied by Rosscahill castles, along with a fantastic face painter, teas and coffee and some treats will be on sale, there will be a flower display from “The Art of Blooming”, Moycullen, the Devane brothers will be performing some Sean Nós dancing, they are hoping to start a class in Oughterard. There will also be a group of women who will have seven rails of ladies and children's wear available to buy on the day. You can also get prepared for the Back to School rush as www.myschooljumper.ie/ will also be taking orders for school wear on the day. There will also be lots of information about the various summer camps taking place in the area. Please come along and enjoy this wonderful event happening on Sunday June 22nd. Demelza Gibbons Corrib News Ezine May 2014 33 Oughterard Boxing Club Oughterard boxing club has had another great season finishing with two All-Ireland titles. Kieran Molloy won a title at the youth 1 60 kg category and is currently preparing for the cadet All Irelands where if successful will go on to fight for Ireland in the European Championship. He would hope to improve on his bronze medal of two years ago. Kieran also won his fight against his Dutch opponent some weeks back in Dublin. Lizzy Murphy Lydon was awarded an All-Ireland title at girl 3 86 kg giving her a total of three all Ireland titles. Her sister Nicole won her semi-final v S. Tiffney of Bundoran winning her bout 3-0. Nicole boxed in her first ever All Ireland final and was unfortunate to meet a very strong opponent J.O'Connor. Oughterard boxing club has now won All Ireland titles in six consecutive years and the club is working towards increasing the skill level of our boxers. It is a sport that needs 100% commitment and a lot of sacrifices. Those that wish to follow their ambitions can be assured the club can provide the skilled coaches to get them there. The club caters for many children ranging from 8 years of age upwards. Exercise is crucial in the fight against obesity which is growing at frightening levels in Ireland. Also the mental benefits of exercise can't be over stated. The club will be finishing up for the summer. Also a date for your calendars is Sunday the 22nd of July where a monster jumble sale will be held in Oughterard Community Centre com- mencing @ 1pm. All money raised goes to the Boxing Club. All support greatly appreciated. Sean Clancy Little Blossoms Open 7:45pm—6:00pm * Dedicated ECCE Room which uses the new “Aistear” Curriculum Framework which will prepare your 3—4 year old child for school. * School Drop off from 7:45am * Afterschool : Pick up service (Half days and Holidays catered for), plus Extracurricular Activities drop off service * Hot Dinner and Fruit 1.5yrs—12years ECCE Scheme Montessori Onsite Cook Camp Street, Oughterard (091) 552969 Corrib News Ezine May 2014 34 Eoin McQuinn PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEER Oil Boiler Servicing Testing for Carbon Monoxide Room Poisoning 0872928544 FETAC & OFFTEC Certified Fully Insured C2 Registered JOHN P KEOGH & SONS Main Street, Oughterard 091 552170 Yankee Candles Price Promise We will always be the same but mostly better on price than other outlets! Discounts on full range. Huge range in stock. Wellingtons/Waders Dunlop quality green wellingtons €19.99 Dunlop quality black wellingtons €14.99 Dunlop quality hip waders €49.99 Sizes 7 to 12. Camillaun Angling Centre & Boat Hire If you are interested in fishing or boating to explore an island, or just going for a picnic, you can use one of our many boats moored at the unique timber jetty floating in the garden. We are equipped with all the facilities required by the modern fishing enthusiast, including a large gear / rod room and drying facilities and fly tying desk. Greg & Deirdre Forde 091 - 55267 8 www.camillaun.com Fuchsia Craft An Aladdin’s Cave GREAT SELECTION OF BABY GIFTS,CANDLES,LANTERNS. NITE LIGHT HOLDERS, POTPOURRI. INTERESTING SELECTION OF KITCHENWARE AND MUGS. FASHION JEWELLERY INTERESTING SELECTION OF POTTERY FUCHSIA CRAFT Main Street ● Oughterard Clothing Alterations Car Seat/Steering Wheel Repairs Furniture Upholstery Main St. Oughterard 085 236 81 10 Tues- Fri 10am -6pm Sat 10am -3pm Corrib News Ezine May 2014 35 Home Tuition Ireland is looking for qualified TEFL Tutors to teach international students in local family homes. See our website on /www.hometuitionireland.ie/ For further details. If you’re interested please e-mail Aoife on
[email protected] or call 091511415. Thank you Aoife Mulvihill Managing Director, Home Tuition Ireland Suppliers to the domestic and catering trade. At McGeough’s we continuously strive to pro- vide the best quality meat. We have become experts in curing and drying meats, such as Ham, Lamb, Beef, Pork and Salami. Why not drop into us today to avail of our weekly special offers, and be inspired to create some fantastic savoury delights McGeough’s Connemara Fine Foods Ltd., Oughterard, Co. Galway Tel: (091) 552351 Fax: (091) 552465 Email:
[email protected] Corrib News Ezine May 2014 36 Oughterard Community Games 2014 Well done to all of the children who competed in the Community Games county finals in Ballindereen, you did Oughterard proud! Pictured in no particular order are: Jamie Merrigan, Holly Vaughan, Adam Tierney, Maeve Walsh, Lara Buckley, Tom Fox, Ryan Monaghan, Daragh Creighton, Cathal Buckley, Emma Buckley, Dara Lowry, James Lowry, Roise McGauley, Beibhin Creighton Cailum Mc Donagh We would also like to congratulate all the artists from Oughterard who represented us in the county finals in Mountbellew! We managed to secure a silver medal in the under 10 girls category and this went to Elise Harris! Well done to Elise, this is a wonderful achievement, as her picture was chosen from children all over the whole county. We are very proud of Elise! Finally we would like to wish Evan Welby the very best of luck as he is representing Oughterard in the Community Games swimming events. Best of Luck Evan! A full report will feature in the next print edition of Corrib News. Pictures by Jennie Geoghegan Tierney Corrib News Ezine May 2014 37 Galway Community Games Basketball Under 11 silver medal champions Congratulations to the mixed Under 11’s basketball team who won silver medals against Maree on Mon 26th May 2014. The final score was: Maree 26 to Oughterard 12 Panel; Rionach McGauley, Grace Webb, Adam Tierney, Eimear McNamara, Beibhin Creighton, Maebh Walsh (Cpt), Sean McDonagh and Dylan Fitzpatrick Coaches Harry Walsh and Teresa McDonagh Oughterard Community Games 2014 Corrib News Ezine May 2014 38 Oughterard GAA Club News Oughterard GAA Lotto Oughterard GAA would like to look to thank every- one that is supporting our club lotto. The jackpot is currently €2750.Tickets are available at all the local shops, bars and can also be played online at: http://www.locallotto.ie/Galway/OughterardGAA/ Oughterard GAA would like to congratulate the two recent winners of our club lotto. Carmel Fahy from Edenderry, Co. Offaly who won €19,550 and Tom McGauley from, Oughterard who won €2,000 Sinead Burke and Galway Ladies Football Congratulations to Sinead and all the Galway Ladies on their victory in the Division 2 final over Westmeath from all at Oughterard GAA. Galway won the game 3-10 to Westmeaths 0-9. Sinead is the first member of Killannin Ladies Gaelic Football to lift a national trophy. A proud moment for all GAA fans in Oughterard and Killannin. Sinead and her team mates provide great role models for all the young players on the GAA Junior teams. The Welby Cup Oughterard GAA and the Welby family have revived a popular tournament for the first time in 32 years. The Welby Competition was successfully concluded over the Saturday and Sunday, the 10th and 11th of May. The Welby Cup tournament, first held in 1973, was primarily played to help finance the running of the local club, Cumann Peile Seamus O'Maille. Not played since 1982, the tournament will now be contested by senior clubs in the Connemara region with all games played in Oughterard. This year’s tournament boasts five teams, but it is hoped to increase the number to eight in the future. The first semi final was played on Saturday, with Carraroe overcoming St. Michael’s by a score line of 2-09 to 1-07. The second semi final was a tight contest between Oughterard and Carna/Cashel, with the home team winning 1-12 to 3-04. Both games were played in extremely poor conditions but the crowd were treated to a mixture of skill and determination. Conditions for the final , Oughterard vs Carraroe, were also very testing with strong winds and driving showers but both teams played determined football and went in at half time level at 0-04 each even though Oughterard were aided with a strong wind. To even the staunchest supporter Oughterard appeared to have a mountain to climb in the sec- ond half but the team showed real grit in the sec- ond half and outscored Carraroe by 2 points to 1 in a low scoring second half and carried the day. The Man of the Match award was awarded to the home player Eric Lee for his contribution of 3 points and an overall business like performance. Sinead Burke Corrib News Ezine May 2014 39 Oughterard GAA was recently honoured by being asked to play an U12 blitz in Croke Park. This was a fantastic experience for our junior players and their coaches and was a fantastic day out. We would like to thank all those that helped in organising the trip. You can read all about the day out in the article that follows over- leaf by one of the team, Adam Tierney. You can keep up to date with all the clubs news and latest events on our Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/pages/ Oughterard- GAA/222815511077033?fref=ts or via our website https:// sites.google.com/a/gaa.ie/ oughterard-gaa-galway/club-news -1 We hope to update the site in the near future and will keep you posted of any updates here in Corrib News. John Byrne, Club PRO C'llr Thomas Welby presenting the Welby cup Photo by John Gillespie Oughterard GAA Club News Corrib News Ezine May 2014 40 Our trip to Croke Park by Adam Tierney Oughterard GAA was recently honoured by being asked to play an U12 blitz in Croke Park. Here is a little flavour of how the trip went from one the players. On Tuesday the 15th of April the Oughterard under 12 football team went on a trip to Croke Park to play 3 games. We all met at 6.30am at the pitch to get the coach to Dublin, I was really tired a fell asleep on the way. When we arrived we all got a photo on the steps of Croke Park holding our club banner we were then given our seating area where we left all our gear when we went on the tour. The tour was very interesting and we watched a film {picture} and got to go up to the really high seats and all the people on the pitch looked like ants. Did you know that Croke Park is cut by push lawnmowers!?! We got to go to the skills area when you can practice hurling and football, there was loads of games that we all got to play. There was also a museum that a lot of adults looked at while we played the games. After our tour it was nearly time for us to play our matches, we went up the back of the stand and we all got ready. There was 2 teams, one team wore the green jerseys and the other team wore the green and white stripy jerseys! I was on the team with the stripy jerseys. Team one had two coaches Rob Webb & Cormac Walsh and team 2 had Harry Walsh and Liam Tierney as coaches. We played 3 matches team one against Athenry, Swinford and Charlestown and team two played against Kiltane, Caherlistrane and Swinford. We were all so excited and happy after we played our matches except one of our team, Oisin, who broke his wrist, but he can always say “I broke my wrist playing in Croke Park” it’s the coolest place you could ever break your wrist. We packed up all our stuff and headed back to the bus for our journey home, we stopped for food in Apple green where we all had our din- ner and ice cream. Thanks to all the people who came to support us, I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. This was the best day of my life (so far) but I hope that someday I will get to wear a Galway jersey in Croke Park!! Thanks Adam for the lovely write up! We have no doubt that you’ll be back on the pitch in Croke Park again one day! If you or a member of your club would like to write us a piece about an experience you’ve had send it onto us at
[email protected] We’d be delighted to print your article. Corrib News Ezine May 2014 41 The Oughterard Golf Club News In this the 40th year since the founding of the golf club in Oughterard, the Club is running a special promotion costing just €400 for new members. There is no Entrance Fee, just a once off Discounted Annual Subscription for 2014 of €400, which is a nice saving of €150. This promotion is also open to former members who are interested in re-joining. The Club will be running a series of events throughout the year to mark the 40th Anniversary. We would like to remind you that our newly appointed PGA Professional attached to the club, Derek McNamara is very keen to provide a first class Golfing Service to all the members and visitors to the Club. Derek is currently busy working with the Club Committees putting plans in place for coach- ing at all levels,. He will be running golf camps throughout the summer which will be open to members and non-members alike. Derek opened his new Golf Shop at Oughterard on April 1st and he stocks an extensive range of golf clubs, clothing and equipment. He is available for Lessons and can be con- tacted on 087 7570930. Club Captain John Grant said “We are delighted to get a person of Derek's caliber into the Club and we feel that his appointment will benefit the Club enormously. We wish him the best of luck in his new venture and we hope that he gets the support of all our members.” Derek is a native of Ballyconneely, Connemara and is a graduate in Professional Golf Studies from the University of Birmingham, England. He has considerable experience in the golf Industry having served his time as Assistant Professional at the recently ranked No.1 golf course in Ireland Portmarnock Golf Club before moving on to become president professional at Lough Erne Golf Resort. Derek has also served as a teaching professional at Connemara and Galway Golf Clubs and the GUI National Academy at Carton House. Derek is very excited on taking over the role of Club Professional in this the 40th Anniversary year of the club’s founding. We are also delighted to announce that our wonderful caterer Gerry McDonnell is providing the following golf and meal deals for visitors. Available now until 31st December 2014: Golf and Breakfast - €25 Golf and Lunch - €30 Golf and Dinner (Steak/Salmon, dessert, tea/coffee) - €35 Golf, Dinner (Steak/Salmon, dessert, tea/ coffee) and B&B - €69 pps Available until 30th June 2014: 18 holes of Golf and Golf assessment by PGA Professional Derek McNamara only €30 Full details are available from the Admin Office at the Club or check out the website: www.oughterardgolfclub.com Email us at
[email protected] or Tel: 091 552131 Derek McNamara, PGA Professional Corrib News Ezine May 2014 42 Under 14’s ORFC U14s youth team went on a fantastic run over the last few weeks of the season, which saw them battle their way into the Connacht Plate final. Wins over Loughrea, Ballinrobe, and a tremendous victory over Tuam RFC in the semi final earned them a place in the final against Castlebar in Ballinrobe. Giving away several inches in height and kilos in weight to their opponents, the boys never took a step back and played their part in a thrilling game of rugby, which was only decided in the last 5-6 minutes when Castlebar ran in two tries to win 26-3. Every member of the squad should be very proud of their season, knowing that next year, the majority of the team will be able to play in the same age group, be bigger and stronger, and have a years more experience in the bank. There was no rest for the team though. The day after the final, the lads headed off to Wales for a well deserved end of season tour. They were treated like kings by their hosts Cefneithin RFC, who arranged a BBQ and loads of action packed adventure activities as well as a challenge match between the two clubs. Mini and LEP rugby. The Mini and LEP season is now over. Once again we have seen numbers of players increasing in all age groups. Even the enforced lay off, due to the weather, didn’t dampen spirits too much. Some great rugby was played all teams, with all squads developing new skills and team spirit. The Mini & LEP end of season BBQ and awards day was held recently with Connacht players Brett Wilkinson and Robbie Henshaw coming out to Oughterard to present the awards to the kids. It was a great way to bring the season to an end with the youngsters all receiving medals and getting the pictures taken with their hero`s. TAG rugby. The Tag season is now well underway, with ORFC “tagmaniacs” having played in, and won their Oughterard Rugby Club News ORFC U14s after their Connacht Plate final with Castlebar RFC Corrib News Ezine May 2014 43 Spring League. Although we have good numbers, the taggers always welcome new players – so if you fancy giving it a go and playing in the summer league which is about to start, come along on Monday evenings at 7pm or give Sinead a call on 0879777290 for further details. ORFC awards dinner. Rory Clancy and his team in the Boat Inn hosted a great night for the end of season awards and dinner. Players player of the year was deservedly won by Eoin Kelly, with Jake Edwards and Dillon Fogarty, rightly picking up the coaches player, and new player awards. The food, drink and music went on until the small hours, with everyone having a fantastic night. Whether you are players, coaches, sponsors or “just” parents who ferry your kids to matches and wash their kit, – a massive thank you for your continued support of ORFC over the seasons. Although we will all enjoy the summer, we are looking forward to next season already. ORFC plan on running a summer camp again this year form 11th - 15th August. Please contact Matt Henderson 083-0097488 for further details. It promises to be a great camp for the kids, early booking is advised. For further information about the club or training times visit www.orfc.ie, find us on face book here- https://www.facebook.com/pages/Oughterard- Rugby/112752285442441 Or email
[email protected] Oughterard Rugby Club News Player of the year Eoin Kelly receiving award from Director of Rugby Aidan O`Flynn at recent ORFC social. Corrib News Ezine May 2014 44 The MayFly10k Challenge Children’s Races. Congratulations to all the Children who took part Photos by Jess Walsh Corrib News Ezine May 2014 45 The MayFly10k Challenge Our Volunteers. Thank you all so much for your time and effort everyone! Photos by Jess Walsh Corrib News Ezine May 2014 46 The MayFly10k Challenge Prize giving Ceremony. Congratulations to all the winners and finishers! Photos by Jess Walsh Corrib News Ezine May 2014 47 Have you seen the “Oughterard is Happy” video yet? Check it out and see if you can spot yourself or someone you know! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsSvV5CNsFE Huge thanks to all the dancers who took part—all of you were such good sports! Tara, Sinead & Oisin Photos by Tara Hargaden Corrib News Ezine May 2014 48 Broadcasting Icon Officially Opens New School at Scoil Chuimín & Caitríona. Some shots of the very special day for the community. Photos by Sandra O’Farrell Casey & Tom Broderick Corrib News Ezine May 2014 49 Photos by Jess Walsh The International Mayfly Angling Competition 2014. Some wonderful shots of the fishermen and the art exhibition and the entertainment afterwards. Corrib News Ezine May 2014 50 Corrib News Ezine May 2014 51 Corrib News Ezine May 2014 52 Corrib News Ezine May 2014 53 Check out all our new summer essentials in store now from €2 water shooters to picnic blankets to bbq's. We've got all you need this summer. Try our tasty BBQ meat range €4 each or 3 for €10. Brighten up your SUMMER!!!! https://www.facebook.com/keoghs.centra Corrib News Ezine May 2014 54 The Last Word... That’s it for this, the 3rd online edition of Corrib News. We hope that you have enjoyed it. We are delighted with the success of the online magazine and also with the popularity of the Corrib News Facebook page. With over 700 likes and a very active fan-base we are very pleased to be able to spread the word about local club news and events and facilitate people in getting the word out to everyone in the locality and beyond. Just as importantly, if there is something you don’t like, or don’t see covered be sure to get in touch and tell us what you’d like to see in the next issue. Sincere thanks to all our contributors and sponsors — without you there could be no newsletter. The next edition will be printed at the end of June and the deadline for submissions is Monday June 7th. There will be lots of articles including an interview with some of our local female sporting stars, Sinéad Burke and Maedhbh Campbell. We are delighted to print a very interesting article on the Carrowmoreknock boat, a thousand year old (20ft) log-boat found by an Underwater Archaeology Unit on Lough Corrib. We have some amazing previously unpublished underwater pictures of the perfectly preserved log boat to share with you. Finally if you would like to place an advert in the next edition please email
[email protected]. Please send us in your club events and news, your points of interest, poems, stories and musings by June 7th—we’d love to hear from you. From the Team at Corrib News. Margaret Larminie, Cepta Stephens, Sinéad Grimes, Kathleen Furey, Jess Walsh, Katy Conneely, Mary Kyne, Leslie Lyons, Jack McCann, Aoife O’Halloran, Geraldine Bresnihan and Deirdre Forde Corrib News The Community Centre, Oughterard Email:
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