€5,000 Windfall for Tidy Towns! The Clifden Tidy Towns group enjoyed a great boost for the superb work they carry out in the community when they were chosen as the recipients of a prize fund of €5,000 from Galway Bay FM and Diageo on Friday August 20th. (See more inside on page 5). The dedicated group has lots of plans to put the money to good use in further improving the appearance of the town and surrounding areas. They are also delighted that their consistent hard work in Clifden has been rewarded in such a way and were honoured to receive the generous prize. Some members of the group were pictured on Tuesday August 31st at the Clifden Car Park Garden before setting off on their weekly clean up around the town. Photo below (l-r): Joe Lynch, Alan Shattock, Sheila Griffin, Sean Lynch, Sheila Taplin, Joshua Sunday, Sandra Shattock, Linda Horsman, Dave Horsman, Mary O’ Donnell and P.K. Joyce.
REGIONAL CSI Clifden Update The next CSI Clifden public meeting will take place on Thursday, September 9th at 8pm in Clifden Community School. Top of the agenda will be an update on the recent planning permission decision of September 1st. Please attend and show your support in the campaign for a new ‘fit for purpose’ school for the community. In the past year the monthly meetings have taken place in the Community School and also in Claddaghduff, Ballyconneely and Letterfrack. Meetings at more locations around Connemara are planned again from October while the campaign is ongoing. CSI Clifden launched its Monster Raffle in August. Tickets for some great prizes are available priced at €2.00 each. Please buy a ticket or two for the chance to win €1,000 in cash, a 32” LCD TV or a weekend away among other great prizes. Your support in selling these tickets is needed. Please call or text 087-162-5842 if you think you can sell some of the books that are available. The draw takes place on Saturday 25th September. See www.csiclifden.com for all the latest news. If you want to be included in any text alerts please text your name to 087-162-5842. Please include your e-mail address to be included in our mailing list.
RNLI News New Appointment John Brittain of Streamstown, Clifden (photo right) has been appointed as the new Lifeboat Operations Manager in the Clifden Lifeboat Station. As a long time local skipper and member of the Lifeboat
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Crew, John brings his considerable knowledge of the seas around Connemara and years of experience to the job. Speaking on his appointment in August, John said “It is a privilege to follow in the footsteps of our former Operations Manager Peter Bailey after his untimely passing earlier this year. I am very conscious of the skills and continuous commitment that all the local RNLI crew members and volunteers give to the organisation and I look forward to working
with everyone involved to continue, to the best of my ability, the vital service that the Clifden Lifeboat provides to the Connemara area”.
Joining Forces On Wednesday August 11th the Clifden Lifeboat Crew and the Cleggan Coastguard Unit combined forces to undertake some exercises on the waters off the Connemara Coast. As the two primary groups in the area attending marine emergencies, the aim of the joint exercises is to ensure that the best co-ordination and approach to situations is achieved when the two work together in emergency situations.
Leenane Food Festival Last year over 1,500 visitors descended on the tiny village of Leenane for the inaugural Food Festival. This year’s lineup of chef demonstrations will showcase local produce from international award winning smoked tuna and Killary mussels to organic lamb from the village mountains. Heading up the chef ’s demonstrations is Derry Clarke, chef/patron of L’Ecrivain and proud owner of one of only 6 Michelin starred restaurants in the country. “We serve only Connemara Hill lamb at L’Ecrivain and it is great to come down to Leenane and meet the local farmers of this wonderful product”. Derry will cook the lamb in the village marquee and visitors can watch and learn from the gastronomic master at work. Also attending will be Graham Roberts of Connemara Smokehouse who will be demonstrating the uses of smoked salmon and his smoked tuna which snapped up the bronze medal at the prestigious Great Taste Awards in London. Rick Stein’s claim that “Graham’s smoked tuna is the finest I have ever tasted” led to Stein serving it in all his restaurants within a week of first tasting the tuna. Also participating will be local restaurateur Oran Daly of Portfinn Lodge and Fjord Restaurant, which was recently featured on RTE’s At Your Service. Chefs will be on hand for questions after each session while visitors will have the opportunity to sample the delicious fare.
September 2010
Local farmers and producers will have a market at the festival where artisan produce ranging from chowder, breads, bisque, jams, cheeses, fudges, smoked tuna and salmon will be for sale. Connemara Lamb is indigenous to this region and has roamed the village hills since the 1800s. The sheep feed on wild herbs, heathers and grasses. It is this diet which gives the meat is beautiful colour and remarkable flavour. It is less fatty than regular grass fed lamb and therefore healthier. Local farmers will be available to take orders for Connemara lamb for your winter supplies. The village of Leenane is on the N59, listed as one of the top ten drives in the world by AA International and the marquee will be situated beside The Sheep and Wool Centre overlooking the KillaryIreland’s only fjord. The Sheep and Wool Centre will have spinning and sheep shearing demonstrations celebrating the long tradition of wool and lamb in the area. King Edward and Queen Alexandra visited Leenane in 1903. A red carpet of tweed ran from the pier to the Leenane Hotel where the royals met the weavers and wool workers. The Leenane Food Festival will take place on September 25th and 26th. For further information please contact Catherine O ‘Neill on 087-957-7364 or see www.leenanevillage.com.
Electricity Levy Criticised North Connemara Sinn Féin representative Kenneth Coyne has criticised government plans to introduce a new levy which will push electricity prices up by 5%. Mr. Coyne said such a levy was untenable at a time when many families were already struggling to meet bills, including electricity bills. He said “The government must abandon its plan to introduce a new electricity levy. People struggling to pay bills including electricity bills are astounded that the government would propose to introduce such a levy at this time that will drive costs up by a further 5%. This move shows how far out of touch Fianna Fáil and the Greens really are. They have no understanding of the difficulties which people, many of whom have lost their jobs, are facing. Have they not seen how many people are already having their electricity cut off because they are in arrears? This move will also cost jobs as the price hike will hit struggling businesses. It simply doesn’t make sense to proceed with such a levy at this time.Sinn Féin would not introduce such a levy which simply punishes ordinary households”. He concluded “All other opposition parties should make a clear commitment to reverse this levy if they get into government.”
Connemara Radio AGM The Connemara Community Radio Annual General Meeting will take place on Wednesday 8th September at 8pm in Letterfrack. All members are invited to attend and new members are welcome. Training will commence in September for new volunteers. For more information see www. connemarafm.com, e-mail info@connemarafm.com or call the station at 095-41616.
Connemara View Newspaper
Connemara View Newspaper
September 2010
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National Supporters Award This year’s RNLI Supporters Award was presented to the Roundstone Summerfest Committee in Roundstone on Saturday August 15th. The Summerfest committee had been awarded the RNLI National Supporters Award in June but had been unable to attend the award ceremony in Dublin, so it was decided that the presentation would take place during this year’s Summerfest.
Anne Marie Bennett made the presentation on behalf of the RNLI and commended the volunteers for their exceptional efforts over the previous 8 years. In this time, over €50,000 has been raised by Roundstone Summerfest for the RNLI-a sum equivalent to purchasing a brand new lifeboat-and it is a credit to all involved that such a huge impact can be made from a small group of dedicated people when they put their combined efforts to such a worthy cause. The round of applause that greeted the award from the huge crowd of supporters who had gathered left an impression that will stay long in the memories of those present. (For more on Summerfest see Page 10). Photo (l-r): Keith O’Connor, Ciaran De-
lappe, Anne Marie Bennett (RNLI), Thomas King, Stuart Freeman (RNLI), Patrick King, Simon Ashe and Mark Forsyth. Photo courtesy of Thomas King.
RNLI Call Outs The Clifden Lifeboat D-Class was launched on the evening of Saturday August 28th after a Coastguard Launch Request was made. Two fishermen had gotten into difficulty when their inflatable dinghy sprung a leak and had to swim approximately 100 metres to nearby Crump Island off Renvyle Point. The two men were safe and well although cold and were very pleased to be assisted by the Lifeboat Crew. The lifeboat also attended two separate incidents of crafts experiencing engine problems in Mannin and Aughris and escorted them safely back to shore. Donal O Scanaill & Catherine Pryce
Garden Club Plant Sale The Connemara Garden Club will hold their annual Arts Week plant sale on Friday 24th of September. The sale will take place on the Square in Clifden and begins at 10am. The club holds two sales each year, one in May and the second in September. They are always popular as the plants which are on offer are always of the highest quality. You are guaranteed that they will grow well in this area as they are all from the gardens of local members. The club holds monthly meetings
throughout the year with the next meeting being on Wednesday 6th of October in the Station House Hotel at 8pm. New members are always welcome. For more information contact Breandan O Scanaill at 095-21148.
Roundstone Dive Party A unique event will take place in Roundstone on Saturday and Sunday September 4th and 5th when the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, Scuba Dive West and BBC presenter Monty Halls will host a Roundstone Dive and Beach Party. Most of the action will take place at Gurteen beach, where there will be intro dives and snorkeling, shore and boat dives, a seafood cookery display, a diving trivia quiz, an underwater photo display and a charity auction. There will also be beach games with music provided by the young energetic band Na Ciotogaí. Guest lecturers will include Monty Halls who will talk about filming in Connemara for the last three months, Simon Berrow of the IWDG and underwater photographer Nigel Motyer. Michael Gibbons will talk on Connemara’s maritime history and wrecks and Martin Pailthorpe will lecture on shooting and directing wildlife and adventure documentaries. Entry is €30 and all proceeds from this event will go towards the €4,000 required to purchase a rescue pontoon for stranded whales and dolphins along the Connemara coastline. Anyone interesting in attending should email organiser Tamsyn Smith at diveroundstone@ gmail.com, as places are limited.
Adult Education Classes The month of September sees many providers of adult education launching a wide range of evening and part time classes in many areas of Connemara. The Cashel and Glinsk Community Education Centres are offering a diverse range of classes from Autumn to Spring, including Organic Production Principles, Local history Studies, Jive/Ballroom Dancing and Office Procedures and Communication Skills. Some are FETAC accredited while others are hobby courses. The full list can be seen on Page 34 of this issue. For more information phone 095-31052 or 095-32174 or e-mail casheladmin@eircom.net. The North West Connemara Adult Education Classes will have registration dates in Clifden on Monday September 13th and in Cashel, Cleggan, Clifden, Inishbofin, Letterfrack and Tullycross on Tuesday September 14th. There will be registration in Roundstone on Thursday September 16th and a blue leaflet with a full listing of available classes will be available in local shops and outlets in each area. (See ad on Page 34). The Co. Galway VEC Centres in Clifden and Letterfrack are also currently enrolling for their full and part time courses, which include Art and Design, Basic Computers and Childcare. All courses are accredited to FETAC and ECDL. For more information see ad on page 34 or contact Sorcha O’ Toole on 095-41302.
them for a walk. For more information, or to register for the event, log on to www.madra. ie or visit the MADRA facebook page for regular updates. For all other enquiries contact the event co-ordinator, Eileen Keleghan, on 086-060-3646.
Corncrake Update The scheme to locate and protect Connemara’s last remaining corncrakes confirmed at least ten calling male birds in Connemara in 2010. Five were found on Inishturbot, three on Inishbofin and one each on Inishturk South and Omey Island. Nest sites at all these locations were protected, with the co-operation of 31 Connemara landowners, who delayed mowing and grazing meadows throughout the corncrakes’ nesting season. There were 133 calling corncrakes recorded countrywide (representing an increase of five on last year’s count), with 91 in Donegal, 27 in Mayo, three counted in Sligo and two in the Shannon Callows. Corncrakes, which migrate to South-east Africa for the winter, will be flying south throughout September and October and won’t be heard again on our shores until next April.
Charity Honda 50 Push On Sunday November 7th, there will be a Charity event in which teams of six men will push a Honda 50 motorbike up and down Croagh Patrick, with all funds raised going towards Cancer Care West. Anyone interested in entering a team of six can contact Sean Nee at the number below. Also, anyone who would like to sponsor us and/ or climb with us is more than welcome. This is a once-off opportunity and we hope to have tea and lunch on top of Croagh Patrick. There will be lots of photos for souvenirs. If people need lifts, some limited transportation will be available. All are very welcome. For more information contact Sean Nee at 087-664-2853.
Clifden Hair Academy Opens The state of the art Clifden Hedz Hairdressing Academy was officially opened by Paul Hughes of the Abbeyglen Castle Hotel on Friday August 20th. Damian and Andrea Manning, their stylists and tutors were also congratulated on the excellent new facility by close friend Kitty Noonan and Karen Mannion of the Forum LEADER programme, which assisted the development of the FETAC approved academy. The Hedz Hair Academy will hold Open Days on Monday September 6th and 13th from 11am-4pm and anyone interested in seeing the new premises or enquiring about courses is very welcome to stop in.
Charity Dog Walk The first MADRA Dogs on the Bog Walk will take place on Sunday, September 26th at Glenlosh Valley Country Cottages near Maam. The charity walk will provide a fun day out for dog owners, their family and most importantly their pet pooches. For those who don’t have a dog of their own, but would like to take part, there are plenty of MADRA rescue dogs who are always looking for someone new to take
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September 2010
Connemara View Newspaper
Clifden
€5,000 prize for Tidy Towns The Tidy Towns group was absolutely stunned to be chosen as the recipients of a €5,000 prize in a community venture scheme, co hosted by Galway Bay FM and Diageo Ireland to celebrate Galway Bay FMs 21st birthday and announced in Clifden on Friday 20th August. The group had sent an entry for the competition outlining its vision for softening the town’s visual impact, with a scheme to plant trees, shrubs and planters all around the town. The group’s Chairperson Sheila Griffin was invited to talk with Keith Finnegan and give a brief chat on the group’s plans. What followed after the chat and well deserved praise for the group’s hard work over last three years was an announcement by Keith that the Tidy Towns group were the winner of the prize. The group is highly honoured to have been chosen for this prestigious prize and this gives us the opportunity to ‘fast forward’ our vision on the town’s Tidy Towns future. The group will endeavour to fulfill to the highest degree the thinking behind this joint community venture. With the start of the 2011 Tidy Towns campaign just a few short weeks away, there is no doubt that the group’s long term strategy to be able to compete with the national Tidy Towns major contenders is at long last within sight. Everyone within the town and its many regular visitors cannot have failed to notice the necklace of small garden sites around the town, the new trees on Ballyconneely road and the renovated Old Jail Walk and walking signs, all of which are maintained and cared for by a truly dedicated group of the towns citizens. As of yet, we still await 2010 National Tidy Towns results. While we wait for those results, the band-wagon rolls on with the 2011 campaign ready to begin anew. So the group will have its first meeting to get 2011 campaign off to a flying start on Wednesday September 15th at 8pm in Supervalu. As always, we look forward to anyone with an interest in joining our group to contact our secretary Mary O’Donnell at 095-21326 or e-mail cregghouse1@eircom.net, Chairperson Sheila Griffin at 095-21441 or PRO P.K. Joyce at 095-21688. Alternatively keep an eye on Tidy Towns notice board and visual display unit in Supervalu for contact info and photos of projects to date. P.K. Joyce, P.R.O. Clifden Tidy Towns Clifden Community and District Council
St Patrick’s Day Parade Meeting The Clifden Community Council will hold a meeting of interested parties to
discuss the organisation and running of the 2011 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Clifden town centre. Any individual or group that has participated in past parades or would like to get involved in any way or make suggestions is welcome to attend. The meeting will take place at the Station House Hotel on Tuesday September 14th at 7pm. For more information contact Catherine Pryce at 086-400-6666.
Spraying of Gunnera at Ball Alley The expanse of gunnera or giant rhubarb that is currently in existence at the Ball Alley in Clifden is in the process of being sprayed with a Mortone mixture of weedkiller by the local FÁS team, under the direction of the Clifden Community Council. It is hoped that the spraying will improve the appearance of the area and be a first step towards improving the condition of the area for the future.
Graduation
Congratulations to David McHugh of Derrylea, Clifden who was recently conferred with an Honours B. Sc. Degree in Construction and Project Management from Napier University in Edinburgh.
San Patricio Celebrations
A preview of the annual San Patricio commemorative ceremony which remembers Clifden’s John Reilly took place in Mullarkey’s Bar in Foyle’s Hotel on August 13th. This get-together was part of a documentary being made by Kieran Concannon from Inishbofin. There was a display of dancing from Mexico and Ireland and music and singing from both traditions as the Connemara group were joined by our Mexican residents and friends from the Galway region. The annual San Patricio Ceremony which is organised by the Clifden and Connemara Heritage Society will take place on the 11th and 12th of September. This year we will hold our get together in the large shop unit between Stanley’s and An Bean Fheasa on Market Street. There will be an exhibition of photographs from Mexico opening at 6.30pm on Saturday the 11th. This will be followed by a concert of Mexican, music, singing and dancing and there will also be collection of items relating to the San Patricios on display. This ceremony will also honour the 200th anniversary of Mexican Independence, and everyone is welcome to come and join in this gathering. Breandan O Scanaill, Chairman, Clifden and Connemara Heritage Society. Photo below: Breandan O Scanaill and some of the Mexican dancers and musicians who took part in a performance for a documentary being made by Inishbofin’s Kieran Concannon in August.
Connemara View Newspaper
Library News Summer Reading Challenge The presentation of certificates for the Summer reading Challenge will take place on Saturday 11th September at 3pm. The presentations will be made by Ms. Maureen Moran, Senior Executive Librarian of Galway County Library. The theme this year was all things space related; children read books about space exploration such as the moon landing and we looked at the space station and tracked it on the Internet. We also checked out the planets and stars. The aim of the reading challenge is to introduce children to a wide range of books with a different theme every year and it also very importantly maintains the child’s reading level while he/she is off school over the summer holidays. Studies have shown that children who take part in this type of reading initiative not only maintain but sometimes improve their reading level when they return to school in September. Photograph Competition The prize for the photo competition will also be awarded on Saturday 11th. The theme was Sport and Noreen Casey of Clifden Pharmacy has kindly given us the first prize of a fantastic digital camera. Readers of the Month Reader of the Month for July was Aoife Conroy and for August was Kevin Kochumman. Well done to you both.
September 2010
Clifden Arts Festival The Library will again this year be the venue for all things literary: poetry, readings, book launches, and drama recitals. We have 14 events and open the festival with poets John Walsh and Jarlath McDonagh at 1pm on Thursday 16th September. There will be two events each day with lunchtime readings at 1pm and afternoon readings at 4.30pm. Sean Coyne and Tegolin Knowland will give a dramatic recital entitled ‘Hunger’ devised and directed by Eamon Grennan on Tuesday 21st at 1pm. Maurice O’Scanaill and Pat Mullan promise a bit of ‘Murder in the Afternoon’ at 1pm on Thursday 23rd and we finish up on Friday 24th with a reading from Tony Curtis and Enrique Juncosa at 4pm. We look forward to welcoming everyone to our great lineup of events. Bernie Jeffries
Heritage Week Window
The window of Clifden Pharmacy on Main St. was transformed into a ‘Window on the Past’ to mark Heritage Week from August 21st to 29th. Angela Casey created a wonderful arrangement of many old and historic items of interest from the former Casey’s Shop down through the years, and the result was an evocative and nostalgic view of our local heritage. Photo courtesy of Gina Pryce
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Ballyconneely
Grainne Mhaol Presentation
A presentation and re-enactment to celebrate the birth of Grace O’Malley who was born 480 years ago took place in Ballyconneely on August 6th. The event which was held in the Community Centre attracted massive interest with over 300 people attending on the night. The presentation was delivered by well known author Ann Chambers who has written extensively about the life and folklore of Grainne Mhaol. The re-enactment was performed by a combination of locals and visitors. The visitors included former M.E.P. Mark Killilea, Ruth Walsh from Westport and Maura Joyce from Ballinasloe. The attendance included a variety of individuals both local and from afar and even An Taoiseach Brian Cowen put in an appearance. Photo: Back (l-r) Mark Killilea, Tina McDonagh, Jimmy Hayden, John McDermott, Ruth Walsh (Grainne Mhaol), John O’Malley (co-ordinator), Francesca McDonagh (young Grainne Mhaol) Ann Chambers, Jarlath Sweeney, John Conneely (narrator), Maura Joyce. Front (l-r): Ciara McDermott, Rebecca O’ Halloran Martha McDermott, Louis Sweeney, Una McDermott and Martin Sweeney. News & Photo courtesy of John O’ Malley
the bouncing castles and face painting and there were also lots of kids sports. Over 100 kids medals were awarded. As usual the event would not have been possible without all those who sponsored and helped with preparation in the weeks leading up to the big day. Marty Early and Tom Mullen had a very good day collecting on the gate. Noel Sweeney, Stephen and Bernie Mullen put a lot of time and effort fundraising in the weeks leading up to the day and all the women in the hall worked very hard on the day. The final tally was over €9,000, which is a very good start to the playground fund. Most of the community helped in some form or other to make the event a huge success once again this year. There is a playground account in McWilliams Post Office in Ballyconneely for anyone wishing to make a donation. Seán Nee Photos below from top: The Weight Throw at PigFest 2010 was a great hit with David Mullen winning on the day. The toddler race was a great spectacle for the families enjoying the day out. John McDermott makes a break for the front in the Daddy’s races! Photos courtesy of Saoirse Roberts
Schemes for Cill Chiaráin and Carna were first sanctioned by the Government in 2002 but the work was not done despite many commitments by Galway County Council. The schemes disappeared off the County Council’s lists altogether this year. The Carna Community Forum wrote to Galway County Council asking them for an explanation but the County Council said it was a matter for the Department of the Environment. The Carna Forum wrote to the Department of the Environment more than three months ago but has not been given an explanation yet. It was decided recently to use the Freedom of Information Act. Galway County Council has been requested to give details as has the Department of the Environment. The Carna Community Forum says it is shameful that the Department of the Environment would not give an explanation after three months.
Hopes for Road Improvements
It is hoped now that some improvement work will be carried out on the stretch of road from Cashel to the junction at Recess in September. Fóram Iorras Aithneach has made strong efforts all through this year to try and get some action taken on this road. A total of well over 80 bad spots were counted on this road including bad deterioration of the surface. The Carna Forum says it is disgraceful that the main road leading to Cashel and Carna should be in such a state. Following contact with County Councillors, word has come through that some work will be carried out this September. The Carna Community Forum also wants a development plan for the whole of the R340 road from Recess to Carna and as far as Screebe. This road is over 50km long and is the main route in the south west Connemara area.
20th year of Community Magazine
Work is now well underway on the preparation of the annual Carna/Cill Chiaráin magazine ‘Iorras Aithneach’. The first of the ‘Iorras Aithneach’ magazines was published in 1990 and this year’s marks the twentieth anniversary of the publication. The magazine is published in the period leading up to Christmas and it contains a wide selection of articles, history features, photograph and data relating to parish matters. The magazine is much sought after by emigrants from the area and those living away from home. People who might wish to give any material or pictures are reminded that the time is nearly up as the magazine will be going to the printers earlier than usual this year. Áine Máire Ní Flathatha
Fun & Games at PigFest
Pigfest 2010, which took place on Sunday, August 8th, raised funds towards building a new playground and sports field in Ballyconneely. It started a very bright morning and became a little cloudy towards lunch but thankfully held dry until the evening. Apologies to anyone who missed out on tasting the pig-it went very quickly this year! It was a good day for David Mullen who won the 4 Stone Weight Throw at 18ft 10”. He also won the 2 Stone Weight Throw with a throw of 31ft 6”. Michael Conroy’s team won the soccer contest. The kids certainly had a great time with
Cleggan/Claddaghduff Hoedown at the Pier Bar
Carna
Information Sought on Sewerage Schemes Fóram Iorras Aithneach, the Carna area Community Forum, has sought information under the Freedom of Information Act about sewerage schemes for the villages of Cill Chiaráin and Carna. Both of these proposed schemes were removed from Galway County Council’s programme of Water and Sewerage Schemes in recent months. The
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September 2010
There were great costumes on display and fun and games galore at the Pier Bar in Cleggan on Friday August 6th at the popular annual Hoedown. Photos: Getting into the spirit of the Wild West were (l-r): Lisa McNamara, Ciara McNamara, Danielle Wallace, Caroline Walsh, Eilish Flaherty and Anne-Marie Walsh. Gerard McNamara did his very best to stay on board the mechanical bucking bull in Cleggan at the Pier Bar’s annual Hoedown night. Photos courtesy of Pat Edwards
Connemara View Newspaper
Cleggan/Claddaghduff Festival of the Sea Fun
It’s back to school time and there is a definite hint of autumn in the air! Most of the holiday makers have headed back to their own home places and will return again in another season or next year. The Cleggan Claddaghduff Festival of the Sea was a roaring success! From whaling talks by Fergus Cahill and the gunlift from the wreck of
young singers, dancers and musicians. A really fun time was enjoyed by all as the “Siege of Ennis” and a few other sets were performed by the audience members faithfully accompanied by the great musicians Paddy Newman and Martin Conroy. In the coming months work will begin on next year’s Festival of the Sea as it will be the 30th Anniversary of the Festival and indeed of the founding of Cleggan Claddaghduff Community Council. Photos: Sack races proved popular with lots of youngsters hopping and racing on Omey. Heather Irvine, Barbara Coll and Rebecca Coll, winner of the Ladies triathlon event. Pictured after taking part in the Claddaghduff / Cleggan Triathlon 2010 were (l-r): Sean Nee, Noel Walsh and Dean Elcock.
Claddaghduff Bingo
Citizens Information Service
Bingo is on every Sunday night in Claddaghduff Hall, starting at 8:30pm. Come along and join in the craic and try your luck, everyone is welcome.
The Letterfrack Citizen’s Information service will be at Connemara West (Portacabin 4) on Tuesday 14th and Tuesday 28th of September from 1:30-4:30pm. 095-22000. 087-130-1100. www.citizensinformation.ie.
There will be a 10 week course of dressmaking classes (one night per week) in Claddaghduff Hall beginning in September. If you are interested in taking part or would like further information, please contact Maura Nugent at 087-135-7036. Places are limited so sign up early to avoid disappointment.
Maam
Dressmaking Classes
the Laurentic by Kevin McShane to the fabulous seafood buffet, historical walks, sports, soccer, badminton and fishing events and art exhibition by Caroline Canning and Cathal O’Malley. James Morrissey gave us a trip back in time with his talk on the Congested Districts Board-it was certainly a diverse programme of events and there was something to suit everybody. There were a few great Irish nights in Claddaghduff Hall as part of the Festival with the magic feet and sounds of the Devaney brothers, the delightful Emma O’Sullivan and the Junior and Senior Comhaltas from Clifden. A lot of local talent was also on display at the Irish nights with a great array of promising
Letterfrack
Back to School
Best of luck to all of the children returning to school after a lovely summer holiday and particularly to all of the new starters at Cleggan and Claddaghduff National Schools. Have a great time and remember that school days are the best days of your life!
Art Classes
Classes for anyone who would like to learn how to paint or brush up their skills will be starting in September in the Community Centre, Cleggan with Cathal O’ Malley. Please phone 095-44481 for further information or sign-up. Dorothy Conneely & Danielle Wallace
Connemara View Newspaper
Heritage Day in Maam
Photo above: The members of the Maam Women’s group. Back (l-r): Marie Quinn, Sheila Laffey, Janney Venneman, Marion Coyne, Patricia Kirwan-Doyle, Breege Gavin, Maureen Walsh and Jean Parker. Front (l-r): Sadie Coyne, Barbara Harrington, Bridgie Keane, Bridgie Ann O’Malley, Nora McHugh-King, Josie Coyne, Mary McHugh, Barbara Kelly, Rosemary Hanley and Maura Murphy. Continued on next page
The Maam Women’s Group held an impressive and hugely enjoyable Heritage Day in Ionad Pobail an Mháma on Saturday August 28th. A display of heritage items was particularly impressive and included an old glass baby’s bottle that belonged to one of the women’s husbands when he was a child and an original ‘His Master’s Voice’ Gramophone. There were also traditional farming and household items such as a donkey collar, a high nelly bicycle, a sewing machine, irons and old lamps and much more. The ladies also demonstrated a range of traditional skills including churning, baking and carding and spinning wool, knitting and crochet and patchwork. There was also a great range of talent by local musicians and dancers and a great raffle with lots of prizes. The day was a great success and very well attended and was a great testament to the hard work and dedication of the Maam Women’s Group which has now been in existence for 16 years.
September 2010
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Maam
Heritage Day in Maam continued
There was great music and dancing provided by members of the community at Ionad Pobail an Mháma on Heritage Day. Photos by Tom Broderick Photos & Catherine Pryce
Oughterard
Pirates of the ‘Corrib’ean On Sunday August 22nd the Corrib was a hive of activity with the annual Oughterard Raft Race or ‘Pirates of the Corribean’. The event was a community fundraiser with all proceeds raised from the event going towards the rental costs of the new children’s playground in the Corribdale Grounds in Oughterard. Photos Below: (Top) Second place in the paddled raft class at the Oughterard raft race representing The Boat Inn were Lee Cleggit, Colin Gibbons, Roisin Carter and Rachael
Keogh. (Below left) The winning team in the paddled raft class at the Oughterard raft race was (l-r): sponsor Brian Higgins of Faherty’s Bar, Carmel McDonagh, Christy Duggan, Fidelma Healy and James Stewart. Photos by Tom Broderick Photos
Clann News
Celebrating Community Clann Resource Centre will hold a Coffee Morning on the 10th September from 10.30am – 12.30pm to Celebrate Community. This is an opportunity for people in Oughterard and surrounding areas to find out more about what is going on in Clann Resource Centre for the autumn. Information about classes, projects, services and more will be available. Autumn Classes A number of classes are due to start in Clann in September including Drama, French, Sean Nos Dance, Pottery, Computers and much more. For details call into Clann or call 091-557-633. Positive Parenting Classes There will be an information evening in Killanin Community Centre on Wednesday 8th September at 8pm. This will be an opportunity for Parents to ask questions and find out more. This Parenting programme is supported by Clann Resource Centre, Oughterard in conjunction with Galway City and County Childcare Committee and will be held in Killanin Community Centre starting mid September. There are only 14 places on this course so if you are interested in taking part please contact Clann Resource Centre. Art Group Starting from the 7th of September, an Art Group will be meeting in the Clann Resource Centre, Station Road. They plan to meet every Tuesday morning from 10.30am to 12.30pm to paint, while having the company of other people in a lovely relaxing environment. Community Book of Inspiration Clann Resource Centre and uachtarARTS are putting a book together of all the ‘inspiring’ thoughts and practical tips that have helped people through ‘tough times’. We are looking for poetry, stories, quotes, pictures, recipes, household tips, remedies, anything that you have found helped you when money was short or you felt life was against you. There are application forms around some of the local shops and Tourist Office or you can drop in your ‘piece’ to Clann Resource Centre as soon as you can. (Closing date is 24th September). Positive Ageing Week This year Clann Resource Centre is hosting a number of events and activities for Positive Ageing Week from 27th Sept-1st Oct. This is our opportunity to celebrate ageing in a confident and fun way and we hope that you get a chance to attend some of the events. The calendar of events will be available in the Tourist Office, Clann Resource Centre and Health Centre. Care and Repair Are you a retired tradesperson or presently unemployed? Would you like to be part of a new project to help older people in the area? Care and Repair is a Repair Service that uses a pool of volunteers and handypersons to carry out small repairs and to complete minor home tasks for older people. Volunteers in effect provide a willing pair of helping hands to do a variety of small tasks that an older person may find difficult to do. We need 10 volunteers to make this project work. Training will be provided and you will be part of a team. To find out more please contact Cliona in Clann Resource Centre 091557-633 or 087-684-2865 Afternoon Tea Clann Resource Centre with Meals on Wheels hosts an Afternoon Tea every month for Older People in the area. If you would like to know more about this event or would like to get involved please contact Clann.
Culture Night Fashion Show
A Fashion show with a difference is coming to Oughterard as part of the very exciting Culture Night that will descend upon the village on Friday the 24th September. This Fashion Show will see the treasures from the Clann Nearly New Shop given a new lease of life on the streets of the Oughterard Village. The models will be using the streets of
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September 2010
Oughterard as their “catwalk” to showcase the collection of clothing that is available in the shop and calling into some of the local businesses along the way to give everyone a chance to see the show. The fashion show will also be running in conjunction with a Best Dressed Competition, and we are encouraging all age groups to participate as there will be prizes for the best dressed from a wide range of ages; from babies to the more mature men and women of the village. We hope to have a special guest judge on the evening who will also be participating in the fashion show. So we are calling on all Fashion enthusiast especially customers of Clann Nearly New Shop to take part, you can either sign up to be a model, or donate clothes to the Clann Nearly New shop.Application forms will be available in the Clann Nearly New Shop, or you can contact Clann Resource Centre on 091-557-633 / 557-634 or drop an email to clannres@eircom.net.
50 Years of Glann Church
There were great celebrations when Bishop Martin Drennan, accompanied by a flotilla of boats, arrived to celebrate mass on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the consecration of the Church of Our Lady of the Valley in Glann, Oughterard on Sunday August 15th. The Church of Our Lady, replaced St Brigid’s church, in which the foundation stone was laid by Archbishop John McHale on June 4th 1852. Photos below: Fr. Jimmy Walsh, Bishop Martin Drennan, Peter Tierney and Fr. Sean Manning planted a tree to mark the 50th anniversary of the Church. The organising committee for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Consecration of the Church of Our Lady of the Valley, Glann. Fr. Jimmy Walsh, John Dolan, Stephen Clancy, Mickey Moloney, Cllr. Seamus Walsh, Michael Mullally, Richard McDonagh (at the back), Mae Canavan, Gerard Joyce (behind), John Tierney, Kathleen Hanley, Kevin Clancy, Mary Margaret Moloney (front), Caroline Clancy, Patrick McDonagh (behind ), Martin Butler, Emmet McGloin, Patrick Clancy (back) Fidelma Clarke and Fr. Sean Manning. Photos by Tom Broderick
Rally Rolls into Oughterard The Connemara Gateway Hotel, Oughterard will be headquarters for the Annual Charleville Vintage & Classic Rally on the 3rd, 4th and 5th of September. The Charleville District Veteran, Vintage & Classic Club is one of the oldest in the Country. This year their annual run takes in Connemara and Westport. The rally will be arriving at the Connemara Gateway Hotel in Oughterard at approximately 6pm. On Saturday morning, after a brief display in the hotel grounds they will depart at 10.30am approximately with a visit to Kylemore Abbey, before they make their way to Westport. They will return to the Connemara Gateway Hotel that evening for dinner, music and dancing with the Showband Show. On Sunday morning at 11am there will be a display at the hotel with a local rally through Oughterard before the departure to Charleville. All interested enthusiasts are encouraged to come out and join them either at the hotel or in the towns en route. For more information see www.charlevillevintagemotors.ie.
Connemara View Newspaper
Hannah is Crowned Queen of Show! The 13th of August saw the Station House Hotel play host to the Clifden Pony Show Queen Selection. In flowing evening dresses, fifteen girls took to the stage under humorous probing and questioning by Master of Ceremonies, Damien Manning. Although it was Friday the 13th, it turned to be an auspicious night for the talent of Connemara. The room was humming with excitement as Áine Hannigan-Dunkley was escorted to the stage and started off the night’s proceedings. There was a phenomenal range of talent showcased on the night, from the classical piano playing of self described ‘effervescent’ Sarah DeLappe, to the soulful solo of Ard Móir girl Shibéal O’ Flatherty singing with her guitar. Some of the show stoppers on the night were a Broadway number by Olivia Corbett-Joyce and the powerful singer Carrie-Ann DeLappe. It wasn’t all musical numbers on the night though as Aimee Coyne got the crowd going with her sean nós dancing, while Edel Dowd taught Damien Manning her salsa skills. Some girls recited poetry, from boxer Christine O’Donovan and Elaine McCormack who recited poems in Irish, to Tara Connolly with her verses about Clifden. Even culinary skills were on display with Laurane Galand presenting home baked cookies to judges. Unfortunately, Chelsea Keane, who has danced at Disneyland was injured on the night. To a hushed audience the results were announced. In 3rd place came ‘hard working/fun loving’ violin playing Triona King who was celebrating her 18th birthday. Bronagh Flynn followed in second place. The Ardbear lady, who recited a self composed poem talked about her love of reading and dreams of studying English and Film. To shrieks of delight, Clifdens’ own Hannah O’ Sullivan was crowned as the Queen of Show for the 2010 Clifden Pony Show. The 5th year student talked about her jewellery making and her dreams of travelling. Playing decidedly solo, she sang an emotional Paolo Nutini number to the silent spectators in the full to capacity room. Hannah was presented with a €200 cheque from the Connemara Pony Breeders Society, a Gift Voucher from Design Platform, Galway Crystal and flowers from the Connemara Florist. Representing ‘Love Vintage’ and fluent in French, Hannah expressed her shock at winning, but said it was “a real confidence boost” and she was really looking forward to show day. Judge Orla Tobin, a veteran of seven years in the modelling industry, explained that she was looking for the participant’s inner beauty and confidence to shine through and remarked on how such competitions were “good for confidence and great for the area”. All three judges commented that not being from the community made the judging easier as the standard was so high. The money raised on the night went to support the Clifden Playground and event organiser Lavinnia Bray O’ Malley thanked all involved for contributing to the success of the night. Report & Photos by Eamonn McLoughlin Jnr.
Above: The participants in the Clifden Pony Show Queen 2010. Back (l-r): Triona King, Aimee Coyne, Chelsea Kane, Áine Hannigan-Dunkley, Edel Dowd, Sarah DeLappe, Laurane Galand and Tara Connolly. Front (l-r): Olivia Corbett-Joyce, Shibéal O Flaherty, Hannah O’ Sullivan, Christine O’ Donovan, Carrie Ann DeLappe, Bronagh Flynn and Elaine McCormack.
Photo left: (L-r): President of the Connemara Pony Breeders Society Mr. Dermot Power, Bronagh Flynn, Clifden Pony Show Queen 2010 Hannah O’ Sullivan, Triona King, previous Show Queen Eva Coneys and MC Damian Manning. Photos above (l-r): Damian Manning was shown some salsa steps by Edel Dowd from Carna. Triona King of Ballyconneely entertained the crowd with her violin playing. Shibéal O Flatherty from Ard Móir singing and playing guitar. Right: Sarah Delappe played piano for her talent piece.
Photos l-r: Olivia CorbettJoyce of Clifden sang a show stopping Broadway number showing off her tremendous vocal talent to rapturous cheers. Áine Hannigan-Dunkley of Renvyle was joined by her sister Fionnuala for a superb performance. In her role as Clifden Pony Show Queen 2010, Hannah O’ Sullivan attended the Showgrounds on Clifden Pony Show Day where she presented trophies, ribbons and prizes to the Champion ponies with Show Queen organiser Lavinnia Bray O’Malley.
Connemara View Newspaper
September 2010
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Upcoming events
Oughterard
The Dive and Beach Party organised by BBC’s Monty Hall and friends will take place this Saturday the 4th (see details on Page 4) which should be great. Next up is the Supreme Champion of Champions Pony Show on the 12th (see details on Page 17) and then the Roundstone Community Games will be taking place on the 18th. There will be more details on the Roundstone news on Connemara Community radio next Tuesday.
Works on Local Bridges Galway County Council has informed Cllr. Thomas Welby, that they hope to start works on the bridge, locally know as Carters Bridge, located between Oughterard and Seanaphestin in the very near future. An amount of €80,000 has been allocated from the 2010 Roads Budget to carry out the works. Currently there is a weight restriction on the bridge and in the event of it being closed, it would impose considerable hardship on people from Seanaphestin accessing Oughterard. Due to the fact that the school bus also uses this route it is imperative that the works are completed. Alternative access will be provided for road users. Cllr. Welby has also learnt that the Council aim to complete works on the bridge in Shanafaraghaun in the next few weeks. The money was allocated after successful representation by Cllr. Thomas Welby. A total sum of €75,000 has been allocated under the Improvement Grant for the repairs of Regional and Local Roads Bridges in the 2010 Roads Programme for these works. This bridge is critical for the local people as it forms the main access to all the amenities and services.
Renvyle
Commemorative Stone in Tooreena Cemetery Over 200 republicans gathered in Tooreena Cemetery on Sunday July 25th for the unveiling of a new Commemorative Stone. The Stone pays homage to all those from the Connemara and Galway areas who have played a part in the struggle for Irish freedom. Main speaker on the day, Tyrone MLA Barry McElduff spoke of the contribution so many people from the Galway area had made and referred to the fact that the largest mobilisation outside of Dublin Easter 1916 was from the Galway area. The main quote on the Stone is from Hunger Striker Bobby Sands and reads,“Everyone, Republican or otherwise, has their own particular part to play. No part is too great or too small; no one is too old or too young to do something.” Barry spoke of the part played by renowned Republican activists such as Liam Mellows and Thomas Whelan and the vision and courage they showed that helped to inspire countless others. However he stressed the importance of the contributions of so many others from the area, maybe lesser known, but who also suffered hardship and tirelessly struggled in the promo-
Roundstone Summerfest 2010
tion of the republican political agenda. A Commemorative booklet was put together for the occasion that includes a short history of the area and also a piece by Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams. If anyone is interested in obtaining a copy of this booklet then please ring Kenneth Coyne on 086-303-8887. Photo: Kenneth Coyne, Pam Conroy, Theresa Bradley, Cllr. Dermot Connolly, MLA Barry McElduff. Photo courtesy of Anna Marley
Roundstone
Mink Study Continues Conall Hawkins from the Galway University has sent me down some fresh gland juices that have been expressed from dead mink onto a filter to attract mink to enter traps. One filter will only last a week, and the rest must be kept in the freezer, to protect the potency. The dreaded mink are still around, so the vials have come at the right time. Conall has also sent me some maps of our area bringing in Ballyconneely, Clifden and Letterfrack. He needs me to mark grids where mink have been spotted and trapped as he is trying to put the finishing touches to a mink distribution map. If anybody out there could help me to accomplish this, I would be grateful and if anybody wants some of the filters just contact me on my mobile 086-821-5153.
Parish of Roundstone News
Our new Priest Fr Jarleth has now gone on holiday for the next three weeks, therefore time changes for Mass etc have had to change. In Roundstone there will be the usual Sunday Mass, but during the week there will be no weekday masses. However, there will be a pastoral prayer service where people can receive Holy Communion at 10am each day, so your support for the Pastoral group could become an important one to keep our church open. It has now become your and our responsibility to help the parish alive until such time we can have another P.P. I thought you might like to hear something of Fr McCarthy’s welfare. I called in to see Fr John and check out his new abode which is within walking distance of the basilica. Fr John was telling me that he was glad to be in retirement, but then on the other hand he was also glad to get back to work, not as a P.P. but on a smaller scale by saying mass every morning in the chapel. Any way he looks great and seems to be very contented. Funnily enough he actually admitted he misses us! We still wish this lovely man well. He is threatening to come back to visit his former parish some time. Let’s hope he does!
This year’s Summerfest has now come to a close and I personally know the hard work that goes in to running events like this so well done to the Committee who worked tirelessly and were rightly honoured by the RNLI for their tremendous fundraising over the years. There was a great buzz around the village with music on the street during the day and in the pubs at night and with a lot of children’s events, actually, more so this year. As well as sean nos dancing workshops, there was a teddy bear picnic and the children’s treasure hunt around the village. As an added bonus with the help of the Roundstone regatta, there was traditional Currach racing with a twist. On the downside, and I say this with hand in mouth, a disruptive element did come in, which we normally don’t see in the village and it has upset some people. This is something that will be looked into internally for the future. As with all events, whatever they maybe, there will always be some problems. I have noticed not for the first time, that we have come across a lot of young people from outside the area camping on unofficial sites, particularly on the beaches. We do ask them to clear up before leaving, dishing out black bags and to ask them to take some responsibility for the area that they are camping on. Some were brilliant and apologised for the mess and clearly made an effort to clean up but sadly there were those that had a complete disregard for this request. The point I am trying to get across is: where are the young people’s parents in this? Parents have in some ways lot to answer for, so our message is from Roundstone “Wake up Parents”. I don’t think some of the parents have any idea what their children get up to with this bad behaviour and often their language leaves a lot to be desired. The mess is one thing, but the drinking is another and a lot of these kids are not really that bad, just very misguided. Anyway, thankfully our beaches are in good order again for those that really appreciate what we have, and thank god we don’t have too much of these uncouth youth too often. Richard De Stacpoole
Mass on the Pier
We had a lovely mass down on the quay in August with Father Jarleth, with the blessing of the boats, the sea and village, and blessed all the people attending. Of course the sunshine made it quite special. The majority of the attendees were local, our choir were in full voice, the young readers and the ministers of the Eucharist all played their par. Let’s hope we can make it an annual event. At the end of the mass, Father Jarleth announced that the basket collection would go toward the refurbishment of the Community Hall, which came to €400. The fishermen made a wonderful effort in the clearing of the pier for the mass and our thanks to all those that helped in one way or another.
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September 2010
Roundstone Summerfest Photos: Dylan King gave a great sean nós dancing performance in the sunshine. Winners of the Inaugural Relay Rowing Race at Roundstone Summerfest 2010 were (l-r): Mark Browne, Rory Browne, Monty Hall and Conor Vaughan. Johnny O’ Connor (Connacht and Ireland Rugby Star) and Jackie King of Roundstone enjoying the craic and music at the Summerfest. Photos courtesy of Thomas King
Connemara View Newspaper
Clifden Show Domestic Arts Winners 6 Brown Hen Eggs: Alice Folan, Errislannan. 6 Duck eggs: Margaret Ann Mannion, Barnanoraun. Apple Tart: Ellen Gannon, Moyard. White Soda Cake: Ellen Gannon, Moyard. Brown Soda Cake: Mena Ryan, Clifden. 6 Biscuits by Child U16: Mairead Nee, Renvyle. (5th year in a row to win this class). Homemade Candy: Ellie Loftus, Claremorris. Jam Sponge Cake: Michael John King, Errislannan. Article of Crochet: Philomena Ni Neachtain, Carraroe. Patchwork/Applique/Quilting: Ann Molloy, Claddaghduff. Soft toy: Ann Maloney, Galway. Article of Needle Weaving: J. Martin, Rosmuc. Article of Decoupage: St Anne’s CNU, Clifden. Framed Photo by Adult: KK Krishnadas, Clifden. Stained Glass, painted: Oisin O’ Malley, Cleggan. Unframed Painting by Child U16: Roisin O’ Malley, Cleggan. Drawing by National School Child: Tara Scanlan, Navan. Painted Stone by National School Child: Lauren Walsh, Cleggan. Collage by Child U16: Alana Allen, Clifden.
Unclassified Craft by Child U16: Sarah Gonzalez, U.S.A. 6 Tomatoes: Peadar Glynn, Clifden. 6 Kerr Pink Potatoes: Micheal Heanue, Sky Rd. 3 Carrots: Joe O’ Malley, Sky Rd. 3 Garden Beets: Peadar Glynn, Ardbear. 3 Table Turnips: John McNamara, Renvyle. Collection of Useful Vegetables: Padraic McCormack, Ballyconneely. Vase of Wild Flowers: Alice O’ Neill, Dooneen. Arrangement of Garden Flowers: Patricia Sneddon, Clifden. Winners in Multiple Categories: Mary Gough, Beach Rd. Marmalade. Jam or Jelly. 6 Brown Scones. Unframed Painting by Adult Amateur. Maeve Vaughan, Faul. Framed Photo by Child U16. Seashell Article. 5 Onions. 5 Apples, State Variety. Mary Gibbons, Ardbear. Light Fruit Cake. Rich Fruit Cake. 6 Fruit Scones. Una Roche, Fahy. Boiled Fruit Cake. Hand Knitted woollen or cotton article. Porter Cake. Michael Gerard Coohill, Sky Rd. 6 Potatoes, any variety. 5 Stalks rhubarb. Teresa Lynch, Kingstown. Hand Knitted Cardigan/jumper to fit child U5. 3 Heads Lettuce. Rose Scanlan, Navan. Large Patchwork Quilt. Wallhanging.
L-R: Margaret Ann Mannion of Barnanoraun who won first place for her Duck Eggs. Mary Gibbons of Ardbear who won first prizes for her rich and light fruit cakes and fruit scones.
L-R: Mary Gough of Beach Rd, Clifden who won first prizes for her marmalade, jam, brown scones and unframed painting. Alice O’Neill of Dooneen with her wild flowers which won first place. Shona Allen and Alana Allen of Clifden who won the Collage by Child U16.
The members of the Clifden ICA who ran the Domestic Arts at the Clifden Pony Show (l-r): Brid Feneran, Barbara Lydon, Mary Kirby, Mary Jo Heanue and Mary Carey.
Above: Brother and sister Roisin and Oisin O’ Malley from Cleggan won red ribbons for their painting and stained glass artworks.
Top to Bottom from left: Michael John King of Errislannan who won first prize for his jam sponge with Andrew and Oliver King. Rose Scanlan won first prizes for her patchwork quilt and wall hanging. Her daughter Tara won first prize for her painted stone and she is pictured here with her son Matthew. John McNamara of Renvyle who won first place for 3 table turnips with his son Rex. Raymond Schley and Mena Ryan of Church Hill, Clifden who won first prize for her brown soda cake.
Photos above (l-r): Niamh Heanue of the Sky Rd. collected the red ribbon for Collection of Vegetables for her grandfather Padraic McCormack T.D. Teresa Lynch of Kingstown who won first prize for her hand knitted cardigan for a child under 5 and 3 heads of lettuce and Margaret O’Malley of Mannin who also won ribbons in a number of classes. Maeve Vaughan from Faul who won three firsts and two seconds.
Connemara View Newspaper
September 2010
Page 11
John Wayne Would Be Proud The first Connemara Rough Diamond Funventure Challenge took place in Renvyle and Letterfrack on Saturday August 28th and was a tremendous success. 99 participants from all over the country as well as many locals took to the beach in Lettergesh to kick off the event with the John Wayne Steeplechase. This saw participants clearing large bales of hay in an adapted homage to the famous racing scene from The Quiet Man. A 21km Bike Ride was next. Having gotten off to a great start, Claddaghduff ’s Brendan Scullion was plagued by punctures. The assault course claimed some victims along the way and hampered their progress but the laughs along the way were worth the effort. It was back to the bikes as far as Diamond Hill where the slightly wearied athletes made their way up and down the hill. First across the finish line was Paul Mahon (Multisport Adventure Ire) of Dublin in a time of 1:33:52. In second place was Andew Carroll of Lucan in a time of 1.35.10 with Brendan Monaghan (The Old Shams) of Tuam coming in third in a time of 1:48.01. In the Ladies Race,
Local Lads in County U14 Blitz Under 14 footballers from Renvyle and Clifden took part in a county blitz for Galway in Tuam Stadium on Saturday August 21st. Teams from Sligo, Roscommon and Mayo also took part. The first game up was Sligo and Roscommon. Both teams started slow but the game livened up in the second half with Sligo coming out on top 2-06 to1-04. Next up was Galway and Mayo. Six players from Renvyle and Clifden were chosen for this side: Brendan Regan, Barry Salmon and Karl McConway from Renvyle and Fechin Mitchell, Gearoid King and Colm Coneys from Naomh Feichin An Clochan. Galway were on top from the very beginning and Mayo
Betty Walsh of Newport was first in with a time of 1:51:45. Susie Mitchell of Dublin was next in 1:59.22 and Michelle Ryan of Athlone was third with a time of 2:00:55. Full results can be seen at www.connemararoughdiamond.com. There was a large local entry which also contributed to the fun and electric atmosphere of the event for both participants and spectators and ensured that the inaugural Rough Diamond Race is one to be recalled with laughter and great memories. Photo above: At the start of the race were Brendan Scullion of Claddaghduff (left) and Andy Carroll from Lucan who eventually finished second. Photo right: Staying balanced on the assault course. Photo left: Oisin Curran of Letterfrack and James Kane of Dawros descending the Diamond. Photos by Aoife Herriott Photography and Pat Coyne just could not seem to find the posts in this match. Galway were easy winners on a scoreline of 2-08 to 0-01. The third game saw Galway take on Sligo. The young Galway side put on another great display for another win by 2-12 to 1-01. Mayo beat Sligo in the fourth game 3-07 to 1-04 and the fifth game was Roscommon and Mayo. Both teams played well and they were very close up until the last few minutes. Roscommon then finished with a nice goal and a point to finish up 2-7 to 1-6. Galway and Roscommon contested the sixth and final game. It was fairly even in the first half, with Roscommon leading by a point when the half finished. Galway were not going to lie down however and notched up some great points from play as well as a goal to put them back on top on a score of 1-10 to 1-4. Galway had a fantastic day and the players on the team from North and West Connemara did their clubs proud. Photo: Some of the Connemara players who were selected for the County U 14 team. (L-r): Galway Coach Eoinnín Joyce, Brendan Regan, Barry Salmon, Karl McConway, Gearoid King, Fechin Mitchell, Padraig Conroy, Galway Coach. Not pictured: Colm Coneys. Photos & report courtesy of Ann Mitchell
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September 2010
Run for the RNLI September 12th sees the return of the popular RNLI 10K Road Race when participants will run and walk from Clifden town centre to the height of the spectacular Sky Road and back again. The race has proved to be a great draw for both locals and visitors alike in recent years with some serious athletes leading the charge while many others enter as teams from businesses or community groups, or even just walk with children and buggies. This year, there will also be the addition of three different age categories. An AAI permit has been applied for and chip timing will ensure accurate time. All money raised from the popular annual event 10k race goes to the Clifden Lifeboat. For more information call or text 085-168-0402 or email clifden10k@ irelandmail.com. Alternatively you can also enter online at www.runireland.com.
Community Games Win Eleven year old Kieran Molloy from Raha, Oughterard came home with a gold medal from the National Community Games in Athlone on Saturday August 28th. Kieran came first with a brilliant performance in the Under 14 ball throw event and is also a promising boxer. Photo courtesy of Tom Broderick Photos
Connemara SportsView
Clifden Angler’s Family Fishing Competition The Clifden Trout Anglers Annual Family Fishing Competition was held on Sunday 22nd August 2010 at Derrylea Lake, Clifden, in aid of the Galway Hospice. On the day over 50 anglers, both young and old, took part and a fantastic day of fishing and fun was had by all.
Clifden Regatta The 2010 Clifden Regatta was once again a great success and a very enjoyable event which took place on the weekend of August 6th -8th. In Class 1 IRC, Glen Cahill’s Joie De Vie took the honours of an entry of nine boats and six races. ECHO 1 was won by Rory Staunton’s Joxer. In the IRC2 Class, Jackie Ward’s Hallmark prevailed in an entry of five boats and also claimed the ECHO 2 Class. After the points tally was compared, Glen Cahill’s team and Joie De Vie claimed the overall prize.
Following the competition the weigh-in and refreshments were held at the Station House Hotel along with a raffle. The winners on the day were: 1st Luke Acton, 2nd Eamon Mannion, 3rd Viola Callaghan and 4th Maeve Vaughan. Luke Acton also won a prize for the biggest fish caught on the day. The Clifden Trout Anglers Committee are extremely grateful to all the adults and kids who participated on the day and especially those who sponsored all the prizes and food for the competition. The Station House Hotel provided wonderful hospitality and service and a total of €555 was raised for the Galway Hospice. Photos right: The fishing competition and biggest fish caught on the day prize was won by Luke Acton of Clifden, pictured here with his dad Joe. Luke was very keen to enjoy his big cup! Photos below (l-r): Second place was won by Eamonn Mannion. Viola Callaghan receives her prize from Danny Vaughan. Maeve Vaughan of Faul was fourth in the competition. Photos & results courtesy of Joe Acton
There was great support from visiting yachts from Galway Bay Sailing Club, who made up almost half of the racing fleet and the Mayo Sailing Club who also had a strong presence. All of the visitors once again were thrilled with the set-up and hospitality provided by the Clifden Boat Club and wider community. With just ten months to go until the return of W.I.O.R.A (West of Ireland Offshore racing association), the Clifden Boat club will continue to work hard to ensure that Clifden offers a great sailing experience to all who wish to avail of it.
Summer Hurling Camp Naomh Fechin An Clochan hosted a very popular summer hurling camp at the Clifden GAA pitch in August. A large number of kids from the area enjoyed the chance to improve their hurling skills with coaches from around the county and showed that the interest in hurling in the area looks set to grow.
Send in your news, views & photos to news@connemaraview.com or phone 095-22888 Connemara SportsView
September 2010
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Sunny Sparkling Watersports WaterSports Day 2010-15 years on the go and what a day. The sun shone down from a brilliantly blue sky and all was well with the world. Over 1,000 people, young and old, turned up on Glassilaun Beach, Renvyle to celebrate our 15th anniversary and what a day we had. Boat rides, kayaking and scubadiving on the water all went down a treat as always and onshore there were pony rides, children’s races and 45 sandcastles adorning the beach for our competition. There were spades shovelling sand to the clouds for hours contributing to this sand spectacle which comes to Glassilaun every year. Further up on the green the BBQ excelled. It was a proper little kitchen which sold out early and further food had to be supplied to keep the masses fed. This year welly throwing was the new addition to the fun of the day and of course there was the ever popular Bouncy Castle and slide for the younger kids. A Face Painter dropped everything and took up her brushes at the drop of a hat when we announced our regular painter could not make it. The revival of Tug Of War in the West ensured a great turnout for this event with teams travelling from far and wide to partake while their kids enjoyed the day in other ways. Sitting in the sunshine on the sidelines with another ex Tug of War woman from the Renvyle team of the 80s felt like watching Wimbledon to us both and we both said “this is the way to do it!”. The day seemed to get even hotter as we watched.
Mikey Mullen Memorial Darts The annual Mikey Mullen & All the Souls of the Sea Memorial Cup and Shield Singles Darts Competition will begin on Friday September 17th. The venues are as follows: • Friday Sept. 17th: Molly’s and Tir na nÓg • Saturday Sept. 18th: Diamond’s & Keogh’s • Friday Sept 24th: Renvyle Inn & Leavy’s • Saturday Sept 25th: Angler’s & Sweeney’s • Friday Oct 1st: Morans and O’ Malley’s • Sat Oct 2nd: Veldons and Glynsk • Friday October 8th: Vickers (Alcock) & Mac’s • Sat Oct 9th: Gaynor’s & Mannion’s Registration at each heat is 8.30pm sharp. Entry fee is €10 for adults and €5 for Under-16s. All heat semi finalists qualify for the Grand Final which will take place on Sunday October 10th at Oliver’s Bar, Cleggan with registration at 3pm sharp. The overall winner will receive the Memorial Cup and €150, with the second place receiving a trophy and €75. The Memorial Shield winner will receive €50 and the runner up €25. There will also be a raffle on the final night and all support for this very valued fundraiser for the local RNLI will be much appreciated as always.
Clifden Volleyball Club
The Clifden Volleyball Club currently has three children’s classes running in the Clifden Town Hall on Mondays. Adult play is currently not running but will begin again in September. There will be an open information meeting for all parents, students and anyone with an interest in Volleyball taking place in the Clifden Town Hall on Monday, 13th September at 8pm. All are welcome to attend. Should you have any questions or require additional information please contact John at 087-750-4697.
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Over 60 people worked their guts out on the day. We took in over €8,000 and everyone had a ball! A lot of organisation goes into the day to get it to the established standard. Once the bills are paid then all the profit goes to help sexually abused children. We will let you know the final amount as soon as possible. We send it to CARI, which stands for Children At Risk Ireland. I’m sure you will agree this is a worthwhile cause. Our aim is to raise much needed funds, raise awareness and offer alternative “fun” to kids to that of the drink/drug scene, and to have a brilliant day out for everyone before the winter draws in. The team has already met to discuss ways of improving the day even more in 2011-see you all then! Patricia Keane Photos: Huge crowds enjoyed the best weather on Watersports Day for years and tried out kayaking, diving, boat rides, pony rides and much more.
The winners of the Men’s Tug of War at Watersports Day 2010 were Jack Lydon’s Renvyle team. Back (l-r): Michael Burke, John Burke and daughter Clare, Darren Burke, Jason Walsh, Jack Lydon, John Coyne, Pat Coyne, Padraig Kerrigan. Middle (l-r): Robert Lydon, Danny Faherty, Anthony Coyne, Oliver Heanue and Neil Lydon. Front: Calum Burke and Eanna Walsh. The winners of the Ladies Tug of War were the Leitir Móir team. Back (l-r): Mairtín Joseph Seoige, Noirín Ní Chongaile, Máire T Ní Cheallaigh, Bríd Seoige. Front (l-r): Marie Uí Lochlainn, Áine Seoige, Dalia Ní Ghríofa, Fionnuala Ní Neachtain, Teresa Seoige and children Padraig Óg, Sóirse, Shauna, Aisling, Colm, Ciarán and Éabha. Photos by Padraic Lyden and Catherine Pryce
West Coast Summer Soccer Camp The FAI Soccer Schools Summer Camp, which took place in Tullycross in August was once again a great success, with lots of local boys and girls enjoying the chance to brush up on their ball skills and tactics, while also having lots of fun. (See photos right)
U-11 Training
West Coast United Boys Under 11 (Born in 1999 or 2000) soccer training has started at the Letterfrack Pitch to prepare for the coming season in the Galway League. New players are very welcome. Contact Finian Sheridan on 086-088-2941 for further details.
September 2010
Connemara SportsView
Connemara Community Radio Weekly Schedule Galway Minors Campaign Ended The Galway Minor team suffered a devastating loss to Cork in the semi-final of the All Ireland Minor Championship in Croke Park on Sunday August 29th. A free kick awarded to Cork in the last minute of injury time left the final score at 5-8 to 3-15, dashing the All Ireland Final hopes of the young Galway players who had scored five goals in what was a highly entertaining and eventful scoring match. At half time, the Galway side led by 2-5 to 1-5 and Lettermullen’s Peadar Ó Gríofa shone up front where he was a menace to the Cork defence, scoring two goals. Galway
Gráinne Mhaols Seek Senior Championship Status The Gráinne Mhaols adult football team will make their third appearance in six years in this year’s National League Division 1 Final on September 11th against either Milltown or Glenamaddy/Williamstown. The two sides drew 1-11 apiece in the play-off for the final on the weekend of August 28th and are set for a replay on Saturday September 4th. At the time of writing, a time and location venue for the final had not been decided, but it is hoped that it will take place at Pearse Stadium. The Connemara team experienced two defeats in the Connacht Senior Championship in recent years against Killannin in 2005 (3-8 to 2-9) and against Caherlistrane in 2007, when they suffered a serious collapse in the last period of the game. Gráinne Mhaols led by 3-8 to 3-7 with ten minutes to go when Caherlistrane scored five goals, leaving a devastated Connemara side reeling on a scoreline of 8-7 to 3-9. Despite the bitter nature of these past defeats, morale is high in the Connemara club looking to the final, and Manager Paul Gannon feels that the balance of established players with inter-county experience and the tenacity of younger emerging players will see the West Connemara side fight their corner right to the end. The management and coaching panel of Paul Gannon, John Francis Flaherty and Mary Young have been joined this year by physical fitness coach Margaret Moroney who has been extremely valuable in assisting the players to develop and maintain a keen competitive and athletic edge. A nucleus of ten or so players currently on the Gráinne Mhaols Senior Team will be instrumental as mainstays of this Championship final side. Significant experience at Inter County level is held by Double All-Star Lisa Coohill and present Galway player Mairéad Coyne who played against Cork in this year’s National League Division 1 final and was named Player of the Match in 2008 in the Connacht Junior Final for Connemara against Roscommon. Katie Coohill, Geraldine McTavish and the stalwart Maura Cloherty all bring with them their wealth of experience and familiarity with what is required in such games. Kim Young has worn the county colours at U12, U14 and U16 level and Chloe O’ Malley has also played for Galway at U12 and U14 level. Sisters Bríd and Mary Anna McDonagh will also draw on their experience gained while playing for Connemara and Galway respectively at Junior and Senior level. Outstanding goalkeeper Becky Heanue, described by Gannon as “the best goalkeeper in 10 years that hasn’t played for the county”, will be an integral part of the team as ever. Lorraine Heffernan, Paula Coohill and Noreen Coyne are also likely to figure strongly and younger emerging players who will be keen to get in on the action include Alison Coneys, Sarah Brittain, Emily Gibbons, Megan King and Doireann Sheridan. Speaking before the final, Paul Gannon said “With the experiences we have had in previous finals, we are certainly going into this one with our eyes open, but the blend of
Connemara SportsView
Broadcasting 11 am to 9 pm each day on 87.8 FM & 106.1 FM knocked in another three goals after the break but then entered a period without scoring for 15 minutes while Cork gained steadily. Clifden’s Jack Vaughan played 20 minutes of the first half while David Black was brought on as a late substitute. Moycullen’s Philip Ezergailis was badly missed from the defence as a result of injury. Renvyle’s Cathal O’ Neill also scored a superb point from play but the Galway team and Connemara lads will be sorely disappointed that their 2010 campaign ground to a halt in such a close fought and thrilling match. Cork will now meet Tyrone in the all Ireland Minor Football Final. Photo courtesy of Sportsfile maturity, experience and energy that we have at present is tremendous. Our dream has always been to become a full Senior Team in both League and Championship and we are tantalisingly close to achieving this”. The team will also be buoyed by their 4-16 to 4-06 Senior League victory over St Brendan’s in April of this year at the new Letterfrack pitch. In Round 1 of the Round Robin Championship Gráinne Mhaols beat Kilkerrin-Clonberne 0-10 to 0-5. A depleted team, missing six of the starting fifteen were defeated by Milltown 7-10 to 3-12, but Milltown’s subsequent unexpected defeat to Kilkerrin-Clonberne put the North Connemara side right back in contention. There was huge disappointment when Annaghdown declined to travel, resulting in an all too familiar scenario in recent years and this set up a ‘winner takes all’ situation ahead of the match against Glenamaddy/Williamstown. An epic battle of a game ensued. Gráinne Mhaols went 4 points down after 5 minutes, but rallied to go 7 points ahead after 20 minutes. Half time saw the local side trailing by 2 points. Ten minutes into the second half, they led by 3 points but with ten minutes to go they once again found themselves behind by 5 points. They stuck to the task however and proceeded to score 1-3 without reply in those final frantic minutes, to prevail by a single point on a score of 4-11 to 5-7. “That result was well merited”, says Paul. “The players didn’t panic, held their nerve and played to win right to the final whistle. Regardless of how the scoreboard looks throughout the match, we need more of the same in the final-the same resilience and determination that shone through to get us the hard fought win. I hope that our four years of playing in the Senior League will give us the edge and make it third time lucky this year”. While Gráinne Mhaols are no longer in contention for the League final this year they remain strong contenders for the Division 1 League Shield which is contested by the third and fourth placed teams. For now however, all minds within Gráinne Mhaols will be firmly fixed on the upcoming Intermediate Championship Final, when they will seek to dispel memories of previous defeats and grab the Holy Grail of Senior Championship football in 2011. Catherine Pryce
Next Issue: Thursday, October 7th Ad Space Reservation Deadline September 24th News Deadline: September 29th Directory Classified Deadline September 29th
095-22888 www.connemaraview.com September 2010
Weather Forecast & Community Notices at 3pm, 4pm and 8pm. Sponsored by Broderick Electric, Sweeney Oil, Gannon Sports and The Oil Company.
12-4pm: Repeat of previous evenings broadcast. * Indicates Sponsors
Monday: 11am-12 Noon: The Chat Show with
Heather Heanue and Colleen Curran. 4-5pm: Listen Here with Pete Ball. 5.05-6pm: Hooked on Music with John Duane. *Clifden Chamber of Commerce. 6-7pm: Alternate Weeks - As Gaeilge with Caitriona Nic Ghiollaphadraig OR Heyday with Bobbi O Regan. 7-8pm: Talk Sport with Bernard Lee. *Galway CoCo. 8pm: Roundstone Report with Richard de Stacpoole and Anne Conneely. 8.15-9pm: Ann’s Mixed Bag with Ann Conneely. Tuesday: 11am-12 Noon: Magazine Programme with Cliona Sheehan. *Connemara View Newspaper. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Peter Hamilton. 5.05-6pm: Jack’s Spot with Jack Tomlinson. 6- 7pm: Live with John Dunne. 7-8pm: Community Matters with Pat Walshe. *Tullycross and Cashel Credit Unions. 8pm: Cashel Report with Bernard Lee. 8.15-8.25pm CIC. 8.25-9pm: Community Matters continued. Wednesday: 11am-12 Noon: FORUM Programme with Cathy Keane and Brendan O’Malley. 4-6pm: Gateway Hour with Mickey Mac. 6- 7pm: My Kind of Music with Martin Conroy. *ClifdenSupply Centre.7-8pm: Lift the Latch with Michael O’ Neill and Helen King. 8pm: Clifden Report with Breandan O’Scanaill. 8.15-9pm: Music with Pat Keaney. Thursday: 11am-12 Noon: Magazine Programme with Mary Roe. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Kathleen O’Brien. 5.05-6pm: Fáilte with Mary Corbett Joyce. 6- 7pm: The Food Show with Janet O’Toole. 7-8pm: The Great Outdoors with Breandan O’Scanaill. *Acton Construction.8 pm: Cleggan Claddaghduff Report with Mary Gordon O’Toole. 8.15-9pm: Specialist Music with Breandan O’Scanaill. Friday: 11am-12 Noon: Friday Fix with Samantha Heanue & Priscilla Diamond. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Tonya Ni Chuirínn. 5.05-6pm: The Friday Feeling with Margaret Sheehan. 6-7pm: Lyrical Allsorts with Linda O’Malley. 7-8pm: Injury Time with Dave O’Halloran. *AIB Clifden. 8pm: Ballyconneely Report with John O’ Malley. 8.15-9pm: American Country with Brendan Ridge. Saturday: 11am-12 Noon: Monkeying Around with Heather Kearney. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Tommy Roe. 5.05-6pm: Pretty Good Day so Far! with Sean Halpenny. 6- 7pm: Blue Highways with Lol Hardiman. 7-9 pm: Music Spectacular Alternate Weeks - Shelter from the Storm with Dave O’ Halloran or Coast to Coast with Paul Phelan. Sunday: 10-11am: Sounds a Bit Irish with Eamonn McLoughlin.11am-12noon: Mass from Clifden. 4-5pm. Listen Here with Pete Ball. 5.05-6pm: Words & Music with Kathleen Faherty. 67pm: Footappin’ Time with Tom Mongan. 7-8pm: Senior Side of the Street with various presenters. *FORUM. 8pm: Ballinakill Report with Paddy Gannon. 8.15-9pm: Decades of Hits with Michael Coyne.
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Connemara Rugby News Local Successes Colin Reilly from Cleggan had firsthand experience of playing Connacht Under 19’s rugby recently against Munster at Old Crescent, Limerick. Connacht were helped to their victory thanks to a try scored by Aaron Conneely in the Connacht/Munster V Leinster/Ulster opening game of Aviva Stadium, Lansdowne Rd, on Saturday the 31st of July. Aaron, an Irish Youth International, is a son of past Community School Player Eamon Conneely of Patches, Claddaghduff. In the early 1970’s Eamon was a brilliant prospect but emigrated to England at an early age. Eamon played in the same position as Aaron and was a brilliant tackler as well as an attacking player. He won a number of underage trophies while at the Community School. Ian McDonagh of Cleggan is in the under 20’s Interpro squad so well done Ian.
Training Jimmy Screen is back to help prepare the Connemara Team for the new All Ireland League which starts on October the 2nd at the Monastery Grounds. Bernard Keaney will be absent for a number of weeks due to family commitments. We wish Bernard and Mary Anne every blessing.
who have proper training to ensure good core stability and posture in lifting. It should also be ideally used in pairs. John Malone is available to coach players in the proper technique.
Sympathies Our sincere sympathies go to the extended Kearns family on the sad death of Tom Kearns. Tom was born and reared on the family farm at Derrygimlagh, Ballyconneely and became a very successful businessman in many areas.He was also proud of his native area where he had a home and was a regular visitor with his wife and family. His funeral was attended by many Connemara friends and colleagues in Longford. Our thoughts are with his wife Maureen and son Tom, a Connacht Interpro Rugby star and all other family members. The death of P.J Barry of Ballynew, Cleggan was a great shock to the community and family. He was a very popular young man and was a brother of Connemara Rugby player Kevin Barry. He is sadly missed by his family.
Rugby Visitors Welcome visitors to Clifden recently were Billy Glynn, the
Oughterard Golf Club
4th Jones Ferriss (7) 39pts. CSS: 36pts. 10/08/10 18 Hole Stableford: 1st Darragh Mulkerrins (20) 44pts, 2nd Alan Deacy (12) 43 pts, 3rd Stephen Thornton (22) 39pts, (19B9, 8B3), 4th Pakie Kellegher (17) 39pts, (19B9, 6 B3), 5th Tim Mullins (8) 38pts (20B9), CSS: 36 PTS. 11/08/10 Ladies 18 Hole Stableford-Irons only competition: 1st S. Butler (36) 33pts, 2nd B. Richardson (22) 33pts, Gross: M. Molloy (13) 17, 3rd I Greene (23) 30pts .Category 0 – 20: 1st U. Hernon (16) 25pts, 2nd P. Lee (15) 25pts, Category 21 – 28: 1st M. Loughman (28) 28pts 2nd R. Lee (27) 27pts, Category 29 – 36: 1st M B Joyce (35) 27pts, 2nd C. Kennedy (36) 27pts. 15/08/10 18 Hole Stableford competition sponsored by Sutton Oil: 1st Hugh Walsh ( Jnr.) (4) 38 pts (20b9), 2nd Gerard Cunningham (4) 38 pts (18b9), Gross Robert Monroe 30 (14b9, 8b6), 3rd Noel Cheevers (15) 37 pts (20b9), 4th Noel Murtagh (22) 37pts (19b9, 15b6), 5th Michael F. Kyne (19) 37 pts (19b9, 12b6), CSS: 37 Pts. 18/08/10 18 Hole Stableford Competition sponsored by Britvic: 1st Martin Callagy (11) 41 pts (22B9), 2nd Richard O’Brien (19) 41 pts (21b9), Gross Gerard Cunningham (4) 33 Gross pts, 3rd John Palmer (10) 40 pts, 4th Paul Dillion (14) 39 pts, 5th Joe Earls (21) 38 pts (24b9). CSS: 70. 18/08/10 Ladies 18 Hole Stroke sponsor Galway Crystal Trophy: 1st M. Forde (26) 69, 2nd A. Murphy (27) 73, Gross Niamh Keogh (16) 90, 3rd M. O’ Grady (26) 76, 4th A. Faherty (24) 77 B6, 5th U. Hernon (16) 77, 6th G. O’ Reilly (29) 77, 7th M. Fallon (14) 78 B9, 8th P. Lee (15) 78 B9, 9th T. Lydon (25) 78 B9. CSS: 75. 24/08/10 18 Hole Stableford 1st Brian Kelly, 1840Pts (22B9), 2nd Richard O’ Brien 17 40Pts (21B9), 3rd Sean O Reilly, 6, 39Pts, 4th David Lee, 8, 38pts. CSS 36Pts. 29/08/10 18 Hole Stroke Competition Sponsored by T.C.R.S. 1st Martin Lee, 13, 67 Nett, 2nd Eanna Keleghan, 10, 68Nett (37B9,22.33B6). Gross: Ger Cunningham 3, 73 Gross3rd Adrian Howe 18, 68Nett (37B9,26B6), 4th Noel Murtagh 21, 69 Nett (32.5B9), 5th John Palmer, 10, 69 Nett (36B9)CSS 70 Nett.
01/08/10 Captains Day-Captain: David Walsh: 1st Overall Michael Lee (T) (18) 170 Nett, 2nd Bartley Lydon (16)171 Nett, Gross Cathal Jordan (4) 186 Gross, 3rd Tom Hargrove (17) 171.5 Nett, 4th Alan Deacy (12) 172 Nett, 5th Richard Joyce (6) 173 Nett, 6th Tom Naughton (27) 173.5 Nett, 7th John Carr (11) 174.5 Nett, 8th Sean Coyne (18) 175 Nett, 9th David Healy (7) 175.5 (B9 36.5), 10th Gerard Cox (11)175.5 (B9 37.5), 11th Peter Lee (14) 176 (B9 36.0), 12th John Morley (12) 176 (B9 42.0), 13th Cathair Conneely (5) 176.5 (B9 36.5), 14th Frank Walsh (13) 176.5 (B938.5). 03/08/10 Open Day Competition – 18 Hole Stableford: Men: 1st Christy Niland (14) 42pts, 2nd Darragh Mulkerrins (22) 41 pts, (21B9) 3rd Niall Malone (12) 41pts, (18B9)
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The All Ireland Rugby League teams who are to visit Connemara this season are already arranging their hotel bookings and local Hotels are giving a very reasonable rate, which is great news.
Sponsors Connemara RFC is badly in need of new sponsors for the new season. In what appears will be a very difficult year we will welcome all contributions big or small with great thanks as we all want to see Connemara thrive. More information on sponsorship opportunities from businesses and individuals can be seen on www.connemararfc.ie. Sincere congratulations to Irene King and James Staunton on their wedding at Abbeyglen Castle Hotel on August 20th. Family members and friends, as well as friends from Connemara Rugby Club were in attendance. Irene is the busy secretary of Connemara Rugby Football Club and James is a prominent committee member and assistant secretary as well as a referee with the Connacht Branch. Matt O’ Sullivan
Thanks to Mark Foyle for letting us know that the Rugby Club funded weights have arrived and are now assembled at the Community School Gym. There is a new bench with lifting arm and impressive looking ‘Heavy Rack’ rated up to 400kg which has also extra bars for dips and pull ups. Some extra weight discs have also been purchased. While this equipment is for club players only, it should be used by those
04/08/10 Singles: Ladies: 1st Elmagh Killeen (23) 35pts 2nd Thecla McDowell (20) 33pts (b9), 3rd Mary Lennon (14) 33pts, CSS: 33pts. Men: 1st Derek Joyce (6) 35pts, 2nd Gareth Anthony (6) 34pts (b9), 3rd Michael Kerin (16) 34pts Junior: Hugo Mays (18)38pts CSS: 35pts. 08/08/10 V Par: Ladies: 1st Kathleen Burke (22)+4, 2nd Marie Burke (27)+3, Gross Mary O’Reilly (14)-10, 3rd Evelyn King (21)+2, CSS: +1. Men: 1st Joe Lavelle (20)+6, 2nd Pat Casey (15)+1(b9), Gross Ger O’Donnell (5)-6, 3rd Ciaran Arnold(13)+1,CSS: -1. 09/08/10 Parent and Child Competition: 1st Julie Donnellan (16) / Fergal Moran (13) 66, 2nd Martin Higgins(12) / Dara Higgins(14) 68, 3rd Terry Corcoran (16) / Liam Corcoran (28) 69. 11/08/10 Singles: Ladies: 1st V Sanderson (33) 41pts (b9), 2nd M Shaw (29) 41pts, 3rd M Boucher Hayes (26) 40pts. Mens: 1st G Anthony (6) 39pts, 2nd G Geary (10) 38pts, 3rd E Foyle (12) 37pts. 15/08/10 Singles: Ladies:1st R Hurson (21) 37pts, 2nd E King (20) 36pts,Gross: T DeCourcey (8) 21pts, 3rd B Conneely (24) 35pts. Mens: 1st E Foyle (12) 39pts, 2nd D Kennedy (8) 38pts, Gross G O’Donnell (6) 28pts, 3rd C McDonnell (19) 37pts (b9). 18/08/10 Stableford: Ladies: 1st S Nolan (20) 35pts, 2nd M McDonnell (29) 32pts, CSS: 33pts. Mens: 1st C McDonnell (19) 34pts, 2nd G Anthony (5) 31pts, Junior: H Mays (17) 35pts CSS: 33pts. 22/08/10 V Par: Ladies: 1st M Gilligan (34) +2, 2nd M Daly (16)+1 Gross: T Decourcey (8)-9, 3rd K Jackson (15)-2 (b9) CSS: 0. Mens: 1st M Dolly (14)+5 (b9), 2nd O McDonnell (12) +5, Gross P Flaherty (8) -6, 3rd M Fitzpatrick (16) +2 CSS: -1.
Bookings
Wedding
Weights Programme
Connemara Golf Club
next Connacht Man to become president of the Irish Rugby Football Association and Donal Lenihan, the former great Irish and Lions Star and commentator. He and his wife also had a deserved break and drinks with a number of the Connemara Club Members during their holiday. Donal is well acquainted with the Connemara Rugby Scene and would love to come to a future function as would Mr. Glynn. Photo (l-r): John O’ Brien, Matt O’ Sullivan, Donal Lenihan, Billy Glynn and Liam Keogh.
Oireachtas Golf in Connemara The Oireachtas Society held three days of a golf society outing in the Connemara Championship Golf Links Club from August 23rd to 25th celebrating the Presidency of former MEP Mark Kililea. There were over 120 Ministers, T.D.’s and Senators from all political parties present including An Taoiseach Brian Cowen and leader of Fine Gael Enda Kenny. Photo top: Mark Kililea presents Paddy Burke with his prize. Photo below: An Taoiseach Brian Cowen, Derick and Priscilla McNamara Healy of Connemara Championship Links, Mary Vaughan and Fine Gael Leader Enda Kenny. Photos courtesy of Priscilla McNamara.
Golfers at the Abbeyglen
The Seamus Brennan, Oliver St. John Gogarty and the Molly Keaney Memorial Cup Golf Competition took place at Connemara Golf Club in early August. Pictured at the dinner at Abbeyglen Castle Hotel later that night were: Back (l-r): Bobby Molloy, Ann Brennan, Billy Glynn, Nollaig Browne, (Front l-r): Judge Geoff rey Browne and Margaret Glynn. Photo courtesy of Paul Hughes
September 2010
Connemara SportsView
Henry and Michael O’ Toole with Supreme Champion of Clifden 2010 Village Linnet and Reserve Champion Castle Cailin Ard. See report on page 21.
Supreme Champion of Champions September 12th The finest of Connemara ponies will once again enter the Show Ring for the last Connemara pony show of the season at the Supreme Champion of Champions Show at the Farrell’s Field Showgrounds in Roundstone on Sunday September 12th. Fifteen in-hand classes will begin from 10am sharp with entries limited to those who have won first place in Connemara Pony Shows in Ireland this year. The 16th class will see one pony named as the Supreme Champion of Champions 2010 and claiming a Cash Prize of €2,000. The Reserve Champion will receive €500, with prizes of €100, €75 and €50 for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places in each class. Guest of Honour, who will open the Show is Joanne Fox, journalist and editor of the Horses section with The Farmer’s Journal. Joanne has a Masters in Animal Science from UCD and also breeds sport horses with her husband. She
has also been a regular visitor to Connemara over the years visiting her aunt and uncle Eleanor and Seán Mannion of Clifden. The Cleggan beach dressage riders will also perform a Musical Ride during an interval which promises to be a great event for spectators. The brand new Ford Fiesta car being offered by Roundstone Events, which is a nonprofit organization, will also be on sale and the monster raffle also includes more than €2,000 of prizes as well as the car. Once again, the popular parade of winning ponies will take place in Roundstone village, providing a great spectacle and atmosphere to round off the day. Entry fee per pony is €10. Entries to: Sue Joyce, Roundstone, Co. Galway. For more information contact Paddy ‘Yank’ McDonagh at paddyyank@yahoo.com, 095-35833 or 086-346-9372.
Connemara View Newspaper
Show Results and Photos Cashel Show ................................... Page 18 Carraroe Show ................................ Page 19 Claddaghduff Show ......................... Page 20 Clifden Show ............................. Page 21-23 Oughterard Show ............................ Page 24 Photo above: Charlesland ‘Say You Love Me’ , the only Clifden Stallion to reach the finals of the Loose Jumping Competition in Clifden. Jane Andrews’ pony, nicknamed ‘Dessie’, came in 8th out of 32. Dame Coral Misty Jane. Sire Whitwell Senator.
Connemara Pony Fair September 18th A sale of Registered Connemara ponies will take place at the Farrell’s Field Showgrounds in Roundstone on Saturday September 18th. Ponies and owners will arrive at the Grounds from 8am sharp. For more information contact Paddy ‘Yank’ McDonagh at paddyyank@yahoo.com, 095-35833 or 086-346-9372.
September 2010
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Cashel Pony Show Class 1: Yearling Colt. Naughton Perpetual Trophy: Michelle Conroy’s Dolan Pete, Ballyconneely. Class 2: Two and Three Year Old Colt. Glynsk House Trophy: Patrick Conneely & Ann Conroy Conneely’s Errismore Rocky, Ballyconneely. Class 3: Yearling Filly. Cashel Credit Union Perpetual Cup: Rory Sweeney’s Heather Aishling, Ballyconneely. Class 4: Two Year Old Filly. Sid Worley Perpetual Challenge Cup: Caillin Conneely’s Letterdyfe Rachel Rose, Roundstone. Class 5a: Three Year Old Filly. Zetland House Perpetual Challenge Cup: Caroline Lydon’s Fuinseóg, Carraroe. Class 5b: Junior Championship. Perpetual Challenge Cup: Patrick Conneely & Ann Conroy Conneely’s Errismore Rocky. Reserve: Rory Sweeney’s Heather Aishling. Class 6: Gelding Any Age. Oliver Coyne Challenge Trophy: Doireann Gorham’s Kingstown Paddy, Galway. Class 8: Four Year Old Mare. Marcus King Memorial Shield: Peter Molloy’s Dooneen Stephanie Rose, Claddaghduff. Class 9: 5-9 Year Old Mare with Foal. Faller Perpetual Cup: Michael Dunne’s Fair Lady, Moycullen. Class 10: Nine Year Old Mare without Foal. Micheal Conroy Challenge Cup: Eamon Burke’s Manninard Sprigeen, Castlegar. Class 11: Ten Year Old Mare and Over. Dr. Percy Weissman Perpetual Cup: Jane Andrews’ Coral Misty Jane, Clifden. Class 12: Connemara Mare over 20 years. Seán Conneely’s Perpetual Challenge Cup. Martin Joyce’s Starlit, Recess. Class 14: Colt Foal. Colt Foal Trophy: Michael Holmes’s Carnane Commandea, Clifden. Foal Champion: Michael Holmes’s Carnane Commandea. Class 15: Owen Reilly Class Confined to Ponies within Cashel Postal area: Sheila Folan’s Derrysella Bella, Cashel. Class 16: Stallion Class. Jackie Naughton Memorial Trophy: Eamon Burke’s Clooneile Cashel, Castlegar. Class 15a: Championship: Boulger Family Perpetual Challenge Cup. Eamon Burke’s Clooneile Cashel. Reserve: Jane Andrew’s Coral Misty Jane. Photos from top (l-r): Supreme Champion of the Cashel Pony Show 2010 Eamon Burke’s Clooneile Cashel. Best Dog at the Cashel Pony Show was Roisin McQuinn’s Pomeranian. Patrick Conneely and Ann Conroy Conneely’s stallion Errismore Rocky claimed both the Junior Championship and the Reserve Champion title at Cashel.
Mary Ellen Conroy and Lehenagh Joy. Sheila Folan and Derrysella Bella, winners of the Owen Reilly local class at Cashel.
Rory Sweeney’s Heather Aishling won the yearling filly class and was also reserve Junior Champion. Results & Photos courtesy of Mary Teresa Nee
Connemara Pony Mountain Prince, ridden by Anthony O’ Brien took part in the single jumping competition for 6 to 7 year olds at the R.D.S. in Dublin on Saturday July 31st and on the final on Sunday August 1st. Mountain Prince is six years old and was bred by Michael Naughton of Gortmore, Rosmuc from his mare Glencarrig Roisin, also a good show pony that has won at many shows around Ireland including the R.D.S. Mountain Prince also qualified for the Starfinder of the Future competition which took place at the pony/young rider National Championships in Barndown, Co. Wexford. Photo courtesy of Martin Naughton
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September 2010
Connemara View Newspaper
Seó Chapaillíní An Cheathrú Rua Buaiteoirí Roinn 1: Láir Bliana Cláraithe (Yearling Filly): Padraic O Cualáin, Indreabháin, Roinn 2: Bromach Fireann Bliana Cláraithe (Yearling Colt): Peter O Malley, An Cheathrú Rua Roinn 3: Láir Cláraithe 2 Bhliain (2 yo Filly): Seamus Keady, An Spidéal Roinn 4: Bromach Fireann Cláraithe 2 Bhliain (2 yo Colt): Feichin & Kerry King, Baile Uí Chonghaile Roinn 5: Láir Cláraithe 3 Bliana le/gan searrach (3 yo Mare with/without foal): Cailín Conneely, Cloch na Rón. An Capaillíní Sóisir ( Junior Champion): Cailín Conneely, Cloch na Ron, (Glencarrig Rosemarie). Reserve: Feichin King, Baile Uí Chonghaile, (Bunowen Castle Johnny Fox) Roinn 6: Láir Cláraithe 4-6 Bliana le/gan searrach (4-6 yo Mare with/without foal): Gearóid Curran, Maigh Cuillinn. Roinn 7: Láir Cláraithe 7 mBliana agus ós a chionn le searrach (Mare 7 yr & upwards with foal): Caroline Ní Loideáin, An Cheathrú Rua Roinn 8: Roinn Speisialta do Chapaillíní nach raibh ós cionn 13.2 nuair claraíodh iad. (Special section for ponies no more than 13.2 when registered): Cathy
Connemara Pony Sales Report The annual August Connemara Pony Sales were held at Clifden Mart on Satuday 21st and Sunday 22nd August, 2010. From a catalogue of 368 ponies, 297 came through the ring. From these, 185 lots were sold. Well known horse dealer, Bob Sweeney from Ballina, Co. Mayo purchased 32 lots. These ponies ranged in price from €1,700 to €4,000 and the majority of these are bound for markets abroad. The highest priced lot over the two days was a 5 year old, Class 1 mare, sold by Ann Connaughton, Athlone and purchased by Mr. A. Pendeur from the UK. This mare fetched €4,700. Lot 37, a 4 year old mare, by Cremully Western Melody and out of Western Lady, was sold by Michael Mitchell, Bushypark, Galway and purchased by Ed Crotty, Co. Waterford for €4,600. Peter Fleming from Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo produced his 12 year old mare, Ballygarris Dawn
Send in your news, views & photos to news@connemaraview.com or phone 095-22888 Connemara View Newspaper
Snow-Coyne & Martin Coyne, Leitir Fraic Roinn 9: Láir Cláraithe 20 Bliain agus ós a chionn le/gan searrach (Mare 20 yr & upwards with/without foal): Caithríona Ní Ghuairm, Baile Uí Chonghaile Roinn 10: Láir Cláraithe 7 mBliana agus ós a chionn gan searrach (Mare 7 yr & upwards without foal): Martin Feeney, Maigh Cuilinn Roinn 11: Searrach Fireann (Colt Foal): Sean Walsh, Baile Uí Chonghaile Roinn 12: Searrach Baineann (Filly Foal): John Joe O Neill, Caherlistrane Roinn 13: Comórtas Speisialta do Mhuintir an cheantair ó Chasla go Leitir Mealláin (Local Class): Caroline Ní Loideáin, An Cheathrú Rua Roinn 14: Stail 3 Bliana nó ós a chionn Cláraithe (Stallion 3 yr and over): Sean Ó Fátharta, Indreabhán An Capaillíní is Fearr ag an Seó (Supreme Champion of the Show): Gearóid Curran, Maigh Cuillinn (Glencarrig Rose), Reserve Sean Ó Fátharta, Indreabhán, (Inverin Rocky). Photos (counterclockwise from top right): An Capaillíní is Fearr ag an Seó (Supreme Champion), Gearóid Curran as Maigh Cuillinn le Glencarrig Rose. Caithríona Ní Ghuairm (Láir cláraithe 20 bliain) le Tom MacLochlainn. Seáinín Ó Fátharta as Indreabhán le Inverin Rocky (Reserve Champion). Connie Ní Fhátharta ag bronnadh an Corn Cuimhneachain Éamonn Ó Fátharta do Caroline Ní Loideáin. An Capaillín Sóisir ( Junior Champion) Glencarrig Rosemarie le Cailin Conneely. Peter O’Malley as Caoranbeg, An Cheathru Rua le Fionn. Torthaí as Íde Nic Dhonncha agus pictiúri le Michelle Coyne.
with her colt foal at foot by Newbridge Bosco in pristine condition. Joop de Jong from Holland purchased this duo for €4,000 and was very pleased with his purchase. Lot 117, a 5 year old gelding broken and ridden with 15 SJI points fetched €4,000. Padraic Cahill from Ballina was the vendor. Lot 108, a 7 year old gelding by I Love You Melody, broken and ridden and a finalist in the 2006 All Ireland Loose Jumping was sold for €3,600. Highest demand was for 5 year old and upwards, broken and riding. Quality brood mares with desirable blood lines were well sought after. This was evident with the two highest priced ponies, Lot 52 & Lot 37. 19 ponies sold from between €3,000 and €3,750. 29 lots sold from the price bracket €2,000 to €2,900. 33 ponies were sold overseas, 15 to France, 16 to the UK and 2 to Holland. 14 ponies were sold to Northern Ireland with the remainder of the lots being sold throughout Ireland. The next Connemara Pony Sale in Clifden will be held over 5 days, commencing Thursday, October 21st until Monday October 25th (inclusive), the Bank holiday weekend. Entries for this sale close on Friday, September 17th 2010. All enquiries, phone 095-21861. Padraic Heanue
September 2010
Palomino Quarter Horse Foal This palomino coloured foal owned by Maggie Courtade in Moyard is more than likely the first Quarter Horse foal born in Connemara. The mare was shipped to Ireland in May of 2008 at the age of 19 and bred to a Quarter Horse stallion in Kildare in June of 2009. The foal went 30 days over his due date, just two days off the world record and finally made his appearance on June 12th. Photo courtesy of Maggie Courtade
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Claddaghduff Show Connemara Pony Winners Yearling Colt: Michelle Conroy, Ballyconneely, Dolan Pete. Yearling Filly: Patrick King, Errislannan, Derryeighter Freya. Two Year Old Colt: Feichin and Kerry King, Ballyconneely, Bunowencastle Johnny Fox. Two Year Old Filly: Bridget and Peter Lee, Ballyconneely, Kilmurray Heather. Three Year Old Mare: Peter Molloy, Claddaghduff , Dooneen Starlight. Three Year Old Registered Colt: Declan O’Flynn, Annaghdown, Stackport Prince Junior Champion: Peter Molloy, Claddaghduff , Dooneen Starlight. Reserve: Bridget and Peter Lee, Ballyconneely, Kilmurray Heather. Young Handlers Class: Darwin O’Halloran, Moyard, Monaghan’s Town Tara. Bay Class: Peter Molloy, Claddaghduff, Dooneen Starlight. Four-Six Year Old Mare with/without foal: John McLoughlin, Letterfrack, Gentle Kate. Seven-Eleven Year Old Mare with/without foal at foot: Sean Conneely, Clifden, Glenellen’s Fancy. Twelve- Nineteen Year Old Mare with/without Foal: Tommy Conneely, Clifden, Glenside Lady. 20 year Old Mare and over: Thomas Mullen, Moyard, Hilltop. Filly Foal: Feichin and Kerry King, Ballyconneely, Bunowen Castle Lady Gaga. Colt Foal: Michael Holmes, Clifden, Carnane Commander. Champion Foal: Feichin and Kerry King, Ballyconneely, Bunowen Castle Lady Gaga. Reserve Champion Foal: Michael Holmes, Clifden, Carnane Commander. Stallion Class, 4 Year Old and Over: Malachy Gorham, Clifden, Kingstown’s Fionn. Supreme Champion of the Show: Malachy Gorham, Glenbricken Farm, Clifden, Kingstown’s Fionn. Reserve: John McLoughlin, Letterfrack , Gentle Kate.
Sheep Winners Pair of Scotch Black Face Lambs: Henry O’Toole, Clifden. Pair of Crossbred Ewe Lambs: Henry O’Toole, Sky Road, Clifden. Crossbred Ram Lamb: Michael Joyce, Kingstown. Scotch Black Face Ram Lamb: David Regan, Renvyle. Pair of Scotch Black Face Ewe Hoggets: Stephen King, Roundstone.
Photo right: Malachy Gorham does a lap of honour with his stallion Kingstown Fionn Supreme Champion of the 22nd Annual Claddaghduff Pony Show on Sunday August 8th after winning the O’ Halloran Perpetual Cup. Below left: The John Kane Perpetual Cup was won by Peter Molloy of Claddaghduff with Dooneen Starlight in the 3 year old mare with or without foal at foot class. Dooneen Starlight was also Junior Champion of the show. Below right: Raymond Conneely’s stallion Bay Shadow won the Mikey Heffernan Perpetual Cup for the best turned out pony. The cup was presented by Mags Heffernan, seen here with her niece Annie Flaherty (left). Bottom left: P J Burke from Oughterard won the Mikey Heffernan Perpetual Shield for the best turned out pony in the junior section with his yearling filly Cregrush Hanna. Ann Molloy presented him with the Shield. Bottom right: Feichin King of Ballyconneely won the Feichin King Cup for the Champion Foal with filly foal Bunowen Castle Lady Gaga.
Pair of Scotch Black Face Ewes Rearing Lambs: Stephen King, Roundstone. Pair of Scotch Black Face Ewes Not Rearing Lambs: Ronan Nee, Cashel. Ram-Any Breed other than Black Face Mountain, 1 yr & over: Sean Halloran, Roscahill. Scotch Black Face Hogget Ram: Brendan Joyce, Recess. Scotch Black Face Aged Ram: Brendan Joyce, Recess. Champion Blackface of the Show: Brendan Joyce, Recess. Reserve: Ronan Nee. Champion Breed other than Black Face: Sean Halloran, Roscahill. Reserve: Michael Joyce.
Cattle Winners Continental Bull Calf Born After 01/01/10: Gerry Roche, Fahy. Continental Heifer Calf Born After 01/01/10: Henry O’Toole, Clifden. 12 Months Old and Over Continental Male: Padraig Keane, Renvyle. 12 Months Old and Over Continental Female: Padraic Keane, Renvyle. Baby Beef Champion of the Show: Ciarán Roche, Fahy. Overall Champion of the Show: Ciarán Roche, Fahy. Photo left: Brendan Joyce of Recess won Champion of the Claddaghduff Sheep Show with his black face hogget ram. Photo right top: Ciaran Roche of Fahy, Clifden, won Overall Champion of the Cattle Show as well as Champion in the baby beef class with his Belgian Blue calf. The Reserve Champion was Padraic Keane (right) with a no tooth Belgian Blue heifer. Also pictured is Oisín Davin. Photo right: The overall champion of the Claddaghduff Dog Show was Martina Keenan’s Rottweiler Ella with Martin Farragher’s Polish Lowland Sheepdog Mossy in Reserve.
Results courtesy of Susan Cockburn. Photos courtesy of Tom Broderick Photography.
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September 2010
Connemara View Newspaper
Clifden Pony Show
ful Bobby and Bridie Bolger Memorial Cup. The Bolger’s son The Clifden 2010 Pony Show will be remembered as the and daughter John and Triona day “the best in the west” came on show at the new state Bolger awarded the cup to the of the art surface in Ring One. Following major renovawinner of the four to six year old tions carried out during the year, patrons enjoyed seeing stallion class. Bobby and Bridie the in-hand and jumping competitions taking place on lush were very much part of Clifden green grass that resembled the surfaces of Croke Park or the and the Connemara pony and R.D.S. many missed them. Henry O’Toole and the Council must be congratulated Malachy Gorham from on moving with the times and making such progress, this Glenbricken Farm in Clifden was money well spent. Show Chairman Henry O’Toole will produced his stallion Kingstown surely always remember 2010 as he bred and exhibited the Fionn (Monaghanstown FionnSupreme Champion of the Show, his own seven year old Kingstown Silver) in lovely Village Linnet (Laerkens Cascade Dawn -Village Girl) condition when taking the senior (Mervyn Kingsmill-Village Grey). He also bred the Reserve stallion class and Peadar O’Toole Champion and former Roundstone All Ireland Champion Memorial Trophy, ahead of of Champions, Padraic and Nicola Heanue’s Castle Cailin John Varley’s Coolin America Ard (Rocky -Castle Dame) (Mervyn Kingsmill-Village (Coosheen Stormboy-Illanurra Village Linnet and Henry O’ Toole receive the trophies and sash of Star), and Castle Countess, dam of the Junior Champion Lady). Supreme Champion of Clifden 2010. Canal Princess by Hazy Match, owned by Padraic Hynes Spectators from all over from Canal Stage who proudly accepted the Lee Memorial Europe and Australia were privileged to see so many of stallion Cashelbay Prince, expertly ridden by his regular cup from Johnny Lee. our best bloodlines and breeding stock competing in the partner Padraic Flanagan, adding yet another championMichael O’Toole exhibited triple Clifden champion Casmare classes. Noel Noonan from Manor Connemara Ponies ship sash to his collection. Owned and bred at Cashel Bay tle Urchin (Abbeyleix Owen-Castle Dame) who stamped in Ardbear, Clifden was elated as he lifted the precious Stud in Connemara “Prince” also won at the R.D.S. Robbie her approval on the new sod when retaining her unbeaten Archbishop’s Cup after his Rosscon Windy Lady (Laerkens said, “Winning at Clifden means so much, I am so excited.” class status by winning the ten to fifteen year old mare class Cascade Dawn-Winnie) bred by P.J.Watson in Athlone, Claire Devlin’s Blackwood Fernando and Alicia Devlin as well as the Mannion Cup & O’Sullivan Memorial Shield. won her class. “Lady” was exhibited by Johnny Conneely Byrne stood Reserve. The morning session and young stock was judged by Mifrom Ballyconneely, whose daughter Maeve exhibited her Owner Elizabeth Maher from Naas on Mister What was chael Naughton from Rosmuc and Joanna MacInnes from to secure the young handler’s class. Although Noonan has judged Champion Ridden Pony ahead of Bertie O’ HalCumbria. Michelle Conroy, a granddaughter of the legendry only been involved in Connemara’s over the past few years loran’s Young Walt under Padraic Flanagan. custodian Tommy O’Brien won the opening class and Canhe said “It’s beyond my wildest dreams to win a rosette at As always, the ring stewards and show committee did a non Thomas Harty cup with her quality yearling colt Dolan Clifden and to achieve this in one year is something that wonderful job as so many ponies came through the rings all Peter, (Dolan Mick-Kate Dolan Lass). In the filly section breeders try all their lives to do”. day. The staff at the Station House Hotel were also superb Tom Clancy from Moycullen produced Loughcon Daisy (I Breeder Noel Sweeney from Ballyconneely has produced and extremely helpful to all of the visitors. Love You Melody-Loughill Molly) and took the red rosette many champions and his true to type mare Doonhill Lass Ruth Rogers and Lady Carew Cup ahead of Malachy Gorham’s Kings(Innellan Kestral-Cartron Abbey) certainly looked the part In-Hand Winners town Diana by Linsfort Barney and former Clifden chamwhen winning her class and the Val Moran Perpetual Cup. Yearling Colt: Michelle Conroy’s Dolan Pete, by Dolan pion Kingstown Dana. The six or seven year old mare class and American Society Mick-Katie Dolan Lass. Feichin and Kerry King from Ballyconneely won a strong Cup saw some lovely mares come before judges Ciaran Yearling Filly: Tom Clancy’s Loughconn Daisy, by I Love two-year-old colt class with Johnny Fox (Glenayre Silver Curran and Hubert Laurent from France. It had class and You Melody-Loughill Molly. Fox-Doohulla Lucky Star) ahead of Ben Ban Cracker Jack quality all the way as Henry O’Toole’s eventual Supreme Two year old Colt: Feichin & Kerry King’s Johnny Fox, by owned by Stephen Fahy from Corrandulla. Champion Village Linnet held her initial position ahead Glenayre Silver Fox-Doohulla Lucky Star. In the two year old mares class, won by Canal Princess, of Sean Dunne’s All Ireland Broodmare champion Banks Two year old Mare: Padraic Hynes Canal Princess, by Hazy Hazlerock Star (Glencarrig Prince-Smokey Star) exhibited Vanilla (Teglstrup Duke-Banks Do Do) and Patrick ConMatch-Castle Countess. by Kieran McGrath from Claregalway was placed second neely’s Bunnagippaun Fuchsia. Three year old Mare with or without Foal: Caillin Conand later won the Mullen cup for the best visiting pony. Prior to being judged Reserve Supreme Champion, Padneely’s Glencarrig Rose Marie by Glencarrig Prince-April Reserve Junior Champion Glencarrig Rosemarie (Glenraic and Nicola Heanue’s Castle Cailin Ard won the sixteen Rose. carrig Prince-April Rose) owned by Caillin Conneely from years old and over class and the Jimmy Jones Memorial TroThree year old Stallion: Terence Sweeney’s Dunloughan Roundstone collected the Killannin cup in the three-yearphy. Her sire Rocky (Cuchulainn-Silver Fort) owned by Joe Troy, by Currachmore Cashel-Bay Lass. old mares ahead of Cathy Stuffle’s Aoife’s Pride. Gorham was Supreme Champion at Clifden in 1991, and Junior Champion: Canal Princess. Reserve: Glencarrig The Donal Kenny Memorial Trophy was awarded to she has won many top prizes. The Heanues are fortunate to Rosemarie. Terence Sweeney from Ballyconneely who has a nice colt have her in their yard and her contribution to the good of Stallion four to six years old: Patrick McGrath’s Lucky in Dunloughan Troy (Currachmore Cashel -Bay Lass) who the breed is enormous. Rebel, by Currachmore Cashel-Lucky Mavorneen. looks sure to collect more red ribbons. He stood first ahead Annika Hobler from Moycullen exhibited Jim MulContinued on next page of Declan Ridge’s Earl of Clonriff (Earl of Newbridgelaney’s Lishmar Coleen (Ashfield Bobby Sparrow-Moy Sonoma). Dawn) to win the Progeny class. “Colleen” stood proudly It was a nostalgic moment when Pat McGrath from with her daughters Lissroe Princess by Glencarrig Prince, Claregalway with his Lucky Rebel (Currachmore Casheland Michael Conneely’s Ardbear Capo by Abbeyleix Owen. Lucky Mavourneen) had the honour of receiving the beauti- Chilham Clicquot owned by Conor Joyce from Ballyconneely and bred by Vanessa Compton in Cambridge won the small mare’s class. The Foal Championship and Tom King Cup judged by Liam Welsh from Mayo and Susan Hellum from Norway went to Sean Burke from Ballina, for his strapping colt Rathlacken Sunset (Rosscon SunriseCrannard Katie the Kid). Canal Purple Heather (Clooshgreen PrinceVillage Heather) owned and bred by Padraic Hynes was Reserve. The William Diamond Perpetual Memorial Trophy for the best overall pony handler was won by Joe Burke from Corrandulla, who handled his stallion Josie Jump in the three-yearCailín Conneely with his three year old filly Glencarrig old stallion class. Rosemarie who won her class at Clifden for the second Pictured after the Clifden Pony Show 2010 was officially opened were (l-r): The Working Hunter Champion year in a row, having won as a two year old in 2009. She President of the CPBS Dermot Power, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and was Barbara and Robbie Fallon’s was also named reserve Junior Champion. Food Brendan Smith T.D. and Deputy Frank Fahey T.D.
Connemara View Newspaper
September 2010
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In-Hand Winners continued Stallion seven years old and over: Malachy Gorham’s Kingstown Fionn, by Monaghanstown Fionn-Kingstown Silver. Mare four and five year old with or without Foal at foot: Noel Noonan’s Rosscon Windy Lady, by Laerkens Cascade Dawn-Winnie. Mare six or seven years old with or without Foal at foot: Henry O’Toole’s Village Linnet, by Laerkens Cascade Dawn-Village Girl. Mare eight to nine year old with or without Foal at foot: Noel Sweeney’s Doonhill Lass, by Innellan Kestral-Cartron Abbey. Mare ten to fifteen years with or without Foal at foot: Henry O’Toole’s Castle Unchin, by Abbeyleix OwenCastle Dame. Mare sixteen years old and over with or without Foal at foot: Padraic & Nicola Heanue’s Castle Cailin Ard, by Rocky-Castle Dame. Progeny class - the progeny of a registered mare or stallion: Jim Mullaney’s Lishmar Colleen, by Ashfield Bobby Sparrow-Moy Dawn. Best Registered pony bred, owned and exhibited by owner resident outside Connemara: Hazlerock Star Reserve-Lucky Rebel. Best Registered pony bred, owned and exhibited by owner resident inside Connemara: Village Linnet. ReserveCastle Cailin Ard. Supreme Champion: Village Linnet Reserve- Castle Cailin Ard. Colt Foal: Sean Burke’s Rathlacken Sunset, by Rosscon Sunrise-Crannard Katie The Kid. Filly foal: Padraic Hynes Canal Purple Heather, by Clooshgreen Prince-Village Heather. Champion Foal: Rathlacken Sunset. Reserve -Canal Purple Heather Mare not exceeding 138 cms: Conor C. Joyce’s Chilham Clicquot, by Calmore Champagne Charlie-Chiltern Quota. Young Handlers Class: Rosscon Windy Lady (Maeve Conneely). William Diamond Perpetual cup for the best handler in the show: Joseph Burke, Corrandulla with Josie Jump (three year old stallion class) Gelding: James Winterbotham’s Ciarog, by Mac OwenGlasog. Ridden Class Winners Lead Rein: Marjorie Hardiman’s Creganna Belle, by Hazy Match-Prospect Suzy ( Jane Field). Ridden pony (U-14): Siobhan Cazabon’s Park Wren, by Annilaun Oscar-Park Erica (Alana Cazabon-Sullivan). Four to five year old pony Rider (O.12): Francis Ryan’s Festy Jane, by Ashfield Festy-Shannon Star (Elaine Creaven). Six to eight year old pony Rider (O.10): Elizabeth Maher’s Mister What, by Village King-Meadow Harp, (Elizabeth Maher). Ridden pony rider (O.10 and U.16): Lisa Hockley’s White Star, by Westside Mirah-Sheva Justice, ( Jenny Lindsay). Ridden pony rider (O.16 and U.21): Marjorie Hardiman’s Prospect Suzy, by Tulira Robuck-Justice Pet, (Shauna Finneran). Ridden pony rider (O.21): Katherine Wilkinson’s Delmrose Applejack, by Village Canal Beau-Riversdale Rioja (Katherine Wilkinson). Ridden Stallion rider (O.14): Bertie O’Halloran’s Young Walt, by Castlestrange Fionn-Dangan Suzy, (Padraig Flanagan). Ridden Side Saddle: Florence Brindley’s Dunlewey Roller, by Ashfield Plover-Dunlewey Raffaella (Caroline Brindley). Champion Ridden Pony: Mister What Reserve: Young Walt
Four year and over (W.H.) Stallion (O.14): Barbara & Robbie Fallon’s Cashelbay Prince, by I Love You MelodyCoosheen Pheasant (Padraic Flanagan). Supreme Champion W.H. Pony: Cashelbay Prince Reserve: Blackwood Fernando Family W.H.Pony (U.16): Patrick O’Connor’s Donecoy Dorothy, by Oxhill Mairtin-Aran Donecoy (Patrick O’Connor).
Loose Jumping Winner Peter Garrahy’s Frenchill Silver Belle, by Tempo Active Atlas-Frenchill Silver Lady.
Puissance Competition Six ponies successfully completed the course: Ashfield Village, by Ashfield Bobby Sparrow-Sherwood Princess (Zara Brennan). Cashelbay Prince, by I Love You Melody-Coosheen Pheasant (Padraic Flanagan). Carnabay Mirah, by Westside Mirah-Grange Sandy (Daren Walsh). Bobby Sparrow Blue, by Ashfield Bobby Sparrow-Misty Maiden (Daren Walsh). Doon Ladie, by Silver Shadow-Doon Kate (Lisa Leonard). Dungimmon Knight, by Silver Shadow- Robeen Lass (Shane Goggins).
Working Hunter Winners Four to six year old Potential W.H.: Jackie Hockley’s Golden Island Sparkey, by Kilmore Diamond-Golden Beauty (Lisa Hockley). Four year old and over W.H. (U.16): Antionette Geoghegan’s Westmir Queen, by Westside Mirah-Cantaharba Lady (Chloe Roche). Four year old and over W.H. (O.16): Claire Devlin’s Blackwood Fernando, by Ferdia-Dancing Queen (Alicia Devlin Byrne).
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Winner of the Working Hunter Championship at the Clifden Show 2010 was Robbie Fallon’s Cashelbay Prince ridden by Padraig Flanagan.
September 2010
Photos from top (l-r): Junior Champion at Clifden was Padraic Hynes and Canal Princess. Terence Sweeney of Ballyconneely with his three year old winning stallion Dunloughan Troy. Malachy Gorham and Kingstown Fionn, winner of the Stallion, seven years and older class. Noel Sweeney from Ballyconneely with Doonhill Lass, winner of the Mares eight to nine years old class. Clifden Pony Show Queen Hannah O’ Sullivan with Priscilla Diamond of Renvyle who presented the William Diamond Perpetual Memorial Trophy to best overall pony handler Joe Burke from Corrandulla. Photos by Andrew Downes, Ruth Rogers, Padraic Lyden, Priscilla Diamond, Mary T. Mullin & Catherine Pryce.
Menlo Boy, owned by Diamond’s Equestrian Centre of Renvyle was pictured at the Clifden Show ridden by Jessica Lee from Headford. The 8 year old Registered Connemara Pony Stallion was awarded Grade A status earlier this month after competing successfully on the Grand Prix Circuit over the past 2 years with many wins to his credit. Menlo Boy (Castlegrange Fionn-Festy Lady) joins a very select and elite group of Connemara stallions and he is the only Grade A Stallion Registered in Connemara. This year he enjoyed many wins including Loughrea, Duffys Claregalway and the Headford Show and will be heading to the Millstreet Derby in October.
Connemara View Newspaper
Musical Dressage Ride
The Connemara Pony Musical Ride by the Cleggan Beach riders was performed in Clifden on Friday August 20th on Performance Day. We were very lucky to have the use of the wonderful new ring one, as the going is second to none and the whole setting enhanced the performance. The ride was nearly cancelled on the morning of the show as Siobhan’s pony Cu na Mara was very lame and she had to use substitute pony Park Wren. Wren and Siobhan did a super job considering it was Wren’s first time doing the routine. It is hoped to improve on the ride during the winter months and we would welcome new riders who have access to a well schooled grey Connemara pony to contact us if they would like to join the group. It would not have been possible to put this event together without the support of The Connemara Pony Breeders Society, Siobhan Cazabon-Sullivan, Susan McConnell, Mitch-
ell’s Restaurant, Seaside Nurseries, Dr John Casey, Noreen Casey Pharmacy, Enda Keane and Margaret Gorton who helped to put together the costumes. Our musicians Peter Carey, Liam Aspell and Brian Holmes also gave up many evenings for practices and performed beautifully on the day. Judy Cazabon Photo above (l-r): Alwyn Moran/Blaze of Glory, Deirdre Holmes/Cnockban Yasha, Siobhan Cazabon-Sullivan/Park Wren, Alana Cazabon-Sullivan/Taibhse na Mara, Ruth Brennan/ Draiocht na Mara and Emma O’Toole/Cashel Bay Joe. Photo above left: Musical Ride Musicians (l-r) Brian Holmes, Liam Aspell and Peter Carey. Photos courtesy of Judy Cazabon
Bolgers Remembered at Clifden Photo below: Patrick McGrath with Lucky Rebel, Winner of the 4, 5, and 6 year old Stallion Class. The cup was presented by John and Triona Bolger (Cup and Class Sponsor). The CPBS honoured the late Bobby and Bridie Bolger for their contribution to the Connemara pony and the society at this year’s Clifden Show with the introduction of a new class, the Four, Five and Six year old stallion class. It was a fitting class for the Bolger family as Bobby’s father Jack won 17 stallion classes in Clifden and Bobby showed Coral Prince in 1993 to win the Open Stallion class and Supreme Championship as a four year old. Whereas Bobby commanded the show ring, holding the record of class wins with the now retired Coral Misty, Bridie introduced and hosted the ever successful showdown with John Joe O’ Neill. Photo courtesy of Paula Bolger
Puissance Magic There was a large entry to the Clifden Dog Show with the Best in Show and Diana Geddes Perpetual trophy being awarded to Cyril Hyland of Oughterard and his Doberman Pinscher Caesar (right). Reserve Champion was Chris Allender from Dorset, U.K. with his German Wire Haired Pointer Juno.
Photo above: Alana Cazabon Sullivan of Cleggan on Park Wren, winners in the Ridden U14 Class at the Clifden Show.
Photo right: The Performance Day on Friday August 20th was a great hit with the crowds once again who enjoyed a Driver’s Display. Mairtín Nee of Cashel was one of the drivers taking part in the sunshine.
Connemara View Newspaper
September 2010
Page 23
Oughterard Agricultural Show The 48th Annual Oughterard Agricultural Show took place in bright sunshine on the weekend of August 28th and 29th. The International Connemara Performance Championships took place on the Saturday with classes for ponies, horses, donkeys, sheep, cattle, dogs and cats, Domestic Arts and more took place over the weekend. Photos courtesy of Tom Broderick Photos and Ruth Rogers
At the Oughterard Show on Sunday August 29th, the champion filly foal of the show (Irish draught) was Clodagh’s Dancer (Crosstown Dancer-Bonoham Lady), owned by Siobhan and Eoghan Kennedy from Co. Tipperary. (L-r): Siobhan Kennedy, Judges Mary and Jimmy Mangan and National President of the Irish Shows Society Mr. John O’ Hara. Left: At the Oughterard Show sheepdog trials, Walter Butler presented the Christy Butler Cup to Kieran Doherty, whose dog Chad came first in its class at the show. Right: Paddy O’Flaherty presents the Paddy O’ Flaherty shield to Michael Hastings from Louisburgh who had a winning
Ronan Tuohy of Whitegate’s September heifer was overall Champion in the Pedigree Interbreed Championship. Also pictured is Gary Neenan.
Left: Declan Ridge and Margaret Sheehan of Cashel were presented with the Fernville Stud cup from John Canavan on winning the three year old stallion class with Earl of Clonriff. Below left-right: Jonathan Molloy’s Suffolk ram won the Supreme Champion of the Sheep Show section. (L-r): Declan Molloy, judges John Stewart and Frank Butler, Cllr. Tom Welby presenting the Tom Welby Perpetual Trophy to Jonathan Molloy and sponsor Liam Dolan. The Reserve Champion in the cattle section were the Neenan brothers from Co. Mayo with a January heifer. The overall Champion of the Cattle show was won by Gerry Lenehan from Co. Galway pictured here with Judges Albert Bagnall and Seamus Acton.
Photos l-r: John Byrne and his German Shepherd Kane were named Champions of the Dog Show in Oughterard. The Reserve Champion of the Dog Show was Vanessa Hernon’s beagle Hugo. Caroline Brindley puts Dunlewey Roller over the jumps during the performance championships at Oughterard on Saturday August 28th.
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September 2010
Connemara View Newspaper
It is amazing to think that another summer has come and gone. This year I seemed to have spent less time in the garden, probably due to work, visitors and the weather. The garden looked fairly well all through, although I was a little disappointed with the colour. It seemed that everything peaked a little early; all the flowers bloomed at the same time but didn’t last as long as normal. However, to counteract that the window boxes have been better than ever, not just for me but looking around Clifden there are some spectacular displays. Most of these are on business premises but the Tidy Towns group and their willing volunteers deserve a special mention for the great work they carried out this year on our behalf. I hope the work will be reflected in the marks achieved, but whatever the results, thank you to everyone involved from the people of Clifden. My trees have also put on a great display. The growth has been excellent and the autumn colours are showing now, some wonderful reds and oranges and I will be awaiting the gold. As I have said many times, we have to plant the correct trees to give us the colour due to our mild climate. The two families I would recommend most are Oaks and Acers. I have written about these on a number of occasions and will come back to it again in the future. This is a great time to take cuttings as many shrubs have finished flowering or are just about to do so. In Connemara, there are generally very few problems with getting cuttings to take, although drying out due to wind can cause die back. If this happens, it is often enough just to water well and leave for some time as they can make a comeback. I am very lazy when it comes to taking cuttings. I generally just stick them in the ground or in large pots and see what happens. Of course there are a few simple rules which I try to follow. The soil I use in the pots has a lot of gravel or small stones mixed through the compost. This helps anchor the cuttings and also keeps the soil free draining. The stones also seem to help in the production of roots. Look at the way plants seed into gravel and you can see the truth in that. I take the cuttings by breaking them off with a heel. This is where the small branch meets a bigger stem and I pinch out
Business Notes Spice Up Your Life
A new dining experience has now been provided by Basmati Indian Restaurant on Market Square, the first ever Indian restau-
the top growth or any flowers or seed heads. Once these are planted and kept sheltered and watered you should have new plants in a few weeks time. However, it is best to allow them get well established before moving them. The taking of cuttings is most important if you are planning on changing the position of a plant or have to do major cutting back. These are high risk times for plants and sometimes even with the best care, plants don’t survive, so it is a good idea to try and start with some new ones. I was mentioning to someone recently about the planting of spring bulbs and was amazed how the person responded. Basically they said that they never plant bulbs as they seem so expensive and not really worth the effort. I didn’t enquire too deeply but presumably they had bought something expensive and flashy which had disappointed. This happens from time to time, but there is nothing expensive about daffodils and narcissi and the return is great. From this month on the shops will be full of them. Some will be fancy and expensive, but most will cost only a few euros. There is always a big debate as to how you are going to plan the spring campaign. Will you go for mixed colours or just one-should they be planted out or kept in containers? There is no easy answer and I will be doing all the above and more. Starting off with the planting out, I have at least three areas which will get a drift of bulbs. This should give me a drift of colour and these will be mixed. By that I mean that I will use a variety of types and colours. I usually buy a few large sacks of mixed daffodils and narcissi and I often mix in a few named varieties, although I tend not to worry about the names. Two of these areas are new areas dug this year with a path running through and some of my new trees which are starting to establish. One area will be a grassed area which needs a spring boost. I will be planting up various spots around the edges, but maybe a few places in the middle as well. To plant in the irregular manner, I dig large irregular holes and plant anything up to fifty bulbs in these. Of course there can be as little as five or nine so it depends on the space available. It is better to plant in odd numbers and don’t make the plantings formal, like soldiers on parade. If the holes are in the grass I carefully remove the top scraw and replace
Korma curries, while those looking for a bit more fire should try the delicious Jal Ferezi’s, Madras, or Vindaloo. The meat and ingredients used are top quality and the excellent service ensures a great experience, from individual diners to large groups which are also catered for. Pupadoms, pickles and chutneys are also provided free with meals and traditional beers and an extensive wine list add to a relaxed and enjoyable environment. A take away menu is also available. Basmati Indian Cuisine is open from 4.30-11pm daily and for a Sunday Lunch Special from 1-4pm. For more information call 095-22619.
New Gateway Dancefloor rant in Clifden. Basmati is a sister restaurant to Tulsi in Galway city, which has twice been named the Best Ethnic Food restaurant in Ireland. Head Chefs Nur Nabi, formerly of Tulsi and Rajesh Sharma who has worked as a curry chef in the U.K. and Dubai, bring their expertise and fine eastern cuisine skills to Clifden providing an exciting and very reasonably priced dining experience. Basmati’s extensive menu ensures that there is something to suit every palate and staff are happy to advise on levels of spiciness and flavour. There are mild but tasty options all throughout the menu and the chefs will also modify dishes to taste for curry enthusiasts who like an extra kick in their curry. Milder tastes will enjoy the Pasanda or
The Connemara Gateway Hotel in Oughterard is making good use of a newly refurbished function room which is self contained with a brand new stage and lighting and sound system. The attractive and unusually shaped room
Connemara View Newspaper
it after the planting. There is no after care, just leave them alone and they will reward you year after year. I will also be planting in pots and this is almost as simple. Put a good layer of rocks at the bottom, a small amount of soil and the first layer of bulbs, top this with more soil and more bulbs and continue this all the way to the top. This works well with mixed bulbs, putting the largest ones to the bottom and the smallest ones to the top. Tulips are also easy though not as reliable. Our damp soil does not suit them very well and while you can get a few years out of them, they tend to weaken. I suppose they should be taken up after flowering and dried out until the following time but this would be beyond me. I was also asked about overcrowding in a pool area. The person wondered what they could do about a garden pool which is getting choked with various water plants. Well, as with most plants, a good healthy cut back is required from time to time. As always it is better to let the flowers finish their flowering. Once this has happened, it is a simple task to cut back the offending foliage and trim the plants. It is a good idea to leave plenty of open spaces in pools. The reflected sky is worth so much to the atmosphere of the garden, especially if there are trees reflected within the confines also. Long trailing and matted foliage can be cut back and discarded on the compost heap. Most pool plants can be divided simply by cutting apart, as you would do with land plants. The cuttings can be planted up using small pots, which should be placed in shallow pools of water. As they establish, re-pot into larger containers and place in deeper water. This method is useful for most water lilies, bog bean, various rush and marigolds, or basically anything which sends out long roots into the soil in the bottom of the pool. For floaters and other semi rooted plants, just pulling them apart is normally enough. The new plants can be planted into new pools or ponds or can be given away to friends. Please remember not to discard bits and pieces into other water bodies as many plants can spread very rapidly and choke rivers and streams. I hope this will help answer that question. Happy gardening. Breandan O Scanaill
also boasts a new sprung dance floor and is a superb venue for weddings, exhibitions, conferences and live music and dancing acts. Saturday night dancing is a great hit with groups and parties regularly attending from all over Connemara and further afield to see acts like Mick Flavin, Crystal Swing, John McNicholl and Paddy O’Brien. September acts include Keith MacDonald and The Showband Show on Saturday September 4th and Mike Denver on the 11th. A full programme of Christmas events and parties is also planned. For more information go to www.connemaragateway.com or call 091552-328.
Clever Gift Card Brats of all Ages on Market Street, Clifden are currently offering a clever new electronic gift card which acts like a credit card but in reverse. As you save money to the card you can the shop using a prepaid balance. The card allows you to save as much or as little as you want and it is simply swiped like a credit/debit card. The electronic gift card retains 100% of purchased value, so when you use the card the sales price is deducted with the remaining balance available to be used later. You can also check your balance online using www.showmybalance.com, making this an ideal way to shop locally and economically for your kid’s clothes and toys, within your budget. For further information pop into Brats of all Ages on Market Street or call 095-22952.
September 2010
Local Business Collaboration An interesting collaboration between two Clifden businesses will offer shoppers a treat for their feet in the month of September. For the first three Fridays of the month shoppers can avail of a free foot massage in Super Valu, Clifden starting on Friday 4th of September. Chokurei Massage Therapist Ethel Feneran will be providing the massage and will be available for any questions regarding the benefits of massage therapy for chronic pain, headaches, insomnia and other conditions. Manager Joe Lynch said “We look forward to providing some well deserved stress relief to our valued customers and bringing an added dimension to an enjoyable shopping experience with the assistance of local business Chokurei Massage’. Photo: Maria Cribbins enjoys a free foot massage from Chokurei Massage therapist Ethel Feneran.
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August Bogman 64
Enter crossword answers into a draw of correct answers for a voucher for Homeware Plus in Clifden by September 25th.
Connemara Crossword 70
ACROSS
8 It’s a drawback having to be in one when you’re feeling seriously unwell. (4) 9 Thinking seriously of martyred leader in the midst of such devastation. (10) 10 In Nepal, the misguided creature has come too far north. (8) 11 Might he abandon 10 Across and arrange to come down to earth, for example? (6) 12 Underwear for Gestapo officers? (5) 13 Stagger back and get a dirty look? (4) 15 Might it spur one on to write an article about the divine one? (4) 18 Challenge rabid Unionist on charge of disobedience to the authorities? (15) 20 They are poisonous to any creature silly enough to swallow a pea, it is said. (4) 21 Do it at Lords and win The Cup? Well, not quite, but something like that. (4) 22 In mind exercises does it point towards a digital solution being on hand? (5) 25 Song & Dance commercial? (6) 27 Use unprintable language about a fumbled ball in front of the goalkeeper? (8) 28 Will a ten degree deviation cause the situation to become worse? (10) 29 It sounds like the wildcat occupies more than one part in the food chain! (4)
11. Edits sea movements (5) 13. Vain Russian forename (4) 17. Aboriginal throwing club (9) 19. Cairo resident is this (8) 20. Paradise (5) 22. Plausibility, slang. Street ---- (4) 23. Cone-bearing trees are this (7) 25. Dealer can be number one (6) 27. Demons (6) 28. Mend rapier (6) 29. Second man on moon (6)
Winner of August Bogman 63: Katie George, Roundstone. Winner Connemara Crossword 69: Anne Kharat, Clifden
Drop to the Connemara View Drop Box at King’s Paper Shop, Main St, Clifden, post to Connemara View, Clifden, Co.Galway or e-mail to news@connemaraview.com.
Is there any support available to help with the costs of uniforms and books for children going back to school in September? The Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance is a means-tested payment for people on social welfare or certain other payments to help with children’s costs at the beginning of the school year. You may qualify for the payment if your income is within the limits set for the means test and: •You are getting a social welfare payment (including Family Income Supplement) or a Health Service Executive (HSE) payment, or •You are taking part in an approved employment scheme, or •You are taking part in a recognised education or training course or a FÁS, Fáilte Ireland or Local Employment Networks (LES) training scheme •Your children must be in full-time education and you must be getting an increase in your social welfare payment for each child. The allowance is €200 for children aged 2-11 and €305 for children aged 12-22 before 1st October. An additional €215 is paid for children aged 18, if you are getting either an increase in your social welfare payment
Page 26
No winner of Quiz 22, prize money is now €30.
Send your answers to Connemara View, Clifden, Co.Galway, e-mail to news @ connemaraview.com or drop to the Drop Box at King’s paper Shop Main St. Clifden
Geography: What is the diameter of the equator? History: Where did karate originate? Sport: In what country is kite-flying a professional sport? Math: Who is the most well-known female mathematician (for her contributions to abstract algebra)? DOWN Science: What is stannous fluoride 1 Do they lead the dance for old Ireland as professionals? (10) (cavity fighter found in toothpaste) 2 They must be experts, as the ministerial division is briefly taken in. (6) made from? 3 Find fish trapped in amber when processed? (5) 4 Leave out the part about being sick after five. (4) Food/Drink: The Egyptians believed 5 Order pruning, as ruthless as this might seem. (9) that the God of Agriculture Osiris, 6 Good at poker without being crooked? (8) taught humans how to make what 7 If you lose concentration before twelve, it doesn’t finish. (4) liquid? 14 Give generously but finish up with a pained expression. (5) 16 Young lad getting high when in receipt of unemployment benefit? (10) General Knowledge: It takes the 17 Not a loud sound produced in Bedford disturbance. (9) same amount of time to age a cigar 19 The Delta sun melts butter like this. (8) as it does to age wine-true or false? 23 Might you be said to be in the river with a young lady as attractive as that? (6) Politics: What is the world’s largest 24 Turns up, strips and goes to bed for it. (5) democracy? 26 Used to chop off pieces during a sex change? (4) 27 Baker’s produce is ruined because of using cob before it’s mature. (4) Music: What song was blamed for a wave of suicides in the 1930’s? Down Across Art: What is the largest horse statue in 1. Baton Rouge is capital of this U.S. 2. Come into possession of (6) the world? state (9) 3. Spike of frozen water (6) Entertainment: How many points 9. Wild dog-like animal (6) 4. Not susceptible to (6) does Kermit the Frog have around his 10. Gardening implement like trim5. Give an account of (7) collar? mers (8) 6. Big cat and big car (6) Local Interest: When was the first 11. Vast Arctic plains (5) 7. Parachutist (8) 12. Fiddlers instrument (6) Connemara pony exported to Aus14. Operatic melody (4) 8. Large bird could be burdensome (9) tralia? 15. Happening (5) 16. Operator with club (6) 18. Relating to the open seas (7) 21. Chaperones (7) 24. Short-lived aquatic insect (6) 26. Tender (5) 30. Verve, flamboyance (4) 31. Standards of excellence (6) 32. Religious ceremony (6) 33. Amusement parks (7) 34. Earner comes closer (6) 35. This man took a ‘Giant Leap’ in July 1969 (9)
Send in your Crossword and Quiz answers!
What Do You Know? Quiz 23
for that child or a Family Income Supplement payment which includes that child. The scheme is administered by the Health Service Executive as part of the Supplementary Welfare Allowance Scheme. You should apply to the Community Welfare Officer at your local health centre between 1st June and 30th September. The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) publishes a useful leaflet to help families plan for back to school costs which includes a budget planner for school expenses. It is available online at mabs.ie and from Citizens Information Services and MABS offices. Further information is available from Clifden Citizens Information Service which provides a free and confidential service to the public. Tel: 095-22000 and 087-130-1100, email: clifden@citinfo.ie. OPEN: Thursday 7pm-8pm, Friday 10:30am-3:30pm. Please note our new address: 2nd Floor, Cashel/Connemara Credit Union, Seaview, Clifden. Information is also available online at www. citizensinformation.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service, Locall 1890-777-121.
September 2010
August Quiz Answers
Geography: The earth orbits the sun at how many MPH? Answer: 66,700mph. http:// www.worldatlas.com/geoquiz/ thelist.htm History: What was the first soft drink consumed in outer space? Answer: Coca-Cola. http://www.nicefacts.com/ Sport: What natural substance is sometimes used for antifreeze mixtures in the centre of golf balls? Answer: Honey. http://www.nicefacts.com/ Math: How much would a hundred pound person weigh on Mars? Answer: 38lbs. http://www.nicefacts. com/index.php Science: In order to be tasted food has to be mixed with what? Answer: Saliva. http://www.nicefacts.com/ Cooking: Almonds are a member of what fruit family? Answer: The Peach. http://www.nicefacts.com/index.php General Knowledge: Do forest fires move faster uphill or downhill? Answer: Uphill. http://www.nicefacts. com/index.php Politics: When and where was the system of democracy first introduced? Answer: 2,500 years ago, in Athens, Greece. http://didyouknow.org/fastfacts/politics.htm Art: How many paintings did Van Gogh sell during his lifetime? Answer: One. http://www.nicefacts.com/ Entertainment: Who were the first TV couple to sleep in the same bed? Answer: Fred and Wilma Flintstone. http://www.dumbfacts.com/facts/ directory-of-facts/literature/ Literature: What is the world’s longest non-fiction work? Answer: The Yongle Dadian. http://didyouknow.org/fastfacts/art.htm Local Interest: Galway hookers are subdivided into how many types? Answer: 4. http://www.galway1.ie/faq/ hookers.htm
Connemara View Newspaper
SEPTEMBER Horoscopes Aries (Mar 21-Apr 20) You can do all that will be required of you this month, even if you don’t feel up to it. Taurus (Apr 21-May 20) Stop looking for something else to help you and focus on how you can help yourself. Gemini (May 21-Jun 21) Do not envy your friends if something good happens for them-be happy for them. Cancer ( Jun 22-Jul 22) Learn more about you and why you do the things that you do. It will help in the long run. Leo ( Jul 23-Aug 23) Always keep the dreams of youth alive. Never give up on your secret desires. Virgo (Aug 24-Sep 22) Happy birthday! Be at peace this month Virgo, everything in your life is good right now so try to keep it that way. Libra (Sep 23-Oct 23) Happy birthday! Just when you think that no one cares you will find out who really does. Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22) When life hits you in the face with a snowball, get up and fight back. Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21) Have as much fun as you possibly can this month because the party can’t last forever. Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 20) Be prepared to face a challenge of some type. If you are ready for it then it can’t catch you out. Aquarius ( Jan 21-Feb 19) Throw a big dinner and invite everyone you love. It’s a good month to be social. Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20) You may be reaching a little too far with your latest idea. Think a bit smaller if you intend to move forward
Tarot
The good work that you have done in the past is going to pay off in the near future. A good move on your part is going to bring some very good things your way. The Empress is all about productivity and it lets you know that you will gain in the future.
runes
The action is telling you to look within to see what is blocking your path at this time. The challenge comes from letting go of that thing, which is holding you back. You must realise that not all paths are or will be open for you at this time, and learn how to deal with those other things first.
“What is yours will come to you”
Super Valu Photo Contest August Winner Congratulations to Mark Furniss of Clifden whose photo titled ‘Cheese’ scooped the Kavanagh’s Super Valu Photo Contest prize for August’s theme of Connemara Pony Shows.
The theme for September is ‘Autumn Colours’. With the change of season and recent good weather there should be some opportunities to capture the beauty and colour of Connemara as we enter autumn. As usual the great prize of a €50 Super Valu Shopping Voucher is on offer and the win-
ning photo will be displayed in Super Valu, Clifden and online at www.connemaraview. com. Photos must be original, have not been previously published and be relevant to Connemara. The competition is open to all ages and copies of photos should be kept as they will not be returned. Entries may be dropped to the Photo Competition Box next to the express till at Super Valu Clifden, posted to Connemara View, Clifden, Co. Galway or emailed to news@connemaraview.com (approx 1MB in size) by Wednesday September 29th.
Connemara View Newspaper
The Sun is in Leo at the start of September, moving into Virgo on the 17th .The Sun crosses the celestial equator at 03:09 UT on Thursday September 23rd, which is therefore the date of the Autumn Equinox. At that point, night and day are of equal length. After this the Sun moves into the southern half of the sky and for the next six months the nights are longer than the days. The Moon is New at 10:30 UT on Wednesday September 8th. We won’t see the new crescent in the west at sunset until at least Monday 13th, by which time the Moon will be nearly half-illuminated. The Moon is Full on Thursday September 23rd in Pisces. The September Full Moon is often called the “Harvest Moon”, because it continues to rise around sunset for several evenings in succession, and its light used to help farmers to continue harvesting their fields after the Sun had set. Shine on! Mercury is at inferior conjunction, almost directly in front of the Sun, on September 3rd. It moves rapidly W, reaching its greatest elongation west of the Sun on September 19th, so we have a brief chance to glimpse this elusive little planet in the morning twilight. Mercury will be easiest to see between about Monday 20th and Saturday 25th. Look for it very low down in the E sky, about 6am. The planet appears brighter than any of the neighbouring stars but in the brightening dawn sky it won’t be easy to pick up. It may help to scan the sky with binoculars, but be very careful to stop before the Sun rises. Once you have located Mercury in binoculars it should be possible to see it with the naked eye, looking like a tiny spark of light. Venus is very low in the SW sky at sunset and sets only minutes after the Sun. Despite the brilliance of the ‘Evening Star’, we’re very unlikely to be able to see it this month.Mars is low in the SW sky at sunset, just a little way above and to the right of Venus. The ‘Red Planet’ currently
appears no brighter than a moderatelybright star, so we’re very unlikely to see it. Jupiter is the only planet to be seen in the night sky this month. It’s in opposition (to the Sun) on September 21st. This means Jupiter is at its closest to Earth when it appears brightest and in the telescope it appears biggest. Being opposite to the Sun, Jupiter is due south at midnight, when it’s 30 degrees above the horizon. Relative to the stars, Jupiter is moving slowly SW in the constellation of Pisces. The giant planet appears much brighter than any of the stars. In the telescope, the disc of Jupiter reaches almost 50 arc-seconds in diameter. Its dark and light cloud-bands should be clearly visible, though in May, the South Equatorial Belt faded, leaving the North Equatorial Belt as the only strong, dark band. The famous Great Red Spot, normally visible as a hollow in the edge of the southern belt, should be near the centre of the disc on the evenings of September 2nd, 5th, 7th, 10th, 12th, 19th, 22nd, 24th, 26th and 29th. Some of Jupiter’s four major moons may be seen, even in binoculars as tiny points of light in a near-straight line to either side of the planet. Often only two or three may be visible, either because one is hiding behind the planet, or occasionally because one moon is hiding behind another moon, or in another moon’s shadow. Throughout the night of September 22nd /23rd, our own Full Moon will appear close above Jupiter. Saturn will be at superior conjunction (almost directly behind the Sun) on October 1st so we won’t be able to see the ringed planet at all this month. Meteors: There are no major meteor-showers in September, though there are various minor showers producing a few meteors an hour from radiants in Cassiopeia, Auriga, Aquarius and Pisces. This is generally a good time of the year for seeing sporadic meteors, which may appear at any time, in any part of the sky. John Claró
September DVD Releases
them ever returnednot even one of three thousand. Historical action adventure starring Michael Fassbender. After Life After a horrific car accident, Anna (Christina Ricci) wakes up to find the local funeral director Eliot Deacon (Liam Neeson) preparing her body for her funeral. Afterlife is a stylish psychological thriller which provocatively questions the line between life and death. Robin Hood Academy Award winner Russell Crowe reunites with legendary Gladiator director Ridley Scott for an epic action adventure in Robin Hood. Discover the man behind the legend as Robin, a heroic warrior, turns outlaw to lead an uprising against a weak and corrupt English King.
Kick Ass This action comedy is based on the Marvel comic strip and features Aaron Johnson as run-of-the-mill high school student Dave Lizewski. Disillusioned with his humdrum existence, he is inspired by the heroes of the comic books he loves to become a real-life superhero called ‘Kick-Ass’. Last Song Based on best-selling novelist Nicholas Sparks’ (A Walk to Remember and The Notebook) latest novel, The Last Song is set in a small Southern beach town where an estranged father (Greg Kinnear) gets a chance to spend the summer with his reluctant teenage daughter (Miley Cyrus). Centurion During the height of the Roman Empire, the Ninth Legion was sent to Scotland to defeat the Picts. Not one of
September 2010
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Kilcummin Parish Church of Ireland, Fough West, Oughterard As you travel through Oughterard, you will see a fine church at the edge of the main street, set in its own grounds with some lovely trees standing above a churchyard. This is Kilcummin Parish Church.
The church is named for St. Cummin, who was a monk from Iona and the remains of his original church are in fact to be found in the village of Kilcummin, which is at a beachhead on the northern coast of Co. Mayo. Those remains are dated earlier than the 8th century. His remains are buried there and the ancient headstone marks his grave. It is difficult to know his connection with the area but an older church dedicated to him was located a few kilometres from the present church in Oughterard. It is described as “a board of First Fruits style 2 bay single cell church with rendered facade, stone dressings and crowstep battlemented tower, built in 1808. Transepts and chancel with coursed rubble facade and cut stone dressings added by Joseph Welland in 1852. The interior contains a coved plaster ceiling and in the addition an open truss roof. Pulpit and pews, late 19th century”. The term ‘First Fruits’ goes back a long way. Originally found in Classical Athens, the term refers to the payment of the harvest fruits and sometimes the money raised by selling this produce. Presented each year except during times of war, this would be a major source of funds for the temples of the goddesses, Demeter and Kore. Much of the agricultural offering was sold by the temple with the proceeds being used to pay for the daily upkeep of the temple complex. In the Middle Ages the concept of offering the ‘First Fruits’ was adapted by the Christian church. Originally seen as Papal dues, they were subsequently paid to the Crown. This
was called a tithe and was basically a tax to support the local clergy and the facility. They were abolished in England in 1704. In Ireland a Board of First Fruits was established (largely through the influence of Jonathan Swift (16671745) to fund the building and repair of ecclesiastical buildings and glebes of the Church of Ireland. The Board received substantial grants from the Irish Parliament during the late 18th and early 19th centuries and this enabled an impressive building programme to be undertaken. Joseph Welland was born on the 6th of May 1798 in County Cork and became an Irish Architect for the Board of First Fruits and later the Ecclesiastical Commissioners. He was as a student to John Bowden and became his assistant and is noted to have designed many churches and schools around Ireland. He died on the 6th March 1860. When the church was first built, Oughterard was the most westerly point of civilisation and justice as seen from the centres of power in Dublin and London. A coach road reached the town and that was where it ended. Later, as Connemara opened up this road carried on to Clifden. Oughterard has always been popular with sportsmen and the number of fine wooded estates around the area testifies to this. More importantly it was very famous as it still is today for its trout fishing on Lough Corrib. You can imagine the number of fishermen visiting and the benefit that brought to the town. Being on the edge between lawlessness and order, the authorities established a number of useful safeguards. There was an infantry barracks, which in its heyday would have been home to 7 officers and 142 non-commissioned officers and privates, with stabling for 3 horses. A chief constabulary police force and a party of the revenue police were also stationed in the town. This army barracks was originally located on Camp Street. There are quite a number of streets of this name throughout Ireland and all refer to a former barracks. Local knowledge suggests that the houses in the terrace along this street were built to accommodate the officers of the barracks. The church would also have been part of this building boom and very much in keeping with the ethos of the time. The Anglican Church was the state church and it was seen as a civilising influence on the people. It was also there to service the needs of the estates, the army and the other branches of authority. One interesting feature in the church is an enclosed area where prisoners sat during service. Presumably they hoped that by exposing the prisoner to divine service they might change their ways. The church is very much in two parts and styles; the original part is to the west, consisting of the nave with its rendered façade and crow-step battlemented tower. This tower contains a fine clock. Inside this section is also simple, with a coved plaster ceiling and an old fireplace, which would have been the only heating for the church. The newer section was built in 1852 to the design of architect Joseph Welland and
Connemara View Newspaper 7,500 copies distributed monthly throughout Connemara 095-22888 087-290-9351 news@connemaraview.com www.connemaraview.com Editor-in-Chief/Publisher: Ellen McDonough News Editor: Catherine Pryce
Guess Who Revealed Last month’s ‘Guess Who?’ photograph featured Noel Joyce of Barnanoraun, who was pictured on his donkey with the Twelve Bens in the background in 1972. Peggy Joyce of Barnanoraun sent in the lovely old photo in which Noel was identified by Tommy Conneely of Clifden, Mary O’ Neill, Marty Mannion and Michael Nugent of Kingstown.
Distribution Mgr: John Dunne Graphic Design/Layout: Marie-Noelle Biddulph Advertising/Admin: Paula Bann Contributors: Joe Acton, John Amenhauser, Paula Bolger, Tom Broderick, Bridie Cashin, Judy Cazabon, Níamh Ní Chuaig, John Cláro, Susan Cockburn, Dorothy Conneely, Kenneth Coyne, Michelle Coyne, Maggie Courtade, Oran Daly, Bridie Davis, Richard De Stacpoole, Ìde Nic Dhonncha, Priscilla Diamond, Bernie Dignam, Andrew Downes, John Durning, Pat Edwards, Brendan Flynn, Anna Maria Galvin, Heather Greer, Tim Gordon, Padraic Heanue, Jimmy Heffernan, Aoife Herriott, Carol Hinch, Paul Hughes, Laurence Ingelbach, P.K. Joyce, Una Joyce, Ita Kane-Wilson, Patricia Keane, Irene King, Thomas King, Mary Lovett, Joachim Lydon, Padraic Lyden, Brendan Madden, Noel Mannion, Anna Marley, Paddy ‘Yank’ McDonagh, Eamonn McLoughlin Jnr, Maria McLoughlin, Priscilla McNamara, Ann Mitchell, Mary T. Mullin, Martin Naughton, Mary Teresa Nee, Sean Nee, Áine Máire Ní Flatharta, John O’ Malley, Breandan O Scanaill, Emma O Sullivan, Donal O Scanaill, Maurice O Scanaill, Matt O’Sullivan, Terence O’Toole, Gina Pryce, Saoirse Roberts, Ruth Rogers, Finian Sheridan, Danielle Wallace, Marie Walsh, Damian Ward, Declan Weir.
Death Notices Patrick Conneely (O Conghaile), Letterpeak, Spiddal, Maureen O’Connor, (née Brennan), Sruthán an Clar, Oughterard Noel Thornton (Ó Droighneain), Shanavooneen, Spiddal The Connemara View would like to extend sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased. This list is compiled from various sources and we apologise for any errors or omissions.
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Thursday, October 7th Ad Space Reservation Deadline September 24th News Deadline: September 29th Classified Deadline: September 29th Page 28
is more elaborate. It is higher and wider than the original church and is finished in very fine pointed stonework. This has a very good east window which contains stained glass made in 1892 by Cox Sons, Buckley and Company, of Youghal, Co. Cork. Inside, this part of the church is also different having an open truss wooden ceiling. It also contains some good wooden church furniture; especially noteworthy is the pulpit and organ. A plaque on the south gable states that William Wilson of Belfast gave the sum of 700 pounds towards the enlargement of the church for the purpose of providing free and comfortable sittings of his humbler brethren. There are also two drawings by Joseph Welland showing the changes in the church. At this time a new heating system was installed and the old fireplace blocked up. This system was run on turf and coke. Deliveries of this coke would arrive from Galway originally by cart, but later by train after the railway arrived in 1895. The churchyard contains the graves of a number of important families including the O’ Flaherty family of Lemonfield. This family were originally associated with Aughnanure Castle, which is located a couple of kilometers away on the Galway side of Oughterard. Lemonfield became their seat from the mid 18th century. A curious story tells that the estate got that name as one of the family decided to import and grow lemons. Tropical or semi-tropical fruit was all the rage in 18th and early 19th century Europe and any gardener worth his salt would produce pineapples and citrus fruits from the garden’s glasshouses. They were descendants of the family who ruled most of Connemara up until Cromwellian times. There are also graves belonging to the Martin family. The Martins had managed to gain control of almost all the former O’ Flaherty lands. Amongst those buried here are Violet Florence Martin, who along with her cousin Edith Somerville wrote the Irish R.M. stories and other books. They wrote under the pseudonyms of E. Somerville and Martin Ross. She was born on June 11th 1862 at Ross House, County Galway and died on December 21st 1915 in Cork. There are also a number of unmarked or unidentifiable graves, some of which are the resting places of victims of the Great Famine. Breandan O’Scanaill
Plus many local schools, groups & organisations. Photography by staff unless credited otherwise.
September 2010
Connemara View Newspaper
A Gallery of Connemara Poetry
Continuing the successful series of publications at Ballynahinch Castle in association with Occasional Press, “An Afterglow” is a gallery of Connemara poems celebrating the 40th Anniversary of The Gallery Press. Founded by Peter Fallon, the Gallery Press has published some of the most eminent of contemporary Irish poets, authors and playwrights. For this collaboration, he h and d co-editor d Des Lally ll have h selected a number of poems from the archives relating to Connemara and the result is a rich and varied collection of ideas, images and stories. Accompanied by colour photographs of the region, ‘An Afterglow’ also has an introduction by Thomas Kilroy and is a beautifully produced publication, evoking the poetic majesty and intrigue of Connemara. Contributing poets include Paul Muldoon, Michael Longley, Moya Cannon, Ciaran Berry, Derek Mahon, Michael Coady and many more. This collection of Connemara centric poetry by poets of The Gallery Press is accompanied in a limited edition by a signed original print by Donald Teskey RHA. ‘An Afterglow’ will be launched at Ballynahinch Castle on Thursday 9th September at 5pm by Bill Whelan. Pre-launch orders of the 100 available limited editions are now being taken. For more information or to order copies contact Brid at Ballynahinch on 095-31006 or brid@bhinch.iol.ie.
Launch of ‘Tony and the Yoke’
A new double album release will see recordings from the 1950s see light of day at the launch of a new album produced by Connemara radio producer Ita Kane-Wilson. When the late Professor Tony Knowland of Renvyle/ Oxford first bought his Grundig reel to reel recorder known locally as “the yoke” in the late 1950s, little did he know how important his years of work would become. His recordings of the Rainey family of travelling musicians resulted in the release of an album by the traveller resource centre, Pavee Point in 2006 and highlighted the incredible collection of music and songs he collected from the Raineys.
Connemara ArtsView
Now, a double album of the other recordings he collected in Renvyle, Letterfrack and Cleggan will be launched in Paddy Coyne’s, Tullycross on Saturday September 11th. Radio producer Ita Kane-Wilson is responsible for the project which was funded by the Arts Council through their traditional arts funding programme, Deis. “After I made a radio documentary about the Rainey family with Connemara Community Radio, I was urged by Tony Knowland to do something with the other recordings he had collected over a 45 year period. What followed was a four part radio series about those recordings and then as luck would have it, the Arts Council awarded the funding to make the album.” she explains. ‘Tony and the Yoke in Connemara’ will be launched by Michael Joe Ruddy in Paddy Coyne’s Pub, Tullycross on September 11th at 8.30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Taoiseach enjoys local show
The Irish Music and Dance show produced by Clifden native Marie Walsh ‘Trad in the West’ has now finished up for the summer season after a very successful run in the Station House Theatre playing to packed audiences every week. The show was very well received and has been a big hit with locals and
at 10pm. As usual all are welcome and members are reminded that they can collect their Treoir Magazines at the session. A lot of members of the Comhaltas also attended the All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Cavan the weekend of 22nd of August, with younger members enjoying a week of classes. Congratulations to Eileen O’Malley who got 3rd on the Senior Whistle and to Seamus Flaherty, a new member of the West Coast Grupaí Cheoil, who won the Under 12 Irish Singing. John Joyce and Nada Ní Chuirrín also had great wins in the Sean Nós Dancing U15 and U12 age groups. Finally, our plans to sail the seas to Inishbofin in September had to be postponed as there is a wedding on the Island that weekend, but watch the next issue of the Connemara View for more details as we definitely will be rescheduling!
Adult Pottery Workshops
Adult pottery workshops will be starting again at the end of September in Oughterard with local ceramicist Louise Browne for both Beginners and Intermediate (those with some experience/ or who completed the previous beginner’s course). Both workshops will run for 5 weeks in 1 ½ hour evening sessions. The Beginners workshops will cover tools, thumb pots, coiling, mark-making, slab-building, student’s own projects and the glazing of completed pieces. The Intermediate workshops will be working from set briefs to produce more individual work. Both are to be held at Clann Resource Centre, Station Road, Oughterard. Places are limited so contact Louise early, to find out more details and to book your place on 091-557967/ 083-301-7694 or e-mail livinggingerdesigns@ireland.com.
visitors alike, regularly providing a great night of Irish music, song and dance with a few surprises thrown in! Throughout the run, there were some unexpected visitors to see the show, including An Taoiseach Brian Cowen, Frank Fahey T.D and Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann Representative Bernard O’ Sullivan. Due to its great success, there are plans in the pipeline to have some shows during the winter, with a special festive show at Christmas. Picture above: Some cast members of Trad in the West and Clifden Station House Manager Wilson Bird were pictured on August 16th with some special guests including An Taoiseach Brian Cowen, Frank Fahey T.D. and Bernard O’Sullivan of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann.
Clifden Comhaltas News
Our August Music Session was held in Mullarkey’s Bar at Foyles Hotel on Friday the 27th of August. Again both youth and senior sessions had some great music and it was a very nice evening. We take a break in September from our monthly session due to Arts Week, but some Comhaltas musicians will be playing a gig on the first Friday (17th) of Arts Week in Lowry’s Bar and all are welcome to join us. Our October Session will be held in J.Conneely’s Bar on Friday the 29nd of October, with the youth session starting at 8.30pm and the Senior Session afterwards
September 2010
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Culture Night in Oughterard
Culture night is approaching fast on the horizon. Make sure to be free on Friday September 24th from 5pm until late for Oughterard’s first time participating in this national event! There’s an action-packed pro-
gramme storee fo for all ages aand tastes. Check out ou our ga e iin sto d tastes brochure which will be available locally soon or online at www.culturenight.ie for a full list of events and be prepared to have a fun-filled evening come rain or shine. There will be live music everywhere, dance performances, art exhibitions, a fashion show, film trail, outdoor sculptures, history events and much more so there really will be something for everyone. If you missed out on signing up to provide entertainment on the night and feel you would like to be singing, dancing or juggling around the village, it’s not too late! Contact Clann Resource Centre at 091-557-633. Culture Night is a Temple Bar Cultural Trust initiative in partnership with the Department of Culture, Sport and Tourism. In Oughterard, the event is being run by the voluntary committee of uachtarARTS Oughterard Community Arts Group in collaboration with Clann Resource Centre. Funding has been kindly provided by the Department of Tourism, Culture & Sport, local fundraising events, uachtarARTS, Clann Resource Centre, Galway County Council and Oughterard Business Association We are also putting out a call for volunteers. This is a community event and we really need helpers out there to make the night run smoothly. If you would like to be part of the Art Trail please drop in or call Clann Resource Centre to check out a suitable venue to display your work. Come on everybody, get in on the action! For more information, contact uachtarARTS at uachtararts@hotmail.com or 091-557-633. Photo above: Anne O’Shaughnessy and Leonora O’ Halloran from Clann Resource Centre at the launch of Culture Night in Dublin Castle on August 18th.
Small Art Works!
As part of Culture Night in Oughterard on 24th September, the West Shore Studio Gallery is showcasing the work of five artists in an exhibition titled ‘Small Art Works!’ The five artists involved are Leah Beggs, Louise Browne, Kathleen Furey, Caroline McFadden and Jess Walsh. Each artist works in different media and styles so the result is a marvellous mix of art on a small scale in the bijou gallery. Abstract painter Leah Beggs’s work is inspired by the Connemara landscape. The pieces for this exhibition are a fresh departure that combines the spontaneous nature of line drawing with her habitual layered painting. Kathleen Furey is a Galway artist who has been living in Oughterard for the past 20 years. Her small works for this exhibition examine the way in which text and image combine to provide narrative and explore how random fragments of text appear in overprinted images. Ceramicist Louise Browne of Living Ginger Designs is showcasing framed and unframed detailed ceramic wall art, and teeny, tiny inspired porcelain boxes. Caroline McFadden is a painter with an eclectic style. The inspiration for her work comes from varied and diverse sources. Jess Walsh is a painter and photographer. For this
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exhibition her paintings are in her favourite medium, watercolour. The exhibition will be officially opened on Wednesday 22nd September at 7.30pm and will run for 10 days. The West Shore Studio Gallery is situated on Camp Street, opposite McGeoughs butchers. The Gallery will be open daily during the exhibition from 12-6pm and on Culture Night from 5.30pm until late. For more information please contact Kathleen Furey 087-244-6542 or Leah Beggs at 086-860-7662.
Artwork above: One of the ‘Small Art Works!’ exhibition pieces by Jess Walsh.
Fleadh Wins
Nada Ní Chuirrín of Letterfrack (photo left) was named U12 champion at the All Ireland Fleadh séannós open competition in Cavan in August. Seán Seoighe, (photo right) Liethineach Ó Thuaidh, An Sraith Saileach, Co. na Gaillimhe a bhuaigh an chéad áit in Eireann faoi 15 ag damhsa ar an sean nós ag Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann i gCo. Chabháin le gairid. Pictiur le Úna Joyce
Ceoll Theatre C Th
The next Musical Review show will be a “War Times” theme and will take place at the end of September. The next stage show production will be “Mary Poppins” at Christmas and auditions will take place in mid September. Please see posters for times and places which have yet to be confirmed. Should you wish to be involved in any of our productions please contact John at 087-750-4697.
ing and dancing ever since.” In the coming year Emma will tour North America, Canada, Australia, Asia, Europe and New Zealand with the popular show. She will return to Ireland for the month of November and for four weeks ti d t iti for f her h local l l in mid January to continue dance tuition students in schools and evening classes. Details of all current and upcoming tuition are available on www. emmaosullivan.com. For any Irish people overseas who might like to see the spectacular stage show, a full touring schedule is available on www.rhythmofthedance.com. Photo Above: Emma O’ Sullivan and John O’ Halloran were invited to perform at the Áras an Uachtaráin in July. They are pictured here with President Mary McAleese and Dr. Martin McAleese.
Trad Learners Sessions Return
Dusty Banjos, the weekly trad session for adult learners returns to Clifden this month after a summer break. The session started up last February and has attracted a lot of interest from student musicians from all over the area. A variety of tunes and sets were learnt over the weeks and at the end of term the group celebrated its achievement with a lively session in Lowry’s bar, which was for some people their first public session. New faces are always welcome, so if you’ve always wanted to dust off that instrument and get playing with other people, this is the place for you. Dusty Banjos recognises that many people used to play an instrument at one time, or do play in the privacy of their homes, but feel that their playing isn’t strong enough to allow them to join in the public music sessions in the area. The session aims to provide a space where people can learn the kinds of tunes that will be played in sessions, make as many mistakes as they like without being laughed at and if they wish, gain the confidence to play in public sessions-something that often happens much faster than they could believe. Learning by ear is encouraged, although sheet music is available, as well as tune books and CD’s of trad tunes played at speeds slow enough for learners to find useful. In order to take part, you should have your own instrument and at least know the basics of how to play it. Tuesdays from 7.30-9.30pm, starting on September 21st in The Bens Music Shop on Bridge St. in Clifden and all adult learner musicians will be made very welcome. More information is available from Heather or Mary at 095-44845.
Emma on World Tour
In the past year she has appeared on a top rated television programme and danced her way around Ireland, including for the President Mary McAleese and the American ambassador at the Áras an Uachtaráin. Now she is set to bring the magic of sean nós to the rest of the world, as Renvyle sean nós dancer extraordinaire Emma O’ Sullivan is currently preparing to set off on a worldwide tour with the international stage show ‘Rhythm of the Dance’. She was spotted by one of the show’s producers during her time as a finalist in the popular All Ireland Talent Show. Emma said ‘I am thrilled to have been offered this amazing opportunity and a lot of it is thanks to everyone who supported me and kept me on the show by voting. It has given me great opportunities for work-
September 2010
Connemara ArtsView
Culture and Craic in Clifden
One of Connemara’s most eagerly anticipated annual events is once again just around the corner as the Clifden Arts Festival presents a spectacular programme of cultural and artistic entertainment from September 16th -26th. Stimulation of the mind, intellect and soul will be guaranteed by a feast of music, dance, poetry, art, theatre and much more. The Festival will be officially opened on Thursday September 16th at the West Connemara Leisure Centre by Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport, Mary Hanafin T.D., with music by Marie Walsh and the award winning Grupa Ceoil and Ceili Band. A guide to just some of the highlights follows, with full programmes detailing dates, times and locations available at www.clifdenartsweek.ie and in brochures from Clifden outlets and the Arts Week caravan.
Music and Dance
The standard and range of musical talent and performance that will take place throughout this year’s Clifden Arts Festival is truly remarkable. The variety of genres, rhythms and styles is as diverse as it has ever been, ensuring all tastes will be catered for.
Trad & Folk
National icons Christy Moore (photo right) and Declan Sinnott will make a welcome return to Clifden for what promises to be a memorable and inspirational concert. The opportunity to see Moore and Sinnott in such an intimate setting and venue is truly exceptional, given the enormous international acclaim of these stars of Irish music. An evocative evening of traditional music classics will be provided at St Joseph’s Church by celebrated musical couple Shaun Davey and Rita Connolly (known to many for her performances as ‘Granuaile’) who will be joined by singer/songwriter and guitarist Gerry O’ Beirne and Eoin Begley on concertina. Combining exquisite three part harmonies with a mixture of folk, trad and blues, the Henry Sisters hailing from Donegal will showcase the talent that has seen their music used in theatre, TV and contemporary dance. In association with Music Network, Matt Cranitch (fiddle), Jackie Daly (accordion) and John Faulkner (guitar) will combine talents to mesmerizing effect on ‘The Living Stream’ tour. Accomplished duo Brendan Begley and Caoimhín Ó Raghaillaigh will also thrill on button accordion and fiddle in their own Kerry style.
Connemara ArtsView
The Arts Week music scene is built on the foundation of exceptionally talented and passionate local musicians and performers. The Annual Trad homegrown session will include Marie Walsh, John G. Walsh, Eileen O’Malley, Eamonn McLouglin, Conall Flaherty, Richie Newman and Liam Aspell as well as many more local singers and dancers. Various bars and venues will also play host to the talents of John Joe Forde, Mike Fahy, Sean Halpenny and Stretch, Mairtin Conroy, John Durning, Jarlath Hession, The Dixie Micks, John O’ Halloran and many more, with the Grupa Ceoil and Ceili Band-West Coast under the guidance of Marie Walsh also performing. Dutch ‘Acoustic Indiefolk’ band Goodwin Sands will draw from their wide range of styles and influences in a series of gigs in different venues during the festival. Visiting Arts week stalwarts such as Steve Stanne, Betty and the Baby Boomers and Carmel Dempsey will also feature at various venues throughout the Festival. The spectacular ‘Fuaim Chonamara’ featuring the Cunningham family of Cashel (photo below) and a host of musicians and guests is also a local highlight on September 19th. The siblings have been performing
d perfecting f ti their th i repertoire t i in i venues around d the th and country all year and will bring their truly exceptional and remarkable talents to the stage in Clifden once more. Brian, Irene, Ashline, Lorraine and Michael will be joined by an array of talented musicians and dancers for a foot tapping celebration of Irish music, song and dance. For live footage and tour dates see www. fuaimchonamara.ie.
Classical & Jazz
Classical music fans will be spoiled for choice with a great array of events on offer this year. The Irish Chamber Orchestra will perform a programme including pieces by Rossini, Vivaldi, Puccini and Wolf while the renowned ConTempo Quartet will perform works by Debussy, Schumann and Haydn. Master pianist John O’ Conor will once again demonstrate his extraordinary talent in Clifden in a recital featuring works by Chopin and Beethoven. Local mezzo-soprano Alannah Robins will be joined by pianist and chamber music specialist Elena Gekker in a celebration of Schumann’s 200th birthday in a programme that will also include works by Tom Cullivan, Liszt and Rachmaninov. Connemara choir Cantairi Conamara will also perform their first recital under new director Peter Godaniberg including works by Passerau, Vaughan Williams, Bardos, Mendelssohn, and Schumann. The Van Django quartet (photo left) from Canada combine a wealth of musical influences with roots in the Gypsy Jazz scene while
September 2010
the returning popular Parisian jazz group Les Follies specialise in New Orleans jazz. Colm ‘Stride’ O Brien will also perform his annual musical journey through ragtime and stride piano classics.
Pop, Rock, Blues, Reggae & Country
With a musical style described as ‘Chamber Art Pop’, Julie Feeney will bring her extraordinary and diverse range of talents to a Clifden audience for the first time. Her debut album 13 Songs won the prestigious Choice Music Prize and she has made a name for herself in recent years as one of Ireland’s most exciting and unique new talents. (Photo right) Fans of country music will welcome the return of the vocal harmonies and North American cowboy songs off T True N North h and d those looking to dance will be delighted by a Total Dancing Night with Paddy O’ Brien and his country and western band. Anyone who saw Americana singer/songwriter Jeremy Wallace (photo below) and his Trio perform in 2009 will surely be coming back for more this year. His music has been described as, “a little folk, a tinge of rock, some country and loaded with gritty blues”, and is delivered with style, atmosphere and raw talent. Irish and Americana will come together in a performance by local artist Lol Hardiman and the vocal melodies of Mo McMorrow and local musician Bernard O Scanaill will also give an afternoon performance. Seanie Vaughan and his band will raise the roof of Vaughan’s Bar and popular singer songwriter Garret Wall will also return to Clifden audiences once again this year. Various pub venues will play host to a diverse range of bands and styles of music including The Lazy Blues Band, experimental blues and rock from Sons of Gingerbread, blues from Mark Black and band and original rock with Von Shakes. A reggae kick will be provided by the Channel One Band who combine their feel good tunes while also promoting awareness of mental health issues through talks, media appearances and workshops. Wrapping up the festival on Saturday the 26th, South Ember will perform a mix of funk, rock, soul and reggae on the gig rig on the Square.
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World Music
Breton musicians Bro Ar Men (photo right) will demonstrate their talents on a range of instruments and performing songs in Armenian, Breton, English and French. Pol Hellou and Vasken Solakian will combine their Armenian and Breton traditions in a rare and unusual performance.
Poetry & Music
The powerful force of poetry will be accompanied by music to great effect in a number of Arts Week events this year. In what promises to be a truly memorable and atmospheric event, Britain’s Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy will recite alongside the vocal power of the National Chamber Choir. The extraordinarily accomplished choir will be conducted by David Brophy and director of Poetry Ireland Joe Woods will introduce the esteemed Laureate. Award winning poet Dr. Robyn Rowland and harpist Lynn Saoirse will perform pieces from their new CD Silver Leaving: Poems & Harp which promises to be a pleasure for both local and visiting fans of the talented duo. Poet Nessa O’Mahoney will be joined for a combined recital by broadcaster, producer and writer Dermot Mclaughlin who is also a traditional fiddle player. Bernard O’Donoghue, Aifric Mac Aodha and Catherine Phil McCarthy will all give readings of their work accompanied by Marie Walsh, while poet in residence Tony Curtis and Enrique Juncosa will be joined by legendary musician and founder-member of The Dubliners John Shehan. Aosdana member and celebrated poet Moya Cannon will be joined by critically acclaimed harpist Kathleen Loughnane. The Clifden Writers Group will once again provide a wonderful afternoon of poetry, stories and music including many of the members’s published work, in what will be an enjoyable and impressive display of local talent. An extremely impressive and accomplished range of poets will also read and recite at various venues, including the renowned and much respected Paul Durcan, John Walsh, Jarlath McDonagh, Orlaith Foyle, Nuala Ni Chonchuir, Rita Ann Higgins, Mary
O’Malley, Pat Boran, Fred Johston and more. The poetry of Sue Hubbard, describing the southernmost peninsula of Kerry Cill Rialaig will be accompanied by an exhibition of art by Donald Teskey. The annual poetry get-together chaired by Tony Curtis will feature the talents and diversity of Michael Coady, Simon Leyland, Martin Conroy, John Gerard and Marie Walsh, Tom Healy, John Dunne, Pat Mullan, Tommy Kenny and Maurice O’Scanaill as well as special guest and American award winning poet Judith Roche. A celebration of 40 years of The Gallery Press will be a highlight for poetry enthusiasts with founder Peter Fallon and poets Eamonn Grennan, Vona Groarke, and Michael Coady. A collection of Connemara poems, published by Occasional Press with Ballynahinch Castle entitled ‘An Afterglow’ will also be introduced during this event by Des Lally and music will be provided by Liz and Yvonne Kane.
Talks & Readings
The opportunities to listen, absorb, contemplate and muse will be plentiful this year as a stimulating line up of talks, readings and discussions will take place throughout the festival. Economist, author and commentator David McWilliams brings his one man show to the stage, giving a considered account of the state of the nation. This one hour extract is from his unique and acclaimed theatre piece Outsiders and promises to be an entertaining and informed treatment of Ireland’s recent social and political upheavals. The Four Savvy Women will be a conversational discussion and debate chaired by Radio One’s Drivetime presenter Mary Wilson and the show producer Marian Richardson. Suzanne Kelly, Tara Buckley and Sara Burke will also participate and discuss the topic ‘Is Thinking the New Bling?’ Eamon Delaney, author, journalist and Magill Editor will also give a talk on his various works and publications, while writer and broadcaster Mike Harding will pass an afternoon talking about his writing work and music, accompanied by musician Richie Newman. The world famous writer Edna O’ Brien will converse with Des Lally, fellow past pupil of St. Raphael’s College, Loughrea and Fr. Pat O’ Brien will give a talk on Thomas Merton and 20th century writers. Professor of Modern Irish History at UCD, Diarmuid Ferriter will give a talk entitled ‘A Republic of the Irish Mind? Twentieth Century Culture’, which will be introduced by Gearoid O’ Tuathaigh of NUIG. Readings will also be given by Ger Bourke and James Lawless of Wordsonthestreet Press and local crime fiction authors Pat Mullan and Maurice O’Scanaill. A unique and interesting presentation on ‘How to catch a Whale’ will examine the technology of American whale fishing in the 19th century. This year’s John Moriarty Memorial Lecture will be Music, Mysticism and Religious Imagination delivered by Fr. Mark Patrick Hederman O.S.B. Noirin Ni Riain’s spiritually soaring voice and music will accompany this event, which will be introduced by Dr. Ciarán McLoughlin.
Workshops
Poet Kevin Higgins will tutor an advanced writer’s workshop at Clifden Library co-ordinated by the Galway Arts Centre. Contributors will include Tom Lavelle, Rita O’ Donoghue, Sarah Clancy, Jimi McDonnell, Kevin O’ Shea, Mary Hanlon and many more. Also at the Library, Irene Graham, author of The Memoir Writing Workbook will host a session on the art of memoir writing.
Theatre & Comedy
A world music theatre comedy show will be per-
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formed by acclaimed Irish gypsy violinist Aindrias de Staic. A hit at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the musical comic journey recounts the journey of an Irish fiddle player as he wanders across the globe with much trouble and strife till he eventually finds sobriety along the road. Rusty Puppet Productions will bring their stand-up comedy road show to Clifden once again in a double bill comedy and music gig followed by blues and rock band Sons of Gingerbread. Local dramatists Tegolin Knowland and Sean Coyne will give a dramatic recital of ‘Hunger’ devised and directed by Eamon Grennan.
Local Launches
Historical Sketchbook: Listed Buildings of Connemara. Vol. I Local historian and Connemara View contributor Breandan O Scanaill will launch his first book ‘Historical Sketchbook: Listed Buildings of Connemara, Vol. I’ at Ballynahinch Castle on Tuesday September 21st at 4pm. Breandan’s series of articles on the history and background of some of Connemara’s listed buildings and structures has been running as a monthly series in the Connemara View since November of 2008. The collection to date has now been compiled into a book, accompanied by drawings by local artist Lol Hardiman. The buildings featured include hotels, churches, historical monuments and fortifications and represent a wide geographical spread of the Connemara region. Heritage Officer for Galway County Council Marie Mannion will launch the book.
A Guide to Lough Corrib’s Early Monastic Sites Following on from the success of ‘A Guide to Connemara’s Early Christian Sites’, which was launched during Arts Week last year, Anthony Previté will launch his latest publication at Foyle’s Hotel on Thursday September 16th. ‘A Guide to Lough Corrib’s Early Monastic Sites’ features 31 ancient sites of great archaeological interest and high heritage value around Lough Corrib. These include the magnificent and well preserved remains of Cong, Ross Errily and Claregalway and the guide also contains details of all the early saints associated with these sites. The launch will be performed by Archaeologist Michael Gibbons.
Sisters ‘Side By Side’ Renowned Letterfrack musicians Liz and Yvonne Kane will hold a Clifden Arts Festival Launch of their new third album ‘Side by Side’ at the Alcock & Brown Hotel on Monday September 20th at 6pm. Most of the album was recorded at Liz’s house in Letterfrack by producer Ronan Browne and also features Patsy y Broderick on piano, Mick Conneely on Bouzouki, Daithi Sproule on guitar and Ottawa Valley Step Dancer Nathan Pilatzke. The album will be launched in Clifden by Matt Cranitch and concertina player Edel Fox and dancer Nathan Pilatzke will also perform on the night.
Connemara ArtsView
Visual Arts & Art Trail
Now in its 5th year the ever popular Clifden Arts Festival Art Trail will once again see the town and its surrounds turned into an open air art gallery. The windows of many businesses and premises will display works of art by people who work, live in or are inspired by the area. The numbered trail will lead the eye around Clifden to many nooks and crannies presenting hidden gems and has been very popular in recent years for school tours and group walks. Items on exhibition will include video installations, photography, sculpture and mixed media paintings. Exhibitions will be in place for the entire Arts Festival and the Arts Trail committee are hugely grateful for the generosity and enthusiasm of the participating artists and host venues.
ings and sculptures. James B Joyce Offices, Main St. Bridget Cox. New works exhibition. 1 Bridge St. Anonymous. From a man who has lived here for 70 years and nobody knows him. Works from recycled material. Old Credit Union Offices, Market Lane. ‘Ag Dul Siar’. Bernadette Dignam, Marie Bailey and Linda Carey. (See artwork below). An exhibition of new works by these three artists who are originally from Dublin but became connected in Connemara, hence the title ‘Ag Dul Siar’ (Going West). Bernie Dignam specializes in textiles and
Exhibition Venues The West Connemara Sports and Leisure Centre will as ever play host to a superb range of artworks of various media by many artists living in or inspired by Connemara. Artists taking part in the exhibition are asked to leave their works to the West Connemara Leisure Centre no later than the weekend of September 11th and 12th.
Volunteers Needed Volunteers are required for all aspects of Clifden Arts Festival, from manning exhibitions and doors to the final parade. Please contact John on 086-604-1088. Exhibitions in various venues include: Emerging Artists Exhibition ‘Assemblage’. Beside Stanleys, Market St. An exhibition of 11 emerging artists in varying mediums, with recent graduates from GMIT and undergraduates from CIT. Sean Halpenny. ‘Staring into Space’. New work, acrylic on canvas. 2 Bridge St. Martina Navratalova. ‘Encounters’, linoprints. Upstairs Downstairs, Main St. Ger Sweeney. Old Super Valu Building, Market St. Bernard O Scanaill. Exhibition of new works, 3 Bridge St. Nancy Whelan. Saz’s Hairdressing, Bridge St. The Whitethorn Gallery. Large variety of works by local and international artists. Galway Road. Aideen Barry. Video Installation at Racket Ball Court, West Connemara Leisure Centre. The Lavelle Gallery. Collection of diverse works by local and international artists, Main St. Angie Williams and Dympna Heanue. Exhibition of works. St Anne’s C.N.U., Westport Rd. Shelly McDonnell. Exhibition of new works. Bridge St,. Patricia Morrison. ‘Our Four Seasons’.Flower and plant watercolours, Steam Cafe. Atlantic Artists. ‘Faoi lán Seol’. Credit Union Offices, Sea View, Clifden. Chris Munnia. Paintings and Prints, Cullen’s Bistro, Market St. Alan Shattock. Pottery and ceramics, Alan Gaillard Stoneware, Letternoosh, Westport Rd. Dorothy Cross. Video Screenings at Handball Alley. Beach Road, Clifden. Screenings: Saturday, Sept 18th Eyemaker 9-10pm, (duration 22mins). Sunday, Sept 19th Jellyfish Lake 9-10pm, (duration 6mins). St Joseph’s Residents. An exhibition of works by residents of St. Joseph’s, Clifden. Central Hotel, Main St. Donald Teskey. Exhibition of works. Clifden Library, Market St. Alannah Robins. ‘A Song of Parting’. An exhibition of paint-
Connemara ArtsView
uses traditional wet felting, needle felting, tapestry weaving and printing techniques in this body of work. For this exhibition her print-making focuses on boundaries, representing our own personal boundaries and their purpose in maintaining harmony in our relationships with others. Marie Bailey uses the mediums of sculpture, mixed media, pastel, charcoal and watercolour, taking her inspiration from the sea and the scenic beauty of Connemara, tribal African and Native American culture. Linda Carey works with soft pastels, Indian ink, pencil and watercolour. Her atmospheric work is reflective of the countryside and its moods. Ag Dul Siar will run at the Zetland Hotel in Cashel as part of the Clifden Arts Festival until October 9th. It will be opened by Celia Larkin on Saturday September 11th at 8pm.
Out & About
Fidget Feet and LUXe will once again provide a spectacular open air beach event at Omey Strand on September 23rd. The spectacle will feature mobile illuminated sculptures, music, fire and aerialists on bamboo rig and local children and teachers and promises to be a truly special event. Dress appropriately for the weather and watch the spectacle unfold before your eyes. Saturday September 25th will see the streets alive once again as a day long programme of open air activities will take place in Clifden. The Fanzini Brothers will perform their thrilling Cannonball Circus, the Streetwise Theatre Company will also be on the scene and samba music will fill the air. Later that night, the Grand Finale Parade will take over and the visiting theatre companies will combine with local school children, teachers, groups and volunteers to stun and surpruise everyone with their incredible creativity and electric atmosphere. Michael Carey and Band will perform on the gig rig ensuring that the festival goes out in style.
Arts on Air
Connemara Community Radio will once again be at the heart of the Clifden Arts Festival, broadcasting interviews with artists and performers, previews, reviews and commentary from 5-7pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays of the Arts Festival. Tune in to 87.8 or 106.1fm to experience the excitement and if you want to get involved call 087-261-7232 or 095-41616 or e-mail artsonairfm@gmail.com.
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Missing Orange/Red Kayak missing from Aughrismore Pier week of Saturday August 14th. €100 reward offered for return. Very sentimental value to children who own it. Contact Laurence Conneely at 086-853-0339 if you have any information.
Automotive
up by 13th September €90. For further details phone Terri Conroy on 095-30671 or see www.clifdenhealthandtherapy.com. See ad on page 6. Shooting Lessons: From the complete novice to the most experienced gun with Shane Bisgood. Coaching for over 30 years in Ireland & the Americas. Call 086-279-5118 or
D&N Auto Store. Full selection of oils for marine, motor and agriculture. Motor and tractor parts. Specialising in numberplates: custom, legal and personalised for weddings, hens, birthday’s etc. www.irishnumberplates. ie. Open Mon-Sat. New location on the Galway Road. 095-30615. 087-274-4165. info@irishnumberplates.ie.
Bike Rental Mannion’s Bikes. Bridge St, Clifden. 095-21160. Adult & children bikes (new & used), rentals, service and accessories. Mon-Sat 10am-6pm and Sun 10am-12pm.
email: shanebisgood@eircom.net. Martial Arts classes at the Connemara Judo Academy in the Clifden Town Hall on Saturdays. We cater for children from 7 to 14 yrs, youth and adults 15 to 60 yrs. Contact Paraic on 086-356-5590, or enrol for classes on Saturdays between 2pm and 4pm in the Clifden Town Hall. Traditional Irish Music Classes with Marie Walsh will restart in September. Any new students or people who have expressed an interest in their child learning music with Marie in the past, please call 086-401-5342 ASAP as new spaces are possibly now being offered. “Dusty Banjos” Trad session for beginners/improvers (adults). Learn tunes, play music with other people. Friendly relaxed atmosphere, slow pace. Suit all melody instruments. The Bens Music Shop, Clifden. Heather: 095-44845. Starting September 21st. New faces welcome!
Catering A la Carty Catering: For all your home catering needs contact Joe and Olive Carty. 095-22842. 087-260-5961. alacartycatering@gmail.com.
Childcare / Creche
Computers & IT
Education & Courses Certificate in Taxation – Obtain the knowledge of the Irish Taxation System in Personal Income Tax and VAT FETAC certified course commencing in Clifden on Wednesday 29th September for 8 evenings. Contact GPA Solutions on 091-562-838 Change The Way you think on Weight Loss. Six week course in An Bhean Feasa Health Shop, starting 20th September, 6.30-9.30pm. €180, 50% discount if signed
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Education & Courses
cial review to see if we can save you money on all your insurances. Then you will know for sure you are getting the best deal. Call Hennelly Finance on 091-586-500 or call Helena on 086-809-5607. Hennelly Financial Services Ltd. T/A Hennelly Finance is regulated by the Financial Regulator. Cashel-Connemara Credit Union. Clifden Office: 095-21101. Cashel Office: 095-31128. Therese Thornton, Solicitor, Clifden, Co. Galway. Professional, comprehensive legal service at reasonable rates. Call 087-262-5385 or email ThereseThornton@gmail.com for advice or a quote with no obligation.
Marine
Home Furnishings & Electronics Employment & Opportunities
Broderick’s Electrical Centres. For the BIGGEST selection of electrical appliances and LCD TVs in the West.
Office Supplies & Photocopying
Pub staff required for busy Irish pub in Naples, Florida, U.S.A. For details contact Paddy Yank McDonagh. 086-346-9372. Email: paddyyank@yahoo.com.
Lodge Road, Westport 098-28130. Moneen, Castlebar. 094-904-4735. Free Delivery to anywhere in Connemara. Teach & Baile Furniture. 087-280-3563. “Quality everyday furniture at great prices” Why not renew your mattresses ready for those long Winter nights, quality Mattresses from only €100! Whistlestop “Gifts & Interiors”. Station House Courtyard. 095-21532. 086-230-4210. whistlestop@eircom.net www.whistlestop.ie. Design-led home accessories at affordable prices. Lamps, mirrors, throws, glassware sourced world-wide. Baby gifts including award winning Organics for Kids babygros and an eclectic range of jewellery & silverware. Wedding list & personal shopping source available.
Video Vault, Main Street, 095-22033. A4 and A3 colour photocopying. Internet access, VHS / camcorder transfer to DVD, faxing, laminating and disc repair. Open 7 days. King’s Paper Shop. Main St, Clifden. 095-21119. A4 and A3 colour photocopying. Faxing. Laminating. Extensive selection of office supplies.
Pets, Animals & Ponies
Information Services & Media Farming
Diamonds of Renvyle, 095-43486 Farm supplies - Animal feeds - Builders supplies – Free delivery throughout Connemara. Diamonds Equestrian Centre & Connemara Pony Farm, www.theconnemarapony.com Home of many prizewinning Connemara ponies. Ride the Renvyle Peninsula on horseback: beach, mountain & bog trails. Top Class Connemara ponies for sale. Get Henpecked! Coops & runs for your chickens. Visit our website at www.henpecked.ie or call Brian Casey in Cleggan on 087-249-8097 or 095-44924.
Financial / Legal Recession Busting Review: Why not avail of our Free finan-
Does your partner? Call you names, constantly criticise you? Control your access to money/phone/car etc? Monitor your time, threaten you and the children? If so you may be in an abusive relationship. For free, friendly, confidential advice and support call D.V.R. 091-866-740. Connemara AA. Tuesdays, Old School, Recess, 8.30pm. Wednesdays, Clifden Day Centre, (behind the hospital) 8.30pm. Thursdays, Clifden Day Centre, 8.30pm. Fridays, Ellis Hall, Letterfrack, 9pm. Saturdays and Sundays, Clifden Day Centre 12 noon. Clifden Citizens Information Centre. Free and confidential service to the public. Galway Rd, Clifden. 095-22000. 087-130-1100. Thurs 7-8pm. Friday 10.30am- 3.30pm. Connemara Community Radio. Letterfrack. 095-41616. Connemara View Newspaper. Clifden. 095-22888. AWARE Depression Support Group meetings take place at the FORUM Office (upstairs), Ellis Hall, Letterfrack on the 1st Thursday of every month at 8pm. Contact Margaret 095-21741 afternoons except Tuesday for more details.
Items for Sale or Rent Connemara Bouncing Castles for hire for all occasions, supplied with rain covers, delivered, erected and collected. 095-21219. For Sale: Catering Trailer, €4,500 (negotiable). Includes gas fryer, hot plate, double hob, sink, fridge, freezer, battery & inverter. Call 087-411-8845. For Sale: Two children’s car seats (infant to 6 months and second seat up to 3/4 yrs), one cot bed and a buggy board to fit standard buggy. Perfect condition. €200. Phone 087-207-8149.
Local Books New Book: Commemorating the 1916 Easter Rising ‘My Great Walk Across Ireland’ by Daniel Sammon. www. walkacrossireland.com. 095-43492 or 087-260-2717. Second edition of ‘Recipes from the Connemara Loop’ . The book contains stunning pictures & makes a very affordable gift or keepsake. €2.95. Available from outlets along the Connemara Loop. Order on-line from www. goconnemara.com. All proceeds from the sale of this book are invested back into the Connemara Loop.
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September 2010
Connolly’s Boarding Cattery near Rossaveal. Open all year for long or short stays. Designed for the safety and comfort of cats following FAB guidelines. All cats must be vaccinated and males neutered. Tel. Maureen on 086-398-8179 or 091-572-000 or visit www.purr.ie. Don’t have enough time to walk your dog for whatever reason? The Dog Walker can help! For more information about dog walking and dog sitting or if you have any queries, contact Marta at 087-297-0137 or martathedogwalker@gmail.com.
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Photography & DVD Services
the Letterfrack village. It’s located in a pivotal position on the main thru road to Kylemore and Clifden. It’s currently operated as a café and has huge potential for the right proprietor. Premises will be available from October 2010. Reply to Connemara View, Box 22, Clifden, Co. Galway. For Rent: 2 & 3 bedroom apartments and rooms to let, 5 minutes walk from Clifden town centre, fully furnished. 095-44924 or 087-249-8097. For Rent: 3 bedroom house near Cleggan Village – Newly decorated, wooden floors, All Mod Cons, Safe parking. Careful tenants appreciated. Contact 086-343-8900. Book now for your Building Energy Rating certificate. If you are buying or renting a new house or apartment now, you are entitled to a BER. Carried out by specially trained BER assessors, registered by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI). Call Sinead at Matt O’Sullivan Estate Agents on 095-21066 or e-mail property@mattosullivan. com www.mattosullivan.com. Listing properties for long term rental. Selling your house, renting long-term or applying for SEAI Grants? Then you must have a Building Energy Rating. Contact Oliver Coyne today! 095-35813. 086-238-4195. olivercoyne@gmail.com. Listed on the SEAI Register of BER assessors.
Public Notices
Tyres Omey Tyres. Connemara’s 1st complete mobile tyre fitting centre. Recession Beater: Wholesale prices on new tyres. Best prices guaranteed. 24 Hour - 7 Days. Service throughout Connemara. Now stocking wipers, bulbs, batteries and oil. Contact Daniel Ryan on 095-44979 / 086-831-3462 or omeytyres@hotmail.com.
TV/Satellite/Broadband The National Broadband scheme is rolling out in your area soon, for more info contact Frank 083-408-2480. Free to to air satellite service from Harrington Electrical Connemara. Full standard installation with box and dish €160. Hundreds of free to air channels. Call Paul on 087-144-1118 or see harringtonselectrical.com. Wireless broadband. Aerial and satellite installation and repair. Peter Keane, Clifden. 095-21827. 087-668-7468.
Websites Website Design: Creative, professional and affordable websites by Cuán Mara Design, Letterfrack. To view portfolio visit www.cuanmaradesign.com. Phone Caroline Herriott on 086-079-1918 or email caroline@cuanmaradesign. com. Two Dog Computer & Business Solutions. Bridge St. 09522194. 086-404-3125. Website design & development.
Quads
Wedding Services Video Vault. Main St, Clifden. 095-22033. VHS to DVD transfer. Disc repair: 5 discs repaired for €10. Photos restored, rescued & reprinted. Have your photos digitally scanned, burned to CD, ready for print. Open 7 days until late.
Properties Café/Restaurant 80m²(860 ft²) - fantastic opportunity to lease a very fine modern premises located in the heart of
Restorations Church-Castle and Monument. Architectural and ecclesiastical restoration and conservation. Our service: statues repair and repainting. Marble altar works. Stained glass windows. Outdoor statues. Towerbells and clocks. Fountains. Crypts. Church furniture. Stations of the Cross. Vestments. Chalices and monstrances. Grotto statues. Also sandblasting and metal engineering works etc. Purchasing-Statue showroom. Michele Thierbach G.R.A.D. www.ars-ecclesia.com. 091-556-735.
Signs
Vintage and modern cars available for weddings, social or corporate travel and airport transfers. Our rare and unique cars are fully PSV licensed and insured. Special midweek rates. Visit our website or call us on 091-506-896 or 087-990-2294. www.getawaylimos.com. Wedding Videography by Pat Coyne. Professional, friendly service. Two camera operators digitally capture your big day while blending into the background. Portfolio and references available. Package includes 4 copies of the edited video. Packages to suit every budget. Renvyle. 095-43756. 086-406-2394. email: fiddisco@mac.com www.fiddisco.com.
Traditional Irish sign writing by ‘Studio Nicholas Connemara’. Moycullen-Tullokyne. www.studio-michele. com. www.nicholas-antiques.com. 091-556-735. 087-220-3898.
Taxi Service
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September 2010
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Dental
Beauty Anna’s Nail Bar & Tanning Salon. Bridge St., Clifden. 095-30001. Autumn Offer: File and polish for Hands & Feet ONLY €25. Vibroplate: One hour workout in 10 minutes just €5. Wow Brown Full Body Spray Tan €30. Shellac! UV colour coat only €30. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10-5pm. Late evenings by appointment. Hair Gallery. Bridge St. 095-21901. Monday to Saturday 10 – 6. Late night Thursday and Friday by Appointment. Now available the ‘The Brazilian Blowout’. This celebrity favoured treatment gives the effect of a “permanent blowdry” and tames softens and smoothes even the frizziest locks! Call in for a free style consultation. Hedz at the Station House Courtyard on 095-22202 . 2002 prices in 2010! All Colours €37.99, All Cuts €39.99, Blow Dry €19.99 exclusively available with Stylists Andrea, Mags and Ashline. Academy Open Days September 6th & 13th, 11-4pm. 30% Discount for first three students registered! See www.clifdenhedzacademy.com. The Treatment Rooms at Abbeyglen Castle, Sky Road. Offering hot stone massage, indian head massage, reflexology, Zen spa pedicure/manicure, waxing and California tanning. 15% off all treatments every Wednesday, Shellac ‘The two week manicure’ – Special Offer €30 and Yonka Facial plus free starter pack €65. Open 9-6 Mon-Sat. Sun 12 – 5. Non residents welcome. For appointments call 095-21306.
Bio Energy Healing. Physical, mental & emotional dis-ease shows up as resistance in our energy field. Bio Energy Healing helps re-establish your own natural healing process through releasing energy blockages in and around the body. Four day treatment €200 in Moycullen or Clifden. Contact Jason 085-770-7237 or jason@dreaminglove.net. Acupuncture Clinic, Maara Mulgrew Lic Ac. - Gentle treatment for all types of pain, boosts immune system & reduces stress. Wide range of conditions treated. Discount with medical card. Ciúin Health & Beauty, Bridge St, Clifden. Tel 087-970 -648 www.acupunctureclinic.ie “Relax with Uncertainty” 5 Rhythms Movement Meditation Practice with Caitriona Nic Ghiollaphádraig. Take a day out to relax, de-stress and learn to manage uncertainty. A day of movement, good food and a beautiful venue. Sunday 17th October. Tranquillity Room, Kylemore Pass Hotel. €65 including lunch. Send a deposit of €30 to Deora Dé, Finisglen, Recess, Connemara, Co. Galway. 095-34664. info@deorade.com. www.deorade.com Damien Stoney. Neuromuscular Therapist ANMPT. Sports, Deep tissue & relaxation massage, dry needling, physical therapy. Change sensations in your body. 087-125-2578. Clifden Holistic Centre. Kinesiology, food testing, acupuncture, Bowen Therapy, massage and hypnotherapy at An Bhean Fheasa Health Shop, Lower Market St, Clifden.095-30671. Open Mon-Sat 10-5 p.m. Connemara Seaweed Baths. Leenane. Relax in the only saltwater seaweed baths in Connemara. Open Daily 11-8pm. Contact 095-42408. Reiki / Seichem. Experience the calm & healing energies of this beautiful treatment, which is drug free & non-invasive. These powerful energies can heal one on the mental, emotional, spiritual & physical levels. Qualified Reiki / Seichem Master & Practitioner. Call Yvonne for appointment. 086-365-3266.
Cancer Care Clifden Outreach Service by Cancer Care West at the Clifden Health Centre opposite Clifden Hospital on the 4th Thursday of every month. Drop-in, information and support service. 091-545-000. www.cancercarewest.ie.
Complementary Health Change The Way you think on Weight Loss. Six week course in An Bhean Feasa Health Shop, starting 20th September, 6.30-9.30pm. €180, 50% discount if signed up by 13th September €90. For further details phone Terri Conroy on 095-30671 or see www.clifdenhealthandtherapy.com. See ad on page 6.
theConnemaraDirectory
Fitness Martial art classes at the Connemara Judo Academy in the Clifden Town Hall on Saturdays, we cater for children from 7yrs to 14yrs, youth and adults 15yrs to 60 yrs, contact Paraic on 086-356-5590, or enrol for classes on Saturdays between 2pm and 4pm in the Clifden Town Hall. Clifden Station House Leisure Centre. 095-30433. leisure@ clifdenstationhouse.com. Fitness classes (open to non members): swimming lessons, Aqua aerobics, circuit training, Pilates, personal training. September Special Offer: Three Month Single Membership for €200 & 10% of annual Membership if paid in full (valid till 30th September). For further information please see ad on page 4 or contact 095-30433 or email leisure@clifdenstationhouse.com.
Health Insurance
Counselling Counselling and psychotherapy. Úna McKeever M.Sc., M.I.A.H.I.P., M.I.A.C.P. is a fully accredited Psychotherapist/Counsellor who offers private and confidential counselling. For an appointment call 087-250-5015. email: unamckeever21@gmail.com. Psychotherapy and counselling, Diploma in Psychotherapy. For further enquires or appointments contact Monica Lydon on 087-641-1625 or monicalydon@hotmail.com.
September 2010
Why pay more than you have to for your health insurance? No penalties if you switch. All served waiting periods are recognised by Hibernian Aviva Health. Call Hennelly Finance on 091-586-500 or call Helena on 086-809-5607. Hennelly Financial Services Ltd. T/A Hennelly Finance is regulated by the Financial Regulator.
Opticians Ní Ráighne Opticians. Bridge St., Clifden. 095-30995. Eye exams. €35. Medical cards and PRSI welcome. Back to School Special on Kids Glasses. Buy one set of new frames and get the second pair free.
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Fashion & Gifts
Arts & Antiques Prendergast Antiques. Lower Market St., Clifden. For that unique gift or special piece for your home why not peruse our extensive collection of antique furniture, silver, ceramics, collectibles, antique and reproduction glassware, prints, mirrors. Best prices, 32 county delivery, worldwide shipping, trade welcome. www.clifden.biz. Phone 087-629-6195 anytime. Connemara ArtLink is an online gallery showing work by local artists and crafts people. To visit the website go to www.connemaraartlink.com. Details of exhibitions and events available on the Connemara ArtLink Facebook page. Email: connemaraartlink@gmail.com. Proprietor Noreen Allen welcomes you all to her fabulous Clifden Antique Shop & Irish Art Gallery in the Station House Courtyard. Specialising in 18th & 19th Century Furniture etc. Antiques are the oldest ‘Green’ in the business, you can enjoy beautiful pieces of Georgian furniture whilst knowing you have made a good investment. Paintings from names such as Cecil Maguire, Kenneth Webb, Maurice Wilkes. 095-22230. Roundstone Ceramics. Michael Killeen Park. Open daily 10am-5pm. We make a wide range of functional stoneware and unique hand decorated porcelain. We also make porcelain jewellery, all sold exclusively from our workshop. We welcome individual orders for commemorative pieces, house signs & original commissions. 095-35874. roundstonepottery@eircom.net.
Belle Blu. Market Street. Clifden. 095-21321. sales@ belleblu.com. New Oclaf Necklace Scarves from Spain so fabulous they are flying out the door! A must see!! Matt & Natt bags 30% off. New Dernier tights and gorgeous prints from Jonathon Aston. Mon-Sat 11-6, Sundays 1-4. Join us on Facebook at “Belle Blu” for coupons and offers or shop online at www.belleblu.com. Brats of All Ages. Market St, Clifden. Childrens Autumn/ Winter wear. Agents for Games Workshop, Berg, and new for September Revell Easy & Airfix model kits. Christmas Club saving card now available! 095-22952. The Clifden Bookshop, Main St. Stockists of a wide selection of maps, walking books, guides, memoirs, local histories and an extensive range of latest titles, art materials, cards & stationery. Now stocking Connemara 2011 Calendar, exclusive to the Clifden Bookshop. theclifdenbookshop@eircom.net. 095-22020 Open Mon/Sat 10am - 6pm. Sun 11.30 -4.30pm. The Connemara Pony Company. Market St, Clifden. Exclusive Connemara Pony Ireland clothing. Everything for the pony and rider. Baby and childrens clothing. Feed, wormers, tack, and riding wear. Embroidery service for clubs, restaurants etc. or personalize your gifts. No order too large or small. 095-30779 or 085-771-6322. info@theconnemaraponycompany.com. Cottage Handcrafts. Moyard. 095-41029. Wrap yourself up in traditional yet contemporary knitwear and jewelry collections, inspired by the local landscape, with a variety of subtle styles, textures and colours that reflect the everchanging seasons. Gifts by Grace. Courthouse Square, Clifden. 095-22101. See our selection of Lamps at fantastic value. NEW Alan Linnane. West Coast Tree Surgery. 086-284-8340.
Gates Alternative Energy & Plumbing Airflow Renewable Energy Solutions, Ballybrit, Galway. 091-764-761.www.airflowireland.ie. Daikin air to water heat pumps. Ground source geothermal heat pumps. IVT heat recovery ventilation. Solar panels. System design & project support. Domestic & commercial. SEAI approved. Cut your oil bill by two-thirds with solar powered water heating. Call Michael Carey for a free no obligation quote. Testimonials from satisfied customers available. SEAI grants available. Carey Solar Powered Systems. Sky Rd. Clifden. 086-603-9299. www.careysolar.com.
Building Contractors
Connacht Gates Moycullen. Manufacturer of wrought iron gates domestic and commercial. Side gate, railings, balconies, stainless steel handrails, glass balustrades, customised stairs, fire escapes. Registered contractor. 091-868-803. 087-261-6947. Email: conncoatfab@eircom.net.
Gutters Connemara Seamless Gutters. Suppliers of roof line cladding and guttering systems. Over 17 years experience. Aluminum, UPvc. Wide range of colours. Free quotations. 095-41180. Gerry: 086-103-1053. Peter: 085-760-4130. Gannon Gutters. Ivan Gannon. Roscahill. 087-777-0903.
Insulation West Coast Insulation. Your local cavity wall and attic insulation specialists. Eco bead Platinum. The ONLY SEAI Grant Approved Installer in Connemara. Call us on 087142-1414. Patrick & John Folan, Letterfrack. westcoastinsulations@gmail.com.
Stonewall Gallery Mirrors, Clocks and Wall Art. Large TCup and Saucer planters back in stock. Chateau Cream Furniture now available to order. Lots of new Baby, Christening and general giftware in stock. Hehirs Woollen Store & Design Studio. Market Street, Clifden. Winter Boots, Winter Coats & all your Winter Fashion needs now in stock! A wide variety at great prices with personal service… call in and have a look or see us on Facebook “Hehirs, Clifden”! Open Monday-Saturday till 7pm and Sundays 12-6pm . 095-21282. Homeware Plus. The Square, Clifden. 095-21348. Everything at discount prices!! Homewares, gardening supplies, games, toys and now in stock all you need for a fun day at the beach. Gach rud ar phraghas iontach, taobh le SuperValu. La Femme Bleue. The Square, Clifden. 086-129-5548. Jtmchantal@hotmail.com. La Femme Bleue, Market Street, Clifden. 086-129-5548. Start your Christmas shopping early this year with some unique gifts from La Femme Bleue! Felt and Silk Coats, Shawls, Bags, Jewellery, Accessories… Something for everyone! Massive Sale and Stock clearance this September.
Plastering & Tiling Tiler specialising in all types of floors & walls; Ceramic, mosaic, marble, terracotta, porcelain, slate, paving. Call for FREE quote & advice. Commercial & residential. Competitive rates, professional throughout. Paul Davis. Tel: 095-23803 Mob: 085-110-3035.
Sand, Gravel & Stone Corbett Stone. Natural Connemara building stone. 095-21744. 086-247-5619. www.corbettstone.com. Cut stone by the bag or hand picked at rock bottom prices. Any quantity. Flag stones for paving. Unusual shaped stones for your garden. Good quality topsoil by the truck load or 1 ton bags. Delivered promptly. Our prices won’t be beaten.
Sheds
Locksmith Need your locks changed? Give Martin Casey a call on 087-276-6924.
Painting Painting and Decorating: Interior and exterior, timber floors sanded and varnished. Neat and tidy job guaranteed. Also offering garden and lawn maintenance service. Competitive rates. References available. Contact Johnny Coyne, Renvyle, 086-857-0302.
Carpentry
Plant Hire
Newman Carpentry Services. All carpentry work undertaken by experienced tradesman. Fitted doors, kitchens, stairs, decking, built in wardrobes, PVC fascia and soffit, wooden floors, 2nd fixing and general maintenance. Competitive rates – Display units made to order. Contact Paddy Newman on 086-316-5978 or 095-44931.
Noel Connolly Plant Hire. Site work & land drainage. Top quality graded topsoil. Large volume of material available at €70 per load. Prices on extensions and renovations. Keenest prices around. C2 Reg. 095-23781. 086-247-6610.
Welding Mobile Welding Service: Marine and Industrial Repairs General Fabrication, Sheds, Cladding, Roofing, Gates, Doors, Railings etc. Contact John Kelly on Mob: 087-150-2705, Days: 095-44750 Evening: 095-44800.
Windows
Gardening & Landscaping Neighbourhood Gardening. Lawns mowed. Tidy beds and borders. Hoeing and weeding. Hedge planting and clipping. Lawns raked and seeded. Tree holes dug. Light pruning duties. Garden labour assist. Kerbing around lawn. Sleepers laid. Base for garden sheds. Compost areas created. Raised bed built. Fence posts replaced. Broken paving fixed. Stone pointing. Servicing all of Connemara. Contact Peter 087-147-3308. NeighbourhoodGardening@gmail.com. Tree pruning, crown reductions, crown thinning, deadwood removal, tree removal, hedge cutting & chipping, est 1998.
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Ní Ráighne Opticians. Bridge Street. Offers an extensive range of optical products and services. Stockists of high quality fashion eyewear. Prices to suit everyone! Back to School Special: Kids Glasses 2nd pair free with every purchase of new frames. Call 095-30995. niraighneopticians@eircom.net The light is changing and so is Ohh! By Gum with it’s new Autumn deliveries - beautiful tops, dresses, shrugs and of course the top selling Jackpot Jeggins! With Arts Week fast approaching don’t miss the forth-coming hat exhibition that our local Milliner Isobel Marinot-Woods has produced - on show only in Ohh! By Gum. The Water Tower, Station House Courtyard, 095-21334. Stanley’s, Market St, Clifden. 095-21039. Give your feet a treat this Autumn by slipping on a pair EMU sheepskin boots as seen on Katie Holmes and Courtney Cox! So comfy you won’t want to take them off! Full range in store. Whistlestop “Gifts & Interiors”. Clifden Station House Courtyard. 095-21532. 086-230-4210. whistlestop@eircom.net www.whistlestop.ie. Design-led home accessories at affordable prices. Lamps, mirrors, throws, glassware sourced world-wide. Baby gifts including award winning
Abbeyglen Castle Hotel. Sky Rd, Clifden. Open for dinner 7 nights a week. September Special: Four course dinner €35pp (Early booking advisable) and Tuesday is Irish Night. 095-21201. www.abbeyglen.ie. Alcock & Brown Hotel. The Square, Clifden. 095-21880. Vickers Coffee House: Great Value Lunch menus, Essence coffee & delicious homemade desserts. Brown’s Restaurant open daily 6-10pm. Autumn special: 3 Course set menu for 2 with bottle of wine €60 - Vickers Bar great value new bar menu served 12 noon to 9pm. 6 TVs for viewing all sporting events. LIVE MUSIC throughout Arts Week: 16th Joe Gibson & Friends, 17th Broken Star, 18th Paul Mulligan & The Featherweights. 19th to 24 Singer/Songwriter Week. 19th Aiden Ward, 20th CD Launch: ‘Side by Side’ by Liz & Yvonne Kane followed by gig with Pat O’Toole, 21st SJ McArdle, 22nd SJ McArdle & Rory Faithfield followed by a night of dance with Paddy O’Brien and his Country Western band, 23rd Bill Colman, 25th Bill Colman, 26th Paul Mulligan & The Featherweights and 25th September Broken Star Derryclare Restaurant. The Square. Clifden. Long-established family restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining. Traditional and contemporary cuisines. Specialising in fresh local seafood, prime meats, pizza and fresh pasta dishes. Enjoy a 3 course meal for two including a bottle of wine for only €58. Takeaway menu available. September Special: Buy any 2 Pizzas get a 3rd one Free! 095-21440. Griffins Bar, Main St, Clifden. 095-21370. Food served Mon-Thu 12-4pm, Friday 12-5pm, Saturday 10-4pm & Sunday 11-4pm. Experience sporting events on big screen & in glorious HD both inside or out in the heated beer garden with smoking area. Clifden Arts Festival in Griffins Bar: 17th –26th September: SKAZZ - ska vibes with jazz roots, Transmitter – Ireland’s Leading Cover Band, Old Friend to Clifden Arts Festival Diz ‘Honeybear’ Watson performs with Jazz Jamaican Legend Tony Uter, Marcus Hernon & Don Stiff – More Acts to be confirmed. Check Board outside Bar or see Facebook/Griffins Bar for updates. Guys Bar. Main St, Clifden, 095-21130, info@guysbarclifden.com. Food served daily 10.30am to 9pm. Snug available for private parties. Traditional music from 7-9pm Monday to Sunday, DJ Mike O’Malley every Saturday night from 10pm till late. Arts Week Special with the great “Jeremy Walace and his Trio”. Impromptu gigs over Arts Week, keep an eye on the music boards.
theConnemaraDirectory
Organics for Kids babygros and an eclectic range of jewellery & silverware. Wedding list & personal shopping source available.
Food, Flowers & Wine An Bhean Feasa Health Store. Market Street, Clifden. Organic wholefoods, nutritional supplements, herbs, natural remedies, organic face and body care. Clinics in kinesiology, acupuncture, Bowen Therapy and massage. professional, confidential and expert service in both shop and therapy centre. 095-30671. Clifden Fruit & Veg. Main Street, Clifden. 086-836-5864. Full selection of fruit and vegetable at great prices. Now selling an extensive range of animal feeds. Connemara Florist. Main Street, Clifden. Fresh flowers for all occasions: birthdays, anniversaries, births, funerals and weddings. Great gift ideas - whatever your budget! Delivery throughout Connemara. All budgets catered for! Monday -Saturday 10am-5.30pm. Contact 095-21565 or see www.connemaraflorist.net. Connemara Hamper. Lower Market Street, Clifden. Large selection of Irish and European farmhouse cheeses. Or-
Kylemore Pass Hotel Restaurant. Appetizing home-cooked meals using only the best local produce. The Sailors’ Bar which is a popular haunt for locals and visitors alike, serves an excellent variety of bar meals and bottled beers from all around the world. 095-41141. www.kylemorepass-hotel-connemara.com. Mannion’s Bar. Market St, Clifden. 095-21780. This traditional family run Irish Pub is a very popular lunchtime meeting spot serving a large food menu daily until 9pm. Pool table, Juke Box andlive traditional Irish Music. Craic and Ceoil!! Marconi Restaurant at Foyle’s Hotel. The Square. Clifden. 095-21801. Open 6 days. 6-9pm. Early Bird specials from 6-6.45pm. €25.95 for 3 courses from our main menu. Reservations are recommended. www.foyleshotel.com. Mullarkey’s Bar. The Square. Clifden. 095-21801. Basket House on Thursday Nights - Live music every Friday and Saturday night. Check out our billboard on The Square for gig listings or visit Mullarkeys Bar Facebook page. O’ Dowds Bar & Seafood Restaurant. Roundstone. Open daily from 10.30am. Award winning traditional pub. Early Bird special 2 courses + tea/coffee €19.50 (available until 7pm). Evening restaurant menu served from 5pm9.30pm, Bar food served Noon-9.30pm. Fresh seafood daily. September Special: 3 Oysters and a Glass of Guinness €5. 095-35809 or see www.odowdsrestaurant.com. Oliver’s Seafood Bar & Restaurant. Cleggan 095-44640. www.oliversbar.com. Bar Food served all day until 9pm. Restaurant Open Every Night serving fresh, local fish and shell fish, delicious home-made soups and seafood chowder, Connemara lamb and prime steaks. Live Music Wednesday & Saturdays at 8.30pm. Portfinn Lodge & Fjord Restaurant. Leenane. Family run since 1977. Overlooking the majestic Killary Harbour. Specialises in locally sourced fish, lobster, lamb, beef and mussels with their Portfinn‘Famous’ bisque. Early Bird menu is offered from 6-7pm with 3 courses for €20. 095-42265 or see www.portfinn.com. The Station House Hotel & Bar. Clifden. Now taking bookings for Christmas Parties: 3rd & 4th December. Adrian Knight Hypnotist. 10th, 11th, 17th & 18th Michael Buble & Take that tribute. Dinner & Show: €49 per person. Dinner, Show & Accommodation: €99 per person, single supplement €30 (25% non-refundable deposit required at time of booking balance due three weeks prior to event). 095-21699 or see www.clifdenstationhouse.com.
September 2010
ganic wines, fruit and vegetables. Freshly baked breads and baguettes. Gourmet lunches and Illy coffee to go. Open all year. Mon-Sat 10-5pm. 095-21054. Des Moran Family Butchers. Main Street, Clifden. 095-21232. Home of the national award winning sausages, white pudding and black pudding. Catering to all of your meat and poultry needs. Duanes Fish Shop. Main Street, Clifden. 095-21804. Large variety of locally caught fresh fish and shell fish. Fresh crab. Live lobster. Fresh oysters. Connemara Smokehouse smoked products. Having a BBQ try our tuna steaks, prawn skewers, crab claws, scallops and salmon steaks. Tues-Sat 10-6. Mon 12-6. Special offers daily! Jagur Organic. Get your organic fruit and vegetables from your local organic grower. Our produce is available in the Countryshop Letterfrack, Connemara Hamper and Duanes Fishmonger in Clifden. Look for our stall at the Clifden Market on Fridays. 095-44855. SuperValu. The Square, Clifden. 095-21182. Opening hours: Monday-Thursday/Saturday 8am-9pm. Friday 8am-10pm. Sunday & Bank Holidays 9am-7pm.
Cleggan Beach Riding Centre. Large selection of horses and ponies available for adults and children of all levels. Lessons also available. Call 095-44746 or e-mail: jcaz@ eircom.net. Connemara Gateway Hotel, Oughterard, 091-552-328. Bar & Grill serving delicious food daily. Saturday Night is Dance Night with some of Irelands Top Bands. Great Stay and Dance rates available! Now taking bookings for Christmas Parties. See www.connemaragateway.com or email info@connemaragateway.com. Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. Park Centre 095-41323. Guided nature walks. Connemara Pony information. Walks can cover rough, wet terrain. It is essential visitors have appropriate footwear and rainwear. Diamonds Equestrian Centre & Connemara Pony Farm, Renvyle, 095-43486. Home of many prizewinning Connemara ponies. Ride the Renvyle Peninsula on horseback: beach, mountain & bog trails. Top Class Connemara ponies for sale. www.theconnemarapony.com
Glendalough 18 Hole Pitch and Putt Course situated 1km west of Recess village. Clubs and balls are supplied in a relaxed and scenic environment. A fun day out for all the family! For more details contact 095-34669 or email glendalough08@gmail.com. The Station House Theatre. Live performances from local, national and international acts and Digital Cinema with Dolby surround sound. Now Showing: Toy Story 3, Inception, Shrek Forever After, Get him to the Greek. Coming Soon: The Last Airbender, The Expendables, Cats & Dogs 2 - The Revenge of Kitty Galore, The A-Team, Knight and Day and Marmaduke. Contact 095-30303. info@stationhousetheatre.com or see www.stationhousetheatre.com.
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Happy 30th
As a special sister and auntie, Helen Canavan is wished a very happy 30th birthday with lots of love from Marie, Danielle and Luke. Photo courtesy of Anna Maria Galvin
New Arrivals Congratulations to Sorcha Diamond and Mark Burton of Enniskerry, and proud grandparents Liam and Breege Diamond of Renvyle on the birth of Sophie Ava Diamond Burton (photo left) who was born August 15th in Mount Carmel Hospital, Dublin, weighing 8lbs 9ozs. Photo courtesy of Priscilla Diamond Congratulations to Danielle Salmon and daughter Maisie of Tullycross (left) and Michelle Joyce and Toby of Dawros (right) on their baptisms which took place in Letterfrack Church on August 7th. Photo courtesy of Padraic Lyden
Wedding Bells Photos l-r: Dave Coffey of Newbridge, Co. Kildare and Bridget Davis of Inishnee, Roundstone, daughter of Pat and Bridie, were married on March 26th in the Claddagh Church, Galway with reception afterwards at the Westwood Hotel. Photo courtesy of Bridie Davis Congratulations to Irene King and James Staunton who were married on August 20th with a reception at the Abbeyglen Castle Hotel. Clara Heffernan of Clifden and Paul Corless of Galway were married on August 12th with reception at the Raheen Woods Hotel in Athenry. Photo courtesy of Jimmy Heffernan
Music at the Cattle Mart
There was an interesting change of use for the venue of the sales ring of Clifden Mart on Saturday August 28th when Clifden musician and artist Bernard O Scanaill held an extraordinary fundraising concert in aid of the flood relief effort in Pakistan. Bernard
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was joined by musician Lol Hardiman and singers Oilbhe O Scanaill, Maria Sheridan, John Durning and Cantairi Chonamara. The rapt audience watched from the tiered seating by candlelight and the scent of incense dispelled the usual smells of the livestock ring! The concert has raised over €430 to date for the Pakistan flood relief fund.
Connemara View Newspaper