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Football: Syl’s minors miss out Page 31
Dump plan scrapped Q MIMI MURRAY
Rugby: ’Hide put Lions to the slaughter Page 28
December 15, 2011
PLANS to develop a controversial landfill in north Dublin have been scrapped following a decision by the four Dublin local authorities this week. Fingal County Council said the decision not to press ahead with the development on the 190-hectare site, which was purchased for €30m, had been taken “due to the large costs that would be involved and the changed circumstances which have rendered the project
no longer viable”. The decision was welcomed this week by local politicians and residents who have held a long-running campaign against the proposed landfill. FCC county manager David O’Connor, said the project had “reached a crucial juncture and in light of changed circumstances, the decision to proceed would incur major costs of up to €45 million which in today’s market and in light of evolving national policy, could not now be justified”. Full Story on Page 7
Festive fun: At the Christmas fair MARIE Ennis and Patsy Brown were clearly enjoying taking part in Malahide’s Feltrim school Christmas fair which took place recently. The event was a great opportunity to purchase Christmas presents with
plenty of stalls offering everything from toys to knit-wear. And there were also plenty of tasty treats on offer for anyone looking to leave something for Santa. Full Gallery on Page 9
2 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 15 December 2011
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SCHOOLS: CAMPAIGN: PROPOSAL IS ‘THE LAST STRAW’ FOR LUSK WASTE WATCH CAROLLING
Festive welcome home at airport DUBLIN Airport will be alive with the usual colour and festive sounds this holiday season, with children from local schools performing carols right up to Christmas Eve. Beginning this week, children will be performing Christmas songs and carols in the Arrivals area in both terminals in the run-up to the big day, and each night local adult groups will perform also. Listen out for wonderful performances by the Airport Police Band,The Halleluiah Gospel Choir and Children from St. Margaret’s, Our Lady Queen of Ireland NS, Greenlanes NS and St. Cronan’s that will add to the atmosphere and excitement for arriving passengers and meeters and greeters alike. O n D e c e m b e r 19 , School Choir Greenlanes NS, St Margaret’s NS, Cor Dubhlinne Choir will per form. Scoil an Duinninigh, Mary Queen of Ireland, Dublin Airport Singers and Lambay Singers will perform on December 20, while Colaiste na hinse, St Cronan’s NS, Rolestown NS, APFS Band and Rush Musical Society will perform on December 21. On December 22, Halleluiah Junior Choir and Portmarnock Singers will play and, on December 23 and Christmas Eve, Halleluiah Junior Choir and Gospel Choir will perform.
Protestors pictured outside Fingal County Council offices this week
Group takes to the streets over sewage plant proposal Q MIMI MURRAY
CAMPAIGNERS fighting against a proposal to build a massive sewage treatment plant beside Lusk in north Dublin, took to the streets this week to stage a rally outside Fingal County Council offices. Speaking to the Gazette, the Lusk Waste Watch group described proposals for the plant as “simply madness”. “The idea of an enormous sewage treatment plant next to Lusk, processing sewage from
Dublin city, parts of Wicklow, Meath and Kildare is a Celtic Tiger vanity project. Not only does it make no sense on a financial basis, it is utterly unfair on the Lusk community. We have had Balleally landfill for decades, we’ll soon have the Nevitt landfill and this is the last straw. It is totally unacceptable. Lusk has had enough,” said a spokesperson. The Lusk Waste Watch group was formed after a public meeting in late October, that attracted huge numbers of con-
cerned locals. Since then, other communities in the Fingal area have formed their own protest groups, with an umbrella group, the Reclaim Fingal Alliance, representing the various communities. The Lusk spokesperson went on to say: “The vast majority of Fingal residents are hugely concerned about this insane plan. FCC must wake up to what the people they are supposed to be looking after want. This proposal has to be dropped. It would be far better to have smaller, local plants
serving nearby communities. Pumping millions of litres of sewage over long distances simply makes no sense.” Responding to concerns raised by campaigners, a spokesperson for the Greater Dublin Drainage project said: “The Greater Dublin Drainage Project Team has received over 10,000 submissions from members of the public and other stakeholders, since October 10, when the identification of nine land parcels in north Dublin, within which the
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new regional wastewater treatment plant could potentially be located, marked the start of the second round of nonstatutory public consultation on the project.” Speaking to the councillors at Monday’s meeting, Peter O’Reilly, project engineer, said the Project Team welcomed the significant interest in the project and he thanked people for making the team aware of issues and constraints that need to be considered, before the team make a decision on the most suitable loca-
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tion for the new waste infrastructure. “The high level of engagement from local people and stakeholders this early in the project’s d e ve l o p m e n t i s a n endorsement of the early and detailed public consultation we have undertaken since the start of this project. All the issues contained in the submissions we have received will be examined by experts and considered by the Project Team before a shortlist of potential sites is identified next year,” said O’Reilly.
15 December 2011 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 3
HEALTH Number of stores will also open on St Stephen’s Day
Pharmacy to provide services on Christmas Day MCCABES Pharmacy has announced that it will open specially to provide pharmacy services in its Malahide branch on Christmas Day. M c C a b e s P h a r m a c y, which has provided the Christmas Day service for the past 30 years, will open from 11am to 12pm in order to provide emergency pharmacy cover for the north Dublin community.
And, this year, the wellknow n pharmacy chain has announced that it will also open a number of other stores on St Stephen’s Day. Discussing the Christmas morning service, Sharen McCabe, managing director, McCabes Pharmacy said: “We find that on, Christmas Day, people have emergency pharmacy requirements which cannot wait until St
Stephen’s Day, from diabetics who have run out of prescribed medication to new mothers who require various healthcare items. “Patients may be discharged from hospital late on Christmas Eve, or on Christmas Day, and they often have requirements for medical products. “A couple of us from the McCabe family open up in
Malahide on Christmas morning and we are usually the only pharmacy open in Dublin. “As a community-focused family-owned pharmacy we feel a responsibility to those with emergency needs over the Christmas period. “We generally find that those who come to us on Christmas Day tend to be extremely stressed and are very relieved to be provided
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‘As a community-focused, familyowned pharmacy we feel a responsibility to those with emergency needs over the Christmas period’ -----------------------------------------------------------------
with a solution. “Christmas is all about helping people in need and, by opening on Christmas
BOOK: GETTING THROUGH CHALLENGING TIMES
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A NEW book, which aims to suppor t the parents of babies in special care Units, has been launched by Dublin North TD and Minister for Health, James Reilly. Newborn Infants and the Special Care Baby Unit, features Por tmarnock mum Emma Byrne on the front cover and was written by Dr John Murphy, consultant neonatologist and the team from the special care baby unit in the National Maternity Hospital, Holles Street. Speaking to the Gazette, Emma, whose seven-month old baby , Sarah, was born six weeks early, paid tribute to the staff of the special care unit saying: “The staff in the special care unit were absolutely fantastic. The best thing about it is that they let
you be very involved. As she progressed, they would let me feed her and change her and do it all. It let me bond in the way I would if we were at home. “She’s absolutely fantastic. You would never know she was early or had been in the special care unit, she’s huge and perfectly healthy,” says Emma. “It’s only as the buzz of having a baby wears off that you realise what has happened, so being able to feel normal is brilliant. “They help you with little tips, but you can be there at any time, you can call them whenever you want. “I hadn’t a clue what ICU really meant before Sarah was in it,” siad Emma. The book was written by Dr Murphy, and the team from the special care baby unit, National Maternity Hospi-
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Helping parents with babies in ICU Q MIMI MURRAY malahide@gazettegroup.com
morning, we’re providing a much-needed healthcare service for the north Dublin community,” Sharen said.
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60 10 240 Emma Byrne with her newborn baby, Sarah
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‘She’s absolutely fantastic. You would never know she was early or had been in the special care unit, she’s huge and perfectly healthy’ --------------------------------------------------------
tal, Holles Street with the support of Cow & Gate. It was written specially to support parents of babies who have been admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit and aims to give parents an understanding of the equipment used and the procedures and treatments their baby will undergo during this eventful time. The rate of Irish infants born prematurely is on the increase,
currently standing at 6.8%, up from 5.7% in 1999. However, medical advances mean that the prognosis for neonatal infants has increased significantly in recent years, with infants as immature as 23 weeks now surviving. The book is designed to give parents the knowledge to help them through a very challenging and emotive time. It covers a range of topics, including the benefits of kangaroo
care, a guide to neonatal equipment on the ward, the psychological impact on the parents and how to safely handle and feed your new baby. It also provides information on preparing your baby to go home and aftercare when at home. All of the photo graphs in the book were taken by the neonatal team; each of the babies featured attended the Holles Street Neonatal Unit. Copies of Newborn Infants and the Special Care Baby Unit are available to hospitals and parents totally free of charge and can be ordered by calling Cow&Gate 1800 570 570.
4 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 15 December 2011
HISTORIC MOVE Torch to visit Olympic House in Howth during visit
The Olympic Torch is set to visit north Dublin during summer ‘12 Q MIMI MURRAY
malahide@gazettegroup.com
IN a historic move, the Olympic Torch is set to come to north Dublin next summer following an agreement reached by the International Olympic Committee. The London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay will take in a number of locations, including Northern Ireland and Dublin next June. The move has been welcomed by Fine Gael TD for
Dublin North East, Terence Flanagan, who said: “I am delighted that the Olympic flame will travel across the border into the Republic next year in the run-up to the 2012 London Olympics. “This historic occasion recognises the friendship, peace and cooperation that now exists on the island of Ireland and demonstrates the unifying power of sport. “On its journey the torch will visit Olympic House in Howth, the headquarters of
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‘This historic occasion recognises the friendship, peace and cooperation that now exists on the island of Ireland and demonstrates the unifying power of sport’
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the Olympic Council of Ireland, as well as Croke Park. “This will give everyone in Dublin north-east and those living in Dublin a prime opportunity next June to come out and see the Olympic flame
up close. “A number of international teams have already chosen Dublin as a training base before the London Games. “The visit of the Olympic flame next year will be a won-
FastNews
and last week’s announcement means that we will again have an opportunity for significant international media focus on Ireland next summer. “I know the tourism agencies will be doing everything they can to maximise the benefits of the torch being in Dublin. “It should be particularly useful in terms of generating further positive publicity in Great Britain – our most important overseas tourism market.”
COUNCIL: LOCAL BUSINESS SUFFERING
Pipe needed to fix water pressure
Longer opening hours at local recycling centre THE Estuary Recycling Centre will have its opening hours extended in the new year. Fine Gael Councillor Anthony Lavin asked Fingal County Council if it would be possible to extend the hours at a Howth/Malahide area committee meeting last week. The council said it proposes to extend the opening hours of the Estuary Recycling Centre, following the release of staff from the closure of the bin service. Arrangements are being finalised and should be in place in the New Year.
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Work to start on dog litter signs ARRANGEMENTS have been made to determine a suitable locations for dog litter signs on Carrickhill Rise and the work has been scheduled for completion early in December, Fingal County Council said last week. Labour Councillor Peter Coyle had put in a request for the signs at this location at a recent Howth/Malahide area committee meeting.
derful opportunity for the whole of Ireland, and especially the people of Dublin north-east, to be even more closely involved with the 2012 London Olympic Games and for Irish people to be part of the biggest sporting event in the world.” This is also tremendous news from a tourism perspective, according to Minister Michael Ring. “This year we had the highly successful visits of Queen Elizabeth and President Obama,
Bon Appetite: Cooking up a storm at the Food & Wine Christmas Show THERE was a wealth of tasty treats on offer at the Food & Wine
Magazine Christmas Show in the RDS recently. Guests were treated to some of the most stunning festive flavours around from some of the Capital’s top chefs. Pictured is Oliver Dunne, of Malahide’s very own Bon Appetit restaurant, following his cooking demonstration on stage.
A NEW pipe will be required to deal with problems of low water pressure in the centre of Malahide, Fingal County Council said last week. Low water pressure is being experienced by local businesses and also residential areas, including Ross Cottages and Malahide Marina, according to Labour Councillor Peter Coyle. The council said Malahide village is supplied with water from the Malahide Reservoir, which is monitored daily, and has not been causing any problems in the recent past. “Regarding the Malahide Marina, the public water supply would not have enough pressure to supply top apartments; therefore the supply is being boosted within the Marina complex, which is managed by the management company. “Regarding the water supply to Ross Cottages;
this is via a private common service pipe laid many years ago by persons unknown. While private common service pipes are not recommended by us and would always be seen as problematic, at the time when this service was probably laid, lesser standards applied. The pipe appears to run under buildings to the north of Ross Cottages and repair of this service would be practically impossible. “Despite the fact that this is a private common service and is not in the charge of Fingal County Council, our local water inspector has been investigating this issue for some time now and we have even employed ground penetrating radar in an attempt to locate the exact position of the private service pipe. We have located it at the small laneway at the rear of the cottages and at one other location where it disappears under an adjacent building. The conclusion is, as stated above, that it
is practically impossible to repair or re-lay this service pipe in its present location. “The only realistic solution to the problem is to lay a new pipe from New Street to the laneway at the rear of the cottages, along the laneway used for vehicular access to the cottages, and to connect the individual house services to this new main. “We intend to implement this solution; however, we have to first establish the ownership of this laneway in order to determine if a wayleave will be required for us to install a new pipe. This investigation is now under way and as soon as we can establish ownership we will either lay the new main (if the laneway is in public ownership) or start a wayleave process (if the laneway is in private ownership),” the council said. The council said it could not give a commitment that it would start the work before Christmas but they would do their best.
15 December 2011 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 5
ENTERPRISE Man scoops prestigious DSAI title
FINANCE: SAVINGS
Getting ready for Euro ’12 M A L A H I DE C r e d i t Union (MCU) has announced details of its new savings plan for all local sports fans planning to travel to Poland and the Ukraine for Euro 2012. Ireland qualified for the championships last month, and plans are afoot for a strong legion of fans to travel to the highly-anticipated event.
Zoltan Varnai, from Amway Ireland, who was awarded the title of Direct Selling Entrepreneur of the Year at the Direct Selling Association of Ireland (DSAI) awards at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown, shows his award to Bob Southworth (DSAI), judge Tina Leonard and Andy Smith (DSAI)
Local entrepreneur takes top direct selling title Q MIMI MURRAY
malahide@gazettegroup.com
A HUNGARIAN native, Zoltan Varnai, who has been living in Malahide since 2008, has scooped the prestigious title of Direct Selling Entrepreneur of the Year 2011 at an awards ceremony held in the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Blanchardstown. Varnai, who represents Amway Ireland, and lives on the Malahide Road, had no English on arrival in Ireland in 2008, and no experience in direct selling. But, having quickly mastered English, he took on the challenge of
building his Amway business single-handedly. In the past three years, Varnai has developed the most successful Amway business in Ireland by finding the perfect balance between retailing and sponsorship. This year, his group have generated €740,000 in sales – almost double the sales of last year, which were €400,000. Representatives from the Direct Selling Association Ireland’s (DSAI) 15 member companies attended the event, which also marked the 30th anniversary of the foundation of the association.
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‘I also thought ... the direct selling market has huge potential and opportunities for success’
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Zoltan Varnai
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The DSAI announced at the award ceremony that there has been a 24% increase in the direct selling workforce in Ireland in one year. The announcement was made as the associa-
tion recognised the outstanding personal and professional achievements of Ireland’s leading direct sellers, the vast majority of whom run their business from home, at its annual awards ceremony. Commenting on his successful win, Varnai said: “There are many factors which I feel have contributed to my business’ success. “I researched the market thoroughly, and felt secure in the knowledge that the Amway products were respected against market competitors, economic conditions, and environmentally
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friendly. “I also thought, if I step back from the recession we are in, think positively and believe in the products and myself, then the direct selling market has huge potential and opportunities for success. “I realised we all still need basic daily consum-
er products, so I worked on a business and marketing plan utilising the USPs of the Amway products. “Also, because of the recession, many people are looking for a second income – therefore there was both a selling and recruiting opportunity,” said Varnai.
Preparations Speaking to The Gazette, MCU manager Vivienne Keavey said: “National sporting occasions can really lift the mood of the nation, and Malahide Credit Union is encouraging its members to begin their preparations now and give themselves the best opportunity to experience all the action from Euro 2012, live. “At Malahide Credit Union, we believe it is important to highlight the advantages to be achieved in saving and borrowing with the credit union. “The savings are bigger than ever. As banks try to recover from their difficulties, their loan costs have increased significantly. “A credit union loan still represents real value for money. We have a great savings plan in place to help our members save for Euro 2012,” said Keavey.
6 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 15 December 2011
FCC: WINTER PROGRAMME FIGNAL Manager asked why no application was made
1,500 trees require work OVER 1,500 trees have been identified as requiring works to be carried out in relation to the street trees in the Howth/ Malahide area. This is according to Fingal County Council responding to a question from Fianna Fail Councillor Eoghan O’Brien. He asked the council to inspect the street trees in Millview Lawns, Malahide and at the houses on the Swords Road that back onto Millview with
a view to including this work in the Winter Works Programme as they have become seriously overgrown and are in need of attention. “Millview Estate is included in this list of trees requiring works. These works will be carried out over a five-year period,” the council said. The work to be carried out on trees does not include trees on open space areas nor shrubberies the council said.
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Fingal County Council said they would be willing to discuss the matter if another round of capital funding is announced
Council claim they were unable to support grant Q MIMI MURRAY
news@gazettegroup.com
IT WAS not possible for Fingal County Council to support a grant application to the Department of Transport and Tourism for Portmarnock Sports and Leisure Club, (PSLC) a Howth/Malahide area committee meeting heard last week. Labour Councillor Peter Coyle asked the manager to report why no application was made to the Department for a grant for the swimming pool under the Green Swimming Pool Initiative for energy efficiency, given that the centre has been dealing with Fingal’s Community Department for a number of years to upgrade its community facility. In response, the coun-
cil said: “A scheme was launched earlier this year by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport to allow local authorities apply for special funding of up to €400,000 for upgrading works for local authority-owned and supported swimming pools. “As a condition of the grant, the local authority in question would be required to guarantee that the pool would remain in public use for a period of 10 years. In the event of this use discontinuing within the 10-year period, the grant would have to be refunded by the local authority. “Taking all matters into consideration, it was not possible for the council to support the grant application. If and when another round of capital
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‘Taking all matters into consideration, it was not possible for the Council to support the grant application’ --------------------------
funding is announced for swimming pools, the council will be willing to discuss this afresh with Portmarnock Sports and Leisure Centre in the context of co-funding options.” Meanwhile, Fianna Fail Councillor, Eoghan O’Brien, asked the council to do everything in their power to assist PSLC, so as to ensure that the centre stays
open for the community of Portmarnock and the neighbouring areas. In response the council said: “The PSLC facility is constructed on land transferred by the council to the club in 1988 on a 99-year lease. “In 2005, the club approached the council seeking assistance in addressing infrastructural issues, particularly related to the swimming pool and also challenges confronting the club regarding the business operation. “In order to assist the committee, the council commissioned the services of a Leisure Management Consultancy company in 2007 to carry out a comprehensive study of the club. The study made a series of recommendations to
help improve the viability of the centre, which included infrastructural works and changes to business operations. “Conscious of the impor tant role that PSLC has played in the Portmarnock area, the council has provided substantial financial support to the club. Including the commissioning of the 2007 study, the council has contributed a total of €347,816 to the club since 2005. “Meetings have recently taken place with representatives of PSLC, where the problems being encountered by the club were discussed. The council has i ndicated its willingness to continue to meet with the club in order to help them address issues relating to the facility.”
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15 December 2011 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 7
COUNCIL Eoghan O’Brien seeks commitment
Students kept in mind for Demesne gates Q MIMI MURRAY news@gazettegroup.com
THE BEST fit will be found for students when it comes to the closure of the gates in Malahide Demesne, in order to enable them use the castle grounds on their way home from school. Fingal County Council said it is aware of the issues in relation to school -children accessing Malahide Demesne en route to and from school. Fianna Fail Councillor Eoghan O’Brien asked the council to give a commitment to ensure that the gates to Malahide Castle used by the Scoil Iosa students going to and from school, opposite St Sylvester’s Infant School, the former McAllister’s Garage and the Back Road entrance, are opened early enough
in the mornings and left open in the evenings for students making their way to and from school. Cllr O’Brien said a lot of parents had been in touch with him about the situation. He asked if they could review the order of closures, 4.15pm on the Back Road and later for the two gates besides the Swords Road at Yellow Walls and McAllisters, and if it is possible to have gates closed in that sequence. In its report, the council said: “We are aware of the issues in relation to schoolchildren accessing Malahide Demesne en route to and from school. Arrangements are in place to open the park at 8am to facilitate schoolchildren going to school. Currently the agreed staff rosters provide for the park to close at 4.45pm.
NO FURTHER traffic-calming measures are proposed on St Margaret’s Road, a recent Howth/ Malahide area committee meeting was told. Labour Councillor Peter Coyle asked the manager to report on the survey of speeding on St. Margaret’s Road, Malahide, that took place earlier this year and any recommendations made, including extra signage to improve safety in the area. In response the council said: “A speed survey was undertaken by Fingal County Council’s Traf-
Booklet of short stories THE students of Skerries author Megan Wynne’s creative writing classes will once again be launching a booklet of short stories ready for the festive season. This year’s eclectic offering, entitled Dive into Stories, will be launched at Skerries Mills on Thursday, December 15 at 5.15pm. Everyone is welcome to come along. There will be readings, Christmas nibbles and a chance to meet the authors. A total of 400 copies of the booklets have been printed and they will also be sold in bookshops in Skerries and Malahide. They are priced at €4 and all proceeds will go to Turn the Tide of Suicide, a charity nominated by the authors.
The gates to Malahide Demesne will not be closed to students getting to and from school
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‘We are aware of the issues in relation to schoolchildren accessing Malahide Demesne’
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In order for the park to close at this time, the closure procedure commences at 4.15pm with the last gate closing at 4.45pm. Due to health and safety considera-
tions it is not advisable to leave the park open in the absence of park rangers or other council staff. Extensive signage has been provided to advise patrons of the current arrangements. The park closing time will extend to 6.30pm at the beginning of February and this will accommodate schoolchildren using the park on their way home from school.” The manager said he would take on board the recommendations and would get the best fit for the students.
No further traffic-calming measures for St Margaret’s Rd Q MIMI MURRAY
WRITING
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‘A speed survey was undertaken by Fingal County Council’s Traffic Section’
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fic Section at St. Margaret’s Road, Malahide, from Wednesday, February 2 to Friday, February 4, 2011. Weather conditions at the time were dry and bright with no frost or heavy rain. “The speed survey results show the 85th percentile speed on the
St. Margaret’s Road to be 49kph, which is below the speed limit of 50kph. Average speed on the St. Margaret’s Road is below 40kph and the results show low levels of speed violations with less than 3% of vehicles above 55kph. “Given these results, the narrow nature of St Margaret’s Road and that a traffic management scheme in the form of road markings to provide staggered parking bays, which act as traffic calming, has already been implemented, the Traffic Section does not propose any further traffic management measures at this location.”
8 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 15 December 2011 8 LUCAN GAZETTE 8 December 2011
APPEAL Big turn-out for Casey’s charity evening
Aoife Fitzpatrick and Jasmine Cooney
Tracy Arnold and Noel Cunningham. Pictures: Una Williams
Action Appeal to help little girl HE Wright Venue in Swords proved the perfect venue for a Dream Appeal fundraiser for five-year-old Casey Fitzgerald recently, with locals keen to come along and help support the organisers in their goal of raising €30,000 for the little girl, who has Cerebral Palsy. The funds will be used to send Casey for a specialist operation in Bristol, and to help support her recovery process afterwards.
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Coran Kinlan and Jayden Whelan
On the night, a wide range of entertainment was laid on to suit all ages, with the Wright good night out seeing locals enjoying live music, food and dance, with Amiee Fitzpatrick’s singing proving a hit with the crowd. Knowing of Casey’s dream of being able to dance, everyone did their best to support the cause, in the hopes of helping the Fitzgeralds realise her dream in the very near future.
Aimee Fitzpatrick
Joanne and Laura Masterson
Kellie Arnold and Trish Murtagh
Lianne Kavanagh, Carla Jackson and Rachael Wallace
Daren caffrey, Barry Bishop, Carl Mulvey and Pio Valentino enjoying the night’s entertainment
15 December 2011 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 9 8 LUCAN GAZETTE 8 December 2011
EVENT Family fun at local school’s Christmas fair
Niamh Bergin and Caoimhe Madigan
Noelle Sutton, Sharon Falvey and Laura Mackova
Marie and Alice Jones
Virginia O’Keeffe and Caitriona O’Broin
Huge turn out for feltrim fair
alahide’s Feltrim school Christmas fair went of with a bang recently with lots of stalls and games for all ages to get involved in, with a wheel of fortune, bottle stall and, of course a cake sale. Local family and friends of the
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Una Whelan, Jennifer Griffith and Bronagh Madigan
Having fun, Sara Burges and Hannah Griffith
Athar, Ashad and Ahmad Farooqi
Marie Ennis and Patsy Brown
students converged on the school for the best bargains in cakes, sweets and Christmas goodies. There was a fun time had by all. Customers bought scarves, knitting wear and, for the kids, there were plenty of toy and sweet stalls.
10 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 15 December 2011
EVENT Programme boosts students’ business minds
Students, Greta Jasudaite, Sophia Moroney, Sinéad Quinn, Killian Tol and Andrew Ennis meet with VEC officer Martin MacEntee, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Gerry McGuire, Oisin Geoghegan, Wesleigh O’ Hagan, Pictures: Joe Keogh
Sinéad Quinn and her teacher, Wesleigh O’Hagan
Greta Jasudaite, Martin MacEntee (VEC), Sinéad Quinn and Sophia Moroney
Students Killian Tol and Andrew Ennis pose with Oisin Geoghegan CEO of FCEB
Shay Kinsella, Simon Curmei, Adam Swan and Mark Debtuch
Young budding entrepreneurs HE Fingal Student Enterprise Programme enables more students than ever to set up and run their own student enterprises, with the support of the Fingal County Enterprise Board. The programme runs from September to May every year and is supported by County Dublin VEC and Fingal County Council. A total of 19 secondary schools and 10 primary schools from all over Fingal are
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taking part in the current programme, which involves over 1,800 budding entrepreneurs. Students were pictured at the Fingal County Enterprise Board offices in Swords with Mayor Gerry McGuire, school teacher Wesleigh O’ Hagan and VEC representatives. All students had a great day, lots of personal advice and heaps of information was given on their possible business futures.
Aoife Tarleton, Benedicte Mputu, Mufaro Simango, Caroline Postnov and Raimonda Zalisauskaite
Aoife Tarleton from Luttrellstown Mufaro Simango and Raimonda Zalisauskaite
Community College
Jennifer O’ Dwyer, Shay Kinsella and Mark Debtuch with Mayor Gerry McGuire
15 December 2011 GAZETTE 11
12 GAZETTE 15 December 2011 12 GAZETTE 15 December 2011
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requires some professional training. To get the best results from your g y m pro gramme, you need to target large muscle groups with compound exercises. T hese are exercises that use multiple muscle groups for effective fat burning. Squats, deadlifts, pushups, bench press, dips, lunges, chin-ups, rows
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or pull downs are all examples of compound exercises. D o n ’t w a s t e t i m e trying to spot reduce and lose abdominal fat by performing sit-ups because it can take you up to 30,000 sit-ups to burn a pound of fat! There are less timec o n s u m i n g w ay s t o burn fat, you can do all the sit-ups you want and have strong abdominal muscles, but if they are covered in fat, nobody will ever see them. Imperative
The muscles of the lower body; the quadriceps, hamstrings and gluteals are some of the biggest, so to burn fat it’s important to keep them in your workout. It is imperative in any weight-training pro gramme that you train legs regularly. Working these muscles effectively will deliver noticeable results quickly. Regular running or cycling will not produce the same results. The fact is that many professional runners and cyclists use resistance training to build these key muscles. Aerobic training and resistance training use
For the most noticeable results in the shortest period of time, resistance training is the most beneficial form of exercise
very different energy systems giving completely different results. The key to improving muscle tone is overload – this means the neuromuscular system must be challenged in each workout with a load it is not accustomed to. If you fail to increase the weight week by week, then your body has no reason to adapt and you will not see the results you deserve. Once you have reached your peak
on your current programme, it is time to change. The body adapts to any stimulus when it is applied r e p e a t e d l y, s o y o u r gym programme must be changed frequently enough to elicit a physiological response. If you do the same thing over and over, you cannot expect to see different results. If you stay on a single training plan for too long, then you are simply maintaining
your current level of fitness not advancing it. Time to change if you want to see change! DT Fitness is offering an amazing Christmas gift card offer to all readers of the Gazette: Buy a €100 gift card for only €80, and DT will give you another gift card for yourself worth €20 for free. So, this Christmas, treat a friend and treat yourself. That’s €40 discount for only €80 spend.
www.gazette group.com All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away
15 December 2011 GAZETTE 13
14 GAZETTE 15 December 2011
GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY LOCAL Being a goddess during this very festive season Edited by Dawn Love
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ARTER Beauty in Blackrock is going for all-out goddess gorgeous for the festive season with an array of treatments designed to make sure you are at your most glamorous this December. Their ultimate luxefor-less Prepare to Party 5-in-1treatment includes pedicure and manicure, spray tan, eye-lash extension and brow shape, which would normally cost €120, but is now a recessionista-approving €65. The Prepare to Party treat fest begins with a foot-fixing pedi and an OPI polish of your choice to get your feet red-carpet ready. On to your mani next, and they promise to have your nails polished to perfection and pictureperfect. The Prepare to Party treatment continues with a spray tan that will take you from pale, to flesh-flashing bronzed,
using their signature spray tan or if preferred a Karora or Rock Star Tan. To complete your pamper perfection, they will then apply utterly fluttery, lash extensions, available in three lengths (short, medium or long) and then finally they will do an eyebrow shape to shape and upgrade your entire look. Prepare to Party is €65. Carter Beauty is based at 40, Main Street, Blackrock, Co Dublin. wwwcarterbeauty.ie Tel: 01-2103624.
Resolution
It might seem a bit soon to be talking about New Year Resolutions with the festive season and parties well underway, but there’s nothing like a bit of forward planning. Every year on January 1, millions of us begin the annual ritual of making a New Year’s Resolution. Sales of chocolate and alcohol plummet, as we promise ourselves a new strict diet programme or an energetic gym schedule. However, most of us are ready to get back to our old ways by March. Despite our best intentions, only one-in-10 of us will succeed in our resolutions. So, why not make 2012 the year that you stick to your promises?
The Prepare to Party 5-in-1 treatment includes pedicure and manicure, spray tan, eye-lash extension and brow shape
Nelsons’ sell a range of natural products that are an ideal complement to a New Year Regime and we’ve checked out some of the best on offer. Fitness fanatic
Setting yourself a new energetic gym regime after a few months, or even years, away from the gym will be an immediate shock to your body. Keep Nelsons Arnicare Arnica Cream in your gym bag, it is ideal post-workout. Simply massage it in to help soothe those tender, aching muscles. Increased endurance exercise can lead to
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reduced iron levels. If your athletic work-outs leave you with muscle fatigue and tiredness, it could be down to a lack of dietary iron. Top up your iron levels with Spatone, it is a 100% natural liquid iron supplement that is gentle on the stomach and easily absorbed. The easy storage sachets are perfect to pop into your gear bag while on the go. Don’t give up giving up
Giving up smoking is one of the most popular resolutions that people make. However, it is an extremely hard one to stick to. Setting a realistic New Year’s Resolution will help you stay on the straight and narrow. New research has observed that chewing gum can help relieve anxiety, improve alertness and reduce stress. Taking time out to chew a piece of gum, could help make a calmer, more relaxed you, helping you to stay on track to keeping your
Reduce stress with Rescue Chewing Gum
New Year’s Resolution. Rescue Chewing Gum is flavoured with zesty natural orange and elderflower. The liquid centre contains four drops of the famous combination of five flower essences discovered by Dr Bach and used by millions around the world. Keep
Rescue Chewing Gum in your bag or on your desk. • PRICES: Spatone – RRP €6.53 for a 14-day supply, RRP €11.43 for 28-day supply, Rescue Chewing Gum – RRP €4.95, Nelsons Arnicare Arnica Cream – RRP €7.25
15 December 2011 GAZETTE 15
16 GAZETTE 15 December 2011
GazetteMUSIC MUSIC FastTunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods
WITH Christmas fast approaching December can be the month where Yuletide cheese takes over the airwaves and shop speakers while decent music gets pushed aside (although not on Nova!). Don’t get me wrong, one of my many guilty pleasures is Christmas music, and I’m not ashamed to say it! Although I only mean the good stuff none of your Shakin’ Stevens. And if you think Christmas music is cheesier than a bucket of fondue, ask yourself why even the most credible of rockers have released Christmas tunes. Ok, probably for the cash, but we can still appreciate it. If you haven’t already this season, dig out The Greedies: A Merry Jingle, Twisted Sister’s White Christmas and the oh-so kid-friendly Alice Cooper with Santa Claus Is Coming To Town. Another gem I discovered recently is a fantastic cover of a classic from Monaghan singer/songwriter, Ryan Sheridan, whose version of Walking In The Air is definitely worth a listen, with proceeds are going to the Make A Wish Ireland Charity. She might sing in key but she needs to be locked up while it’s thrown away...Leona Lewis is to cover Nine Inch Nails’ spine-tingler, Hurt. I’m not one to ever turn up my nose at covers: the Johnny Cash version is hauntingly good. But after committing tune-icide on Snow Patrol’s Run and Oasis’ Stop Crying Your Heart Out, the X Factor winner obviously hasn’t heard of the phrase: if it ain’t broke – don’t break it. Great to hear The Beastie Boys, The Small Faces, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Guns ‘n’ Roses are to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The ceremony happens in Cleveland next April. I wonder will Axl Rose show up on time? Listen to Dee Woods from Radio Nova every weeknight from 7pm to 12am on 100.3FM
New Hall of Fame-rs, the Beastie Boys
Competition: Win a festive bundle of musical magnificence THE lovely people at Warners Music have provided us with a great Christmas present for the winners of our festive competition. Copies of this week’s brilliant album, El Camino, alongside REM’s hits collection, Michael Buble’s excellent Christmas, and Katherine Jenkins’ Daydream, are the prizes for those who can answer this question: Who was in The A Team in 2011? Send your answer to competition@gazettegroup. com, with the subject line “Christmas Music Comp”, before Friday, December 22, or log on to our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/gazettenewspapers, post your answer, like and share the Christmas post on your wall.
REVIEW: SEVEN’S THE LUCK NUMBER FOR OHIO ROCKERS
Black Keys hit the high road with El Camino Q ROB HEIGH
IT WAS only a few days ago that I was bemoaning the lack of a real stand-out rock and roll act in the current firmament, and then, like manna from heaven, along comes The Black Keys’ seventh album, El Camino. The group, from Akron, Ohio, have been plying their trade since 2001, and have been slowly but surely coming into their own. Over the course of their last two albums, Attack and Release and Brothers, there has been a marked maturity andconfidence coming into their work, and El Camino sees the return of acclaimed uber-producer DangerMouse to the mixing desk to steer this record to the masses. Without a doubt this is their most assured and strongest work to date, and some great stomping rock songs. From the fuzz-faced Lonely Boy that opens El Camino, to the funky bass of Mind Eraser that closes it, there’s literally never a dull moment. Dan Auerbach’s solid riffs and arrangements
The Black Keys’ Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney have produced one of the best rock albums of 2011
take what would be a fairly formulaic set-up in lesser hands into another stratosphere entirely. T he straight-up rock approch lifts for a moment at the start of Little Black Submarines, before it kicks into a higher gear in a dramatic move reminiscent of some of the stripped back and powerful moments on Nevermind where Kurt and Dave combined to epic effect. The record is packed with those kinds
of breath-catching moments when the stardust gets sprinkled and you realise you’re in the presence of greatness - The Black Keys have been threatening to hit this kind of stride for their last few albums, and it’s such a pleasure to report that they are there. It’s also great to see them strut their stuff on bigger platforms, with some fairly sizable arena shows on their calendar for early next year, as well as live appear-
ances on SNL and The Colbert Report that I hear tily recommend you seek out to see what these guys can do when they’re let loose in a live setting. With there being, strictly speaking, two members of the band, singer and guitarist Auerbach and drummer Patrick Carney, there are inevitable comparisons with The White Stripes, but there is a more defiantly rock approach to The Black Keys’ music than the country and
blues influences that appeared through the Stripes’ catalogue - and it’s interesting to think that one of DangerMouse’s recent production gigs was alongside the Italian composer Daniele Luppi and Jack White on their cinematic Rome project. Late in the year to be appearing in the best-of lists, El Camino deserves to be a wild-card entry to anyone’s record collection and a place in their hearts for the year to come.
15 December 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 17
GazettePETS PETS
Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA
THE FACTS: PETS’ FEET CAN TAKE A BATTERING, HERE’S HOW TO KEEP THEM PROTECTED
Keeping your pet’s paws in tip-top shape E all know feet are made for walking and dogs’ and cats’ feet are no different; but did you know your pet’s paws are also made for protecting? Yep, Fido’s pads are there to provide extra cushioning to help protect his bones and joints from shock, provide insulation against extreme weather conditions, aid him while he’s walking on rough terrain and help protect tissue deep within his paw. With all that hard work to do, it’s no wonder cats’ and dogs’ paws often take a bit of a battering. So, if you love your pet and want to keep his paws in tip-top condition, take a look at my tips below. Fido and Kitty will be ever so grateful.
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Winter Woes Rock salt and chemical ice melters can cause sores, infections and blistering to dogs’ and cats’ paws. Toxic chemicals can also be ingested by your dog and cat when he licks those paws. After your pet has been outside, take a minute to wash his paws in warm water to rinse away any salt and chemical residue. Foreign Objects Items such as pebbles, small shards of broken glass, pieces of ice and other debris can become lodged in your pet’s pads. These can usually be removed safely and gently using a sterilised tweez-
ers. However, if in doubt, call your vet.
Get out the moisturiser Your pet’s paw pads can become cracked and dry. Ask your vet to prescribe a veterinary moisturiser – do not use a human one – and massage into your pet’s paws. Start by rubbing and massaging the veterinary moisturiser between the pads on the bottom of the paw and then move between each toe. For dogs only, Vaseline is also a great barrier against salt so rub it onto his paws before each walk. Cats may lick the Vaseline so you need to ask your vet if it is ok to use on cats or ask them what they would recommend as an alternative. Doggy Exercise Your dog loves exercise but if you’re about to begin a new regime, start off slowly. His paws may be sensitive, especially after a hard winter, and they can become chaffed or cracked; so take this into consideration before you bring him on long hikes
or runs. Be conscious to avoid hazards such as broken glass and other debris when walking your dog. Do keep this simple tip in mind — if you don’t like to walk barefoot on glass or other sharp objects, then neither will your dog.
Safety First It’s not unusual for dogs and cats to suffer cuts or other wounds from accidentally stepping on glass, debris or other objects. Wounds that are smaller than a half-inch in diameter can be cleaned with an antibacterial wash and wrapped with a light bandage. For deeper paw cuts, see the vet for immediate treatment. Prevention To reduce the risk of injury, keep your garden clear of pointy bits and pieces. Pamper With Pedicures Your dog’s nails should just about touch the ground when he walks. If nails are clicking or getting snagged on the floor, it’s time for a pedicure.
Ask your vet or groomer for advice about what type of nail trimmers are best for your dog and how to use them properly. Nail trimming takes particular skill because if you cut them too short you’ll cut into the quick or blood vessel and this is very painful for poor Fido. If you’re not confident, (and this is one task I never undertake to do myself), have your vet/ groomer do it for you. If you have a cat please check with your vet first before you attempt to trim any of her nails. Cats naturally scratch their claws to keep them short so they generally do not need their claws trimmed. Your vet will give you the best advice about this, so please consult him/her.
Snip and Trim In order to avoid painful matting, trim your dog’s paw hair regularly with a specially designed trimming scissors. This applies particularly to long-hair breeds. Simply comb hair out, especially from between the toes, and trim even with the pads.
Follow our tips to keep your pet’s paws in great condition
18 GAZETTE 15 December 2011
GazetteMOTORS MOTORS Skoda keeping their eye on n CORMAC CURTIS
IT SEEMS to me as though Skoda have decided on a market strategy that takes them in to battle on every front with all of the big names in the motoring industry. Across their entire stable of models, drivers will find something new and exciting from the Volkswagen-owned marque. From the all-round complete motoring package that is the Yeti, to the executive luxury of the Superb models, there is hardly a hole in the range that they haven’t plugged. One segment of car sales that has been showing considerable growth in recent years, is that of the lean, environmentally
sound and fuel-efficient vehicle. Instead of simply pushing out one flagship eco-machine like some brands, Skoda have introduced a set of advanced technological solutions designed to reduce fuel consumption and pollutant emissions across their entire range. With a green f leet that includes the Fabia, Octavia, Superb, Superb Combi and Yeti models, buyers have an exceptional choice. I spent a week with the Fabia Greenline, and nearly fell out of my cot when I saw the estimated range for a tank of diesel would be in the region of 870km As with all the Greenline vehicles, the Fabia is powered by a direct-
injection turbo-charged diesel engine, in this case a 1.2TDI, 75bhp version. The Fabia Greenline model is only available in one trim but, to be realistic, if you’re buying one of these cars, economy is the attraction, and the looks come second. That’s not to say this car is without appeal in the aesthetics department. It sports a tasty boot spoiler, 15” alloy wheels and fog lights. The overall look from the outside is unmistakably Skoda, non-parallel lines and low-slung, which is something I have come to be quite fond of, to say the least. Inside is a minimalist affair; the dash wouldn’t really inspire too much, and the seats certainly
lack the vibrant punch of those in the Fabia Monte Carlo – but more on that next week. For the Greenline model, there is a clear
and bright set of dials, ESP, cr uise control, 60:40 split folding rear seats, eight-speaker sound system and electrically adjustable and
heated mirrors. For city drivers, a key fuel-efficiency feature is the stop-start system. When the car comes to a halt and is put into neu-
15 December 2011 GAZETTE 19
the ball with the Fabia Greenline --------------------------
‘The Fabia Greenline is only available in one trim but, to be realistic, if you’re buying one of these cars, economy is the attraction, the looks come second’
--------------------------
tral, the engine cuts out. As soon as the clutch is depressed the engine restarts – saving plenty of idling on the daily commute.
It’s an unusual sensation when it first happens, but you soon get used to it. For longer runs, thankfully, this feature can be
overrun with the flick of a switch behind the handbrake. One small niggle I had was the lack of steering wheel controls…
even volume and station change buttons would be nice considering you’re being so good to the environment. Speaking of environ-
ment, it’s worth mentioning that the Fabia Greenline falls into tax band A, which, since the recent budget, means you pay €160 in annual road tax.
The rated fuel consumption is 3.4l/100km and the emissions are 89g/ km. Also helping to keep your fuel consumption down, is an indicator on the dash that clearly prompts you when you’re revving too much and should shift up. One other little trick Skoda employ to keep the green halo unblemished, is they don’t include a spare wheel! Instead, you get a tyre repair kit and a compressor, which is sure to confuse the NCT centre when they go looking for it. They also recycle energy from braking pressure back to the alternator to keep the battery toppedup and to run on-board electrical appliances. Anyway, let’s talk drive
for a bit. Just because this car offers incredible fuel economy and low emissions, it does not mean it takes a fortnight to get through the gears – 0-100km/h is 14.2 seconds and the top speed is 172 km/h. To be fair, I spent a few days on the M1 and the N7 while I had this car, and while I may not have picked up any penalty points, I didn’t have any problem getting past traffic when I switched to the passing lane. So, in short, this car has some good looks, it drives well and it will save you a packet on road tax and fuel - let’s face it, that ain’t ever going to get cheaper. The Fabia Greenline costs €19,090.
20 GAZETTE 15 December 2011
GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY
CARRICKMINES: DETACHED FIVE-BEDROOM HOME FOR €1,250,000
Magnificent abode set loose in Dunluce
Some of the trees on offer at B&Q
DECORATIONS: ALL KINDS TO SUIT YOU
Tree-mendous value on your Yule trees
DNG Stillorgan are bringing Dunluce, Glenamuck Road in Carrickmines, a spacious, light-filled detached residence totalling C.4000 sq ft, standing on mature grounds approached via a sweeping gravelled driveway with mature trees and electric gates, to the market for an asking price of €1,250,000. Dunluce is an exceptional property finished to exacting standards throughout. Entered via a spacious reception hall with a gallery landing over and vaulted ceiling with atrium, there is
plenty of natural light. The property offers excellent open-plan and interconnecting receptions, all with hardwood timber floors, and all with direct access to the gardens. The kitchen has a fully tiled floor in the kitchen area and an attractive range of Siematic kitchen units with a large central island with granite worktops, as well as a built-in oven, hob and extractor and dishwasher, and there is space for American fridge-freezer. There is a garage which is currently used as a gym. The dining room and family room has
B&Q are offering a wide range of top artificial trees this Christmas which provide no–mess, no-fuss options for those of us who can’t stand the constant hoovering and needle-strewn floors of a real tree. You can buy one that’s traditional green, colourful, fibre-optic, pre-lit or pre-decorated, or even a pop-up tree that’s easy to store and bring out again next year, as good as new. The range varies from a Fairytale 6ft predecorated, lit, pop-up Christmas Tree for €44.50 to a simple Eiger Tree, at 7ft 6ins for €56, and plenty more besides. Find out more about Christmas at B&Q at www.diy.com/christmas
Dragon in the house: Kerr helps out at business event JILLIAN McGuirk and Sinead Beggan, of McGuirk Beggan Property, were delighted to welcome Dragons’ Den star and entrepreneur, Bobby Kerr, to their office on Whitehall Road, Terenure, to join them in hosting an evening for local businesses, promoting the importance of keeping it local in the community. Speaking at the event, Sinead Beggan said: “The evening was a great success, we were thrilled with the response and turn-out of other business owners and feel encouraged that the community will pull together in the New Year to promote and refer business locally and create new opportunities for each other.”
Dunluce, Glenamuck Road, Dublin 18 is on the market for €1,250,000
a superb wrap-around L-shaped reception with velu x windows over, and attractive vaulted ceilings with inset lighting and twin porthole windows. It features hardwood floors and double doors from the dining area out to the garden. This reception has wall-to-wall glazing all overlooking the garden. The bedroom accommodation is also very generous, with one dou-
ble bedroom downstairs which could also be used as an additional reception if preferred, and four further double rooms upstairs, all en suite. The property is approached via a s we e p i n g g r ave l l e d driveway with electric gates and ample offstreet parking to the front. There are mature front, side and rear gardens with lawned areas and mature trees. The location of Dun-
luce is also appealling, with the Luas at Carrickmines situated within a short stroll as is Carrickmines retail park. The M11 / M50 is also on your doorstep and Kilternan, Cabinteely and Foxrock villages are also close by. Viewing is by appointment only and can be arranged by contacting Steven Manek of DNG Stillorgan on 01 2832700.
15 December 2011 GAZETTE 21
GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS
Supported by AIB
RETAIL: POPULAR EATERIE MARKS A MILESTONE EVENT
Kindergarten classes take care of young skiers at Kilternan
Mark Kavanagh, founder, Captain Americas; Jim Fitzpatrick, artist; Captain America; Tom Haran and Ronnie Delany
Happy birthday ya’ll! UBLIN’S favourite dinner-themed restaurant, Captain Americas on Grafton Street, took a night off last week when they let their hair down for a good old-fashioned 40th birthday party.
D
Captain America himself was on hand to keep the staff safe from harm, as they celebrated 40 successful years serving hungry diners their favourite American food.
The pary atmosphere was a hit with everyone
Rebecca and Ruth Lee congratulate Captain America on his birthday
Why not try skiing this Christmas? THE ski resorts of Europe may be praying for snow, but Irish snow-sport enthusiasts don’t have to look any further than South County Dublin for the perfect skiing and snowboarding experience, with or without snow. Facilities at Kilternan are second-to-none, and include four different slopes to suit a wide range of users. The main slope is 180m long; the intermediate slope is 150m, and this summer the two smaller slopes were revamped with a new surface called Snowflex, and Travelator (Magic Carpet) Lifts were installed. Snowflex, which is decribed as the nearest thing to snow, is a soft, user-friendly carpet-like material, that, combined with the Travelator Lifts, is especially suitable for beginners, but is also being very much enjoyed by freestyle skiers and boarders. The Christmas season starts with Santa visiting the slopes on December 18 at 4.30pm. At 3pm there will be a special
class for adults and children at a special price of €15, followed by Santa’s arrival. Also, after Christmas, a special course of beginner and intermediate classes will run over four days (Tuesday, December 27 – Friday, December 30) at 3pm each day. There will also be a beginner class each day for those who do not wish to do a full course. The classes are suitable for adults and children aged seven and over. Practise sessions will also be available for competent skiers from 2.30pm - 5.30pm. Located at Kilternan, the Ski Club of Ireland caters for all levels, from first-timers taking their first lesson to seasoned skiers and snow-boarders. All age groups are catered for and they even run a “Kindergarten” ski course for children aged four to seven. For more information visit www.skiclub.ie, or our facebook page www.facebook. com/skiclubofireland or phone 01 295 5658.
Captain’s cake
Adrian and Ronan Lots of guests helped to celebrate the milestone
Murphy cheer the event
Part of the evening’s promotional material
The newly resurfaced slopes at Kilternan
22 GAZETTE 15 December 2011
GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Spending the holiday season with the stars Celebrate Chinese New Year in London this January
CELEBRATE Chinese New Year in London this January. The Year of the Dragon will be celebrated at various locations throughout the city on January 29. The actual Chinese New Year day will fall on January 23, with the London celebrations taking place on January 29 in Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square, Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue. The action kicks off when the Chinese New Year Parade winds its way around Chinatown and the West End, before heading to Trafalgar Square where the main stage will come to life with dance, acrobatics and live music. Shaftesbury Avenue will boast another live stage that will showcase the cultural talents of local community groups and schools. Visitors can also get up close and personal with the lion dancers who will be touring the streets of Chinatown. The entire area will be decked out with special decorations and market stalls, so don’t miss out on most spectacular event of the Chinese calendar. Get there with BMI, British Midland International, who fly up to four times daily from Dublin to London Heathrow from €29 one way, including all taxes. For more information go to www.flybmi.com or www.visitlondon.com.
The action will kick off with the Chinese New Year Parade
Emirates Airline gets set for launch of Dublin to Dubai route EMIRATES Airline is gearing up for the launch of its Dublin to Dubai route on January 9, 2012. The airline will operate a daily service from January 9, which will leave Dublin at 12.55pm, arriving in Dubai at 00.25am the next day. The return flight will leave Dubai at 7.00am, arriving in Dublin at 11.30am. An Airbus A330-200 will be deployed on the route, offering First Class, Business Class and Economy Class. Meanwhile the airline has announced 25 new jobs in Ireland and the opening of its first office in Dublin on Harcourt Road, Dublin 2. The new recruits will be based at Emirates’ new Dublin office and at Dublin Airport’s Terminal 2, where the airline will have a high-profile presence. Meanwhile, one of Ireland’s foremost airline veterans has been appointed by Emirates to the role of Country Manager for Ireland. Margaret Shannon, the former Head of Sales for Aer Lingus and Regional Manager (Ireland) at KLM, has over 30 years’ experience in the travel industry.
WITH the festive season just around the corner, some of the world’s best-known celebrities will soon be jetting off to their favourite holiday hideaways. For those of you who fancy living like the rich and famous this Christmas, Hotels.com has compiled a list of top festive hotspots in which you are at least guaranteed a celebrity sighting, if not a chance encounter under the mistletoe this Christmas. In Whistler and Vancouver, Canada, you just might r un into Justin Timberlake, Tom Cruise, Mel Gibson and Michael Buble. Every year, many of our well-known and much-loved celebrities swap their cosy Christmas slippers for ski
boots, and take to the slopes of Whistler. Some f lock to the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, which is the perfect hideaway tucked at the foot of Blackcomb Mountain. J u s t i n T i m b e r l a ke and ex-girlfriend Cameron Diaz have been spotted here on several occasions enjoying the Whistler slopes by day, and relaxing at one of the outdoor fire pits in the Fairmont’s Mallard Lounge by night. Other celebrities who have been known to spend the Christmas on the Whistler slopes include Tom Cr uise, Kurt Russell and Mel Gibson. Just 125km south of W histler is Vancouver, hometown of pop crooner Michael Buble. Since they married
last year, Buble and his Argentinian wife, Luisana Lopilato, have spent Christmas here surrounded by friends and family, so make sure to keep an eye out for them if Vancouver is on your list this festive season. Prices at The Fairmont Chateau Whistler star t from €229 per room on Hotels.com Look out for Harrison Ford, Nicolas Cage and Justin Bieber in St Lucia. If you’re dreaming of a white-sand Christmas instead of a traditional white Christmas, the lush Caribbean Island of St Lucia is the perfect spot to escape to this Christmas. A popular retreat for celebrities hoping to top up their tan, Harrison Ford and Nicolas
Cage both own luxurious holiday homes on the island. Catch the Festival of Lights with its light sculptures and lantern contests in mid-December, the countr yside bonfires on Christmas Eve, or simply relax at The Ladera Resort Hotel with its amazing sea and rainforest views. I f i t ’s a n a c t i o n packed holiday you’re after, why not try a spot of wakeboarding or jet skiing at the BodyHoliday leSport Resort. Be warned, you may have to share the water with Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez, both of whom have spent Christmas here frolicking in the sea. Prices for this Christmas hotspot, Ladera Resort Hotel, start at €507 per room per night on Hotels.com. However, if you’re looking to visit St Lucia on a smaller budget, visit Royal by Rex Resorts where prices start from €137 on Hotels.com. In Barbados keep your eyes peeled for Rihanna, Simon Cowell or One Direction You don’t have to foot the steep bill at Sandy Lane in order to guarantee a celeb-sighting in Barbados. Barbadian, Rihanna, spends her time relax-
The resort of Ladera on the
ing on the island during the busy holiday season so you could well find yourself dining in one of the islands fine restaurants alongside the pop sensation. Of course, music mogul Simon Cowell is a regular here and frequently invites fellow celebrities to join him for the Christmas break. It has been rumoured that he has promised X Factor group, One Direction, a trip to the island this year. If that’s not enough, you may even bump in to Sting, or a member of the Beckham family, both of whom have been spotted here over the festive season. Stay at the 4 -star Ocean Two Resort and Residence, where prices start from €307 on Hotels.com during the Christmas season.
15 December 2011 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 23
Edited by Mimi Murray
TravelBriefs A de-stressing massage is just the ticket
Castleknock Hotel has everything for your perfect Girls’ night out THE Girls’ Night out package at the Castleknock Hotel has all the elements needed to make a girly night a success - pampering, food, drink and a comfy bed at the end of it all. The award-winning hotel spares nothing when it comes to making the night a success. Two spa treatments, which are included in the package, are the icing on the cake. A de-stressing massage and a mini manicure lasts roughly an hour, with the option to spend as long as you want in the relaxation room afterwards. The open plan reception/bar area, allows for entertainment to be heard by all, but with well sound-proofed rooms there is no worry that Christmas party goers will disturb your sleep.
Why not spend some quality time stateside this Winter
island of St Lucia offers stunning views
FOR some winter fun, Stateside, check out the many offers GoHop.ie have to some of America’s favourite cities. Save €60 per booking on a Las Vegas Winter trip from €639pps LAS Vegas is a city that barely needs an introduction, from its top-of-the-line resorts, shopping and dining to its exciting entertainment and nightlife, Las Vegas has earned its place as one of the world’s premier tourist destinations. This package includes return flights from Dublin to Las Vegas, five nights accommodation in the Excalibur Hotel on a room-only basis, based on two sharing and airline taxes. Prices are all subject to availability at time of confirmation. Hotel upgrades available. Travel from January 1, 2012 to March 30, 2012 Ref No: H008-3523
For one week only get a New York Winter Break from €669pps THE original city that never sleeps, New York has something for people of all ages, from visiting the Empire State Building to a nice stroll in Central park. Go to the top of the Rock or skate at the Rockefeller centre. It’s all there to be taken in one big bite. This package includes return direct flights from Dublin or Shannon to NYC, airline taxes, three nights hotel accommodation based on two sharing on a room-only basis. Prices are subject to change and availability at time of confirmation. Travel to March 30, 2012 Ref No: H008-3429 Book your Stateside trip online at www.GoHop. ie or call 01-2412389 to book over the phone.
24 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 15 December 2011
GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT
1GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Kings of Comedy
CHRISTMAS is just around the corner, and The Pavilion is offering comedy fans a treat, as a trio of top comics – Barry Murphy, Joe Rooney and Kevin McAleer – are on hand to make you forget the season of good will, and delight in a season of top laughs and dreadful jokes (in the very best way, of course) instead. This Christmas, these three kings of Irish comedy can be enjoyed at 7.30pm on Sunday, December 18, with tickets costing €18.
MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Saveus Maveus and the Santa Claus Rescue WHEN Santa Claus goes missing just before Christmas, Dundrum children know that it’ll take quite a Dame to help save him – and there’s no Dame quite like aunty Saveus Maveus. Nasty Nickers has kidnapped Santa on Christmas Eve, so it’s Saveus Maveus to the rescue! There’s family fun to be had with this tough Dame, a villain to boo and hiss, and Santa to help save on Friday, December 16. For a range of show times and ticket prices, including for families and schools, see www.milltheatre.ie.
DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 New Dublin Voices CAROL singing is a firm part of the celebration of Christmas, and Blanchardstown theatre, Draiocht, has laid on a show to delight. New Dublin Voices, winner of RTE Lyric FM’s nationwide Choirs for Christmas competition, promise a show to remember, as the award-winning singers have lined up a range of delightful carols for all, with many traditional, some new, and old favourites with a new twist. Hear the choir sing at 3pm or 8pm on Saturday, December 17 in the Main Auditorium, with tickets costing €15/€10 conc/family of four: €40.
ALVIN (front, centre) has to rely on his friends when he, and they, are “chipwrecked” on a desert island after their luxury cruise goes wrong. Left alone by themselves, the chipmunks will have a challenge to survive ... still, perhaps the island’s occupant will be able to help ...
Fur-ly entertaining This latest offering in the Alvin series treads familiar ground, making it acceptable enough family fare – just Q KATE CROWLEY
IN MY time, I’ve seen all kinds of horrors. Nicolas Cage comedies. Clive Owen in a beret. A Madonna film (once). Grim stuff, I can tell you – but nothing compared to the horror of Grafton Street a few weeks before Christmas. I had a clear mission last weekend - to grab Mr Crowley’s Christmas present; something long and thin, that you can hold in your hand, and which could be quite useful during any rain. (Yes, dear readers, that’s right – a sturdy stick, for him to clear out the gutters if they get clogged up with any soggy leaves.) This proved somewhat more difficult than I thought, and as I stood there, listening to a fundraising choir singing Titanic’s, My Heart Will Go On, apart from thinking to myself: “But my goodness, I hope
FILM OF THE WEEK: Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked +++ (G) 97 mins Director: Mike Mitchell Starring: Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler, Jesse McCartney, Anna Faris, and several singing chipmunks
OUR VERDICT: THE latest in the Alvin series isn’t quite adrift in the ideas department, but this tale of a luxury family holiday gone wrong may not make a big splash with younger viewers. Still, as singing chipmunk films go, it’s not quite as bad as it could have been. While Alvin and friends end up lost on a desert island, the film retreads some very familiar ground ...
their song doesn’t”, my thoughts turned back to the movies, and to something that could give both of you, dear readers, a boost for Christmas. Unfortunately, that something is another Alvin/chipmunks’ film (words which most adult readers will automatically associate with the soft ‘snick’ of cinema doors being locked behind them, trapping them inside for the next 90 minutes or so). And so, with a heavy sigh that could compete with Vincent Browne
himself, let’s take a look at our latest chipmunkeying around with Alvin and friends. (See what I did there?) I’m sure you all know perfectly well by now who Alvin and friends are, including their long-suffering human minder (owner?), Dave (Jason Lee), who, here, decides to head off on a luxury cruise with the chipmunks and, err, chipettes. What could possibly go wrong? (I’ll give you a hint: it begins with “A”, and ends in “lvin”.) Naturally, things don’t
quite go swimmingly once they’re all afloat, as, inevitably, the wascally wodents are soon in all sorts of trouble on the high seas, with Alvin threatening to sink their holiday spirits. I see a couple of you checking your watches. Okay, okay – yes, indeed, in a truly shocking and unexpected twist that isn’t in any way hinted at by the film’s trailers and promotional materials, Alvin and friends end up cast adrift from the cruise, winding up on a little island. Why, they’ve been ... CHIPwrecked, if you will! Ahem. Alvin and friends must now rely on their wits, courage, and sparky musical abilities to survive, while Dave does his best to find them. T he only familyfriendly problem is, the chipmunks soon find that they’re not alone on the island, where
someone who’s only had a basketball to talk to for years (no, not Tom Hanks) is very pleased to have new friends. A little too pleased... And that’s yer lot. Admittedly, it’s a somewhat brief summary, but this latest chimpunkery from Alvin and friends is yet another one of those films that’s all squeaky voices and musical interludes, and little substance, although small children are unlikely to notice that. Many parents, and especially young children, will find it perfectly fine fare, as it follows the chimpunk formula to expected results. Okay, it’s certainly not a Christmas cracker, but in the spirit of the season, I hereby pronounce Chipwrecked to be ... tolerable. Happy Christmas, chipmunks everywhere! And no more sequels, please!
15 December 2011 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 25
GazetteGAMING GAMING
It’s a Grand ‘new’ release to look at SHANE DILLON
IT’S certainly been an interesting year given the number of “new” games being released, that are anything but. We’ve seen anniversary editions of games being re-released, typically with a HD brush-up, and sometimes with all subsequent add-on maps and DLC packs, creating near definitive collectors’ editions of said titles. Indeed, at the time of going to press, the news has finally been confirmed that the expected launch of Grand Theft Auto 3 (GTA3) for portable devices is set for Thursday, December 15. So, if city-roaming open world “sandbox” titles are your thing, I dare say that you’ll find GTA3 on your online store, if you set aside your Gazette. It’s not the “first” handheld edition of Grand Theft Auto, of course – years ago, I whiled away many an hour roaming around Liberty City on
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It’s interesting that the 10 Year Anniversary edition of GTA3 will be out for a wide range of IOS- and Android-driven devices
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my trusty old PSP, as well as other GTA locales – but it’s interesting that the 10 year Anniversary edition will be out there for a wide range of IOS- and Android-driven devices. To be honest, at this stage GTA3 is something of a curate’s egg – excellent in parts, yet unappetising in others, having long since been superseded in gaming by subsequent iterations and rivals. Still, although at ten years old GTA3 is something of a dinosaur, people love dinosaurs, and
gamers are likely to grab GTA3 for their ubiquitous phones/gaming devices. I predict a lot of rapidly draining batteries in the near future. As I said at the start, it’s been an interesting year, seeing the number of re-released editions of games. While the Publishing and Cinema worlds have been at this for years – how many “special edition” DVDs do people own, with each new version simply bunging in an extra two minutes from the cutting room floor? – it’s not something that happens very often in gaming. Having already sold more than 114 million copies across its diverse franchise since the series emerged in 1997, I’m sure this version will add a healthy figure of several million more sales, although at this stage, it’s hard to think of gamers who don’t know the thoroughfares and back alleys of Liberty City like the
back of their hand. However, apart from the financial sense for Rockstar Games to release this anniversary edition, it helps to reawaken interest in the company, given that it also recently announced Grand Theft Auto V. Gamers just can’t seem to get enough of the open world settings that Rockstar specialises in –mixed up with lashings and lashings of violence and adult language and humour, of course – but it’ll be interesting to see how GTA3 performs on its release. In a similar vein, many will have noted Skyrim’s spectacular success at retail, showing beyond doubt that gamers have a great interest in open worlds beyond Rockstar’s gritty modern-day settings. Only on release for a few weeks, Skyrim has already almost matched the total sales of its predecessor, The Elder Scrolls: Oblivion, with its freeform gameplay across a half frozen fantasy set-
ting, slaying lots of rivals at retail. I’ve stated before that lots of articles have been written in the mainstream press, both in culture and business sections, about the terrific sales of the rival war shooters, Battlefield and Call of Duty. Still, while those two gaming giants continue taking pot shots at each other, the Nordic trappings of Skyrim’s dragonslaying Viking-esque hero has seen him march his way up the charts, seemingly invisible, while the press remain focused on the shooters. It would not appear that a vaguely Viking hero and a modern-day gangster have anything in common, but at least they show that, although ten years apart, gamers still have a huge appetite for big, open worlds where they decide what to do, and when. It’ll be interesting indeed to see how all this translates to GTA3’s sales on handhelds ...
Get Kinect-ed to this great competition prize HERE at The Gazette Group, we’ve teamed up with XBox to offer readers a great prize. Following on from the recent launch of Kinect Sports 2 for Kinect for Xbox 360, five lucky readers can be in with a chance to win a copy of the games, Kinect Sports 1 and Kinect Sports 2. Kinect Sports 2 expands on the Kinect Sports experience, using the Kinect sensor for the XBox 360, and its rare and big park games include six of the most popular and exciting sports – tennis, baseball, darts, golf, football and skiing. To be in with a chance to win your copies, simply email The Gazette with the answer
to the following question: Which of the following sports can you play on Kinect Sports 2? A. Darts B. Rugby C. Water Polo Email your answer to competition@gazettegroup.com, with the subject line “Kinect”, before Friday, December 16. All correct entries will be entered into a draw, and five winners will be selected at random to win one of the prizes, which will be posted out. For more information on Kinect Sports, see www.facebook.com/xboxie.
Five readers can win a copy of Kinect Sports 2, for the XBox 360
The mean streets of Liberty City are beckoning Dublin gamers with the release this week of Grand Theft Auto 3 on hand-held devices
GAZETTE
26 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 15 December 2011
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15 December 2011 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 27
GazetteSPORT
FAST FORE-WARD:
Cian Curley building on his debut season on the pro tour Page 29
SOCCER: CITY CHILDREN SUPPORT LOCAL CHARITIES WITH TOLKA PARK MATCH
Students have a heart for their charity efforts sport@gazettegroup.com
IRELAND goalkeeper Shay Given has given his support to 40 secondary school students from Dublin with their Have a Heart, Save a Life campaign. The students aim is to fundraise enough money for life-saving e q u i p m e n t f o r t wo charities, Heart Children Ireland and Chain of Hope, Jamaica. Last week saw the
students organise a celebrity charity football match at Shelbourne FC’s Tolka Park Stadium. The students were joined by Air tricity League players, members of the Fair City cast, and FAI CEO John Delaney presented medals at the end of the match. The students, through their Localise community programme, have been planning and
organizing this event for ten weeks. The FAI gave the students an Ireland jersey, signed by Irish team players, along with match tickets for an Ireland game of choice in 2012, including passes to meet players afterwards for auction prizes, and if people wish to donate or support the campaign in any way they can by visiting www.localise.ie/save-alife-campaign.aspx. “We all like playing
The teams line up for the charity match at Tolka Park for the Have a Heart – Save a Life campaign
football and we wanted to help teenagers like ourselves, but who have problems with their hear ts. T he charity, Heart Children Ireland, is only across the road from our school,” said
one of the students.
Supporters The students are been suppor ted and mentored by the American Embassy in Dublin, the FAI and Dublin City
University. “The idea is to encourage students to use their interest in spor ts to help other young people who are fighting heart disease and to make the point
that individuals from all walks of life can play a key role in helping others,” said John Hennessy-Niland, Deputy Chief of Mission at the American Embassy in Dublin.
28 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 15 December 2011
GazetteSport Sport FastSport
RUGBY: OFFALY LIVE UP TO THEIR NAME WITH PERFORMANCE
Ladies all set for their annual Dubs’ Stars test THE Dublin ladies’ football and camogie county boards this week launched this year’s Dubs Stars event at a crisp and frosty Naomh Brid. The event sees the very best performers from the Dublin county championships take on the county’s senior counterparts in a pair of highquality fixtures which will take place in Russell Park on the Navan Road on December 27. Maureen King, ladies’ football chairperson, was keen to invite as many people from the county’s GAA community to take in this showcase of the top Sky-Blue talent. “The annual Dubs Stars is a great occasion where you can come along and see the best players in the county for camogie and ladies’ football. “It’s a great opportunity for us to demonstrate what is the wonderful talent of our Dubs Stars. Come along, it’s Christmas time and a great day’s fun and entertainment. We look forward to seeing you there. “Both associations have been working closely to provide players of both codes with a suitable stage to play against the best in the county.” The Stars will be named in the coming days, with plenty of high-quality players in line for a call up. Junior champions St Sylvester’s, meanwhile, made it to the All-Ireland semi-finals, in a display that shows the strength in depth in the county at the moment. The camogie game starts at 11am followed by the ladies’ football game at 12.30pm. Local clubs will take part in juvenile miniexhibition games at half-time in both matches. The mini-games will be followed by lunch and a presentation.
Malahide monstered their visitors, West Offaly Lions, at Estuary Road with a huge try-count against their opponents
’Hide slaughter Lions LEINSTER LEAGUE DIV 2A Malahide West Offaly Lions
55 3
sport@gazettegroup.com
MALAHIDE played their last league game of the year at home to West Offaly last Saturday, and produced a rout of their visitors, who failed to take pride in their efforts. A f ter a number of weeks slogging it out in traditional Irish winter weather conditions, the weather last Saturday were surprisingly good. The firm underfoot surface allowed both sides to play with a bit of pace, and it was Malahide who started to gain the upper hand. Free-f lowing rugby saw the home team run in four tries in the opening 20 minutes to move
into a 24-0 lead. Malahide’s next score was the try of the day, with R ichie Forbes running onto a Rory O’Driscoll chip after the backline had combined to put the full back into space. We s t O f f a l y d i d come back into things and, after one penalty attempt was unsuccessful, they did finally manage to get themselves on the scoreboard with a 35-metre effort. However, Malahide continued to dominate and it was only some great last-ditch defending from the visitors that kept Malahide at bay. With such a comfortable margin, Malahide were able to ring the changes at half time and the fresh legs just
seemed to add to the West Offaly men’s difficulties. Malahide continued to play good open rugby, with the fresh legs of Brian Geraghty and David Kiernan certainly making a difference, while Eoin Barber was a constant threat to the visitors on the left wing. Malahide crossed for further tries from Richie Forbes, Dave Murphy, Geraghty and Kiernan. The victor y leaves Malahide in four th place in the table, just a point behind thirdplaced Kilkenny, whom they welcome to Estuary Road in the first weekend of the New Year. Malahide won’t have many easier days than this in the Leinster
League, but they will still be pleased by the manner in which they scored their tries, with backs and for wards combining to play with pace and accuracy. Next for Malahide is a Spencer Cup semi-final
away to Coolmine at 7.30 this Friday evening. With Malahide looking to blood some new talent, it should be an i n t e r e s t i n g e ve n i n g against a side currently running mid-table in Division 1A.
15 December 2011 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 29
in association with
Curley back in swing of things
Making his way in golf’s highly competitive pro ranks, Cian Curley tells STEPHEN FINDLATER he has the roadmap to a bright future in his second year
CIAN Curley is lining up a more consistent approach to 2012 as he embarks on his second year in the professional golfing ranks, seeking to climb the ladder from the Euro Pro-Tour and upwards to the European Tour. A contemporary of Shane Lowry in numerous Irish and Leinster amateur sides, the Lucan man knows it is certainly attainable but his debut season in the paid ranks quickly taught him the margins for error are wafer-thin, a voyage of personal discovery. “A little bit more reality sets in. I wouldn’t say I underestimated the standard but… I basically wasn’t good enough,” he told the Gazette.
“I was [good enough] when I was playing close to my best but, when you’re not, you still have to be good enough to compete. That was the thing for me. I was way
the years to come. A fine sportsman, he previously represented Scoil Aine Naofa in the Cuman na mBunscol finals in Croke Park – in the same side as now-
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‘It costs you €1,000 a week on tour. As a pro, you are your own business. If things aren’t working, you need to change them. --------------------------------------------------------
too inconsistent.” It is a frank and honest assessment for the Newlands’ man who reckons the accumulation of learning experiences have given him the steel to challenge, not just at this level, but beyond in
Longford intercounty footballer Enda Williams – while also winning numerous soccer titles with Hillcrest. He also lined out in Weston hockey club colours but golf soon took centre-stage, saying it
Driving on: Cian Curley has amended his swing for his second professional year
was “probably the sport I was best at, even though I would have like to have thought I was better at football.” Admitting he has never had any interest in college courses, since 2004, it has been a cycle of working jobs throughout the winter to help optimise his game when the season swings into gear. It saw him rise to the top of the amateur game in Ireland, before taking the next step and turning to the paid ranks and the Pro-Tour. On his day in his first season, Curley recorded a series of 65 and 66s but the bad days saw 74 and 75-shot rounds. With a large portion of the safety net that comes with the amateur life now gone, such results made Curley quickly realise his career was very much akin to being a sole trader. “As a professional, you are your own business. If things aren’t working, you need to change them. “The biggest thing was to change my coach. I came to the stage where it wasn’t working for me and you can see the inconsistency from the results. I didn’t know my swing. Towards the end of the season, I sat down and tried to figure out why. I came up with a number of things, and that’s what I’ve been working on.” Now, he is using his
time out to focus on his career and rebuilding his backswing, changing some motor patterns he has been playing with for a number of years. By comparison with his lead-in to the 2011 campaign, one mostly spent injured, he is also spending more time in the gym with a view to hitting the ground running. “ I ’m m a k i n g t h e improvements so I can go up a level. If you’re good enough, you’ll make the money and move on but it is incredibly tough. It costs us €1,000 a week to compete and because the money is so top heavy on the tour we play on. “You’ve got to finish in the top five to break even every week. Between 150 and 160 play each week, so it’s tough to get up to the next level. “But, with the work I’m doing now, I can definitely see myself being a multiple winner on the Euro Pro-Tour and then go to qualifying-school and move up. That’s the long-term goal at the end of next season, and it’s very attainable. I’m just trying to do the right things. I’ve got a clear picture of where I’m going and what I’m trying to do. “I’m definitely good enough to compete. I haven’t thought too far ahead but that is what I’m focused on until February.”
FastSport Dublin players line out for the GAA GPA All-Stars BALLYBODEN St Enda’s Gary Maguire, Lucan Sarsfields’ Peter Kelly and Kilmacud Crokes’ Ryan O’Dwyer were among the 2011 GAA GPA All-Stars hurling tour team sponsored by Opel, that recently travelled to San Francisco to play a series of matched in the Golden Gate city. The touring party consisted of players from the 2010 and 2011 All-Star hurling teams who played in the tour’s exhibition game under the guidance of team managers Liam Sheedy and Davy Fitzgerald. The tour game took place at Treasure Island, the headquarters of San Francisco GAA, and was preceded by a special breakfast event, held in conjunction with Ireland Reaching Out, which aims to connect the Irish diaspora with the GAA’s growing international club network. Waterford’s Shane Walsh led the scoring ranks for the 2011 hurling All-Stars as they edged out their 2011 counterparts by a single point. Walsh scored 1-5 for the 2010 squad as they beat the 2011 team, for whom Tipperary forward Lar Corbett scored three goals. The final score was 2010 All Stars 3-24, 2011 All Stars 7-11.
Miles all over the city for GOAL charity THERE will be no less than 14 GOAL Miles taking place across Dublin over the festive period. The GOAL Mile is held in villages, towns and cities all over Ireland every Christmas and is one of the country’s biggest and longestrunning annual fundraising events. Among the venues for the Christmas Day GOAL Miles are Kilbogget Park, Killiney, from 11am to 12 noon; at Irishtown
Stadium from 10am to 12 noon; at Lucan Harriers from 10am to 12 noon; at Malahide Castle from 11am to 12 noon; at Eamonn Ceannt Park, Sundrive Park, Dublin 12, from 10.30am to 12 noon; and at The Pope’s Cross, Phoenix Park, from 10am to 12 noon. The Mile will take place on St Stephen’s Day at Corkagh Pairc, Clondalkin, at 11am; at Wildgeese GAA pitch, Oldtown, at 12 noon; and at Porterstown Park from 11am to 1pm. For more information, contact GOAL at 01 280 9 779, or on fundraising@ goal.ie.
30 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 15 December 2011
GazetteSport Sport FastSport
Flanigan and Owens miss out on Olympic berth MALAHIDE’S Scott Flanigan and Ger Owens missed out on Olympic qualification from the sailing world championships in Perth last Sunday. It means the 470 pairing will be bound for Barcelona in May for the last chance to hand Ireland a berth in the London Games as they finished outside the 19 places on offer in Australia for competing nations. Going into the final day’s racing, they were lying in 35th position and in 23rd on the nations list but they could not make up the deficit after finishing 30th and 24th in their two races. They had started well with a top-ten score early on but were stuck in a congested midfield, lying 31st after day two and dropped back to 34th in the gold fleet and were unable to make up the deficit to get into the Olympic places.
Fingal fall to Railway in Neville Cup FINGAL hockey club came within a couple of inches of earning a reprieve in their bid to reach a first ever Neville Cup final but ultimately fell to Railway Union and miss out on a St Stephen’s Day showdown with UCD. The ALSAA men lost 3-2 after Adrian Sweeney banged the inside of the post in the closing 20 seconds of their game in Park Avenue, denying them extra-time.
It would have been the icing on a fine comeback after Railway, through Peter English and Rob Abbott, had built a 3-1 lead. But Tom Manning simply laid off the ball to Eamon Bane, who smacked into an open goal with six minutes to go to give Fingal hope, before Sweeney took in an overhead pass that was missed by two home defenders. He seemed to be clipped, but played on and smacked the left post to deny the leveller, allowing Railway Union the chance to win a first senior trophy since 1980.
SOCCER: FOUR YOUNG MALAHIDE SIDES PROGRESS IN SFAI
Malahide United’s youth sides have progressed in four cup competitions
United stride on in cups Q sport@gazettegroup.com
MALAHIDE United’s young stars produced some superb performances to be riding high in four of the All-Ireland cups, making it into the last 32 of their respective competitions. It saw them earn spots in the open draw for the national rounds of the competitions, which will be made in Killarney this week, as they aim to bring home All-Ireland glory. At U-11 level, the Premier team has been blazing a trail through the Menton Seery Cup and started with a good
win against Shelbourne. Tough games against Crumlin, 3-1, and Cherry Orchard 4-3 yielded their passage into the last 32 in their first attempt at an All-Ireland cup and they will face their first big road trip when they travel to Clonmel Town. The U-13 Premiers are moving on up in the Troy Cup after three road trips were needed to see their passage through. They qualified via strong wins over WFTA, 4-1, followed by Shelbourne, 3-1, and Home Farm 4-0. Galway’s Barna Furbo beckon in the next
Lady stars in blue: Dub Stars set for St Brigid’s date THE ANNUAL Dub Stars’ camogie and
ladies’ football games will take place in St Brigid’s GAA club on Tuesday, December 27, and at the launch were stars of Dublin ladies’ GAA, Aisling King from St Brigid’s, Denise Masterson from Naomh Mearnog, Sorcha Furlong from St Brigid’s, Catriona Power from Naomh Mearnog and Aine Fanning of St Vincents. The matches being at 11am and admission is free. Picture: GAApics.com
round in another away day. A year above them, the U-14s have had a comfor table route through four rounds of the Goodson Cup after a bye was followed by a walkover to set up their entry into the competition at the third round stage. There, they had too much for Shelbourne once more with a 4-0 success and then Home Farm were eliminated 3-1. They have a home date to look forward to on the national stage as Mullingar Athletic are their next opponents.
The fourth side to progress are the U-15s DDSL Premier outfit in the Evans Cup who picked up three wins in their regional, preliminary rounds. Home Farm provided a tough challenge but were overcome 2-1 b e f o r e Te m p l e o g u e United were beaten 3-0 and the Gannon Park side then accounted for Cambridge Boys at home 4-0. Their run has earned them a home date with Mervue United making the trip east from Galway for the fixture. Their NDSL equivalent also went deep in
the competition, making it to the fourth round of the competition only to be pipped by Woodlawn. The U-14A side gave Raheny United, from the DDSL U-14 Premier, a scare, and just lost out 1 - 0 and lastly the U-13 Premier NDSL side who lost out narrowly to Bailieboro Celtic 2-3. The club’s LSL Sunday Senior 1 side, meanwhile, strengthened their place at the top of the division with a 3-1 home win over TEK United. It hands Vinny Perth’s side a four-point lead at the summit of the division.
15 December 2011 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 31
in association with
FOOTBALL: SAINTS’ SIDE FAIL TO CAP GREAT SEASON
CLUB NOTICEBOARD ST SYLVESTER’S MFL1 Final: Ballyboden St Endas 3-05
line in a very even match. It is a pity
St Sylvesters 2-07: We couldn’t be
we didn’t get a longer run because
more proud. Let’s celebrate them,
more games would have been a big
their courage, skill and commit-
benefit to this team.
ment, individually and collectively.
There is live music every Saturday
All year, in both football and hurl-
night in the club. Next Saturday, the
ing, these players have given us the
very popular Platinum is playing.
most memorable and inspiring per-
Drop in anytime you are out and
formances and delighted us every
about, enjoy a drink and support
time. This was another heroic effort
your club.
from a magnificent team that lead almost all the way. One point was
The Lotto jackpot this week is €4,400, if you’re feeling lucky.
the difference in the end. Well done
Member ship can now be paid
to everyone involved. You were bril-
online on the best GAA website in the
liant all year and a joy to behold.
world, www.stsylvesters.ie, and our
U-21FC D: St Sylvester’s 1-06 Na
thanks to Mel McIntyre for the work
Fianna 1-09: Na Fianna picked up
he puts in every week of the year to
the extra few scores to get over the
make it what it is.
FINGALLIANS St Sylvester’s minor footballers missed out on capping a fine season with a win in the final
Sylvester’s minors miss out on victory MFL1 FINAL St Sylvester’s Ballyboden St Enda’s
2-7 3-5
Q sport@gazettegroup.com
ST SYLVESTER’S saw the minor division one football title snatched from their grasp at the very last as Ballyboden St Enda’s raided late on to see Arran Winters raise the silverware at Sancta Maria last Sunday morning. The Malahide men had looked in decent shape to win the title for much of the game as they made good use of a mild but bitter wind in the first half. It led to some classy scores as well, including a neat flick from Dublin minor Conor Meaney to Mark Hazley for their opening goal, and they grabbed a second through Fionn Cahill before the interval to notch up a five-point lead at 2-3 to 1-1. And they continued to hold sway early in
the second half as Kevin O’Flynn helped add to the midfield engine room. Conor Ryan was sweeping the half back line and Eoin Boyne, Conor Quinn and John Peacock were all comfortably holding their men. Brian Shalloe was particularly strong coming out of a full line with Danny Greenan and Niall Higgens. Five forwards playing into a wind with seven backs was always going to be a tall order. But Boden were gathering momentum and despite some tidy Syl’s scores, the host club goaled on the break that made for a nervy ending for the Malahide side. They lost Cahill to a dead leg and with it, some of our ball-winning ability. Another goal off a broken ball in the square and a pointed free gave Boden the lead for the
first time and Syl’s could not get up the field in strength to level the game, with a feeling of deflation greeting the final whistle. For the southsiders, though, it was a brave comeback effort after a couple of rough weeks, falling at the final hurdle in both the A hurling and football finals. As such, it provided a healthy reward for their year-long efforts. Meanwhile, the club’s U-21 B footballers bowed out of the D championship at the
semi-final stage, falling at the hands of Na Fianna 1-9 to 1-6. Playing with a cold December wind, in the first half they trailed by five at half time. Conor McMahon was excellent at centre back and had good support from David Wall, Conor Fitzpatrick and Kevin Casey. Up front Kevin Clarke led the line well but it was not enough to turn the tie in their favour in the face of a very mobile Na Fianna for ward line.
OUR senior footballers ended a very
Party Date: Mentors and member
long season on Sunday morning as
Christmas Party is on December 17
they were defeated in the promo-
from 8pm. Music, food, craic and
tion pla y-of f f inal by O’Toole’s.
the Singing DJ.
Match pictures now on Facebook.
Best of luck to Gaelscoil Bhrian
Club Car Draw: Tickets are now
Boroimhe girls who pla y in the
available and members are asked
Camann na mBun Scoil final this
to sell a ticket each and get the
week in Croke Park. Come along and
money in as soon as possible.
show your support!!
If anyone requires further infor-
The adult hurlers have starting
mation, please ring the club on
back training in the gym each Mon-
01-8400125 or email fingallians@
day at 7.30pm. New members are
gmail.com.
most welcome.
Congratulations to the Under-9
Please note that Balheary and
girls who represented the club in
Holywell pitches will be closed until
the first club camogie game in over
January 11.
30 years v Skerries.
Also next Saturday, our U-13 boys
Under-15 boys and U16 boys and
and U-14 boys and girls will have
girls will have their Christmas party
their Christmas party in ALSAA at
this Saturday at 7pm in ALSAA.
7pm.
FINGAL RAVENS HARD luck to our U-21s team who
shops. Please contact Desy on 087 995
were beaten in the semi-final of their
7429 to order your copy, they would
championship against Thomas Davis
make a great Christmas present.
on Saturday. We wish Thomas Davis the best of luck in final.
Our children’s Christmas party was a great success in Kettle’s Hotel last
We will be holding a club social night
Sunday, a big thank you to Joe and
and our Christmas raffle next Sat-
Colin for the use of the room and all
urday, December 17 in the bar of Ket-
the help from their staff, thanks Mick
tle’s Hotel from 9pm,. There are some
and Alan for organising and to every
excellent prizes; overnight stay in a
one who helped out on the day and, of
4-star hotel, turkey, hams, hampers,
course, to Santa for turning up.
wine, restaurant voucher, spirits and
Congratulations to Keira O’Brien
lots more, see any committee mem-
and Gordon Carberry on the birth of
ber for tickets – if anyone has any
their son.
prizes to donate please also see any committee member.
Lotto: Numbers drawn were 25, 29, 38 and 39. There was no winner of
Copies of A Rare Auld Season book
jackpot; €20 to Enda Madigan, Banjo
are available to purchase for only €18,
(Jnr.) and Ashley Daly. Next week’s
€2 less then they are available in the
jackpot is now worth €3,013.
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32 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 15 December 2011