Issue 7 by TraleeAdvertiser

JOB OPPORTUNITY

A family owned business with outstanding achievements for more than 70 years with over 46,000 employees worldwide. Liebherr Container Cranes Ltd. is one of the world's leading manufacturers of ship to shore cranes, rail mounted gantry cranes and rubber tyre gantry cranes. From its base in Killarney, Ireland, the company designs, builds and exports container cranes worldwide. Founded in 1958 as the first Liebherr factory outside of Germany, today, container cranes manufactured by Liebherr in Ireland are renowned for their quality, longevity and productivity.

Eircode: V93NF44

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN TRALEE

Photos by John Cleary

ABOVE: The Maurice Collins Memorial Vintage Club returns after three years due to the Covid, but we are delighted to announce that we will be back and planning a bigger and better vintage day again on Easter Sunday 17th April on the grounds of Ardfert Quarries, our chosen charities are Down Syndrome Kerry and Kerry / Cork Cancer Support Group. A Tractor Run for Vintage Tractors only is planned for Easter Saturday evening and a Vintage Car Run is planned for Easter Sunday morning. We look forward to seeing you all there.

ABOVE: Karen Maher Hayles, sitting third from right of picture presents a cheque for 21,684.12 EURO to the secretary of Kerry Hospice Foundation Mary Shanahan and the chairman KHF Jack Shanahan, proceeds of the Hawley O’Sullivan Memorial Truck Run, by 107 Trucks to Castleisland and Killarney and return.

ABOVE: Michael Fox O’Connor organiser of the Bill Kirby Memorial Charity Walk in aid of the Kerry Hospice Foundation presented a cheque to the secretary of the Kerry Hospice Foundation Mary Kirby for 9590 EURO on Monday, sitting in the centre Fionn Kirby, at back Anne Sullivan, Ann O’Connor-Ryle, Jerry Daly, Ciss O’Connor and Mike Moriarty.

ABOVE: Carmel Quilter O’Neill, Tralee, and Denis O’Reagan, pictured at the Austin Stack GAA Club Victory Dinner Dance at Ballygarry House Hotel on Saturday night.

ABOVE: Eabha Murphy, The Spa, and Armin Heinrick, Tralee, enjoying the Mercy Mounthawk Debs dinner dance on Monday night at Ballyroe Heights Hotel.

ABOVE: Taken at Mercy Mounthawk Debs dinner dance on Monday night at Ballyroe Heights Hotel, Caoimhe Leahy and Mark Vichente, both from Tralee.

ABOVE: Eimar Murphy, Tralee, and Dara Cassidy, Ballymacelligott, pictured at Mercy Mounthawk Debs dinner dance on Monday night at Ballyroe Heights Hotel.

ABOVE: Dancing the night away at Mercy Mounthawk Debs dinner dance on Monday night at Ballyroe Heights Hotel, Clodagh Murray, and Jamie Sugrue, both from Tralee.

ABOVE: Stepping out at Mercy Mounthawk Debs dinner dance on Monday night at Ballyroe Heights Hotel, Conor Breen, Ciara O’Mahony, Daragh Breen, Kilflynn and Kayleigh Williams, Fenit.

ABOVE: Enjoying the craic at Mercy Mounthawk School Debs on Monday night at Ballyroe Heights Hotel, from left Khayna Gannon, Conor Horan, Aoife O’Connor and Sean Broderick.

Your Journey Home

Welcome to Lottie’s at The Ashe

Lottie’s is the newly refurbished events space in the four star Ashe Hotel. Step into a space inspired by the golden Twenties, a symbol of glamour, style and sophistication. Relax yourself on scalloped occasional chairs and fan-style velvet couches while enjoying the awe-inspiring decadent detail of the room. Shimmering chandeliers, lavish gemstone coloured velvet and fiercely unique décor make this a space like no other. A space of splendour and rich décor that is both flamboyant and versatile, an ideal setting for your next event or occasion. Hotel Stylist Jane Boyle says ‘We have created a special space for people to dine, celebrate and entertain, a room for a sense of occasion, to toast those beautiful moments in our lives. ’

Celebrate at Lottie’s

We’ve been waiting a long time to celebrate again and Lottie’s is the perfect location for your next special occasion. Lottie’s is a versatile and unique private space that

offers you and your guests a private area to dine and celebrate.

Our culinary team take great pride in creating menus, sourcing the very best of ingredients and creating a memorable dining experience. Our hospitality team are looking forward to welcoming our guests back to celebrate all their special occasions, Anniversaries, Retirements, Birthdays, Baby Showers and more! Naomi McDonnell, Operations Food & Beverage Manager says, ‘We love hosting celebrations to be part of a families special occasion is a privilege and we are looking forward to being part of that.’

The versatility of Lottie’s provides Wedding Couples with a glamorous and romantic setting with velvet couches, a shimmering tiled bar, Art Deco chandeliers and vintage touches. Our Wedding Team know that it’s the little details that make an experience truly memorable, and we are happy to work with couples to personalise all aspects of their wedding. Adding their own sense of style to our love of

Inspired by the Golden 1920’s era, its ‘Lottie’s at the Ashe!

good design brings together the perfect pairing. When one day just isn’t enough- enjoy a Wedding Weekend at Lottie’s!

A Pre Wedding gathering is a great way for your guests to meet and mingle. Choose from an evening of canapés and cocktails or a more intimate affair of a sit down with your nearest and dearest to relax. Alternatively, unwind after your Wedding Day with a Post Wedding Party.

Enjoy a laid- back affair where you can relive moments and revel in the enjoyment of your guests. Choose from a relaxed gathering on the Terrace, trendy Birdcages or host a family sit down dinner in Lottie’s, the choice is yours.

Dine at Lottie’s

The Birdcage at Lottie’s is the latest dining experience you’ve grown to expect from The Ashe Hotel.

Each birdcage contains three layers of sharing plates, offering the diner a selection of savoury light bites to enjoy. Choose from one of the three themed birdcages, the Classic Charcuterie & Cheese, the Meat Feast or the Vegan Delight. Each menu has been carefully curated and ingredients specially sourced by Head Chef Alex DeGlorie. Indulge on dishes such Dingle Whiskey & BBQ Chicken Wings, Tim Jones Beef & Sneem Black Pudding Sliders or a selection of Farmhouse Irish cheeses.

While enjoying your Birdcage sharing platter sip on a cocktail in this uniquely glamorous setting. Our mixologists Nicole Sugrue & Diana O’Keeffe have designed a selection of creative and original cocktails both alcoholic and non- alcoholic using only the best of ingredients for you to enjoy.

The Birdcages launch Friday 18th March, St. Patrick’s Bank Holiday weekend, bookings are open and advisable.

Meet at Lottie’s

With no detail left to chance Meet at Lottie’s is your next meeting space. Your guests will enjoy the specially chosen comfortable conference balloon backed chairs, natural daylight, advanced audio visual facilities and high speed broadband. Our culinary team have put together a range of menus to suit your event and will also create a bespoke menu to suit your needs.

Whether you are planning a meeting, team building event, board meeting or conference –our events team will help you plan the perfect experience for you and all of your guests and ensure that the day runs smoothly.

To make an enquiry for Lottie’s at The Ashe please call on 066 7106300 or email info@theashehotel.ie.

COMPETITION TIME!

Ger's Place in Monavalley has just recently reopened and owner Ger O Shea (who also operates the hugely popular New Yorkers in Tralee )is cooking up a storm with his selection of delicious food . From his famous 'Ger's All Day Breakfasts ' to his Deli-Counter with Gourmet Sandwiches , Hot Food throughout the day such as Shepherds Pie & Chicken Curry and of course his Take-Out Menu includes such favourites as Fish n' Chips, Pizza, Taco Fries, Quarter Pounders & more. Open everyday 9-6pm... its a great place for that pit-stop to take a break enjoying delicious food!

To celebrate his re-opening, Ger is cooking up 2 sets of 'Breakfast for 4' as prizes that you could win ..Yes you and 3 friends will be treated to Gers famous 'All Day Breakfast'. Imagine a nice lazy weekend gathering of friends enjoying delicious breakfast in Gers Place! That could be you!

HOW TO WIN? Go to 'Gers Place' on Facebook, Like the breakfast post, Share it and tag a friend... thats it! Winners will be notiﬁed by Ger himself! (T & C's apply)

Ger O’Shea

SHANAKILL, MONAVALLEY, TRALEE (NEXT TO THE CAR WASH)

SHOP, CAFE, TAKE OUT

Oh... The Wonder and Style of a Debs Ball!

Sami Abdrham, Katie Husey, Matthew O’Mahony and Lara Flynn at the Mounthawk Debs at Ballypre Heights Hotel, Tralee on Tuesday evening. Photo Joe Hanley

Jack Dowd, Katie Ross, Odhran Pierce and Muire Kingston at the Mounthawk Debs at Ballyroe Heights Hotel, Tralee on Tuesday evening. Photo Joe Hanley

At the Mounthawk DEbs at Ballyroe Heights Hotel, Tralee on Tuesday evening, Brian McElligott, Ava Prendergast, Conor Breen, Ciara O’ Mahony, Darragh Breen and Kayleigh Williams. Photo Joe Hanley

Friends at the Mounthawk Debs at Ballyroe Heights Hotel, Tralee on Tuesday evening. Photo Joe Hanley

• Fully Qualiﬁed Instructors Take Full Control

• Age Appropriate Activities

• Comfortable area for teachers to relax with complimentary tea and coﬀee

• Soccer, Basketball Dodge Ball & much more

• Swimming Pool Inﬂatable Sessions

• Fun Team Building Games

• Fundamental Movement Skills Enhanced

• Fun Relay Races with the emphasis on the Principles of Fitness

• Swimming pool inﬂatables sessions (Instructors are in the water making it safe for non swimmers)

Bon Secours Hospital, Tralee The Scotia Clinic, Tralee

THE TEAM AT THE CLINIC ARE HERE TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS ON COSMETIC AND HAIR RESTORATION ISSUES.

I am going to Portugal in August and want to feel and look good about by body as I bask in the sun. My problem area is my tummy and I just want to feel good in my skin again. I heard the CHRC had a treatment for the tummy. Is it sore and how many treatments will I need?

Leona.

SouthWest Skillnet shows support for hospitality sector at MTU

TJ O’Connor MTU , Aoife O’Reilly Skillnet , Professor Maggie Cusack, President, MTU , Mary Rose Stafford, Head of School Business & Humanities at MTU (Kerry Campus) , John Moriarty Skillnet and Brid Lucy Skillnet . SouthWest Skillnet show support for hospitality sector with funding for Trainee Manager programme held at the MTU Kerry

Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD .

Hi Leona,

The thought of a sun holiday after so long, sounds amazing! So many people are interested in an alternative to fat reduction without surgery. We o er a non-invasive treatment with no downtime. We use Venus Bliss (we are the exclusive provider in Ireland), which uses a diode laser to reduce fat via “lipolysis”. This is a thermally induced activity, allowing energy to safely penetrate deep below the skin’s surface. This e ectively heats the fat, thus breaking it down. The number of treatments will depend on the individual; many people notice a di erence after just one. Optimal results will be seen three to six months after completing your treatments so you are right to get in early on this to be ready for August! A one to one consultation is key to creating a bespoke treatment package for you. The treatment lasts approximately 25 minutes and fat reduction should be performed 4-6 weeks apart. There is no downtime and no physical restrictions that you need to worry about. You can resume your normal activities immediately after treatment. Many people t in their treatment during their lunchtime.

The treatment is very comfortable and you will feel a heat sensation that can last after the treatment is over, this is the process still working. Water is recommended after, as is some exercise and a gentle massage of the area.

Mary O Donnell, Brand Representative

For your ﬁrst step to the body you always wanted contact: chrc@bonsecours.ie | 086-0786120 www.bonsecours.ie

Mounthawk Montessori School Named Montessori School Of The Year 2022

The Tralee based Mounthawk Montessori has been named Montessori School Of The Year 2022 by the All-Ireland Business Foundation.

Mounthawk Montessori offers high-quality care from its state of the art purpose built premises, on the Mounthawk Roundabout, Fenit Road, Clogherbrien, Tralee. Its Post Graduate Diploma led team offers a high-quality programme of care that will enhance every child’s early years experiences and development.

Susan Quirke Crowley, CEO & Founder at Mounthawk Montessori School with her All-Star. Accreditation certificate and medallion.

Mounthawk Montessori School & Busy Bees Nursery and Afterschool Club’s second Business All-Star Accreditation comes in recognition of the company’s commitment to its community.

Tralee Chamber Alliance Pays Tribute To Co-Founder, Denis Reen RIP

Denis Reen was a collosus in Tralee. He loved the town and played a key role in its development over many decades. As if he wasn’t busy enough in his daily professional life as a dentist, Denis gave his time and energy, freely, to many community groups.

He was a former President of the Festival of Kerry and Chairman of Na Gaeil GAA Club in the 70s and 80s. A keen golfer, another of his achievements was his involvement in moving Tralee Golf Club from Mounthawk to the world famous Arnold Palmer-designed links in Barrow.

But it was in the 1990s when Denis Reen came into his own. He spearheaded the growth of Tralee as a tourism destination when leading the Tralee Task Force. In that decade we saw the development of the Aqua Dome, with Denis as the Chairman, coinciding with the

reopening of the Blennerville Steam Train and Windmill and other projects that blossomed during the Celtic Tiger years.

In 2011, after three tough years of recession due to the property bubble explosion in 2008, Denis Reen brought the next generation of Tralee’s business people together to lead the recovery.

He challenged them, us, to do whatever was necessary to promote Tralee as a great place to live, work and visit. It was from that effort we saw Holiday Tralee, the revived Tralee Taskforce and the former Tralee Town Council join forces to create a new look Chamber of commerce.

Denis and the Board of the Aqua Dome seconded the CEO, Kieran Ruttledge to lead the growth of Tralee Chamber Alliance in 2012. The President of Tralee Chamber Alliance, Nathan McDonnell, said: “Our

sympathies go to Denis Reen’s family, his wife Barbara and children Frank, John, Julianne, Bairbre and Emily as well as his siblings. Denis made Tralee a better town and leaves a massive legacy behind. We all owe him a big debt of gratitude and I’m sure his life and accomplishments will be celebrated over the coming days. May he rest in peace.”

Minister Foley welcomes establishment of Shannon Estuary Taskforce

Minister for Education and Kerry T.D. Norma Foley welcomes today’s Cabinet decision to establish a taskforce to consider the economic potential of the Shannon Estuary region. The taskforce will be charged with assessing the strategic strengths and comparative advantages of the Shannon Estuary including North Kerry, from an investment and enterprise development perspective and in a national and international context. An audit of the current connectivity of the region will also be carried out under the terms and reference of the taskforce.

A report and associated action plan to outline the specific steps required to target growth and areas of potential in the Shannon Estuary will also be carried out.

Minister Foley said: “I welcome today’s Cabinet decision to establish this Taskforce which will be crucial in terms of attracting new industries into the Shannon and North Kerry region.

By identifying the specific areas of potential in the Shannon Estuary region, it will be possible to attract and deliver targeted strategic investment that will provide long-term sustainable employment across transport and logistics, manufacturing, renewable energy, and tourism.”

The Funeral of the late Denis Reen (member of the Rose of Tralee, Na Gaeil GAA Club and Tralee Golf Club) took place in Tralee on Tuesday and leading the guard of Honour for the late Denis are members of Tralee Golf Club and Na Gael GAA Club and past members Rose of Tralee. Photo Joe Hanley

March Swimming Lessons Booking Info

Saturday (Starting March 5th)

Priority Bookings Saturday 26th February 9am

General Public Bookings Monday 27th February 7am

Monday & Wednesday (Starting Monday 7th March)

Priority Bookings Wednesday 2nd March 7am

General Public Bookings Friday 4th March 7am

Tuesday & Thursday (Starting Tuesday 8th March)

Priority Bookings Thursday 3rd March 7am

General Public Bookings Sat 5th March 9:30am

Additional info for March:

Pre -School lessons (3.5 -5 years of age) Tues & Thurs 4:30 -5pm. Starting March 8th, Bookings from March 3rd.

Saturday Morning

Extra Level 1 & 2 10:30am | Extra Level 3,4 &5 10am (level 6 & 7 now starting at 10:30am)

At

, A Genuine ‘Everything HALF PRICE‘ Sale! @ Surf n Sail this weekend ONLY

Tralee Advertiser caught up this week with talented water sport enthusiast Graham Kelliher who not only happens to be an allround good guy but he also owns the very popular Surf n’ Sail Store, the Holy Grail when it comes to ‘all things water sport‘, not only for those of us lucky to live in Kerry but an absolute ‘Oasis ‘ for visitors to Tralee who consistently seek out, not only Graham’s knowledge and expertise but also his store.

This store has often been described as an Aladdins Cave when it comes to watersports,swimming ,skateboarding etc, sporting top brands such as Sola

, Circle One , ION Zeus, Zone3, Aspire, Razor Bulldog... its easier to list the labels Graham doesnt carry instore! Says Graham “ we are here since 1985, (yikes thats nearly 37 years ago laughs Graham!), located in the Abbey Car park and our motto has always been ‘If we cant use it , we wont sell it “ and like Santy Claus, once a year we have a two day clearout! It was to be on Valentines Weekend but for personal reasons Graham had to defer the 2 Day HALF PRICE Event until this weekend Friday and Saturday Feb 25/26th.

“It definitely is worth waiting for” says Graham “as it is genuinely a Half Price Sale and no better time to take

price.

Actually, everything in the shop is HALF PRICE, yes everything.

advantage of our expertise and knowledge while at the same time getting a top quality item, whether it be a Kayak, Longboard, Wetsuit, Skateboard or a Bodyboard for an absolute steal of a price!

Everything will be HALF PRICE for these 2 days! We have wetsuits from SOLA, Circle One and ION starting from €35. Surfboards for all shapes and sizes starting at €170. Towelen Robes from €25 and Waterproof Robes from €55.

All surf accessories are half price, all swimming accessories are also half price. Bodyboards, Stand Up Paddleboards, Skimboards and Skateboards are all half

”So there you have it folks, its on now, TODAY and TOMORROW... and with us all looking forward to a wonderful Summer in Kerry, what better than to treat yourself to something cool , something different, maybe an upgrade, maybe a new challenge...

Then make out Surf n’ Sail this weekend... and grab an unbelievable bargain, before they’re all gone!

FIVE STAR HEARBAL REMEDY FOR SINUS PLANTAGO

is one of our most effective natural remedy for sinus congestion, catarrh or ear issues. Organically grown lance leaf plantain flowers and leaves are used to make this herbal remedy. Most sinus sufferers usually have symptoms such as pain in the jaw or ear, or pressure between the eyes along with a stuffy nose or a post nasal drip.

We would usually recommend taking 20 drops three times a day in a small amount of water or juice and it will really help alleviate any nasal congestion. If the congestion is quiet severe you should continue to take it for 4 to 6 weeks. So how does it actually work?

It contains naturally occurring compounds that help to weaken the bonds that cause mucus, thus easing its expulsion and reducing inflammation in the sinus cavities. PLANTAGO is also naturally antibacterial so may help prevent sinuses becoming infected and reduce the need for antibiotics. This remedy may be given to children over 2 years of age. For children the dose is one drop per year of age, twice daily.

Also worth a mention is the SINUFORCE NASAL SPRAY, which contains chamomile, eucalyptus and peppermint. This lovely combination gives instant relief to that stuffy congested feeling and is easy and convenient to use. For more advice and information on this or other herbal remedies to help with sinus issues simply call in to our wellness consultants at your local HORAN’S HEALTHSTORE.

Until next time, stay healthy

Deirdre

Spotted on the Street

are

Lee Strand first with Flogas carbon offsetting initiative

Lee Strand is the first dairy processor in Ireland to sign up with Flogas to the carbon offsetting initiative for its commercial customers. Lee Strand has compensated for 209 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions by investing with Flogas in the South Pole’s climate protection project, Aura Solar in Mexico.

James Sugrue, Plant Manager, Lee Strand “As part of our continued commitment to protecting our environment, Lee Strand is proud to be the first dairy processor in Ireland to avail of the Flogas carbon offsetting initiative. This enables Lee Strand to offset the carbon gas produced in our production plant and therefore having zero carbon output. This strengthens our sustainability strategy as Lee Strand also has zero waste to landfill with our partnership locally with Dillion Waste. Lee Strand is continually striving

to operate sustainably, every step in our production process is important including our 100% renewable and 100% recyclable cartons.”

John Rooney, Managing Director, Flogas Ireland said, “We’re delighted to welcome Lee Strand as our very first dairy processor in Ireland for the carbon offsetting initiative. Lee Strand has a very proactive approach towards tackling climate change and has differentiated themselves from their competition in the marketplace.”

Carbon offsetting is recognised worldwide as a way of managing carbon emissions. Flogas collaborates with South Pole, a gold standard provider of carbon offsetting projects worldwide. By investing in sustainable global projects, companies can reduce or capture an

At the presentation of the South Pole Carbon Offsetting

were l/r: James Sugrue, Plant Manager, Lee Strand and Michael Murphy, area sales representative, Flogas.

equivalent amount of carbon emissions. By providing a clean alternative to fossil fuel-generated electricity, the project significantly reduces emissions and helps mitigate the environmental risks of the transport of hydrocarbons into

the delicate ecosystem of the Gulf of California. Aura Solar also employs local workers, who it provides with technical training. For further details visit www.flogas.ie/carbon

Certificate to Lee Strand

Yes...the signs

starting to go up for our GREENWAY! Bring it on!

Finally we might see new business locate here when its sold!

Excellent headline from the Kerryman regarding Denis Reen (RIP )

Claude Monte Barbers are hiring!

Hogans final Clearout! Look who else is hiring in Rock Street ( another Foodie spot?)

“SNAPPED ON SOCIAL MEDIA”

We pick out some great photos posted on social media each week ...if you have any good ones please send them in... email traleeadvertiser@gmail.com or message us on our Facebook page... Enjoy !

John pays a fitting tribute to Bruce Kelliher, who recently passed .

Guess who? Way back in 2014!!!

Sean and Irene Commane celebrating 65 Years together! Happy 65th Anniversary, Guys!

LAUGHTER ....THE BEST MEDICINE !

A WOMAN COMES HOME LATE IN THE NIGHT AND GOES QUIETLY IN THE BEDROOM

To her surprise, she sees male and female feet peeking out from under the blanket. Shocked and raging, she gets her baseball bat and beats and beats until all movement stops. After that she goes into the living room and sees her husband laying on the sofa. He turns to her half asleep: “Oh, you’re home, darling. I’m afraid we have to sleep here tonight, My parents came for a surprise visit.”

BOSS, I’VE GOT A PROBLEM

Boss: There’s no such thing as a problem. There are only opportunities.

Man: Oh ok. Then I have a serious drug opportunity.

A MAN WALKED INTO A HARDWARE STORE AND PICKED UP A CAN OF FLY SPRAY

“Is this good for wasps?” he asked the assistant. “No, it kills them.”

I TOOK OUR BODY WEIGHT SCALE OUT TO WEIGH MYSELF

And after stepping on the scale I pulled in my stomach, to which my girlfriend reacted: “you know that doesn’t help at all”. I told her “sure it does, now I can see the numbers”

LAST NIGHT I RODE MY BIKE TO THE OFF LICENCE

... and bought a bottle of whisky. I put the bottle in the bike basket but before riding back I thought: what if I fall down for some reason?

The bottle will break! So I drank the whole bottle of whisky before riding home. And thank God I did, because I must have fallen down about a dozen times before I got home.

A GROUP OF GUYS, ALL TURNING 40, DISCUSSED WHERE THEY SHOULD MEET FOR LUNCH.

Finally it was agreed that they would meet at Wetherspoons in Uxbridge because the waitresses were pretty and wore mini-skirts.

Ten years later, at age 50, the friends once again discussed where they should meet for lunch. Finally it was agreed that they would meet at Wetherspoons in Uxbridge because the waitresses were attractive. The food and service was good and the beer selection was excellent.Ten years later, at age 60, the friends again discussed where they should meet for lunch.

Finally it was agreed that they would meet at Wetherspoons in Uxbridge because there was plenty of parking, they could dine in peace and quiet with no loud music, and it was good value for money.

Ten years later, at age 70, the friends discussed where they should meet for lunch. Finally it was agreed that they would meet at Wetherspoons in Uxbridge because the restaurant waswheelchair accessible and had a toilet for the disabled. Ten years later, at age 80, the friends discussed where they hould meet for lunch. Finally it was agreed that they would meet at Wetherspoons in Uxbridge because they had never been there before.

A WOMAN IS ON TRIAL FOR BEATING HER HUSBAND UP WITH HIS GUITAR COLLECTION.

Judge: “First offender?”

Lady: “No first a Gibson, then a Fender.”

Isabelle Bailey and Mark Donovan had a surprise farewell party for them at Kerin O’Rahilly’s GAA Club, Tralee on Friday evening which was arranged by their parents and friends, (Isabelle and Mark are seated 3rd & 4th from right). Photo Joe Hanley

TALKING SPORT WITH THE TRALEE ADVERTISER

FAI NATIONAl P.R.O. OF THE YEAR

SPORT IS CRUEL AT TIMES:

We have all used the words sport is cruel usually when our team concedes a late goal or loses a game that they were expected to win.

But sometimes sport can really be cruel and this was certainly the case last weekend with the tragic death of Eoin McCarthy after a crash during the Killarney Forestry Rally that was held in the Mount Eagle area of Castleisland. It is thankfully rare that we see tragedies on the sporting front in the county but when writing this we do remember those who have passed away too young previously.

Eoin was from West Cork and comes from a rallying family as his father Liam is a triple winner of the Fastnet Rally. His brother Conor also competes and the two joined up for Eoin’s debut in last year’s Cork “20” International Rally. We also have Eoin’s co-driver Daniel O’Brien in our thoughts. He was injured and taken to hospital but thankfully his injuries are non-life threatening. We also think of their service crew who had worked on their car after the first three stages.

And while the loss of Eoin will obviously be felt most by family, girlfriend, relations and friends what happened is a tragedy for all those involved in the rally. Having covered rallies and cycling for a number of years I have an idea of the work that goes into the planning of these events and the emphasis that is put on safety. Events like rallies take months of planning led by the Clerk of the Course but involving a huge number of volunteers.

Every one of these will have had a very tough week and those of us that enjoy sport have them in our thoughts. There can be no sport without volunteers and as well as the rally we had many other games in a number of codes at the weekend, from the Kerry / Donegal to club games, and all these had volunteers who gave their time freely and willingly even though they knew they would be out in poor weather.

The other sad irony was that the KDMC Rally, the first in a number of years, was a fundraiser of the Community Air Ambulance. The service, kept going by fundraising, was then tasked with flying Eoin and Daniel to hospital.

It was a sad day for sport in Kerry and a tough week for all who attended the funeral of the young rally driver. But the best tribute we can pay to Eoin, as we have paid to those sportsperson who passed away much too young in the past, is for sport to go on. If there are any lessons to be learned they will be as this

accident will be thoroughly investigated by MotorSport Ireland and others. Hopefully those involved in organising the rally, the competitors and all the volunteers will continue to be involved in the sport they love. I never met Eoin but from what I have read he loved his rallying. He will always be remembered when the sport continues in Kerry with upcoming events run by the Killarney and District and Kerry Motor Clubs.

GREAT WEEK ON THE GAA FIELDS:

Despite the bad weather there was some great success on the GAA fields headed up by Kerry continuing their unbeaten League run by defeating Donegal in Killarney. Kerry won the toss and played with the win and had a 7 point gap at the break. People wondered if that would be enough as they expected the visitors to come out and give Kerry a torrid time in the second half. This failed to materialise and Jack O’Connor’s side ran out easy winners. The Kingdom are on 5 points from their three games as they head to Monaghan. Kerry hurling and camogie also enjoyed a good week with MTU Kerry defeating Ulster University on a score line of 1-20 to 2-13 to win the Ryan Cup. Clanmaurice are again carrying the Kerry flag high as they defeated reigning champions Raharney of Westmeath to qualify for the Junior Club Camogie Championship final.

STACKS NEWS

The club is on the lookout for entrants to represent them in the upcoming Scor na nOg. Contact any officer of the club for details. The Tralee Area Board competition will be held in the coming weeks ahead of the County final scheduled for Saturday March 19th. There was great turn-out for all the Academy sessions last weekend and they will train at the same venues and times this weekend.

The older age groups are also training ahead of the County Leagues which will begin next month.

After a two year absence the Black and Amber will be out in force taking part in the Tralee St Patrick’s Day Parade. Will lots to celebrate the club wants to see as many as possible marching.

PARNELL’S NEWS:

The club was delighted with the numbers of u7’s who trained on Saturday at the Sports Academy MTU. A number of new player were welcomed to the training. The young players were delighted to end the session with some games.

Conor Long was named Player of the

Week and he followed on from Aoife Kelly who won the award the previous week, the first winner of 2022.

Registration is now due via the Clubforce app or the clubs website. All players are encouraged to register as soon as possible as you cannot play games until you have this done. The MyLife challenge came to an end and at the time of writing only 70km was required to hit the 4000km target and that expected to be easily achieved. The club thanks all those who took part over the past 5 weeks.

KERINS O’RAHILLYS NEWS:

The club is thrilled with the number of girls who are training ahead of the new season. The minor and senior ladies are also just back.

The club is also starting a Gaelic4Girls programme for girls from 8 to 12 years of age.

Registration for the Ladies side of the club will be open in the coming weeks and everyone is asked to complete their registration as soon as they can.

LEE STRAND TRALEE TOWN BOARD REPORT:

With the terrible weather at the weekend a number of games were called off. In the Senior League Round 1 John Mitchels defeated Austin Stacks 0-04 to 0-03. The games in the Minor League on Sunday also fell to the weather. On Monday in Division 2 John Mitchels defeated Na Gaeil 5-07 to 1-09.

The upcoming fixtures in the Lee Strand Senior League see Group A and B Round 2 action this Sunday. In Group A at 12.30 Austin Stacks take on Ballymac and St Pat’s face John Mitchels while in Group B on Sunday, also at 12.30, Ardfert welcome Churchill.

GARVEY’S GET VITAL WIN IN LAST REGULAR HOME SEASON GAME: The 14th round game in the InsureMyVan.ie Men’s basketball SuperLeague Garvey’s Tralee Warriors defeated NUIG Maree 93-79. This was a vital win as the Galway side had defeated the Warriors in the reverse fixture and it also puts them in a good position to secure a home quarter final. After a tight first quarter where the sides tied 21 points apiece the Warriors began to find their way on offence and with Aaron Calixte hitting a buzzer beating three the home side led 49-39 at the half. The Warriors again pushed on in the third quarter and put themselves in a strong position 76-60 going into the final ten minutes.

The Warriors held on to win and its sets up a huge game away to C&S Neptune on March 12th with the Cork side the only one able to deny the Cup champions their home League quarter final. Before that the Warriors will travel to Killorglin for the local derby against Team 360 Financial on March 5th in their penultimate Southern Conference tipping off at 7.15pm.

In the Maree game Ron Elksnis top scored on 24, with Aaron Calixte hitting 22 and Nikola Roso on 15.

BUSY TIME AT UNDERAGE LEVEL: It’s a busy time in the Kerry Airport

Kerry Area Basketball Divisions and here are some of the Tralee side’s results. In the u18 boys Division 2 St Brendan’s Division 2 side won 81-73 away to Kenmare Kestrels. St Brendan’s also won in the u16 Boys Division 1 beating Tralee Imperials 56-42. In the u12 Girls Division 3A St Brendan’s White won away at St Bridget’s 28-33 and in the u14 Girls Division 3 Group B St Brendan’s Green defeated St Joseph’s 36-26. In the adult section Tralee Imperials went down to Kenmare Kestrels 50-28 in the Ladies Conference C while in Conference A St Brendan’s B just lost out to St Anne’s 45-42.

PRIZE FUND ANNOUNCED FOR LACEY CUP:

Preparations are going well for the Lacey Cup which takes place on March 6th. The prize fund will be e1200 but for the riders the competition and the Cups are of more importance than the money. As well as the prestigious Lacey Cup also up for grabs after a gap of two years are the Billy Nolan Cup for the first Tralee Manor West rider home, the Jackie O’Connor Memorial Cup for the first TMW rider over Gleann na nGealt and the Teddy Griffin Memorial Cup for the first rider over Sliabh Mish. The 75km race over its regular circuit is the opening race of the Munster road racing season.

ON THE GREENS: KERRY PITCH & PUTT:

Following the reconvened Kerry Pitch & Putt Ireland AGM on Tuesday February 15th last, Deerpark’s John McGrath has taken over Chairman of the organisation from Castleisland’s James Dignan. James served as Chairman for two years during a large period of inactivity with the Public Health Restrictions but we thank him for his work over the last two years. Also joining the County Board this year is Listowel’s Christy O’Mahony who is the new Competition Secretary while Deerpark’s Gearóid Cronin is the new U16 Officer in a big year when Listowel will host the returning Munster U16 Matchplay Championships and Deerpark will play host to the National U16 Strokeplay and Inter-County events. 2022 Officers: Chairman: John McGrath (Deerpark), Secretary: Jason O’Connor (Deerpark) Treasurer: Sean O’Brien (Gleneagle), Registrar: Vince Barry (Castleisland) Competition Secretary: Christy O’Mahony (Listowel), PRO: Jason O’Connor (Deerpark) U16 Officer (To Be Co-opted): Gearoid Cronin (Deerpark), Non-Portolio: Jason Cregan (Tralee) and Willie John Buckley (Newmarket)

This Saturday February 26th sees the 2022 National Convention take place in Templemore, Co Tipperary meanwhile. We wish Deerpark’s Ger O’Connor well as his steps down from the role of Technical Officer following six years in the position. His club-mate Damien Fleming meanwhile will receive the awards for being Irish ranked No 1 Men’s player for 2020 and 2021 at this Saturday’s event.

with “The Voice” Pat Harnett