Picture Special

Juris and Ieva Millere Eamon and Adam Hayes

Enjoying the football in the Waterbarracks

Mike and Bella Funchion

About WITH Danny Lahart Out &

Kilkennys Saturday market George Grimble and Charlotte Laycock

Jimmy Hayes

Mary Delaney, Jacintha and Joe Moran

A bustling Kieran St

Ciaran and Oisin Doyle Tommy Hackett, Dave Little and Willie Mahony

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

CLARA GAA

MEMBERSHIP Reminder, Membership for 2021 is now due. Only Adult members with membership paid by the cut off date of Wednesday 30th June will be eligible to enter any possible draws for Club/ Inter County GAA tickets, All Ireland tickets plus have a vote at the Club AGM. Please follow the guide on the Clara GAA website, how to complete registration using Foireann. Thanks to all who have registered to date. Your fees are a vital lifeline to the running & future development of our Club.

PLAYER INJURY FUND & HEALTH QUESTIONNAIRES. Following recent communication from the GAA we would like to draw your attention to the following.The playing of Gaelic games involves the risk of injury & it is each individual players responsibility to familiarise themselves with the terms & benefits of the GAA injury benefit fund. See Clara GAA website. • It is a player injury fund not an insurance. • It is in the event that no other cover is available. • It is a players responsibility to organise their own insurance cover. • Players must be registered members of the Club. • Players must follow all return to play protcols, Health Questionnaires. Failure to comply with the above will lead to a claim being declined & no appeals will be considered. It is therefore vitally important for all our coaches to ‘Create Events’ for all training sessions & games, for all our coaches & players to complete ‘Health Questionnaires’ on the day, before attending & our coaches to ‘Record Attendance’ following each event, all on Foireann.

RETURN TO ACTION GAA action finally resumed on Monday 7th June and Clara interest centred on 2020’s Roinn B county semi final v. St. Martins. When these teams met earlier in the group games it was the boys in red and green who held the upper hand in a keenly contested affair. The Clara lads had some ground to make up but on the evidence of this, they had used their time wisely since. The astute coaching by Stephen Lawlor, John Carrigan, Tom English and John Brennan has shone through and the improvement in these boys was very evident here. The good work has been carried on with them at U15 level this year by Johnny Shortall, Mark Galvin, Shane Staunton and Dara Glynn, and a lot of these boys have also been training with a very young club minor team, which has also benefitted them greatly. Despite facing a stiff breeze, these Clara boys held their own from the start of this game. Put under pressure by a huge St. Martins puckout, the full back line of Daniel Murphy, James Cody and Daniel Ryan resolutely defended and offered goalkeeper Sean Cooke great protection. At the end of the first quarter, St. Martins led 0-5 to 0-4. Four of the Martins points had come from frees by their no. 15. By contrast Clara had got 3 of their four from open play, through Niall McCarthy, David Barcoe and Joe Power. The last named player had also nailed a free. After the water break St. Martins went further ahead with another free from their no. 15 before a speculative Joe Power shot deceived the Martins keeper with the bounce and ended up in the net. Clara were ahead by a point but St. Martins then hit a purple patch and scored 5 of the next 7 points between there and the interval. Indeed were it not for some brilliant defending by the half back line of Conor Galvin, Hugh Kelly and Philip Carrigan, that lead could have been even greater than the 0-11 to 1-6 halftime score. Two fabulous David Barcoe points, the second a real peach into a strong breeze had left Clara in a good place with the aid of the elements to come. When Clara outscored their opponents by eight points to one in the third quarter to turn a two point deficit into a five point lead, this game looked done and dusted. Joe Power and Luke Lawlor led the charge from midfield, with the half forward line of Sean Byrne, Davy Barcoe and Eoin Corr making some surging runs at a beleaguered Martins defence. The full forward line of John Bergin, Bill Kealy and Niall McCarthy worked extremely hard to keep the ball in there whenever it reached them, and left it very difficult for the opposition to get it out of their half. Substitute Padraig Meaney looked the part when introduced also. To their credit though, St. Martins never gave up, and outscored Clara by 3 points to 1 in the fourth quarter. Indeed the boys in maroon were thankful for a tremendous Sean Cooke save midway through the quarter when the gap was down to four. The Clara boys had understandably tired after their huge efforts and St. Martins bravely pushed them all the way to the finish line. However Clara were definitely the better team and outscored their opponents 1-9 to 0-2 from play in the match. They have now qualified for the final against Carrickshock and if they can hurl like this again for the full hour they shouldn’t be too far away from a second county U13 title in three years. Well done to all. Team - Sean Cooke, Daniel Murphy, James Cody, Daniel Ryan. Conor Galvin, Hugh Kelly, Philip Carrigan. Luke Lawlor 0-1, Joe Power 1-8, 0-5f, 0-1(65). Sean Byrne, David Barcoe 0-3, Eoin Corr 0-2, John Bergin, Bill Kealy, Niall McCarthy 0-1. Sub used Padraig Meaney.

FINAL HEARTBREAK Clara lost the final in heartbreaking fashion in Dunmore on Saturday as the club tried to regain the title they last won in 2018. The game went all the way to penalties and Carrickshock prevailed, when they scored 2 of theirs. 21 yards out facing those small juvenile goalposts is a daunting task. Added to that Carrickshock replaced their regular goalkeeper with the imposing figure of Michael Rohan and the move paid off for them. Clara failed to beat him with the four shots taken. The Clara goalkeeper Sean Cooke, who was a revelation in this championship, could do nothing about the two shots that beat him. He hadn’t been beaten in either semi final or final in general play. Clara made most of the early running and led 5 pts to 2 at the first water break. Amazingly that three point lead was reduced to 2 by half time, 1 at the second half water break and was all square at the final whistle. Carrickshock were ever game and never gave up the fight. Clara will rue their 18 wides but it is very difficult to score on those smaller posts in a game of this intensity played on a balmy, humid evening. They also lost a player to a red card when the unfortunate Conor Galvin received his marching orders midway through the third quarter. Conor appeared to be the victim of mistaken identity for his first yellow card but, as selector Matty Murphy pointed out, Carrickshock were due a bit of luck against Clara, having lost a number of big games against them in recent years. In any case, both teams were back to 15 players for extra time but this time Carrickshock appeared the more energised, and led 0-15 to 0-14 at the break. Again Clara courageously fought back and forced the game to penalties with a late Joe Power free. The loss was tough to take but these boys will sample success if they continue to work hard and harness the hurt that they are sure to feel this week. They provided us with great entertainment and were desperately unlucky to come up just short. They returned to Clara afterwards and enjoyed some well deserved food and beverages from team sponsors Freshco. Team - Sean Cooke, Daniel Murphy, James Cody(captain), Daniel Ryan. Conor Galvin, Hugh Kelly, Philip Carrigan. Joe Power 0-10, 0-8f, 0-1(65), Luke Lawlor. Eoin Corr, Davy Barcoe 0-3, Sean Byrne. John Bergin 0-1, Bill Kealy 0-1, Niall McCarthy. Subs used Padraic Meaney, Ori Phelan, Tom Boyle. Also Tom Murphy, Peter Firbank, Lukas Healy.

SENIOR CHALLENGE The new management had their first look at Clara on Saturday as their experimental team lost out to an energetic Lisdowney side on a 3-24 to 5-12 scoreline. The winners were full value for their win and on this evidence could take a few scalps this year. Clara have work to do. Team - Kevin Nolan, Paddy Bolger, Jack Langton, Tom Ryan. John Murphy, David Langton, Martin o’ Connell. Liam Ryan, Conor Cody, Dara Glynn. Subs used Evan Whearty, Stephen Quinlan, Noel Kehoe.

JUNIOR D The Clara Junior Ds were hosts to Kilmacow on Sat. evening and ended up on the losing side. With the bare 15 players Clara tried hard but were always playing second fiddle to a physical Kilmacow outfit. The final score was 1-16 to 1-12. Team - Conor Cody, Evan Whearty, Mick McDonald, Padraig Staunton. Brandon Ryan, Paul Murphy, James Dowling. Alan Coleman, Conor Phelan. Bill Cody, Noel Kehoe, Dara Glynn. Nick O Keeffe, Noelie O Brien, Adam Barcoe.

FOOTBALL Mullinavat were within a whisker of losing their football crown in this pulsating 2020 Senior Football semi final on a miserable wet evening in Mullinavat on Tuesday of last week. Just 20 miles up the road in Kilkenny not a drop of rain fell, but this game was played in a constant steady drizzle, which didn’t lend itself to good football but the fare on offer belied the conditions. A game is never won in the first quarter but Mullinavat led by 1-3 to 0-0 at the first water break despite playing into the breeze. Clara had just as much of the play but were very wasteful in this period. A flowing move at the beginning of the second quarter culminated in Kevin Nolan firing an unstoppable shot in off a post and Clara had finally settled. Swapped scores before halftime left Mullinavat in front by 1-4 to 1-1 with the aid of the breeze to come. Any notion of a stroll in the park for the second half were quickly dispelled when Clara stormed out of the blocks and scored four unanswered points to take the lead by the end of the third quarter. This was all the more impressive because they had lost Ciarán Prendergast and Sean O Shea through injury, and Jack Langton to a black card in that first half. But now they really had the bit between their teeth and with newcomer Alan Coleman settling in very quickly, they were camped in the Mullinavat half for long periods, and probably should have led by more. The champions equalised from a rare breakaway but Coleman soon had Clara back in front with a super score as time ticked away. Then disaster struck as some rare hesitancy in a fine Clara defence allowed a Mullinavat player to rise and fist a goal past a helpless Killian Phelan. Clara responded immediately with a pointed free from the ever composed James Nolan, and with time almost up another free by Shiner took this game to extra time. Clara led at the half time break in extra time by another pointed Shiner free. Then a Mullinavat foray ended with a blistering ground shot to the Clara net. Again James Nolan replied with a free and the bare minimum was between the sides again. With Clara pressing hard for the equaliser, a rather harsh looking free out led to Mullinavat tearing down the field for the final point of the game. The final whistle sounded on the lockout. 3-6 to 1-10 it finished. If ever the old saying that goals win matches held true it was on this occasion. They certainly baled Mullinavat out on this occasion, but they are not going for 4 titles in a row for nothing. Clara came agonisingly close to pulling off a huge shock and no Clara man on that field could be faulted for effort. It was a really brave and commendable effort and the same commitment should yield plenty of results on the hurling field in the months ahead. Team - Killian Phelan, Paddy Bolger, David Langton, Dermot Nolan. Liam Ryan, Conor O Shea, Sean O Shea. Lester Ryan, Jack Langton. Ciarán Prendergast, Kevin Nolan 1-0, Martin O Connell. Chris Bolger, James Nolan 0-8f, Tom Ryan 0-1. Subs used Alan Coleman, Dara Glynn, Brian Nolan, Joe Connolly, Adam Barcoe, Brandon Ryan.

CAMOGIE U14 Camogie - First league match v Piltown was on Wed. 9th June. Like so many others, the girls were delighted to be back playing competitive camogie matches again. And this was a very competitive match! Leaving aside a little rustiness with their touch, both teams provided a great display of determination to give us a very exciting first game. Clara got off to a strong scoring start, but were quickly pegged back after Piltown made a few positional changes. From there on Piltown held a slight advantage throughout with their emphasis on scoring goals. Clara however kept in touch with some fine points. Some astute changes of their own by mentors Eamon Dunne, Padraic Brennan, Aine McDonald and Aoife Glynn helped them regain control. With less than 10 minutes to go Clara had the lead, only to be overtaken again by another Piltown goal. Showing real grit, Clara kept going, scoring their second goal to take a one point lead with time practically up. Both teams fought on to the finish, but Clara held on for the win. Final score Clara 2-9 (15) Piltown 4-2 (14). A great game from all players and a great return to Camogie. lara team: Ava Kenny, Katie Boyd, Maria Hogan, Caragh Brennan, Onagh Fitzgerald, Sarah Dunne, Ceola Leamy, Pia Langton, Lucy Boyd, Katie O’Connell, Jessica Brennan, Aisling Hayes, Aoibhe Callery, Danica TervitKrueger, Amy Lynch, Faye Morrissey, Aoibheann McDonald, Lucy Kealy, Moya Kelly, Orla Carrigan.

SENIORS IN LEAGUE FINAL Congrats to Mary O Connell and Aisling Curtis who were part of a Kilkenny outfit that had a come from behind victory over Tipperary in Nowlan Park on Sunday. This win set up a final in Croke Park next Sunday night. O’LOUGHLIN GAELS

THE LOUGHS COFFEE DOCK Our new coffee dock open this weekend..with speciality coffees served with a smile Cappucino, latté ..and of course a cupán tae.. All money raised in The Lough’s Dock will go to both the GAA and O’Loughlin Gaels Camogie Club Now that’s lovely hurling

CLOTHES TO RECYCLE? O’Loughlin Gaels Juvenile Section are Recycling Clothes - Bring your bags of clothes to Juvenile training sessions between now and June 22nd and it will be used to generate cash for equipment for our young players. Check out in the poster what you can bag..bring it and drop to the collection point and thats it!! Easy peasy..and helps the club.

SUMMER CAMP IS FULLY BOOKED The Eurospar Ireland O’Loughlin Gaels GAA Summer Camp is booked to capacity. There will be no further names taken for our two week Gaelic Games Camp in August (9th to 20th) We’re looking forward to a great two weeks. ..our biggest one yet !! Lovely Hurling

HURLING & CAMOGIE The best if luck to all our hurling and comogue teams aswel as their managements for the season ahead. Games are coming thick and fast so please keep an eye to clubs social media and the kilkenny GAA and camogie websites for all the updated schedules . Hon the Lough’s

PADDY VISITS TÚS MAITH NAOÍNRA Bhí lá iontach acu i Tús Maith Naíonra an seactainn seo caite nuair a tháinig cuairteoir speisialta- Paddy Deegan- chun labhairt leis na páistí faoi iomàint agus chun beagáinín traenáil a dhéanamh leo. Bhí Múinteoir Claire ag caitheamh geansaí nua Club na nÓg le hurraíocht Eurospar Newpark Shopping Centre Eurospar Ireland ach ansin ba bheag nár loit sí an lá ag aistriù i ngeansaí Chorcaí. Léirigh na páistí a mbuíochas do Paddy ag tabhairt cáca dó a bhí sé thar a bheith sásta leis. Fair play Paddy, Bíonn tú ar fheabhas ag roinnt do chuid ama leis an t-aos óg. Gaeil Uí Lochlainn Abú. Tús Maith Naíonra - 0879719047

FRESHFORD

TOM RETIRES Best wishes are extended to local man Tom McGrath of Inch, Freshford on his recent retirement as Station Master of the Freshford Fire services. Tom has been a member of the local fire services for the past 40 years as was his father before him. He served as a fireman for 10 years then as a driver for another 10years, a sub officer for 12 years and Station officer for the past 8 years. He is wished all the best in his retirement and many years of good health and happiness.

PLAYGROUND There was great news for Freshford Playground recently. The Playground Committee announced that they are to receive a Grant of €125,000 towards their new outdoor activity hub/ playground. The Committee stated that sincere thanks for this goes to Freshford ie, Kilkenny County Council and local Cllr Michael McCarthy for all the hard work and commitment they have put in to date to get them to this stage. Farmers monthly. Anne Marie from Cooleshall, Freshford was elected President of the Association recently and she said this was a wonderful opportunity to showcase Agricultural science association and it was great to detail achievements across her Presidency and Conference 2021 plans.

FITNESS CLASSES Fitness classes are resuming outdoors on Mondays and Wednesday evenings catering for all levels of fitness. Individual and group sessions available also. For further information please contact Tommy on 083 1069291

CAMOGIE NEWS Peggy Dowling Camogie Tournament was held in Pairc Lachtain last week . Four teams took part in the competition. The winning team captained by Grace Cleere and the shield winners were captained by Michelle Killeen who is granddaughter of the late Peggy Dowling. Presentation was made to the winning captains on the day by camogie stalwart Ann Dalton and Paula Murphy (nee Dowling). A huge thanks was paid to the organisers, mentors, referees and the Dowling family for their generous sponsorship of the trophies and medals. (Photos with this item) On Kilkenny Panel Local St.Lachtains player Lydia Fitzpatrick was part of the Kilkenny Senior Camogie Panel which beat Tipperary on Sunday last in the League Semi-final. Lydia was on the bench but played a big part when introduced the previous week.

TIDY TOWNS NEWS Freshford Tidy Towns launched their Community Action for Biodiversity workshops recently. The highly educational, practical and enjoyable workshops takes place with Eva Holmes and commenced two weeks each Wednesday evenings. Participants gather in the Millennium Park at 7pm each week. The course will look at suitable pollinator plants for hanging baskets and they will use these skills to plant the village hanging baskets. This course is free to all with all covid procedures in place. Woodview residents are hosting the next instalment of the Community Action for Biodiversity Workshops with Eva Holmes, Darver House Nursery focusing on biodiversity in residential settings.

WORKS Local Cllr Michael McCarthy is delighted that macadam overlay and associated works have taken place at Clashacrow and Saar Road Freshford also on the LS5010 at Ballinamara. These works will be of huge benefit to the residents and road users. Great credit is due to the Area Engineer and his staff for their efforts.

LOOP WALK The Look walk has now reopened following refurbishment work, some minor tidying is taking place this week. Thanks is due to the Parks Department \Kilkenny County Council Leader the Contractor and the Land Owner for allowing access.

BAPTISM With baptisms now allowed with a small limited number in attendance. Congrats to Chloe Fox and her partner Marco whose Baby Vincenzos was baptised recently at St.Lachtains Church, Freshford.

U9 s played their first game recently against Spa Utd away from home Well done to all involved and a super performance by the youngsters . Training for 5-8 year olds has also resumed and continues each Saturday morning at Woodview from 12noon to 1pm. All welcome. Freshford Junior side have been drawn against Thomastown B in the Cup competition. They are drawn against top of the league side Freebooters A in the McCalmount cup competition. Another tough encounter.

GAA NEWS St Lachtains Junior B hurlers were in action on Friday evening last when they had a convincing win over St. Martins on their first outing of year at Pairc Lachtain. Team: J.Campion, M.Burke, (Capt) L.Kennedy J Hickey, C.Rafter, J.Cleere, P Donnelly, M.Farrell, P While, P.Killeen,C O’Leary, B.Hughes, C Leahy, C.Dawson, A.Rafter. The intermediate side face Danesfort on Thursday evening next at Pairc Lachtain in the first round of the Byrne Cup with throw in at 8pm. St.Lachtains GAA club held that Drive in Bingo for the past two Sunday afternoon with people delighted to have it back! The popular drive in bingo will take place on Sunday afternoon next, 6th June starting at 2pm sharp with a prize fund of €2,500 on the day. Single book - €10, Double book €20, Children €5 (including Jackpot sheet) Eircode R95T6D8. All at St.Lachtins once again look forward to seeing you there and bring your friends along. Last man standing -All at St. Lachtains would like to thank everyone for the great support shown in the recent Last Man Standing competition for the national hurling league.

MEMBERSHIP With the start of the GAA year in sight it is very important to have membership paid up. Having membership will mean all will be included into potential draws for upcoming GAA fixtures if crowd limits are brought in as a rule. Membership can be paid to any Committee member.

KINANE & McGREE TOURNAMENTS The annual Philip Kinane Cup and Colin McGree Shield Tournaments were held recently at Pairc Lachtain. Four teams participated with Jack Dalton’s team, Jamie Denieffe’s team, Colin McGree’s and Cian Donnelly’s all in action. The finals took place on Bank Holiday Monday. The Colin McGree shield final played first saw Jack Daltons team face up to Jamie Denieffes side and saw Jamie’s side take the honours. The Philip Kinane cup final saw Colin McGrees team take on Cian Donnelly’s side with Colin’s side coming out winners. Thanks goes to all the organisers and mentors for their help in the running of the tournaments.

PARISH NEWS Masses and Church services are one of the restrictions to be lifted recently . During lockdown the church has always been open for private prayer each day. Mass continues in St.Lachtains Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday at 11am with a limited number of 50 people. Mass resumed in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 8pm with numbers limited to 25 due to social distancing requirements. It is however most important that we continue to wear masks, main social distancing and sanitise our hands and it is very important that you do not attend if you are experiencing any symptoms of Covid 19. Freshford Parish website is now live and can be found at www. parishoffreshford.com. They will continue to add content in the coming weeks and if you have any suggestions as always just send an email to the Parish office and thanks to all those who have contributed to date.

NOTICES The parish newsletter continued to be issued each week during the restrictions. The Parish office is open each morning 9.30am to1pm (except Wednesdays). If you have a community notice you would like included in the weekly newsletter you should submit details of same in person to Freshford Parish office before 1pm on Thursdays or you can email same to Freshford@ossory.ie Mass Cards Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish office on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory. ie. Contact Mongr Kieron Kennedy on that number or on 087 25235 There will be no celebration of First Communion or Confirmation for months to come Children of second class due to receive their first Communion may now have to wait till later in the year.

DICKSBORO

UNDER AGE HURLING Great to see Palmerstown and James Park buzzing this evening with our youngest hurlers back in the Boro! Well done everyone involved. Parents are advised to download Clubzap App to follow the Covid Protocols. Please see relevant clubzap groups for training schedules. Senior Hurling The Senior Hurlers had two good competitive challenge games against Father O Neills and Birr as they continued their preparations towards the league in the months ahead. Junior B Hurling The Junior B team played their first game in the league on Thursday night against Barrow Rangers. Our lads were unlucky to loose by a point in the end. With alot of lads coming up from Minor level from last year, our lads will learn and improve as the season goes. Final score 1-13 to 0-15.

JUNIOR E HURLING The 4th adult team had a very good win against Bennetsbridge in the league on a very warm Sunday in Palmerstown. 1-14 to 0-11. This was the lads first game of the season and did very well to see out the win in very warm conditions. Minor Hurling The Minor team had a very good work out on Bank Holiday Monday against Faughs in Palmerstown. This was a very good workout ahead of the first league game against O Loughlins on Monday in Palmerstown.

CONDOLENCES Last week, we said goodbye to our great friend & clubman Martin Morrissey. Martin has been the heart & soul of Dicksboro GAA for many years. He has given so much to so many in his time involved in our club. Whether it be coaching teams over the years, helping with grounds development, his trojan work with our club lotto, work as a committee member & chairman or as a supporter, Martin really represented all that was good about the Boro. Martin had time for everyone in the club and went out of his way to make sure he knew everyone from the youngest club members to the oldest, and he always had a kind and supportive word for all. He was always very supportive on & off the field down through the years to all players of all abilities who were playing for the Boro. He looked out for everyone. Martin & Ann along with Joe & Kitty Phelan, Mick Byrne & Eugene Begley and others would always be present at Boro games across the country including Fèile na Gael weekends. No location was too far to support the Boro youngsters. Martin was one of the driving forces behind the development of the Palmerstown grounds in the late 80’s & we certainly would not have the Dicksboro we have today without his drive and passion. The huge turnout at the funeral from Dicksboro GAA & Camogie club & Muckalee GAA really showed the respect & fondness everyone had for Martin. He was one of a kind. Thanks for everything you did for us Martin, we will keep the show on the road but Palmerstown just wont be the same without you. R.I.P All in Dicksboro would like to send our condolences to Martins wife Ann & his loving family Catríona, Liam, Enda, Áine, Ciara, Sam & his extended family & many friends. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis

CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results JUNE 12th 2021 Nos: 6– 20– 22– 25 Jackpot: €3,100– not won Draw Prizes – €50: Declan Gough €25 each john fogarty c/o online €25 each aoife cahill c/o online €25 each margaret claffey c/o deirdre o reilly €25 each molly c /o fiona morrissey Promoters prize - gerry o neill Next week’s (June 17TH) Jackpot – €3,200 We are encouraging every Dicksboro family to support the Clubs Fundraising efforts by signing up to the Club Lotto. https://dicksborogaa.com/ categories/lotto/products

MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION Registration is now due and should be in place prior to resumption of play. This needs to be paid before entering the pitch. https://www.dicksborogaa. com/membership_products

SUMMER CAMP SAVE THE DATES DICKSBORO SUMMER CAMP 5 Day Summer Camp open for Boys and Girls. JULY 26th -30th AUGUST 16th - 20th Come for one week or both. BOOKING SYSTEM Online https://www. dicksborogaa.com/summer-camp

DICKSBORO GAA ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC Dicksboro GAA will host its Annual Golf Classic in the Kilkenny Golf Club on Friday 23st of July 2021.This event has been a very successful event in the past and we are encouraging all members, supporters, former players, and friends of the club to support this fundraising event. Please see below link on how to register https:// dicksborogaa.clubzap.com/product

PITCH SIDE BUSINESS ADVERTS Should your business want to arrange an advertising hoarding at our Club grounds click here for details: https:// www.dicksborogaa.com/products For any queries contact any committee member. https://www.dicksborogaa. com/contact (Camogie contact runai Ted Carroll (086) 837 6544)

KILMANAGH

GRAIGUE BALLYCALLAN ATHLETICS CLUB Our next C25K (Couch to 5 kilometres) starts on July 1st. Get in touch with any of the enthusiasts and make that commitment today! You won’t regret it. Running for everyone else is at 7pm every Tuesday & Thursday. Wear hi-vis & fill in your covid form please.

BINGO Drive-In Bingo commences in Ballingarry GAA Club grounds on June 25 and every Friday night, henceforth. 8pm start, gates open at 6.30pm. Single Book + 1 Sheet €10. Double Book + 2 Sheets €15. Extra Sheets €3 or 2 for €5. Plus Split The Pot, Over €2,700 to be won. All Covid guidelines will be followed.

BAPTISMS Until further notice, probably well into July, numbers at baptisms are limited to just 6 people. Please note the days and times for baptism. There has been a change to the Saturday times with the dropping of the 12noon slot. A minimum of two weeks’ notice is required.

MARY’S MEALS The total collected from Fr. Kelly’s book is €1,590, a tremendous sum, and, when combined with recent proceeds from my own book, as well as donations given to me for Mary’s Meal’s at Easter, we are sending in excess of €2,000 to the project. Mary’s Meals philosophy is simple: By providing a daily meal in a place of learning, they meet the immediate needs of hungry children and encourage them to go to school to gain an education that can, in the future, be their ladder out of poverty. €18.30 is enough to feed a child for a whole school year. Mary’s Meal’s is a non-denominational and non-governmental charity.

FACEMASKS A reminder that facemasks must be worn inside our churches during Masses. This will continue, regardless of whether you are vaccinated or not. New research shows that you can still spread the new strain of the virus even after inoculation. For everyone’s sake, wear your mask.

BOOKING ANNIVERSARY MASSES While it’s possible to book an anniversary Mass, we request that attendance by family members be kept to a minimum. This is on account of limited numbers allowed at Mass. They can, of course remain outside and listen on the outdoor speaker.

WEBCAM Kilmanagh church has a webcam fitted and Mass is broadcast every Saturday evening at 6.30pm. Just log onto the parish website and follow the link. We recommend using Google Chrome for the best experience. If you are using a mobile phone with 3G or less you will encounter buffering problems.

WEEKLY LOTTO RESULTS Graigue Ballycallan GAA & St. Brigid’s Camogie Club lotto results for 07/06/2021 are as follows: Numbers drawn were: 7; 14; 15; 24. Jackpot of€3000 was not won. Next week’s jackpot will be €3200. 3 x lucky dip winners get €50 each – Philomena Butler, Kathleen Blanchfield and John Caldbeck. Seller’s prize goes to Mark Hogan. Draw takes place each Monday at 9pm sharp. Next draw will take place on 14/06/2021.

SCRAP METAL The annual Scrap Metal Collection in aid of Naomh Aodhán Community Centre, Kilmanagh will take place on Saturday 10th July & Sunday 11th July. Thanks, as always, to the Harris Family for the generous use of their yard for this fund raiser. SOCCER The winner of the River Rangers Champions League Final Golden Goal Competition was Michelle Dunne, with the 42nd minute, taking home the €150 prize. Well done Michelle and thanks to everyone who purchased tickets.

LEAVING CERT EXAMS Best of luck to all students who are currently sitting their leaving cert exams. It’s been a tough year to be a student but hopefully you will do well and receive the grades you are hoping for.

REMEMBRANCE TREE The whitethorn tree, recently blessed at a memorial Mass for all who have passed away in the last 15 months will be planted in the front lawn in Ballycallan Church grounds. It will stand as a memorial to all who have died. Later in the year we will hold our own memorial service and remember all those from our parish have passed away.

LOCAL LINK BUS SERVICE The Local Link Bus Service from Kilmanagh to Kilkenny continues to operate at 50% capacity every Tuesday. To book on for this service please call on 1890 424 141 or 056 771 5912 Monday to Friday 09.00 to 16.30pm.

PARISH NEWS Anyone wishing to submit news items, events, announcements etc. can do so by email only to elanigan18@gmail. com. If you have any photos that you would like included, please send as an attachment.

URLINGFORD

EMERALDS GAA CLUB Split the pot: The final split the pot draw by the Emeralds GAA Club was Sunday night where Elaine Power won €270. Well done Elaine! Nicholas Healy from the Urlingford Arms will hold the draws going forward on Sunday nights in the hotel, time tbc. For the next four weeks, the draw is for the Emeralds Camogie Club. Get your envelopes in local shops for your chance to share half the pot. Please support. Mega Bingo: Returned on Sunday at 6pm at Urlingford GAA pitch. Gates open at 5pm. Single books and 1 sheet €10; Double books and 2 sheets €15. Extra jackpot sheet €3 or two for €5.

EMERALDS URLINGFORD & GRAINE LOTTO Is back!! June 14 prize fund: €12,100. Jackpot: €10,100. Draw takes place on Monday, June 14 in the Clubrooms. Tickets available at usual outlets. Results next week.

EMERALDS CAMOGIE CLUB Would like to thank everyone for supporting their Spinathon at the weekend. Thanks to all those who participated in helpling raise funds for the club.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE The Mill Allotments: The allotments and garden are now open to the public from 9am to 6pm Mon to Fri each week. Courses: Health Care Level 5: We are now currently recruiting for new learners for the Health Care Level 5 course commencing in September 2021. Pathway to Employment Course, Level 4: We are also recruiting for the Pathway to Employment Level 4 course which will be commencing in September 2021. Please contact Sue or Kevin in the Mill Family Resource Centre for more information on these courses and application forms on 056 8838466. Community Bank Savings: Savings have recommenced at the centre. Please contact the centre for more information, if required.

SENIOR ALERT If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine on 056 8838466.

COUNSELLING SERVICES Teenagers from age 12 upwards, adult and family low cost counselling services are available at the Mill Family Resource Centre, please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment on 056 8838466. Services that the Mill FRC provides to the public: Family Support; One to One Support; Drop in I.T. Support - computers / laptops & mobile phones; Senior Alert; Community Savings; Room Rental; Social Welfare, HSE, Tax, Garda & Government Forms and advice on completing all forms; Internet Access, Printing & Photocopying; Emailing; Scanning; Typing Service; CV/Cover Letters; Homes for the Elderly.

URLINGFORD COMMUNITY GARDEN Urlingford Community Garden have allotments available if anyone is interested contact the centre, two sizes are available 30x30 for €40 per year and 28x15 for €20 per year.

URLINGFORD LIBRARY Need to print something? You can now connect to Urlingford Library Printers via WiFi and the Internet no matter where you are. Follow the instructions on our Library notice board and collect your prints from the Library. Our opening times are; Tuesday 10-8pm. Wednesday Closed; Thursday 10-5pm, Friday 10-1.30pm. Saturday 10-1.30pm, (Closed Saturday of Bank Holiday Weekends).

OSSORY YOUTH Ossory Youth, the youth service in County Kilkenny, are planning to run a ‘Pop-Up Youth Club’ in Urlingford on Wednesday June 30 to Friday July 2 for 6th class students. This is a three day camp running from 12.30 to 2.30pm on Wednesday and 10am-2pm on the other two days with a mixture of fun activities giving young people a taste of what a weekly youth club would provide. A number of volunteers are needed to support the Ossory Youth staff in running the ‘Pop-Up Youth Club’. Volunteers will be supported every step of the way by Ossory Youth with Garda Vetting and Child Protection training provided. A typical volunteering commitment in a youth club would be two hours on one evening a week. If you are interested in volunteering in Urlingford, please contact Patrick Bookle in Ossory Youth at 056 7761200, 087 2129006 or pbookle@ossoryyouth. com.

LOCAL LINK BUS SERVICE The Local Link Bus Service Urlingford area - Urlingford & Galmoy to Kilkenny services continue to operate at 50% capacity every Tuesday. To book for either of these services please call 1890 424141 or 056 7715912 Monday to Friday 9am to 4.30pm.

URLINGFORD / GRAINE DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP In case of emergency, call: 085 2726396.

URLINGFORD NEWS Anyone wishing to submit news items, club events, announcements etc can do so by emailing urlingfordnotes@ gmail.com. If you have any photos you wish to include, please forward them to the email address.

Golf

NOTES

Callan Golf Club

Ladies Competitions at Callan Golf Club

Callan Ladies had a wonderful 3-2 Victory over Mt Juliet in the Intermediate Inter club Competition on Sunday last. Team: Noelle O’Driscoll Berna Walsh Claire Hendriques Mandy O’Brien Lorraine Donovan

1st Major of 2021 Captain Denis Lawlors Prize to the Ladies was held in lovely sunshine with Rita O’Neill winning the Coveted Prize 2nd Breda Walsh Best Gross Ann Wemyss 3rd Caroline Somers 4th Noelle O’Driscoll 5th Shiela Foster 6th Paulune Duffy Best 36 Rose O’Brien 9 Hole winner Ann Needham. Juniors Competition was won by Anna O’Brien.

Castlecomer Golf Club It was with great regret that we learned of the passing of former Captain and President Mr Tom Rothwell. Tom was an integral part of our Club for many years, serving on many committees. We offer our condolences to his wife Gretta, sons Victor, John & Mervyn and all his family. Ar dheis De go raibh an anam.

Congratulations to all winners of our Christmas Draw which was delayed due to restrictions, and we extend appreciation to all members for their continued support. €1000 Gordon Byrne, Marymount, Castlecomer. €500 Sean Mansfield, New Rd, Castlecomer. €250 Eanna Brennan, Ruthstown, Ballyfoyle. €100 Miriam Kelly, Yellow Rd, Castlecomer. €100 Darragh O’ Gorman, 0852703214. €100 Ciaran Brennan, Bleach Road, Dunmore. €100 Margaret Campion, 3 Donaguile, Castlecomer. €100 Seamus Brennan, Bleach Road, Dunmore. €100 Breda Ring, Cashel Downs, Waterford Rd, Kilkenny. €100 Laura Gill, C/O Gerry O’ Neill. €100 Sellers Prize: Gerry Meally.

Ladies: The recent Ladies Competition was kindly sponsored by Harrington’ s Pharmacy.

Located on The Square in Castlecomer, this establishment has been serving the medical needs of the community for many years.With a wealth of experience and knowledge, the staff of Harrington’s are always able to respond with expert advice. As a club, we are proud to have the valued sponsorship of Harrington’s Pharmacy and we urge our members to support this local business Competition Results: 1st Ita Madigan (39pts) 2nd Emma Walsh (37pts) 3rd Betty Byrne (35pts) 4th Margaret O’ Keeffe (34pts) Well done ladies! Inter Club Matches will resume on Wednesday June 9th when our Junior Foursomes team play New Ross G.C. On Friday June 11th the Intermediate Ladies will tee it up against Gowran G.C. All Ireland Women’s Fourball June 18th. Challenge Team V Borris June 22nd Minor Tram V Gowran June 23rd Week 5 of lessons continue with Noel Tuesday and Wednesday.

Men’s Results

Midweek Singles 2 & 3 June 2021: 1st James Bergin (9) 42 pts. 2nd Breanainn Buggy (26) 39pts. Best Gross Michael Buggy (-2) 33pts

Seniors Golf results: Wed, 2nd June, 2021.

1st - Tommy O Neill (10), Christy Comerford (14), Martin Meally (23), Tony Cooper (29) - 79 points. 2nd - Betty Owens (18), Liam Maddock (20), Marty Connolly (24) - 78 points. 3rd - Sean Scanlan (19), Ger Comerford (28), Jean Jackman (38) - 75 points. 34 cards returned and well done to all.

The Club annual fundraising classic takes place this year from Thursday, June 24th – Sunday 27th. This is a 4-person event with a 1st prize of a 3 Night golfing break in Westport for 4. There are many more prizes including seniors, ladies, and a nonGUI prize. €120 per team. Timesheet is now open. May Medal Singles (Sponsored by Mulhall Brothers Bespoke Kitchens & Construction) 1st Mark Unwin (10) 69 2nd Bobby Todd (28) 69 3rd Michael Power (25) 69 Best Gross: Oisin O’Brien (-1) 73pts Holmpatrick Cup Fourball (Sponsored by Vinny Dwyer, Butchers) 1st Colin Dunne & Fergal O’Neill 49pts 2nd Ronan Walsh & Breannain Buggy 49pts 3rd Johnny Brennan & Tommy Kealy 49pts Midweek Open Singles 9th &10th June 12, 2021 1st Mark Unwin (9) 41pts 2nd Tom Phelan (19) 40 pts 3rd Evan O’Carroll (20) 38 pts Best Gross: Declan Dooley (2) 34pts

Ladies:

Topline Phelan’s Hardware kindly sponsored the first Ladies Stoke Competition of the season. Established in 1955 by Mr. Jack Phelan, the business now employs staff from the immediate surrounding area each one bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the enterprise. For many years John and Breda Phelan have been closely linked with the local community and have participated in a number of fundraising initiatives including providing sponsorship for Castlecomer Golf Club. We thank them sincerely and wish them continued success going forward.

Competition Results:

Kathleen O’ Neill 65 Catrina Meagher 70 Ita Madigan 72 b9 Margaret O’ Keeffee 72 The ladies Junior Foursomes Team enjoyed an impressive victory over New Ross G.C. Managed by Honoria Fogarty both home pairings sealed a win while the away pairing closed the victory on the 18th green. Well doneto manager and players. The Intermediate Team travelled to Gowran G.C. for the first match in the competition . Team Manages Ellen Phelan and LC Patricia Brennan were very pleased with the players’ performance, securing two wins at home and one away. Congratulationsto team and managers. Friday June 19th the All Ireland Women’s Fourball takes place and Sunday the Junior Cup.Good luckto all involved.

Men’s singles (Sponsored by Buggy Property Partners) 1st Gerry Mealy (16) 43 pts 2nd Shay Kennedy (9) 42 pts 3rd Colum Lynch (8) 41 pts Best Gross: Michael Buggy (-2) 36 pts Senior Results: 12 teams played with a total of 48 players on their outing to Rathdowney, and a very enjoyable days golf was had by all 1st - Tommy O Neill (10), Pat Murtagh (11), John Shore (38), Margie Gannon (29) 89 points 2nd - Tom Mooney (17), Paddy Neary (18), Eamon McEvoy (29), Noreen Kinsella (29) 89 points. 3rd - Shan Butler (17), Jim Hynes (24), Frank Dormer (28), Pat Graham (29), 88 points. Barton Cup: The Men’s Barton Cup team were unlucky to lose 3 games to 2 to Rathdowney. Thanks to Manager Michael Curry and all the players for their efforts.

Robert Lewandowski

Adopt Poland for Euros

AS the euro 2020 takes place a year late, our Polish Community will be cheering on from their armchairs, and hopefully a few of our local bars and restaurants if they have a big outdoor screen, cheering on the home country. Now when Liverpool, Manchester United are playing the local inhabitants of our cities and counties are clued to the big screens, and now their mobiles, losing blood, sweat and tears cheering on Rashford, Henderson, and all their English idols but! Oh yes! As soon as they put on the white or red shirts, and now even blue, with the three lions across the chest is anyone but England chant. So Irish men and women, why not support the boys in red POLAND. The Polish community is the largest economic migrant population we have in Ireland and Kilkenny. Leaving their home country to come here and seek a better life for themselves and now families, we have now many Polish/ Irish families living, working, and playing sports, including soccer here in Kilkenny. It was Just a few seasons ago Newpark FC had a top-class keeper Lukasz BzC playing for them winning leagues and cup competitions in The Kilkenny & District league.

So, let’s support Poland, get your red and white Flags out, hang them from the windows and cars as we support our Adopted brothers and sisters. In fact, Poland’s first game of the tournament was to take place in the Aviva Stadium. If it had, and the same number of Polish were in the Stadium when they played Ireland last, it would have been a ‘HOME’ Game ‘AWAY FROM HOME’

Many of their Players are also well known to the Irish Public.

West Ham Utd’s Keeper Lukasz

Fabianski, Pawel Dawidowicz playing for Verona in Serie A in Italy and Midfielder Kamil Glik also from the Italian League playing 36 times this season for Benevento and hitting the target 2 times. Then of Course there is the King of Polish Soccer, every young Polish boy wants to be Robert Lewandowski. The Bayern Munich striker has been one of the top players in European football for many seasons. Last Seasons Champion league winners Bayern Munich, and year on year winners of the German Bundesliga have Robert to thank for his goal scoring ability hitting the net 41 times in just 28 games, As an Irish fan who cheers Spurs all year long, but now he plays for England I hear you say “Harry who ? Golden Boot for 22 goals in 38 games”, “Do me a favour” as Roy Red mist Keane might say.

So, le us adopt Poland for Euro 2020, and wear the red and white. We are still listening to 1966 and “ They think it’s all over … it is now “ when Hurst hits the hat trick. Imagine, it would another 56 years of remember when we were European Champions? from across the Irish Sea, bBut there is a night they do not remind us of, the night Sir Alf Ramsey got the sack and the keeper Brian Clough was called a clown, kept a clean sheet as Poland Knocked England out of the 1974 World Cup, Mr Jan Tomaszewsk

EURO 2020 FINAL WEMBLEY ENGLAND 0 POLAND 1 ? get to the bookies

Lukasz Fabianski lukasz BcZ