Connacht Fleadh 2006

          Kilnadeema branch of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann enjoyed mixed fortunes at the Connacht Fleadh, which was held in Ballymote, Co. Sligo last weekend. The branch had two ceili bands and a grupai cheoil competing and just missed out on qualification for the All-Ireland fleadh. The two bands and grupai cheoil finished in third place with the first two automatically qualifying. Branch officers and tutors were delighted with the performances considering that there was a big influx of new members this year, competing for the first time. In the solo competitions, five members qualified. Top achievement again this year went to David Howley. David is in the 12-15 age group and came first in the mandolin and accompaniment and second in the banjo and miscellaneous competitions. Also in the 12-15 age group, Gerard Forde came first on the piano. Ciara Stapleton was once again first in the 15-18 Flute Slow Airs and Ferdie Whelan got second in the 15-18 piano. In the senior ranks, new recruit Conor McCarthy got first on the button accordion. All these members will now represent Connacht at the All-Ireland Fleadh in Letterkenny on the last weekend in August. The following members competed at the Connacht Fleadh: Niall Connaire, Shauna Coppinger, Robert Costello, Shane Curley, Gerard & Maeve Forde, Sheila Forde, David Howley, Cliona & Brendan Hynes, Orla Keane, Shauna Mahoney, Conor McCarthy, Niall McGinley, Olivia Molloy, Caroline & Nicola Murphy, Katie Page, Niamh and Joseph Regan, Ciara & Padraic Stapleton, Aisling Tully, Eoghan Tully, Sheena & Ferdie Whelan.

Ciara Stapleton 1st Flute S/A	Gerard Forde 1st Piano
David Howley 1st Mandolin & Accompaniment 2nd Banjo & Miscellaneous	Conor McCarthy 1st Senior Button Accordion