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NEWS
edited Tuesday, May 07, 2002 10:50 AM
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ABBEYFEALE NEWS
7th May; Good weather, excellent music and great craic ensured that the eighth annual Fleadh by the Feale traditional music festival attracted large crowds to the town over the May Bank Holiday weekend. Huge audiences congregated in The Square each evening for the open-air entertainment while every street corner was taken up by musicians, singers and dancers, eager to entertain. The local bars also organized various musical sessions, and the street busking competitions proved very popular with young and old alike. Renowned group, Danu, displayed their versatility with a lively, toe-tapping, sell-out concert in the Convent Hall on Sunday night. The All Ireland Bone Playing competition drew contestants from all over the country and the standard was extraordinarily high. The organizing committee can be well pleased with their efforts but, far from resting on their laurels, they are already drawing up plans for next year! In conjunction with Fleadh by the Feale, a primary schools art competition was organized with the pictures put on display in the local library. The winners were as follows; 3rd Class. 1st Naomi Ni Chartaigh, Min na Cille. 2nd Lorraine McNamara, Dromtrasna. 3rdb Danielle Ni Riordain, Min na Cille. Highly commended; Uimberlee Ni Bhriain, Min na Cille. 4th Class; 1st Bronwyn Ni Andraosain, Scoil Mhathair De. 2nd Sean O Siochain, Scoil Mhuire. 3 rd Tomas O Coileain, Min na Cille. Highly commended; Rachel Curtin, Dromtrasna. Sade Ni Ghabhann, Scoil Mhathair De. Sean de Stac, Scoil Mhuire na mBuachailli. 5th Class; 1st Eibhlin Ni Mhurchu, Scoil Mhathair De. 2nd Rebecca Curtin, Dromtrasna. 3 rd Aine Ni Charthaigh, Min na Cille. Highly commended; Sarah Poff, Scoil Mhathair De. Joleen Ni Chonchuir, Scoil Mhathair De. Liam O Coirc, Scoil Mhuire na mBuachailli. Brian O Scanail, Scoil Mhuire na mBuachailli. 6th Class; 1st Caroline Ni Mhurcu, Scoil Mathair De. 2 nd Eoin Seoighe, Scoil Mhuire na mBuachailli. 3rd Catherine Broderick, Cnoc na Sna. Highly commended; Jordanna Sheehan, Cnoc na Sna. Maire Ni Ghliosain, Cnoc na Sna. Sean O Briain, Scoil Mhuire na mBuachailli. Treasa Ni Phroinnbhiol, Scoil Mhathair De. Kelly Ni Choileain, Scoil Mhathair De. Gemma Crowley, Dromtrasna. Caitriona Ni Scannaill, Scoil Mhathair De. Aodhan O GoinneanScoil Mhuire na mBuachailli. Seamus O Muiriosa, Scoil Mhuire na mBuachailli.
After eighty years serving the people of Abbeyfeale, The Man's Shop in Abbeyfeale finally closed its doors for the last time on Saturday. Frank and Anne-Marie Dennison have managed the well-known clothes and tailoring outlet, which is situated at Convent Street. Frank learned his trade at Todd's in Limerick and returned to manage his father's business. Tailor-made suits from Dennison's Man's Shop became a tradition in the area, and many suits, ordered decades ago for weddings or parish socials, hang in several wardrobes today and they are still brought out, brushed down and proudly worn for special occasions!
West Limerick Set Dancing Club will hold a Set Ceili in The Convent Hall on Sunday 12\super th\nosupersub May at 4 pm with music by Fodhla. All sets will be called.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 1, 8, 20 and 22. There were six Match 3 winners and they each received €17. They were; Amy Cullinane, The Grove. Peggy Boylan, Caherconnell. David Healy, Collins Park. Phil O\rquote Keefe, The Hill. Edel Horgan, New Street. Eireann O'Shea, Shanbally. Lucky Dip winners who received €20 each were Gerry McCarthy, Devon Cross. Anita Mulcahy, Railway Road. Caron Kirby, Knocknacrohy. Helen Lyons, Knocknagoshel. Rose O\rquote Donnell, Knockbrack. The jackpot now stands at €1,600 and the next draw takes place in The Ploughman Bar on Tuesday 14th May.
Local winners in the Pairc Cois Feile draw were; Patrick Enright, St Ita's Road - Solid Teak Garden Furniture. Jack Ryan, Main Street - Mirrored clock. Breda O'Connell, c/o Kostal and Helen Collins, The Hill - Framed mirrors. Larry Corbett, Railway Road. Mary Shanahan, Grove Road. Liam Murphy, Killarney Road. Denis and Conor Geaney, Butchers, Ardagh. Hannah O'Connell, c/o Kostal. Michael Quigley, The Hill - all won framed pictures
In soccer, Abbeyfeale Utd drew 1-1 with Pallaskenry. The Fealesiders trailed 1-0 at half time but a second-half goal from Joe Kelliher gave them a precious league point
At the AGM of the Abbeyfeale & District Manchester United Supporters Club, which was held in Donal & Ann's bar, the following officers were elected; Chairman - Denis Daly. Secretary - Denis O'Sullivan. PRO - Thomas Mann. Treasurer - Paddy Finucane. Youth Officer - Richard O' Mahony.
1st May; The eighth annual Fleadh By The Fealetraditional music festival commences on this Friday 3rd May and continues until Monday 6th May. The oganizers have again arranged a varied and interesting programme of events to suit all tastes and, huge crowds are expected in the town over the May Bank Holiday weekend. The festival opens with the very popular Traditional Street Busking competition on Friday evening at 8.30 pm. Master Workshop classes will be held in the Convent National School on Saturday, and there will be open-air entertainment in The Square later that evening. Local group, Sliabh Notes will play a set ceili in the GAA club at 3pm on Sunday, and international group, Danu, will perform at the Celebrity Concert in the Convent Hall at 8pmon Sunday evening. The festival concludes with the All Ireland Bone Playing competition in The Square on Monday evening at 8pm. There will be entertainment in The Square each evening}{\fs24 , with various groups and players taking part} , and most of the pubs have also organized music during the weekend.
The Meenkilly Card Game in aid of the Chernobyl Children's Fund was a great success and raised the sum of E360.
Abbeyfeale Vocational School continues its 50th Anniversary celebrations with a special function in the school on this Friday 3rd May to commemorate the class of 1951/52, the school's first ever class. Other events planned for the next few weeks include tree planting, poetry and art competitions and an exhibition of school photograpPeg Murphy.}}
Abbeyfeale 2nds were beaten by Castleisland in the final of the Galwey-Foley Cup in Castleisland on Sunday. The Fealesiders enjoyed first use of the strong breeze but failed to take full advantage of the elements and led at half time by just 9 points to 8 with Maurice Flynn kicking three penalties. Castleisland seized the initiative in the second half and piled on the scores. However, a try from Kieran Curtin and a penalty and conversion from Maurice Flynn set up a grand-stand finish, with the home team just holding out for victory.
Team; David Collins, Maurice Flynn, Declan White, Packy O'Connor, Michael Twomey, Craig Ansell, Paul Collins, Mike Leahy, Niall Donovan, Liam Herlihy, Din McCarthy, Matt Semple, Timmy Quilter, Kieran Collins (Capt) Seanie Naughton. Replacements; Matt Behan, Noel Roche, Diarmuid O'Leary.
Heats of the Con Curtin Traditional Weekend Singing Competition will be held at the following venues; Three Counties Bar, Brosna on 11th May. Ramble Inn, Abbeyfeale on 17th May. The total prize fund for this competition is €1,000 and the final will be held in The Hall, Brosna on 15th June. The Con Curtin Traditional Weekend takes place from 14th to 16th June.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 9, 12, 18 and 19. There were seven match 3 winners and they each received €15. They were Denise McCrohane, c/o Jack Murphy. Geraldine Murphy, Collins park. Ann Collins, Dromtrasna South. Gemma McCoy, c/o Paddy O'Sullivan. Packie Mulcahy & Clare, Railway Road. Megan Dore, Colbert's Terrace. Deborah Moriarty, The Hill. Lucky Dip winners who received €20 each were Siobhan Kelliher, Collins Park. Carmel Dore, Templeglantine. Charlie McCarthy, Hill Road. Eileen Healy, c/o Donal's Bar. Pat Flavin, Listowel. The jackpot now stands at €1,500 and the next draw takes place in DP Lyons Bar.
23rd April; Abbeyfeale & District Manchester United Supporters Club will hold its first AGM at Donal and Ann's bar on this Friday night, 26th April at 9pm. All members have been invited to come along, and new members will also be welcome. And, in association with Manchester United Supporters Club, an indoor soccer tournament will be held at Abbeyfeale Sports Complex on Saturday 11th and Saturday 18th May. The junior tournament will start at 12 noon and the senior tournament will start at 6 pm. Junior winners will receive a trophy sponsored by Muiris McElligott, and senior winners will receive €125 sponsored by Donal and Ann's bar. It will be a straight knockout competition with twenty minutes per game. There will be four in each team plus one sub, and entry fee for each team will be €25. Further details from Niall O'Mahony at 087-2958078 or Paddy Finnucane at 068-32036. The tournament is open to all - even ABU's!
There was a full house at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night for the final game of the present season with thirteen tables of six taking part. Two teams with 12 games each divided first and second prize. They were; Ned Murphy, Geoffrey Fitzgerald and Eileen Murphy, and Peg Browne, Theresa O'Donnell and Dan Cullinane. The four door prize winners were John O'Connell, Betty McCarthy, Dan Brosnihan and Mary Murphy. Table prizes went to Mary Murphy, Mike O'Donnell and Angeline O'Donnell. There were numerous sponsored prizes and the winners of these were Betty McCarthy, William Clifford, John Cahill, Mrs Crowley, Kathleen Lenihan, Bett Collins, Noel Murphy, Michael O'Grady, Sean Browne, Liam O'Connor, Billy Broderick, Der McCarthy, Michael Lane, Danny O`Connell, Liam Lane, Lou McEnery, Mary Harnett. The Board would like to thank all card players for the great support over a wonderful season. They would also like to thank the local ladies, parents and teachers for the excellent food that they provided on the night, as well as many sponsors who donated so generously. A special word of thanks also to The Weekly Observer for their wonderful coverage during the season. Happy Summer holidays to all!
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 2, 6, 15 and 21. There were eight Match 3 winners and they each received €13. They were Carol Horan, Mountcollins. Cathy & Patrick O'Connor, Tullig South. Nora Purcell, Listowel (2). Timothy O'Sullivan, Knocknasna. Dan P Harnett, Kilconlea Upper. James Keane, Knocknagoshel. Kevin Murphy, Riverside. Lucky Dip winners who received €20 each were Geraldine & Sabrina, Collins Park. Amanda Kennedy, Castleisland. P Collins, Cederville, Michelle Broderick, Killarney Road. Eileen Murphy, Riverside. The jackpot now stands at €1,400 and the next draw takes place in Jack O'Rourke's bar.
A day pilgrimage to Knock will take place on this Saturday 27th April in honour of Our Lady and Mother of All Nations. Further details from Peg Murphy.
Abbeyfeale Utd created a little piece of history on Saturday afternoon when they succeeded in winning the Youths Division 1 League for the first time. In the final game against last year's winners, Askeaton, they needed just one point to clinch the title while the defending champions needed a win to retain it. The resulting 0-0 draw was enough to see Abbeyfeale Utd crowned as the new champions. In the first division, Abbeyfeale Utd B defeated Breska Rovers 3-2.
In U/21 football, St Kieran's defeated Fr Casey's by 3-6 to 1-10.
Abbeyfeale's hopes of winning a second Munster Junior Plate were dashed in the final in Thomond Park on Sunday when, following a close and keenly contested game, hot favourites Youghal emerged victorious by 16 points to 12.
When these teams met in the league earlier in the season, Youghal won decisively and went on to claim the division 2 title and gain promotion to division 1. Abbeyfeale, on the other hand, have had a mixed season, with not all of their problems confined to the field of play, and reaching this final was a major achievement for them.
On Sunday, Abbeyfeale enjoyed first use of a brisk wind and, urged on by their large band of travelling supporters, had much the better of the opening exchanges. In the first twenty minutes they placed Youghal under almost constant pressure and Liam Quirke kicked three penalties during this period to give The Fealesiders a useful lead.
Youghal however, refused to capitulate, and they retaliated with a converted try to reduce the deficite. Liam Quirke then added a fourth penalty to leave Abbeyfeale leading 12-7 at half time.
Youghal had their best period in the third quarter as, aided by the breeze, they began to dominate the exchanges. They scored three penalties to lead by four points entering the final quarter.
Abbeyfeale regained the initiative in the closing twenty minutes as they drove relentlessly towards the Youghal line seeking that elusive winning try. However, the Cork side defended resolutely and refused to concede anything. The final minutes were played out in a welter of excitement with Abbeyfeale camped on the opposition line. They forced several penalties and scrums and it seemed that the Youghal citidel must fall. Somehow however, they managed to hold out and the final whistle signalled scenes of unbridled joy for the Youghal team and supporters, and dispair for The Fealesiders.
Abbeyfeale were naturally disappointed with the result, but could not be faulted on performance. The pack played excellently but did not always enjoy the best of good fortune. The backs ran and tackled ferociously and came very close to breeching the try-line on several occasions. This is still a young Abbeyfeale team with an average age of just twenty three, and they still have the capability of winning major competitions in the seasons ahead.
Team; Declan Woulfe, Iain McMahon, Matt Behan, Adrian O'Halloran, David Curtin, Michael Murphy, Murty Aherne (Capt) Michael Foote, Noel Roche, Paudie Naughton, Kevin Prendiville, Liam Quirke, Declan White, David Prendiville, John Lenihan. Replacements; Andrew Scannell, Matt Semple, Seanie Naughton, John Sommers, Kieran Collins.
There was some consolation for Abbeyfeale when on Saturday afternoon, their U/14 team won the West Munster U/14 cup, defeating Charleville in Newcastlewest.
This was a tremenduously exciting and skillful game between two extremely committed and enthusiastic teams who ran and tackled with rare abandon. Unbelieveably, neither team was able to produce a score, either in ordinary time or in extra time and it eventually went to penalties with Abbeyfeale winning 3-1.
This was a fine performance by this very entertaining and highly motivated Abbeyfeale team, and with such fine prospects wating in the wings, the future of rugby by The Fealeside would appear to be in safe hands.
Incidentally, the team performed the obligitory parade through the town with the cup on Saturday evening and received a warm reception and generous applause everywhere.
Team; Joe Halpin, Sean Tobin, Barry Foley, Sean Scannell, Aaron Vaughaun, Kevin Kelliher, Eamon Reidy, David Horan, Maurice Cotter, Stephen Daly, Dave Ward, David O'Halloran, Conor Murphy, Jonathen Doody, Thomas Enright.
ABBEYFEALE IN MUNSTER JUNIOR PLATE FINAL!
15th April; Abbeyfeale advanced to the final of the Munster Junior Plate following an exciting and hard-earned victory over Old Christians before a large crowd in The Grove on Sunday.
When these teams met in the league, away back in November, Old Christians ran out convincing winners by 18 points to 8. The Cork side went on to achieve a respectable mid-table position while Abbeyfeale struggled in their closing games. Little wonder then that the Fealesiders expected another titanic struggle on Sunday, and they were not disappointed.
The opening half was evenly contested with both packs striving for supremacy. Christians always looked dangerous on the break and only some hard tackling and astute covering by the home team held them at bay. Abbeyfeale enjoyed territorial advantage during the first quarter but poor handling and the concession of a few needless penalties, denied them scoring opportunities.
The visitors opened their account with a penalty after twenty five minutes. Abbeyfeale replied almost immediately when, following a series of good forward drives, Christians conceded a kickable penalty outside the 22 which Liam Quirke converted to restore parity. Christians regained the lead with another penalty just before the break and led 6-3 at half time.
Abbeyfeale were level again, just two minutes into the second half when a high tackle on Declan White was punished by Quirke who slotted over his second penalty of the afternoon.
As the pace of the game increased, Abbeyfeale began to create chances but tended to over play the ball when a more simpler and direct approach might have reaped richer dividends. They were rocked when, very much against the general run of play, Christians again took the lead with a penalty after twenty minutes.
The Fealesiders now threw everything in to attack and, with the pack at last achieving some sort of supremacy, they began to place the visitors under severe pressure. With five minutes of normal time remaining, Quirke was again on target to level the scores for a third time.
The final minutes were played out in a welter of excitement as both teams went for broke. Fortunes fluctuated as each side created the chances to win it but failed to grasp the initiative. The excitement spread to the sidelines where both sets of officials and supporters roared on their encouragement, while the referee added to the drama by allowing over fifteen minutes of extra time.
It ended 9-9 in normal time, and ten minutes each way of extra time was then played. Christians created the first opportunity of taking the lead, midway through the first period with a kickable penalty that sailed narrowly wide.
There were just five minutes of the second period of extra time remaining when Abbeyfeale at last made the vital breakthrough. Christians were awared a scrum on their own 22. Abbeyfeale won it against the head and Noel Roche spread it wide to Paudie Naughton who fed John Lenihan. Lenihan shipped a heavy tackle but found David Prendiville and he slipped the ball to Declan White who had come into the line at pace. The Abbeyfeale centre displayed devastating speed to scythe through the defence and touch down in the corner. Quirke was narrowly wide with his conversion attempt.
Abbeyfeale made sure of victory two minutes later when, following a line-out near the corner flag, the ball was popped out to Paudie Naughton who ran in unopposed. Liam Quirke added the points and Abbeyfeale were worthy winners by 21 points to 9.
Team; John Lenihan, Kevin Prendiville, Andrew Scannell, Declan White, David Prendiville, Noel Roche, Liam Quirke, Matt Behan, Iain McMahon, Declan Woulfe, Adrian O'Halloran, David Curtin, Michael Murphy, Murty Aherne (Capt) Michael Foote. Replacements; Alan Supple, Eamon Foley, Paudie Naughton, John Sommers, Kieran Collins.
Next Sunday Abbeyfeale play Youghal in the final of the Munster Junior Plate. The game is fixed for Thomond Park at 3pm.
Local traditional group, Sliabh Notes, report excellent sales of their new CD, "Blackwater Banks" following their appearance on the RTE show, Ceili House, on Saturday night. The show was recorded at the Winners Circle in Abbeyfeale the previous week and generated considerable interest, both in Ireland and overseas. Sliabh Notes will appear at this year's Fleadh By The Feale during the May Bank Holiday weekend. Tickets are now on sale for the Danu concert in the Convent Hall on Sunday 5th May and can be obtained from Maureen Murphy, (068-31109) or Ann Marie Dennison (068-31145)
A fantastic crowd attended Meenkilly Card Game last Tuesday night despite the lovely fine evenings we are blessed with at the moment. The winners with 14 games were Nancy O'Connor, Peg McCarthy and Betty McCarthy. Runners-up with 12 games were Kathleen Lenihan, Danny O'Connell and Lena O'Connor. Ticket winners were Norma O'Mahony, Billy Broderick, Peg Browne and Peter O'Mahoney. Table prizes were won by Noreen Murphy, Liam O'Connor and Jamesie McEnery. The door prize went to Mark Stack. It has been decide to hold one last special card game in aid of the Chernobyl Children's Fund. The organizers have appealed to all card players to come along and support this very good cause on Tuesday 23rd April. There will be lots of extra spot prizes on the night, including a Monster Hamper. All are welcome.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 4, 11, 22 and 24. There were nineteen Match 3 winners and they each received €6. They were; Moss Curtin, Killarney Road. Mary Buckley, Duagh. John Stack, Moynsha. Noreen Barry, c/o Ryan's, New Street. Tom Collins, Dromtrasna Collins. Donal Galvin, Ballaugh. Kelly Fitzgerald, The Hill. Pat O'Connor, Upper Tournafulla. Jackie Morrissey, Cederville. Mike Enright, Purt. Dan Cullinane, Collins' Park. Seamus Lenihan, Purt. Gretta O'Connell, Killarney Road. Pat Aherne, Tullig South. Denis Broderick, Purt. Darragh Stack, Knocknasna. M Kelliher, Collins Park. John Daly, Brosna. Gillian Collins, Glenashrone. Lucky Dip winners who received €20 each were Eamon Roche, Glenashrone. John Aherne, Convent Street. Marion Lyons, c/o Cut-N-Curl, Abbeyfeale. Joanne O'Connor, Tournafulla. Noreen Murphy, Ballaugh. The jackpot now stands at €1.300 and the next draw takes place in the Cellar Bar.
Templeglantine and Abbeyfeale Chernobyl Children's Aid are holding a Fun Quiz at Pat Lyons' bar (Cryle View) on this Friday night, 19th April. The Quiz Master will be Denis Hobson, and it is even rumoured that Elvis Presley may put in an appearance at some time during the evening!
Abbeyfeale Coursing Club are having an outing to Cooraclare, Co Clare on this Saturday, 20th April. There will be a night of entertainment, craic agus ceoil in the establishment of well-known Clare Hurler, Anthony Daly on the Saturday night and members will return home on Sunday.
ABBEYFEALE DOUSE MUNSTER FIRE!
ABBEYFEALE 12. YOUNG MUNSTER 6.
8th APRIL; Abbeyfeale have played many memorable matches down through the years in various cup and league competitions and against numerous touring sides. However, last Sunday in The Grove, must rank up there with the very best of them. It was the day that the mighty men of famed Young Munster came to town to avenge an embarrassing defeat inflicted on them by The Fealesiders earlier in the season. And, as we waited in some trepidation for the inevitable and furious backlash, we could feel a certain sympathy for the Limerick senior footballers as they prepare for their encounter with Kerry. For both teams, pay-back time seemed very close at hand.
A good crowd had gathered in The Grove in perfect conditions and the teams were given a rousing reception when they raced out onto the pitch. Abbeyfeale won the toss and elected to defend the clubhouse end. They were placed under immediate pressure as the visitors drove forward in numbers, determined to settle matters as quickly as possible.
Abbeyfeale met them head-on, tackling tigerishly and refusing them the time to recycle any meaningful ball. Munsters missed two penalty kicks in those first mad exchanges, but eventually found the target after ten minutes. The assembled aficionados watched with some glee as the visitors scorned an attempt to go in for the full monty, but gratefully accepted the three points. It was an important psychological moment
Munsters continued to attack but were receiving very little change from an Abbeyfeale front eight that seemed to grow in stature as the game progressed and were more than holding their own against their vastly experienced opponents.
Twenty five minutes into the half, the unthinkable happened! Abbeyfeale won a line out just outside Munsters\rquote 22 and spread the ball wide. With the opposition cover stretched, The Fealesiders attacked down the middle, setting up a series of quick ruck balls before David Curtin burrowed over the line. Liam Quirke missed the conversion from out on the wing, but Abbeyfeale were 5-3 ahead.
Munsters regained the lead with another penalty on the stroke of half time, but what was supposed to be a pleasant little drive out in to the country for the city lads, was beginning turn into a bit of a nighmare!
The second half was a cracking game of rugby with all the fire and fury, the skill and the unquenchable spirit that one associates with Munster Rugby at its best. Both sides created chances to win the game, but resolute defending kept the scores to a minimum.
Abbeyfeale finally broke the deadlock with fifteen minutes to go. From a scrum just inside the Munsters\rquote half, Noel Roche fed Liam Quirke and the out-half found Declan White coming through on the burst. The Abbeyfeale centre continued on a diagonal run, evading several tackles and displaying a tremendous turn of speed before touching down in the corner. Quirke added the points and, despite late Munster pressure, Abbeyfeale held out for a magnificent win Next Sunday, they play Old Christians in The Grove in the next round of the competition.Team; David Prendiville, Coleman Delee, Andrew Scannell, Declan White, Diarmuid O Leary, Noel Roche, Liam Quirke, Declan Woulfe, Iain McMahon, Matt Behan, David Curtin, Adrian OHalloran, Murty Aherne (Capt) Michael Murphy, Michael Foote. Replacements; Kieran Collins, John lenihan, John Sommers. FIXTURE: Munster Junior Plate. Abbeyfeale V Old Christians. The Grove. 3pm, Sun. 14\ April. }
The Fleadh by the Feale committee have decided to draw up a four year programme to promote the festival and, with the support of West Limerick Resources, it is hoped to bring an international flavour to proceedings with a view to attracting more tourists to the town. The All Ireland Bone Playing Competition this year will be open to all. Next year, it will be changed to the International Bone Playing Competition with entrants coming from as far away as America and Canada . A junior Bone Playing Competition, for entrants under 18 years of age, will take place in The Square on Sunday 5 May at 4pm.
The Con Curtin Traditional Music Festival takes place from the 14\super th\nosupersub to the 16\super th\nosupersub June. A new innovation this year will be a Singing Competition with valuable cash prizes worth €1,000. Heats will be held in various venues throughout the area and all entries must be received by this Friday 12\ th April. Entries and further details from Eileen (068-44235) or Mike (087-4188881)
There was another excellent attendance at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night with many new players taking part. The winners with fourteen games were Hannah O Grady, Bridget O Connor and Michael O Grady. Runners up with 12 games were Liam O Connor, Noreen Murphy and Jamesie McEnery. Ticket winners were Emma Stack, Danny O Connell, Jim Lenihan and Dan Joe Riordan. Table prize winners were Michelle Roche, Sean O Connor and Nan Sullivan. The door prize was won by Nan Sullivan. The final card game of the present season takes place on Tuesday 16r th April. As a token of gratitude to all who have supported Meenkilly Card Game throughout the winter, tea and refreshments will be served by The Board and the local ladies. There will be lots of extra spot prizes to be won, and all are welcome
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 11, 15, 16 and 18. There were five Match 3 winners and they each received €20. They were; Christy Sheehy, Duagh. J Byrnes, Abbeyfeale. Pat O Connor, Upper Tournafulla. John Doody, Rockchapel. Kitty OMahony, c/o Geraldine Murphy. Lucky Dip winners who received €20 each were Tina Cross, Duagh. Betty O Connor, Athea. Kevin Sheehy, Hill Road. Rita O Connor, Newmarket. Kathleen Murphy, The Hill. The jackpot now stands at €1,200 and the next draw takes place in The Winners Circle.
3rd April; Two local sporting organizations were in celebratory mood this week, following confirmation that they are to receive funding from the National Lottery. Abbeyfeale Utd FC will get a grant of €100,000, while Abbeyfeale RFC will receive €50,000. Both clubs have carried out extensive developments at their grounds in recent seasons and this windfall will enable them to further enhance and improve their playing and training facilities.
The town was very busy over the Easter Weekend. Local traders and hoteliers reported a brisk business, while many exiles returned to spend the holiday at home. Traffic through the town was particularly heavy on Good Friday and again on Easter Monday. However, there were no major hold-ups reported, with all through-traffic able to move relatively smoothly.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 2, 6, 10 and 15. There were nine Match 3 winners and they each received €11. They were; Catherine King, Templeglantine. Jack Murphy, Collins Park. Denis Kelliher Snr, Hillview Drive. Donie Barrett, Athea. Helen Sheehan, Newcastlewest. Timothy O Sullivan, Knocknasna. James Morrisey, Ballaugh. Margaret Healy, The Hill. Mary McDevitt, Monaghan. Lucky Dip winners who received €20 each were Tess Fitzgerald, Coolaneilig. Conleth Dillon, Killarney Road. John Daly, The Hill. John Lane, Kilmorna. Mossy McCarthy, Mountcollins. The jackpot now stands at €1,100 and the next draw takes place in the Railway Bar.
There was another huge crowd and a terrific atmosphere at Meenkilly Card Game last Tuesday night. The winners with 14 games were Jerry O Riordan, Peggy O Riordan and Jer Roche. Runners-up with 12 games were Seamus Lane, Lizzie Horgan and Sean Browne. Ticket winners were Nancy O Connor, Jim Leahy, Bett Collins and Ann O Connor. Table prizes went to Ann O Connor, Joe O Connor and Den Lane. The door prize was won by Peg McCarthy. The final game of the present season takes place on Tuesday night 16 thApril. There will be lots of spot prizes and goodies on the night and all are welcome.
The death has occurred of Marie Collins, Dromtrasna Collins. She is survived by her father Dan, brother Michael, sisters Noreen, Bridget and Kathleen and by her aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, relatives and a large circle of friends
. A Set Ceili will be held in the Convent Hall on this Sunday 7 th April with music by Murt Kelleher. All sets will be called.
The Con Curtin Traditional Music Festival takes place from the 14th to the 16 th June. A new innovation this year will be a Singing Competition with valuable cash prizes. Heats will be held in various venues throughout the area and all entries must be received by the 12 th April. Entries and further details from Eileen (068-44235) or Mike (087-4188881)
A recording of the RTE traditional music programme, Ceili House, will be held in the Winners Circle on Sunday 7 th April. It will feature well known traditional group, Sliabh Notes, with local musician, Donal Murphy, on the accordion. Sliabh Notes are on a nationwide tour at present and will play in Abbeyfeale during the Fleadh By The Feale Festival on the May Bank Holiday weekend.
Abbeyfeale Golf Club will hold the incoming President s and Captaine s Drive-in on this Sunday 7 th April at 11am. The Abbeyfeale Golf Society outing to Killorglin was very well supported and was won by Maurice O Riordan Jnr (11). John Haugh (11) finished second and Gus Murphy, (16) came third.
A Devotion to the Divine Mercy, including Mass, Blessing of the Sick, Confessions and Veneration of the Picture will take place in the Church of the Assumption on next Sunday 7th April at 3pm. Divine Mercy pictures and prints will be available at the back of the Church and will be blessed during the ceremony.
Local athlete, Tim Tobin, took gold in the boys U/9, 300m race at the county finals of the Cross Country championships in Rathkeale, beating a quality field of over seventy runners
St Ita s College, Abbeyfeale and Charleville CBS played out a thrilling draw in the Supporters Club U/16 B Colleges final on a score of 2-7 each. Aided by a slight breeze, Charleville led by 1-4 to 1-1 at half time. The second half was closely contested as both sides strived for victory. With the teams level, goal for Abbeyfeale from Barry Sheehy, just two minutes from time, seemed to hand the advantage to The Fealesiders. However, in one last desperate attack, Charleville swept downfield and scored a dramatic equalizer to ensure that both teams must do it all again. St Ita s; Timmy McAuliffe, Adan Roche, David O Halloran, Darragh Cotter, Rory Dalton, Joe O Connor, Michael OConnor, Anthony Maher, Daniel O Connor, Aaron Cahill, Brian Murphy, Barry Sheehy, Robert Browne, Liam McEnery, Paul O\ Sullivan.
r In rugby, the continuing saga of the Munster Junior Plate game against Richmond - the latest installment of which was due to be played in The Grove last Sunday - was finally brought to a successful conclusion when Abbeyfeale were awarded the match. They now face Young Munster in The Grove on next Sunday 7b April with a 3pm kick-off
In the ACFL, Fr Casey s were defeated by Monaleen on a score of 2-10 to 0-8.
25th March; With the arrival of spring, romance is very much in the air around Abbeyfeale at the moment, and rumours of impending marriage nuptials abound.
A local barmaid was seen closely examining the array of sparkling engagement rings in an Argos catalogue recently, when she might have been far more gainfully employed in filling pints for thirsty customers. The young serving wench eventually decided on a gold- plated, uninscribed plain band that retailed at a reasonable E13.75. Her choice was greeted with much delight (and relief) by her betrothed, who saw no reason for spending good money on such frivolities. He intends going down on one knee to pop the question in the Argos Shop in Cruises Street as soon as the young serving wench has paid for her purchase and has collected it from the service counter. Like the rest of us, this fellow is just a soppy, romantic fool where women are concerned!
Meanwhile, a member of the local teaching profession also seems to be contemplating taking a quiet and unobserved little stroll along the Matrimonial Path. This particular muinteoir has lately been observed making furtive trips to the West of Ireland for clandestine assignations with a raven-haired Colleen Gaeleach from the wild and craggy slopes of Connemara. (Is cosuil go bfhuil an taispeach ag eiri leis!) A hush-hush wedding in Rome had been tentatively arranged during the summer holidays. However, all hopes of holding an anonymous and secret ceremony were dashed when the muinteoir had a drop too much to drink in a local hostelry one night and, in a fit of unprovoked passion, he inadvertently spilled the beans and, by word of mouth, invited all and sundry to the nuptials! Ryanair have announced numerous extra charter flights to Italy, and it appears that half of Abbeyfeale will now be in the Eternal City on the 28th August next! What a jolly caper that should turn out to be
We shall, of course, continue to monitor these and other stories and we shall bring you the plain, unvarnished truth, just as soon as we have manufactured it.
The Abbeyfeale Coursing Club's Corn na Feile 600 Members Draw took place in the GAA club last Saturday night and attacted a huge crowd. Winner of the top prize of €12,697 was Aoife Daly, daughter of well-known Clare intercounty hurler and coursing enthusiast, Anthony Daly, Coolaclare, Co. Clare. The second prize of €3,809 went to Billy Colbert, Fealesbridge and New York. Third prize of €1,269 was won by Tom Moloney, Ballaugh, Abbeyfeale. Fourth prize of €1,269 went to Liam Kelly, Tullig North and New York. Prizes of €635 each were won by the following; Newcastlewest Coursing Club. Mairead & Peter Stack, Rockchapel, Co Cork. Mary B & Gerard McCarthy, Knockbrack, Abbeyfeale. Liam O'Connor & James McEnery, Knocknasna, Abbeyfeale. The Dog Walking Machine was won by Fr Jack Fitzgerald, Abbeyfeale. The Abbeyfeale Coursing Club Committee have expressed their appreciation to everyone who supported their members draw, and to those who attended the function at the GAA club last Saturday night. The money collected will be used to pay off existing loans and for further developments within the club.
After many months and numerous near misses, the Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot, which had accumulated to a generous€7,400, was finally won in The Corner House bar last Tuesday night. The lucky winner was Tom Scanlon from Tullig North, Templeglantine and the winning numbers were 4, 5, 21 and 24. There were eleven Match 3 winners and they each received €10. They were; Laura Broderick, Killarney Road. Karen Hartnett, The Hill. Paul Healy, Coole West. Katie Scanlon, Tullig North. Cathryn Shanahan, Grove Road. Trevor Cahill, c/o The Bridge Inn. Paula Sheehy, Listowel. Michael Herlihy, Killarney Road. Ann Healy, Collins Park. B Broderick, Killarney Road. Ita Leahy, Knockbrack. Lucky Dip winners who received €20 each were Joseph Power, Knocknagoshel. Tom Nelligan, Kilconlea. Catriona Lyons, Killarney Road. Ann & Ann, c/o Ann\rquote s Diner. Eilish Mulcahy, Killarney Road. The draw will be held in O\rquote Connell\rquote s Bar on Tuesday night and the jackpot will start off again at €1,000.
The death has occurred of Eileen McCarthy S.R.N. Main Street. She was daughter of the late Patrick T McCarthy N.T., P.C., M.C.C., and sister of the late Eddie McCarthy N.T. She is survived by her sisters Noreen, Maureen, Peggy, Anita, Teresa and Philomena, brothers Tim and Patrick, and by her nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and a large circle of friends.
Four senior members of Abbeyfeale Karate Club will attempt to do 10,000 press-ups in two hours at the GAA Club on Easter Sunday starting at 6pm with all proceeds going to Chernobyl Childrens Aid. They have appealed to the public to go along and support this worthwhile cause.
There was another excellent attendance at Meenkilly Card Game last Tuesday night and, following a close and keenly contested competition, two teams with 13 games each shared first prize. They were; Der McCarthy, Daisy Lenihan and Katie Lenihan. Sean Browne, Lizzie Horgan and Seamus Lane. Ticket winners were Maureen Fitzgerald, Seamus Lane, Sheila Harnett and Frank Collins. Table prizes were won by Dan Brosnan, Pat Doran and Liam Lane. The door prize went to Dan Cullinane. The final game for this season takes place on Tuesday 16th April. If you are coming for the first time, or on a weekly basis, you are all very welcome. Your support is appreciated.
A last minute goal from TJ Leahy gave St Itas College, Abbeyfeale a hard earned victory over St Marys College, Newport in the first round of the Limerick Colleges U/14 championship at Rathkeale on Wednesday afternoon. Playing with the aid of a strong wind, Abbeyfeale led by 0-4 0-0 at half time. Newport enjoyed better fortune in the second half and drew level 1-4 to 0-7 with just minutes to go. However, a pass from David Ward found TJ Leahy who scrambled the ball to the net and sent Abbeyfeale through to the second round on a final score of 1-7 to 1-4.
In rugby, Abbeyfeale 2nds were beaten 22-6 away to Bruff in the first round of the Webb Cup. Following a lively first half, The Fealesiders trailed 10-3 at the break, with Craig Ansell on target from a penalty. Bruff enjoyed most of the possession in the second half and pulled clear. Craig Ansell completed the scoring with another Abbeyfeale penalty near the finish.
Team; Liam Herlihy, Niall Donovan, Matt Behan, Matt Semple, Din McCarthy, Timmy Quilter, Murty Aherne, Diarmuid O'Leary, Paul Collins, Craig Ansell, Gavin Kelly, Declan White, Kieran Collins, Shane Curtin, Maurice Flynn. Replacements; Patrick Twomey, Michael Leahy.
The posponed Munster Junior Plate game against Richmond is provisionally fixed for The Grove next weekend. Abbeyfeale 2nd XV are away to Killarney in the Galwey-Foley Cup on Easter Monday.
18th March; Heavy rain showers failed to dampen the high spirits and good humour of the large crowds that gathered to watch the St Patrick's Day Parade on Sunday. The parade, which was led by the Newcastlewest Pipe Band, began at Mountmahon and made it's way down along Main Street and out the Killarney Road. Most local businesses, clubs, sporting organizations, etc. contributed floats to create a colourful pageant that lit up an otherwise drab afternoon, while the spectators cheered and applauded the participants every step of the way. (See pics in PHOTO ALBUM)
Abbeyfeale Coursing Club will hold their 600 Members Draw at Fr Caseys GAA club on this Saturday night 23rd March starting at 9pm. Organizers report that the draw has generated an excellent response, both locally and from people living overseas. All draw members will be entitled to free admission on Saturday night and a computerized list of the 600 paid up members will be on display in the clubhouse. There will be music and dancing, and a variety of food and refreshments will also be served. A total prize fund of €23,500 will be drawn for on the night.
The death has occurred of John Quirke, Collins Park. He is survived by his sisters Joan and Maura, brother-in-law Errol and by his nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
The death has also occurred of Tess Enright (nee Flanagan) New Street. She is survived by her sons Mike, Denis and Sean, daughters Margaret and Nora and by her nephews, nieces, grandchildren, relatives and friends.
Progress on the Abbeyfeale Town Park Project is continuing and has now entered it's final phase with work commencing on toilets, roads, pathways, flowerbeds, shrubberies, etc. The project is sponsored by Fas, assisted by local community efforts. Vacancies are still available in areas involving practical application of large-scale landscaping, horticultural work and construction work. Full training is provided and anyone interested can contact the Town Park Committee or phone Jim O'Connor at 087-6483972.
The Table Quiz at The Winners Circle on Friday night, which was organized by Abbeyfeale RFC, was very well supported and the club has expressed it's gratitude to all who attended and those who donated prizes. Denis Hobson was a most capable Quiz Master, while Declan Woulfe and Shannon O'Connor checked the answers and kept tab on the scores. After an exciting contest, two teams shared first prize. Team A consisted of Paddy Quille, Michael O'Connor, Mairead O'Connor, Tommy O'Connor, Barbara O'Connor, Maire O'Donnell, B Woulfe and Ita Donoghue. Team B was Maurice Flynn, Mike Quinlivan, Billy Eggleston, James Dennison, Barry Horgan and Raymond Fennelly.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 2, 9, 17 and 18. There were twelve Match 3 winners and they each received €10. They were; Aisling O'Mahony, Scartaglin. Cathal Hennigan, Tralee. B Broderick, Killarney Road. (twice) Breda O'Sullivan, Knocknasna. Tom Gleeson, Ballaugh. Lar & Ann Wall, Ballaugh. Sinead O'Sullivan, Knocknasna. Betty O'Connor, Athea. Phil O'Keefe, The Hill. Jerry W O'Sullivan, Castlemahon. Joanne Fitzgerald, Riverside Drive. Lucky Dip winners who received €20 each were D Studly, Abbeyfeale. Paddy Lane, The Hill. Billy O'Rourke, The Hill. Ann O'Sullivan, The Hill. Tamara Gleeson, Ballaugh. The jackpot now stands at €7,400 and the next draw takes place in The Corner House bar.
There was another big attendance at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night and another exciting finish. Winners with 13 games were Donal O'Connor, Jim Leahy and Phil Curtin. Two teams with 12 games each divided second prize. They were; Noreen Murphy, Liam O'Connor and Jamesie McEnery; Billy Broderick, Dan Joe Riordan and Frank Collins. Ticket winners were Jim Lenihan, Tess Keating, Bett Collins and Der McCarthy. Table prizes went to Nora Lyons, Mossie Collins and Anita Danaher. The door prize was won by Nora O'Mahony. There are just a few more card games left for this season and the organizers wish to thank all the card players for their support throughout the year. They also appeal for more local support as all funds are in aid of the school and new car park.
Abbeyfeale Golf Society has an outing to Killorgan on this Saturday 23rd March. The tee is booked between 10.30am and 12 noon.
At the AGM of Abbeyfeale Golf Club the following officers were elected. Captain - Eugene Dwyer. President - Eamon Scannell. Vice Captain - John Haugh. Vice President - Mick McMahon. Hon. Secretary - Maurice O'Riordan Jnr. Handicap Sec. - Eugene Dwyer. Hon. Treasurers - Conleth Dillon, Gus Murphy. Competition Sec. - Timmy O'Connor. Team Captain - John Haugh.
In rugby, Abbeyfeale's game against Richmond in the Munster Junior Plate was called off. The match will now be played in The Grove on next Sunday 24th March at 3pm. Abbeyfeale 2nds had a useful outing against Listowel at The Grove on Monday afternoon and, following an open and entertaining game, The Fealesiders ran out eventual winners by 34 pts to 14.
11th March ;; Members from the Abbeyfeale Branch of the Manchester United Supporters Club travelled to Old Trafford last Wednesday night for the premiership game against Tottenham Hotspurs. Twenty-five club members went on the trip and they were treated to an excellent game of football, which Utd won 4-0 with two goals each from David Beckham and Ruud van Nistelrooy.
The St Patricks Day Parade Committee has expressed its gratitude to everyone who subscribed to the recent Church Gate collection. This years parade will commence at 3pm on this Sunday. All floats taking part are asked to assemble at the Mountmahon Industrial Estate before 2.45 pm.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 13, 18, 21 and 23. There were three Match 3 winners and they each received €34. They were; Ita Leahy, Knockbrack. John Moloney, Duagh. Liam Cummins, Abbeyfeale. Lucky Dip winners who received€20 each were Bridie Weir, Collins Park. John Oliver OSullivan, Knocknasna. Thomas Cahill, Knocknasna. Mary Nuala, Abbeyfeale. Liz Stack, Caherhayes. The jackpot now stands at €7,300 and the next draw takes place in Cryle View bar
Dermot Walsh, Dromtrasna, has been elected to serve on the General Committee of Ballybunion Golf Club. Dermot sat on the Governing Committee in 1997 and also held the portfolio for under-age golf at the club during most of the nineties
Notices concerning the annual Art Competition sponsored by Glor na nGael have been distributed to the primary schools of the parish. The theme for this year's competition is Fleadh Cois Feile. All pupils in classes 3, 4, 5 and 6 are eligible, and there will be 1st , 2nd and 3rd prize in each category. The competition is run in conjunction with Fleadh by the Feale which will be held on the May Bank Holiday weekend from the 2nd to the 6th May. Closing date for receipt of competition entries is Friday 22nd March. Prizes will be presented at the local library on Thursday 2nd May.
In rugby, Abbeyfeale's dismal league form continued when they were beaten 13-10 by Ballincollig in The Grove on Sunday afternoon.
On a bitterly cold and windy day, handling was difficult and kicking became something of a lottery. Neither side was prepared run the ball under such tricky conditions, and a tough forward battle ensued.
The visitors enjoyed first use of the elements and raced into a 10-3 half time lead. Abbeyfeale had plenty of possession during this opening period but failed to capitalize, and a Liam Quirke penalty was their only reward.
The Fealesiders went on the offensive in the second half, but squandered several good scoring chances before Ballincollig increased their lead with a penalty after fifteen minutes.
Abbeyfeale finally breeched the opposition try line after twenty five minutes. A fine forward drive ended with Murty Aherne touching down under the posts. Liam Quirke added the conversion to leave just three points between the teams
Both sides created chances in the closing quarter, but failed to add to the scoreline and Ballincollig hung on for victory.
Team; John Lenihan, Kevin Prendiville, Andrew Scannell, Liam Quirke, Declan White, David Prendiville, Craig Ansell, Declan Woulfe, Seanie Naughton, Matt Behan, David Curtin, Adrian O'Halloran, Kieran Collins, Murty Aherne (Capt) Michael Murphy. Replacements; Din McCarthy, Paudie Naughton.
FIXTURES; Abbeyfeale 2nds V Listowel. The Grove. 4.30 pm. Saturday 16th March.
Munster Junior Plate. Richmond V Abbeyfeale (away) 3pm. Sunday 17th March.
TABLE QUIZ
Abbeyfeale Rugby Club will hold a Table Quiz at The Winners Circle on this Friday night, 15th March, starting at 9.30 pm. This will be a general knowledge quiz and everyone is welcome to what promises to be an enjoyable and entertaining evening.
In soccer, Abbeyfeale Utd B were beaten 1-0 by Ballingarry.
There was another fine crowd at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night. Winners with 13 games were Anita Danaher, Mossie Collins and Nora Lyons. Three teams with 11 games each divided second prize. They were; Eileen Murphy, Murty Keating and Ned Murphy. Billy Broderick, Dan Joe Riordan and Frank Collins. Jim Leahy, Bridget O'Connor and Phil Curtin. Ticket winners were Nan Sullivan, Gobnait Scannell, Sean O'Connor and Seamus Lane. Table prizes went to Peggy O'Riordan, Sean Browne and Jerry O'Riordan. The door prize was won by Liam Lane. The Board of Management extended a vote of sympathy to the Mulcahy Family on the recent unexpected death of Ted Mulcahy, Dromtrasna. R.I.P.
Limerick footballers were brought back down to earth on Sunday when well beaten by Armagh on a score of 2-19 to 2-6. Limerick hurlers had a good win over All Ireland champions, Tipperary in Thurles in the league by 2-13 to 1-12.
5th March; The major sporting event last weekend was the thrilling victory of Limerick senior footballers over Kerry at the Gaelic Grounds in the national league on a score of 2-12 to 0-16. Experts were busy checking the record books to see if this was the very first competitive victory over The Kingdom. Limerick DID beat Kerry in The Inch in Abbeyfeale a couple of seasons ago, but that game was played against a second string Kerry team. Limerick will meet Kerry again in the first round of the championship and are already bracing themselves for a mighty backlash! Meanwhile, let us enjoy the moment
Following a successful run in Fr Caseys GAA Club, the Abbeyfeale Folk production of Noel Coward\rquote s comedy, Blithe Spirit, can be seen in Ballintemple Inn, Newcastlewest on this Friday night 8 March at 8.30 pm in association with the Newcastlewest Pipe Band. The play has received excellent reviews and has played to packed houses everywhere, including Galway where it was performed last weekend at the invitation of the Portumna Players.
The committee of the annual Fleadh By The Feale Festival, which goes ahead during the May bank holiday weekend, has decided to add an extra dimension to the bone playing competition this year by introducing a junior All Ireland section which will take place in The Square on the Saturday night. Traditional group, Danu, who will give a concert at The Convent Hall on the Sunday night, performed on the Late Late Show last week and were also the featured band on Ceili House on RTE radio on Saturday night.
The death has occurred unexpectedly of Ted Mulcahy, Dromtrasna North. He is survived by his wife Bridget, sons Pat and Timothy, daughters Mary and Elizabeth, brothers Patrick, John and Con, and by his aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, relatives and a large circle of friends. As a mark of respect, Abbeyfeale Coursing Club postponed its 600 Members Draw, which was due to have been held in the GAA Club last Saturday night. The death has also occurred of Patrick (Patsy) O\rquote Connor, Bridge Street. He is survived by his brothers John (Castleisland) and Tony (Sydney), sister Josephine (London) and by his nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. And the death has also occurred in London of Thomas (Tommy) Murphy, formerly of Church Street. Tommy, who was a brother of the late Neilus Murphy, is survived by his wife Eileen and son Michael.
There was another good attendance at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night, despite the bad weather. The game ended in a tie, with two teams on 13 games each sharing first and second prizes. They were; Jim Lenihan, Lizzie Horgan and Seamus Lane. Geoffrey Fitzgerald, Mike O\rquote Donnell and Jer Roche. Ticket winners were Billy Broderick, Kathleen Lenihan, Mossie Collins and Jonathan O\rquote Donnell. Table prizes went to Der McCarthy, Lena O\rquote Connor and Rita Lenihan. The door prize was won by Eileen Browne. Meenkilly Card Game continues each Tuesday night with all proceeds going to school funds
In rugby, Abbeyfeales game against Richmond in the Munster Junior Plate was postponed, as the Annacotty pitch was unplayable. The game has been provisionally refixed for next Sunday with a 3pm kick off.
Abbeyfeale Utd As game against Kilcolman Rovers in the Carling Desmond Cup also fell foul of the weather. However, Abbeyfeale Utd B recorded a good 1-0 win away to Kildimo Utd in division one of the Carling League. Kevin Sheehy scored the winning goal.
26th Feb; The big news story over the past couple of weeks has been the deduction of all league points from the Abbeyfeale Rugby Team for allegedly fielding an illegal player throughout the present league campaign. The Fealesiders strenuously deny any wrong-doing and have pledged to vigourously contest the decision of the Munster Branch. As things stand however, following last Sunday`s defeat against Muskerry, Abbeyfeale are condemned to division 3 next season. It is expected, that there will be further developments shortly and we will bring the details as they become available.
Congratulations to Linda and David Andrews in England who are the proud parents of a new baby boy. Theo weighed at 7 lbs and 7 ozs and mother and baby are doing fine. (See pics in PHOTO ALBUM) Linda is daughter of the late Elizabeth (Betty) Jones nee Foley formerly of Dromtrasna Collins, Abbeyfeale.
Abbeyfeale Coursing Club will hold their 600 Members Draw at Fr Caseys GAA club on this Saturday night 2 nd March starting at 9pm. Organizers report that the draw has generated an excellent response, both locally and from people living overseas. All draw members will be entitled to free admission on Saturday night and a computerized list of the 600 paid up members will be on display in the clubhouse. There will be music and dancing, and a variety of food and refreshments will also be served. A total prize fund of €23,500 will be drawn for on the night.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 4, 5, 14 and 15. There were five Match 3 winners and they each received €20. They were; Paddy Lane, The Hill. Philomena Collins, The Hill. Phil O\rquote Keefe, The Hill. Timothy O`Sullivan, Knocknasna. John Horgan, Tournafulla. Lucky Dip winners who won €20 each were Ted Fitzgerald, Coolaneilig. Maurice Harnett, Dromtrasna South. Norma O\rquote Connell, Dromtrasna Harnett. Neilus Ward, c/o Geraldine Murphy. Sean Collins, Tournafulla. The jackpot now stands at €7,100 and the next draw takes place in The Ramble Inn.
There was another huge attendance at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night with fourteen tables of six taking part. The game finished in a welter of excitement with no less than three teams dividing the prizes on 12 games each. They were; Maureen Fitzgerald, Nora O Mahony and Eileen Reidy. Peggy O Riordan, Jer Roche and Jerry O Riordan. Mary B Dalton, Noel Murphy and Bett Collins. Spot prizes went to Jim Lenihan, Mrs Crowley, Anita Danaher, Bridget Mulcahy, Steven Roche, Joe O Connor, Pat Sullivan and Mary DJ Harnett. Table prizes were won by Michael Body, Con Walsh and Denis Dillane. The door prize went to Nora O Mahony. On behalf of the Day Care Centre, the organizers thanked all the card players, those who donated spot prizes, and everyone who helped run the evening so successfully. Meenkilly Card Game continues each Tuesday night.
Abbeyfeale and Templeglantine Chernobyl Childrens Aid announce that they will hold a fund-raising dance at The Gables, Athea on this Saturday night, 2 March.
Fr Caseys will have a tough fight on their hands if they hope to reclaim the Limerick senior football championship, last won by the club in 2000. They have been drawn in the same group as reigning champions, Drom-Broadford. Also included in this group are Ballylanders, Claughaun, Newcastlewest and Oola and, with only two teams advancing to the semi-final stages, the issue may not be resolved until the final-round matches when Fr Casey\rquote s play Drom-Broadford, Claughaun meet Newcastlewest and Ballylanders are pitted against Oola.
In rugby. Abbeyfeale travelled to Muskerry on Sunday in search of some much-needed league points but, despite a brave and committed performance, they failed to overcome the home side and went down by a narrow one-point margin. The Fealesiders had to line out without the services of several first choice players and were also forced to make a number of positional switches. Muskerry enjoyed first use of the stiff breeze. However, Abbeyfeale looked the more lively side in the opening quarter, easily containing the Muskerry challenge and setting up a few scoring opportunities. Muskerry broke the deadlock after twenty minutes with a converted try and enjoyed a 7-0 interval lead. Aided by the breeze in the second half, Abbeyfeale attempted to move the ball wide. They were thwarted in this by the strong Muskerry pack that began to play it tight, denying the visitors any clean possession. Liam Quirke kicked two penalties to narrow the gap to just one point. However, The Fealesiders were unable to breech a dogged home defense, and Muskerry hung on for a hard-earned victory. Final score; Muskerry 7, Abbeyfeale 6. Team; Eamon Foley, Iain McMahon, Declan Woulfe, David Curtin, Adrian O Halloran, Kieran Collins, Michael Murphy, Murty Aherne (Capt) Craig Ansell, Paudie Naughton, Coleman Delee, Liam Quirke, Andrew Scannell, Declan White, John Lenihan. Replacements; Din McCarthy, Diarmuid O Leary. Next Sunday, Abbeyfeale are away to Richmond in the Munster Junior Plate.
All soccer matches in the Desmond League were cancelled last weekend due to the bad weather.
18th February; West Limerick Set Dancing Club will hold their 10th Annual Workshop at The Convent Hall on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd March. The weekend starts with a Ceili at The Railway Bar on Friday 1st March at 9pm with music by Four Courts. On Saturday 2nd March, the workshop will commence at the Convent Hall from 10am to 5pm with instructors Betty McCoy and Pat Murphy. A Ceili will be held that night at 9pm with music by The Abbey. The workshop continues from 11am to 1pm on Sunday 3rd March and will be followed by a Ceili at 2pm woth music by Taylors Cross.
There was another excellent attendance at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night and, in a close and exciting finish, two teams divided first and second prize with 13 games each. They were; Maurice Collins, Gobnait Scannell and Sean O`Connor & Anita Danaher, Nora Lyons and Mossie Collins. Ticket winners were Geffrey Fitzgerald, Mossie Woulfe, Mary B Dalton and Sean O`Connor. Table prizes went to Mrs Crowley, Eileen Murphy and Bridie Collins. The door prize was won by Liam O`Connor. The organizers expressed their gratitude to the teachers and pupils of Meenkilly NS who held a Jumble Sale in aid of the Chernobyl Children`s Fund and raised €506.30.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 8, 15, 22 and 23. There were ten Match 3 winners and they each received €10. They were John Aherne, Convent Street. Pat O`Connor, Knockbrack. Jack Mahoney, Tournafulla. Eileen Collins, Tournafulla. Teresa O`Donnell, Convent Road. Pat Aherne, Convent Street. Denis O`Keeffe, Knocknagoshel. Peggy Flynn, Main Street. Yvonne Murphy, Collins Park. Pat O`Connor, Upper Tournafulla. Lucky Dip winners who received €20 each were Michael Body, Convent Road. Eilish Mulcahy, Killarney Road. Mary Harnett Jnr, Main Street. John Healy, Bogmount. Stephen Smith, Collins Park. The jackpot now stands at €7,000 and the next draw takes place in the Failte Bar.
Three members of St Ita`s AC have been elected to the Munster Council of the Athletics Association of Ireland. They are; Ann Cullinane, track & field competitions secretary. Larry Collins, Registrar. Dan McCarthy, PRO juvenile athletics.
Fr Casey`s GAA Club are currently offering Life Memberships to anyone who might be interested in joining. Further details can be had from the club secretary or from any committee member.
The Abbeyfeale Utd Dinner Dance which was held in the Devon Inn was well attended and a most enjoyable night was had by all. Four trophies won by the club were on display. These were; the U/16 Division 1 league trophy and the U/16 cup. The U/12 cup, and the Youths Division 2 league trophy.The A team Player of the Year award went to Joe Kelliher. Other players to receive awards were Tom O`Sullivan, Denis Behan, Maurice O`Connor, Thomas Cahill and Patrick Smith. A special presentation was made to Frank Nelligan on behalf of the players from U/15 to Youths. On Sunday, Abbeyfeale Utd B were beaten 2-0 by Glantine in the first round of the Desmond Cup.
Abbeyfeale Harriers announce a Meet at Knocknagoshel on this Sunday 24th February starting at 11am.
In rugby, an Abbeyfeale selection had a useful outing against Shannon 2nds in a friendly at The Grove on Sunday and put up a spirited performance before losing by 38 pts to 21. The visitors dominated the opening half and led 21-6 at the break with David Collins kicking two penalties for the home side. Abbeyfeale improved considerable in the second period and tries from John Sommers, Din McCarthy and John Lenihan put a more realistic look on the scoreboard.
Team; Liam Herlihy, Declan Woulfe, Matt Behan, John Sommers, Din McCarthy, Kieran Collins, Timmy Quilter, Diarmuid O`Leary. Craig Ansell, Maurice Flynn, Donal Collins, Packy O`Connor, David Prendiville (Capt) Shane Curtin, David Collins. Replacements; John Lenihan, Murty Aherne, Adrian O`Halloran, David Curtin, Coleman Delee.
Next Sunday, Abbeyfeale are away to Muskerry in the Munster Junior League.
12th Feb.; Local greyhound owners and trainers have been very much to the fore again in recent times. Ciaras Rumble, owned by Martin Collins and trained by Connie McMahon, won the final of the New Year Sweepstake over 570 yards at Tralee Track which carried a purse of €1,530. The consolation final also came to Abbeyfeale when Ballybehy Jane owned and trained by Denis Ward and Matt O`Connor, recorded a one length victory in the final in a time of 32.35. Clonmel derby winner, Murty`s Gang, is another greyhound with an Abbeyfeale connection having won Corn na Feile earlier in the season
Abbeyfeale Coursing Club` s final Spin & Win draw for the current season was held in Jack ORourkes bar and the winners were as follows; €55 each to - John Foran, Tralee. Jackie O\rquote Rourke, The Square. €50 went to each of the following; Ann O`Connor, Riverside. Margaret McMahon, Foynes. Eamon Foley, The Hill. The coursing club draw will resume next September at The Bridge Inn when the contestants will be Michael O`Sullivan, Newcastlewest. Michael Long, Castlemaine. TJ O`Riordan, Main Street. Donal O Neill, New Street. Donie Mulvihill, c/o Jack O Rourke. The Spin & Win draw has now been officially handed over to the local Bord na nOg Club by coursing club officials until September.
There was another good attendance at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night. The winners with 14 games were Mike Dore, Jim Leahy and Joe Dore. The runners up with 12 games were Billy Broderick, Frank Collins and Dan Joe Riordan. Ticket winners were Bet Collins, Dan Joe Riordan, Donal O`Connor and Mike Dore. Table prizes went to Mossie Collins, Nora Lyons and Anita Danaher. The door prize was won by Noreen Murphy. The game next Tuesday night will be in aid of the Day Care Centre. This is a very worthy cause and a wonderful facility and the organizers hope for a good turn out and have announced that there will be numerous spot prizes etc on the night
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 7, 15, 21 and 22. There were six Match 3 winners and they each received €17. They were; Pat Aherne, Lyrocrompane. Eileen Mulcahy, Tournafulla. Mary, Sarah & Noelle Curtin, Knocknagoshel. Bobby & Eileen OConnell, c/o The Ploughman s bar. J Morrissey, c/o Jack Murphy. Jimmy Murphy, c/o The Cellar Bar. Lucky Dip winners who received €20 each were Ned Gould, Kilmorna. Denis Lane, Graigue. Mai, Paddy & Liam, c/o The Bridge Inn. Jim Dore, Templeglantine. Jacqueline O`Connor, Athea. The jackpot now stands at €6,900 and the next draw takes place in Julia Twomey`s bar.
In rugby, Abbeyfeale made their exit from this seasons Munster Junior Cup when beaten by Thurles in a tough and keenly contested game in The Grove on Sunday. The tie was played in atrocious conditions of high winds and heavy rain, and it is a tribute to the skill and hard work of the dedicated ground staff that The Grove pitch was playable at all, as most other sporting events in the locality were called off\ Thurles enjoyed early supremacy and their heavier and physically stronger pack seemed to revel in the wet underfoot conditions. They raced in to a 12 nil lead and held this advantage to half time, although Abbeyfeale came close to breeching the visitors try-line just before the break. The Fealesiders varied their game considerably in the second half and displayed much more mobility around the pitch, with the visitors pack beginning to labour slightly. And when Michael Foote crossed for a good try midway through the half, Abbeyfeale seemed to be in with a realistic chance of causing an upset against the division one team The Fealesiders continued to create a number of genuine scoring chances in the closing quarter but Thurles hung on for a hard-earned victory and a place in the second round, while Abbeyfeale now go in to the hat for the opening round of the Munster Junior Plate. Final score; Abbeyfeale 5, Thurles 12.
Team; Declan Woulfe, Iain McMahon, Alan Supple, David Curtin, Matt Behan, Michael Murphy, Adrian O Halloran, Michael Foote, David Prendiville (Capt) Paudie Naughton, Coleman Delee, Liam Quirke, Andrew Scannell, Kevin Prendiville, John Lenihan. Replacements; Seanie Naughton, Din McCarthy, Kieran Collins, Liam Herlihy, Murty Aherne
All local soccer matches in the Desmond League were called off at the weekend due to the weather.
In GAA, Limerick teams enjoyed a double success on Sunday. The senior footballers gained an impressive away win over Antrim in the first round of the league on a score of 2-11 to 1-11. They now meet London in Ruislip on Sunday and must then prepare for the visit of Kerry to Kilmallock in three weeks time. Limerick hurlers defeated Clare in a challenge by 2-16 to 3-11.
5th Feb. . The heavy and unexpected fall of snow at the weekend caught everyone by surprise and was a sharp reminder that, although winter may be almost over, there could still be a sting in the tail! Many minor roads were impassable and fodder had to be drawn by hand to cattle and sheep in outlying areas. Sport was also badly hit with all rugby and soccer matches cancelled for the second week in succession. A group of rugby supporters who were due to travel by bus to Dublin for the Ireland V Wales international had to make alternative arrangements when their bus became snowbound. However, all arrived safely in the capitol and shared in Ireland`s magnificent victory. The National Coursing Meeting goes ahead in Clonmel this Monday and local money will be on Murty`s Gang to repeat his Corn na Feile success.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 2, 7, 18 and 20. There were eleven Match 3 winners and they each received €10. They were; Jodie Thompson, Knocknasna. Ellen Scanlon, Ballaugh. Sinead O`Sullivan, Knocknasna. Eleanor Denihan, Brosna. Tess Fitzgerald, Coolaneilig. Linda Broderick, Purt. Timothy O`Sullivan, Knocknasna. Mairead Roche, Caherhayes. Ita Ryan, Colbet Road. Anne & Anne, c/o Ann`s Diner. Elizabeth O`Kelly, Ballybehy. Lucky Dip winners who received €20 each were Donie McEnery, Failte. Dena, Brosna. Eoin Horgan, Knocknasna. Joan Nelligan, Purt.Marion & Ailish McCarthy, Kilconlea Lower. Orlaigh & Clodagh Fitzgerald, c/o Billy Broderick.The jackpot now stands at €6,800 and the next draw will be held in Donal & Ann`s bar.
Meenkilly Card Game produced another thrilling finish on Tuesday night with the reigning champions again taking first prize despite the best efforts of all the other competing teams to dethrone them. Winners with 14 games were Noreen Murphy, Liam O`Connor and Jamsie McEnery. Three teams with 12 games each shared second prize. They were; Nora Lyons, Mossie Collins and Anita Danaher. Liam Lane, Mick O`Donnell and Liz Stack. Pat Doran, Dan Brosnan and Liam Lane. Ticket winners were Louise McEnery, Jerry O`Riordan, Seamus Lane and Jamsie McEnery. Table prizes were won by Noel Murphy, Bett Collins and Mary B Dalton. The door prize went to Mary Dalton.
Preparations for the holding of this year`s St Patrick`s Day Parade are set to commence shortly. The organizers will again be appealing to local businesses, clubs and individuals to enter floats in the parade and full details will be announced within the next few days.
Abbeyfeale Golfing Society will hold their AGM at Julia Twomey`s bar on Wednesday 13th February at 9pm. New members will be welcome
West Limerick Set-Dancing Club have announced that they will hold a Set-Ceili in the Convent Hall on Sunday 10 th February at 4pm with music by Esker Riada. All sets will be called.
Abbeyfeale Harriers have announced the following Meets. Sunday 10 th February at Tournafulla. Sunday 17 th February at Mountcollins. Sunday 24 th February at Knocknagoshel. All Meets will start at 11am
Billy O`Connor, Mountmahon won the €1,523 jackpot at Abbeyfeale Coursing Club`s Spin & Win draw which was held in Bobby`s Bar recently. Tickets are reported to be selling well for the Confined 600 Corn na Feile Draw which will take place at Fr Casey`s GAA Club on 2ndMarch with €23,490 in prize money. Some tickets are still available and can be purchased from committee members.
Eoin Joy, The Grove has been given the U/12 West Limerick All Star Award for Gaelic Football. Eoin captained the Fr Casey`s U/12 team to a West Limerick Championship victory last year and played centre field on the West Limerick National Schools team that won the County Sansfield divisional cup recently. Eoin received his award at a function in the Woodlands Hotel on Saturday nigh
In rugby, Abbeyfeale play Thurles in The Grove on Sunday in the first round of the Munster Junior Cup. The game kicks-off at 3pm.
28th Jan.; Heavy rain, thunder and lightning and gale-force winds caused much disruption and flooding in many local areas over the week-end. The River Feale was in full spate, while fields adjacent to the river bank were waterlogged. Most sporting events were cancelled. Abbeyfeale Utd A and B teams were unable to fullfill their Desmond League fixtures. Abbeyfeale`s rugby game against Ballincollig in the Munster Junior League, which was due to be played in The Grove, also fell victim to the weather. However, the elements failed to dampen the spirits of an intrepid band of local rugby enthusiasts who travelled to Paris, laden down with euros, for the Munster v Stade Francais game on Saturday. Included in the happy group of travellers were Declan Woulfe, Billy O`Rourke David Prendiville, John Lenihan and Kieran Collins. All reported home safely on Saturday night with many exhilarating tales to tell of an exciting and event-filled few days spent in the French capitol. (See Photo Album -Rugby) P.S. Munster won by 16 pts to 14!
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 6, 11, 23 and 24. There were four Match 3 winners and they each received €25.They were; Joe Cotter, Purt. Patrick O`Sullivan, Mountcollins. Eileen Broderick, Upper Purt. Geraldine, Yvonne & Sabrina, Collins Park. Lucky dip winners who received €20 each were Tom Twomey, Mallow. Eileen Leahy, New Street. Timothy O`Sullivan, Knocknasna. Jason Foley, Collins Park. Bibi Connell, Caherconnell. The jackpot now stands at €6,700 and the next draw takes place in Johnny Bob`s bar.
St Joseph`s, Abbeyfeale senior girls basketball team swept to victory in the senior B Kerry Schoolgirls` final against Colaiste Ide, Dingle. The convent girls produced their finest performance to date after an impressive but somewhat inconsistent league campaign. They dominated the Dingle side from the whistle, storming to a 13-0 lead at the end of the opening quarter. An aggressive person-to-person defense frustrated Dingle, denying them time to play a patient game. Superb defense by the Fleming sisters, Patricia and Frances, led to fast-break opportunities for Emma Scannell and Brid Stack. Between them they notched up 16 and 14 point tallies. The Abbeyfeale girls displayed an impressive ability to mix styles in the third and final quarters. Frances Fleming and Emma Scannell scored freely from outside, while Carmel Broderick dominated under the basket. Ball carrier, Patricia Fleming, produced a most solid and mature performance, dictating the tempo of the game and distributing impeccably. Despite finding their range in the second half, Dingle were not able to match the Abbeyfeale girls` intensity and cohesion. The final score was Abbeyfeale 55, Dingle 35. Top scorers; Emma Scannell 16 points. Frances Fleming 15 points. Brid Stack 14 points Team; Patricia Fleming, Frances Fleming, Brid Stack, Emma Scannell, Carmel Broderick, Maria Daly, Catriona O`Connor, Sinead Downey, Laura Mullins, Susan Geaney, Catherine Foley
Abbeyfeale Coursing Club`s Spin & Win draw was held in Bobby`s bar on Sunday night and the winners were; Donal Riordan €80. Sean Scannell €50. Marina Hough €50. Kevin Fox €50. John Foley €50. The jackpot now stands at €1,300 and the contestants who will spin the wheel next week are; Billy O`Connor, Mountmahon. Alison English, Dublin. Ed Twomey, Purt. John Foley, Knocknasna. Peggy O`Riordan, Adare.
Abbeyfeale student, Sean Collins from Dromtrasna, is in contention for a place on the Irish Maths Olympiad Team, which travels to Glasgow in July to compete in the 43rd International Oympiad. The 17 year old student, who attends St Ita`s College in Abbeyfeale, will take a final exam in May to determine whether he will be included in the final selection.
There was another excellent attendance at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night and in a close and exciting finish, two teams shared first and second prize with 13 games each. They were; Liam O`Connor, Noreen Murphy and Jamesie McEnery. Jerry O`Riordan, Jer Roche and Peggy O`Riordan.Table prizes were won by Nora Lyons, Mossie Collins and Anita Danaher. Ticket winners were Tara Waters, Lizzie Hogan, Den Lane and Lisa Quirke. The door prize went to Nell Gleeson.
23rd Jan. Abbeyfeale For Africa have expressed their gratitude to everybody who supported their recent Cake Sale. It was very successful and raised over £700 for Fr Tim Galvin`s Mission in Sudan. They also acknowledge the contributions made by Canon Neville, the St Vinvent de Paul Society, Marion who baked over 40 Christmas Cakes and the local Credit Union, where donations to the Abbeyfeale For Africa account may still be lodged.
{St Ita`s Wren boys have expressed their appreciation to everyone who supported their St Stephen s Day fund-raising activities. Over £1,800 was raised for Fr John Maloney s mission in Cameroon. Sympathy was extended to group member, Sinead O`Meara, on the death of her uncle, and also to the Finucane Family on the death during the year of another group member, John Byrnes, from Scotland. John played the bagpipes and the group visited his final resting place at Reilg Ide Naofa and said a prayer and played a few tunes, prior to traveling forth on the wren.\par \par Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament will resume from Monday to Friday from 6pm to 10pm in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel
Sympathy has been extended to Fr Leo McDonald CC Abbeyfeale on the death of his brother, Charles, in Piercetown, Co. Wexford
The second of the six monthly draws organized by the Town Park Committee was held recently and prizes and winners were as follows; Set of garden furniture-Joseph Hogan, Foynes. Set of cutlery-Fiona Doyle, Glenashrone. Mirrored clock-Gerard Quinlivan, Convent Road. Framed Mirror-Anne McAuliffe, c/o C.I.T. Ltd, Mountmahon. Framed picture-Eddie Barry, Tralee. The next draw takes place on the 8\super th\nosupersub February
Abbeyfeale Utd will hold their dinner dance on Friday 8\super th\nosupersub February with music by Jambylia. Tickets are \'8018 each and are available from Dan Harnett, John Kelliher, Terence O`Mahony and Frank Nelligan.
The next Abbeyfeale Coursing Club Spin & Win draw will be held in Bobby`s Bar on Sunday night 27 January. Contestants are Billy O`Connor, Mountmahon. Alison English, New Street. Ed Twomey, Kilmorna. John Foley, Knocknasna. Peggy O`Riordan, c/o Jerry O`Riordan.
West Limerick Resources Ltd are inviting applications from individuals and community groups whose projects may qualify for aid under the National Rural Development Programme 2001-2006. Application forms and details of eligibility are available from West Limerick Resources, Main Street, Abbeyfeale. Phone 068-32444.
Traffic in the town was disrupted last Saturday morning when a large lorry, towing a trailer and loaded with logs of timber, broke down on the busy intersection at Joy\rquote s Corner. The lorry, which was traveling from Listowel, was just about to turn on to the main street when a back-axle on the trailer buckled under the weight of the timber. Local garda were quickly on the scene and did an excellent job of erecting warning cones and keeping the traffic flowing with a minimum of delay, although it took several hours to finally clear the obstruction from the street
There was another big attendance at Meenkilly Card Game last Tuesday night and, in a close and exciting finish, three teams divided first and second prize with 12 games each. They were; Mike Dore, Jack Roche and Joe Dore. Mary B Dalton, Michael O`Kelly and Bet Collins. Nell Gleeson, Noreen Murphy and Jamesie McEnery. Table prizes were won by Dan Cullinane, Liz Stack and Theresa O`Donnell. Spot prizes went to Caroline Leonard, Nell Gleeson, Catherine Leonard, Steven Roche and Joe O`Connor. The door prize was won by Eileen Murphy
Local MEP, Gerard Collins, addressed a meeting of the National Forum on Europe, which was held in Limerick City Hall last Friday night and stressed that Ireland had nothing to fear from an enlargement of the EU. Mr. Collins said that growth would help new market economies to prosper and this in turn would give increased business opportunities to Irish companies and services
The annual Abbeyfeale Coursing Club Dinner Dance was held in the GAA pavilion on Saturday night. The event was well supported and all had a most enjoyable evening.
In rugby, an under strength Abbeyfeale XV entertained Shannon in a friendly at The Grove on Sunday afternoon. Shannon dominated the opening half and held a commanding 19 pts to nil lead at half time. They extended that lead with a converted try at the start of the second half and looked to be heading for a landslide victory. However, Abbeyfeale improved considerably as the half went on and threatened the visitors` try-line on several occasions but failed to breech it. Final score was Shannon 26, Abbeyfeale 0. The Fealesiders hope to be back to full strength for the visit of Thurles to The Grove in two weeks time in the first round of the Munster Junior Cup. \par Team; Declan Woulfe, Iain McMahon, Alan Supple, Matt Semple, Matt Behan, David Curtin, Adrian O`Halloran, Michael Murphy, David Prendiville (Capt) Craig Ansell, Coleman Delee, Paudie Naughton, Liam Quirke, Shane Curtin, Kevin Prendiville. Replacements; Timmy Quilter, Diarmuid O`Leary, Kieran Collins, John Lenihan.
In soccer, Abbeyfeale Utd renewed their challenge for premiership honours with a 3-2 win over Rathkeale on Sunday. Abbeyfeale Utd B defeated Shauntraid 1-0.
14th Jan; There has been considerable disappointment expressed in the area following a recent announcement that phase one of the Town Renewal Scheme for Abbeyfeale has again been postponed and will not now be considered until late summer. Work was due to commence before Christmas and the various projects were put out to tender. However, problems with funding from the National Roads Authority have caused the scheme to be placed on the back burner once more. Meanwhile, traffic-flow problems through the town continue, with delays and tailbacks being experienced at certain busy times of the day. Many motorists and truck drivers are being advised to bypass the town completely and seek alternative routes to their destination. Local people are looking with envy at the many improvements that have been implemented in neighbouring towns such as Rathkeale, Newcastlewest and Listowel and are questioning why Abbeyfeale is being repeatedly ignored. It has being suggested that, with a General Election looming, now might be an opportune time to canvass the various political parties and candidates in an effort to secure a satisfactory and speedy resolution to these ongoing traffic congestion and parking problems
Meenkilly Card Game resumed last week following the Christmas and New Year break. There was an excellent attendance at this opening session and some very skilled card playing was in evidence, resulting in some close and exciting finishes. The winner with 14 games was the team comprising Mrs Crowley, Jimmy Sweeney and Mrs Collins. Runners-up with 12 games were Lena O`Connor, Danny J O`Connell and Kathleen Lenihan. Spot prizes were won by Tracey Stack, Theresa O`Connor, Eily Harnett, Liam O`Connor, Sharon Lane and Donal O`Connor. Table prizes went to Jerry O`Riordan, Jer Roche and Peggy O`Riordan. The door prize was won by Joe Fitz O`Connor. Sympathy was extended to Mossie Collins, a great supporter of the card game, on the death of his mother-in-law, and also to Rev Fr Leo McDonald, Chairman of the Board on the death of his brother. Congratulations were extended to Jim and Seamus Lane, regular attendants at the game, on their wonderful win on the Who Wants To Be a Millionaire? TV show with Gay Byrne recently. Gratitude was also expressed to the various sponsors of the card game for their continued generous support and also to all the card players for making the event such an outstanding success each week
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 5, 12, 14 and 23. There were three Match 3 winners and they each received €34. They were Michael Broderick, Lower Purt. Jim O`Connor, Kilmorna. John Clancy, Banteer. Lucky Dip winners who received €20 each were Patrick Leahy, Tournafulla. William Fitzgerald, c/o The Bridge Inn. Liam Quirke, Hill Road. Gerard Doody, Knockbrack. Danny Prendergast, Shanagolden. The jackpot now stands at €6,500 and the next draw takes place in Murphy`s bar.
In rugby, Abbeyfeale were beaten by Youghal in the Munster Junior League. (See Sports section)
Abbeyfeale Utd`s premiership hopes received a setback on Sunday morning when they were beaten 1-0 at home by near-neighbours, Glantine Rovers. The Fealesiders fell behind to a 31st minute penalty and although they created several good scoring opportunities in the second half, they failed to regain the initiative
Abbeyfeale Utd B were beaten 1-0 away by Foynes in division one.
The Abbeyfeale Utd Dinner Dance will take place in the Devon Inn on Friday 8\super th\nosupersub February with music by Jambylia.
The winners of the Abbeyfeale Harriers Christmas draw were; Catherine Mary Doran, Ger Healy, Karen Murphy, Michaela Lyons, Dan Brosnan, Lisa O`Hanlon, Mike McAuliffe, Emily Nelligan, David Carroll, John Horgan, Owen Dunlea, Dominic Naughton, Ellen Cronin. Meets will be held at the following venues; Sunday January 20 th at Dromtrasna School. Sunday January 27th at Doody`s Cross, Meenevaughan, Brosna. All meets will start at 11am.
The Abbeyfeale Coursing Club Social takes place in the GAA Pavilion on Saturday 19th January with music by Michael Collins and Country Style. Tickets at €12.70 are available from committee members
St Ita`s AC are back in training each Tuesday night at 7pm in the Convent Hall. The Munster Indoor Championships will take place on the 2 nd and 3 rd March.
Abbeyfeale For Africa have expressed their gratitude to everybody who supported their recent Cake Sale. It was very successful and raised over £700 for Fr Tim Galvin`s Mission in Sudan. They also acknowledge the contributions made by Canon Neville, the St Vinvent de Paul Society, Marion who baked over 40 Christmas Cakes and the local Credit Union, where donations to the Abbeyfeale For Africa account may still be lodged.
7th Jan; The Abbeyfeale Branch of the Manchester Utd Supporters Club will hold their next meeting in Donal & Ann`s bar on this Friday night at 9pm to discuss progress so far, and formulate future plans.
Local drama group, Abbeyfeale Folk, are busy rehearsing Noel Coward`s comedy, Blythe Spirit, which they hope to stage at various venues throughout West Limerick and North Kerry, commencing at the end of January.
West Limerick Set-Dancing Club will hold a Set-Ceili at the Convent Hall on this Sunday 13 January at 4pm with music by the Abbey Ceili Band. All sets will be called.
In rugby, Abbeyfeale 2nds lost 10-8 to Bruff. (see Sports section)
Abbeyfeale Utd carved out a useful 0-0 draw away to league leaders, Shanagolden in the premiership on Sunday morning. With games in hand and other results going their way, the Fealesiders are now right back in contention for league honours.Abbeyfeale Utd B came from behind twice to draw 2-2 at home to Killeaney. David Prendiville and Kevin O`Connor were the Abbeyfeale scorers. Abbeyfeale Youths advanced to the third round of the Desmond Youths Cup with 2-0 win over Breska Rovers. Denis Fitzgerald opened the scoring with a 35 yards scorcher and added a second near the finish. Abbeyfeale Utd made a special presentation to Denis Behan recently to mark his signing for Brentford Utd.
Fr Casey`s GAA Club will hold their annual social at the clubhouse on this Saturday night, 12th January, starting at 8.30 pm with music by Different Sounds. The club is seeking managers at senior, junior, minor and U/21 level. Applications in writing must be submitted to the Club Secretary before January 20
30th Dec. In Rugby, Abbeyfeale lost to Kilfeacle in the quarter-final of the Junior Challenge Cup. (See Sports section.)
25th Dec.;Christmas Morning has dawned bright and sunny here in Abbeyfeale. Last night (Christmas Eve) the church was packed for the 9pm Mass during which the local choir gave a beautiful performance of favourite hymns and carols. There are many visitors home for Christmas and they have come from America, England and even as far away as South Africa as well as from various parts of Ireland to spend Christmas in Abbeyfeale with family and friends. The local coursing meeting goes ahead on this Saturday and Sunday, 29th and 30th December, and bumper crowds are expected on both days. In rugby, the junior Challenge Cup game between Abbeyfeale and Kilfeacle was cancelled due to frost. It may go ahead this Sunday.
May we take this opportunity to wish all our visitors to this web site a Happy and Holy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year.
17th Dec.; The Abbeyfeale Branch of the Manchester United Supporters Club was given a major boost this week following the news that United central defender, John O`Shea has agreed to accept the position of Honourary President of the Abbeyfeale Club. Born in Waterford , O`Shea has been magnificent at the heart of the United defence since getting his recent first team call-up from Sir Alex Ferguson . He has held his position for the last three premiership matches, and must now be in contention for a place in Mick McCarthy`s squad for the World Cup finals in Japan/Korea next June. Abbeyfeale fans expect that O`Shea will visit the town and address a meeting of the club, early in the new year. The club has also announced that it will hold a Christmas Party in Donal & Ann Bar on Friday 28th December. It will be a Fancy Dress affair and members are invited to be adventurous and inventive in their choice of attire. It is also planned to "Hunt The Wren" on St Stephen`s Day with members of Paddy Finucane group. Proceeds from this will be donated to Fr John Moloney`s Mission in Cameroon.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 2, 3, 15 and 24. There were four Match 3 winners and they each received £25. They were; Grace Harnett, Shanbally. Helen O`Sullivan, Kilmorna. Margaret O`Connor, Knocknagoshel. Martin Behan, c/o The Failte Bar. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Kathleen Herlihy, Killarney Road. Betty McCarthy, Knockbrack. Marion Harnett, Knockbrack. Damien Murphy, Knocknagoshel. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Liam O`Connor, Knockbrack. Nell Leahy, c/o The Corner House. The jackpot now stands at £5,000 and the next draw takes place in the Bridge Inn bar.
The biggest crowd of the season attended Meenkilly Card Game last Tuesday night. The winners with fourteen games were Dermot McCarthy, Daisy Lenihan and Lena. Runner up with twelve games were Ned Murphy, Murty Keating and Eileen Murphy. Spot prizes were won by Lizzie Horgan, Daisy Lenihan, Steven Roche, Nora Lyons and Jerry Riordan. Table prizes went to Der McCarthy, Daisy Lenihan and Lena. The door prize was won by Billy Broderick. The organizing committee thanked all the sponsors for their generous support every year for the Christmas Card Game. The next game will be on Tuesday 8th January. (Note; The final game before Christmas is tonight, Tuesday 18th December. Everybody welcome.)
10th Dec. ;For anyone who might be interested, now that the festive season is almost upon us, we include our little Christmas Story for this year in the Out and About section. If anyone feels like sending Christmas Greetings via our web site, please feel free to do so. And keep those photographs coming.
Former Abbeyfeale Utd player, Denis Behan, has signed for English League division 2 side Brentford.. Behan has come up through the under age ranks at Abbeyfeale and has played for the Republic of Ireland U/16 side against some of the world powers in soccer, most notably Germany, Brazil and England. He has signed with Brentford until the end of the present season and will play mainly with the U/19s but hopes eventually to break into the reserves. He came on as a sub against Bristol Rovers reserves last week and scored the only goal of the game.
There was a very exciting finish to the card game on Tuesday night with no less than three teams finishing level with 12 games each. First and second prizes were divided between the three winning teams which were; Maurice Collins, Gobnait Scannell and Sean O`Connor. Billy Broderick, Dan Joe Riordan and Frank Collins. Jim Lenihan, Lizzie Horgan and Seamus Lane. Table prizes went to Lizzie Horgan, Seamus Lane and Jim Lenihan. Ticket winners were Lena O`Connor, Dan Cullhane, Peggy Riordan and Mossie Collins. The door prize was won by Jim Lenihan. The final card game before Christmas takes place on Tuesday 18th December. There will be lots of spot prizes and all are welcome. The game resumes on Tuesday 8th January. The organizers of Meenkilly Card Game wish all their supporters and players a very Happy and Holy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 3, 10, 17 and 21. There were fifteen Match 3 winners and they each received £7. They were; Thomas McMahon, Dublin. John & Geraldine O`Connor, Knocknagoshel. Ann Marie Leonard, Ballaugh. Mike Meehan, Shanagolden. Des Hock, Ardagh. James Mahony, Collins Park (2) Geoffrey Fitzgerald, Templeglantine. Denis D Lane, The Hill. Phil O`Keefe, The Hill. Marty O`Connor, Brosna. Mary O`Connell, Purt. Mikie Mahony, Tournafulla. Dave Leahy, Banard. Edelle Fitzgerald, Coolaneelig. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Jack & David O`Connor, c/o Geraldine Murphy. Jack Mahony Snr, Tournafulla. Margaret Lane, Brosna. Emma Murphy, Collins Park. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Kathleen Wren, New Street. Ciaran Cahill, Brosna. The jackpot now stands at £4,800 and the next draw takes place in Bobby`s Bar.
At the recent Pub Quiz in the Ploughman`s Bar in aid of Fr John Moloney`s African Mission a sum of £865 was collected. The organizers expressed their appreciation for all who attended the quiz or donated spot prizes and stated that the money collected would be put to good use by Fr John in the Cameroon.
The AGM of the Bord na nOg club was held in the GAA Clubhouse and the following officers were elected; Chairman-Jim O`Donnell. Vice Chairman-Pat Joe Walsh. Secretary-Seamus McNamara. Ass Sec.-Jerry O`Connor. Joint treasurers-Fr Tim Curtin, Dan Lane. PRO-Joan O`Connell. Committee-Bridget O`Connor, Dan McCarthy, Margaret Murphy, Noel Murphy, Liam Cummins, Mike O`Keefe, David Keating, Liam Galvin, Pat Scannell, James Joy, John Lane, Marie Lane.
Abbeyfeale Coursing Club has announced that the gallop will be closed each day from 12 noon for the month of December due to coursing meeting preparations. The coursing meeting will be held on Saturday and Sunday 28th and 29th December.
3rd DEC. ; The Abbeyfeale Branch of the Manchester United Supporters Club will hold a meeting at Donal & Ann`s bar on this Friday night, 7th December at 9pm. Membership forms are available in the bar or from Thomas Mann. Membership for this year closes at Christmas and the club stresses that it is very important to return all membership forms as soon as possible. The club is also holding a meeting at Goodfellas Bar in Newcastle West on Friday 2th December at 7.30 pm to allow intending members from that area to officially sign up with the club.
Abbeyfeale Coursing Club announce that tickets for their Corn Na Feile Confined 600 Draw are now on sale and are available from committee members. The first prize is £10,000 and the draw will take place in Fr Casey`s GAA Club on Friday 1st March 2002.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 6, 12, 15 and 17. There were five Match 3 winners and they each received £20. They were Stephen Murphy, Collins Park. Mick Flaherty, c/o Geraldine Murphy. P O`Keefe, The Hill. Mike Gallagher, c/o The Cellar Bar. C Broderick, Killarney Road. Lucky Dip winners who receved £20 each were Gerry Walsh, Moyvane. Mary Leahy, Knockbrack. James O`Mahony, c/o Jack Murphy. Jackie Gattry, Limerick. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Catherine & Gillian Murphy, Collins Park. Jackie Grady, c/o Geraldine Murphy. The jackpot now stands at £4,700 and the next draw takes place in The Kerry Bar.
There was another good attendance at Meenkilly Card game on Tuesday night and in a very tight finish, the victorious team won it for the second week in a row. The results were as follows; Winners with 14 games were Jim Lenihan, Lizzie Horgan and Seamus Lane. Runners up with 13 games were Pat Doran, Liam Lane and Dan Brosnan. Ticket winners were Eileen Murphy, Mary B Dalton, Dan Brosnan and Lizzie Horgan. Table prizes went to Peg Browne, Dan Cullinane and Theresa O`Donnell. The door prize was won by Pat Doran.
The death has occurred of Ada O`Kelly (nee Lucas) wife of the late James C O`Kelly, Principal, St Ita`s College, Abbeyfeale. She is survived by her son Raymond, daughter-in-law Mary, grandchildren James and David, brothers Jim and Ralph, sisters Josephine and Joan, and by her great-granddaughter, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
There will be a Night Vigil to Knock on this Friday 7th December and further details can be had from Peg Murphy.
The St Ann`s Senior Citizens Christmas Party will be held in The Devon Inn on Sunday 9th December. Tickets are available from Mary DG Harnett, Main Street or Dan Harnett, Killarney Road.
Three local pupils played on the West Limerick National Schools team that won the Sarsfield Cup in Rathkeale recently. They were Eoin Joy, Abbeyfeale Boys` NS, Jonathan O`Donnell, Meenkilly NS and Eoin McEnery, Feale View NS. Semi-final; West Limerick 3-10, East Limerick 3-5. Final; West Limerick 2-4, City NS 1-4.
Abbeyfeale Utd U/16`s defeated Fairview Rangers 3-1 in the Barry Cup. Abbeyfeale Utd A were beaten 1-0 by Pallaskenry in the third round of the Munster Junior Cup at Riverside Park last Sunday morning. Abbeyfeale were beaten 3-1 by Ballingarry in the Youths Cup.
In Rugby, Abbeyfeale play Kanturk in The Grove on Sunday next 9th December in the Munster Junior League. Abbeyfeale 2nds had a narrow victory over Mallow in a friendly last Sunday.
26th Nov. ; Abbeyfeale is one of three West Limerick towns selected to play host for the Special Olympic Games which take place in this country in June 2003. One hundred and sixty countries and over seven thousand athletes are set to participate in the games. Abbeyfeale will accomodate athletes and officials from Tajikistan, and a special committee has already been set up to co-ordinatearra ngements to welcome the visitors and help them adapt to the local culture. Schools in each of the host towns will organize various awareness programmes to highlight the Special Olympics.
Abbeyfeale Anglers Association have been awared £30,000 by the Minister for the Marine, Frank Fahy, to help them with ongoing improvements to the River Feale.} West Limerick TD Michael Collins presented the cheque to committe members during the week.
Feale View NS played Feenagh NS in the replay of the Schools Final on Friday 19th October in Neville Park, Rathkeale. It was a very close encounter with both sides level at half time. The score was Feale View 1-3. Feenagh 2-0. Feenagh might have been a goal up but for the efforts of the Feale View goalie, William O`Connor, who saved a goal. In the second half the sides were very evenly matched with each side swapping scores. With two minutes remaining, Feale View scored a goal which put them two points ahead, but Feenagh responded with two quick goals which finished off the match. The final score would have been more one-sided but for three great saves by John O`Connor, the Feale View goalie for the second half. Individual scorers for Feale View were ; Padraic McEnery 2-4. Eoin McEnery 0-1. Derry O`Connor 0-1. Team; William O`Connor, Eoin O`Connell, John Lane, Thomas Gleeson, Paraic McEnery, Eoin McEnery, Damien Lane, Derry O`Connor, John O`Connor, Treasa Murphy, Brian O`Connor. A special word of thanks for Donal O`Connor, Pat O`Callaghan and Ollie Coffey who trained Feale View. Also a word of thanks to Abbeyfeale Credit Union who sponsored the refreshments. Final score; Feenagh NS 5-1. Feale View NS 2-6.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 5, 8, 16 and 20. There were thirteen Match 3 winners and they each received £8. They were Murty Keating, Killarney Road. Pat Broderick, Mountmahon. Pat O`Callaghan, Ballaugh. Aoife Daly, Ballybehy. Peggy O`Neill, New Street. Mary McCarthy, Mountcollins. Martina Gleeson, Ballaugh. James McKenna, Knockbrack. MMPS, Winners Circle bar. Catherine Reidy Flynn, Smiths Bar. Aine Murphy, c/o Feale Valley Plant Hire. Joe Collins, Tullig South. Maura Scannell, Purt. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Joe Stevans, Galway. Danny Kelly, Rylane. Pat Lane Snr, c/o DP Lyons bar. Martina sheehy, Cederville. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Sile Hartnett, Kilconlea. Liam Murphy, Caherlane. The jackot now stands at £4,600 and the next draw takes place in Matt McCoy`s bar.
Abbeyfeale Community Alert wishes to remind all holders of Panic Buttons to check them and replace batteries if necessary. Anyone who has reached the age of 65, living alone or with another person aged 65 or over, and who wishes to obtain a Panic Button, should contact the Garda Station or any member of the committee.
The death has occurred of Bob Costelloe, Mountmahon. He is survived by his wife Mary, daughter Andrea, sons Robert and Ivan and by his brothers, sisters, relatives and a large circle of friends.
West Limerick Set Dancing Club have announced that a Set-Ceili will take place in the Convent Hall on Sunday 2nd December with music by Murt Kelliher. All sets called.
There was a fine attendance at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night and the organizers expressed the hope that this would continue right up to Christmas. The game resulted in yet another close finish. Winners with 14 games were Jim Lenihan, Lizzie Horgan and Seamus Lane. Runners up with 13 games were Mike Dore, Jack Roche and Joe Dore. Ticket winners were Noel Murphy, Mary Stack, Joan O`Grady and Tracey Stack. Table prizes went to Lizzie Horgan, Jim Lenihan and Seamus Lane. The door prize was won by Mike O`Donnell. Sympathy was extended to Danny J O`Connell and family, a great supporter of the card game, on the recent death of his mother.
Abbeyfeale Harriers announce the following meets: Saturday 1st December at Tournafulla School. Sunday December 9th at Meenkilly School. Sunday 16th December at John Connell`s bar, Mountcollins. All meets at 11am.
At the recent ICA meeting, Joe Kissane of Kissane Candles, Tarbert gave a very interesting talk to the Guild on the art of candle making. He also displayed a wide range of beautiful candles which are made at their workshop. The next ICA meeting will take place on Tuesday night 4th December.
20th Nov.; There is great euphoria in the country following the Republic Of Ireland`s qualification for the world cup finals in Korea/Japan next summer. It brought back memories of a time when Yours Truly applied for the position of Irish Manager back in 1988. It is history now that Jack Charlton was given the job and took The Republic to two world cups and a European championship. There .... but for the Grace of God. In our Photo Album I have included a copy of the famous letter of rejection that I received from the FAI, plus the piece that sports reporter, John Martin, wrote in the Evening Herald. Check it all out in the Photo Album!
It is now just two years since One For The Road was launched in Jack O`Rourke`s bar in Abbeyfeale. The book became required reading in most homes, along with the Bible and the Farmers Journal and plans are afoot to include it in the Leaving Certificate English paper in 2005. The book is now sold out, out of print, extinct - and a very very valuable collectors item. In our Photo Album I have inserted the article that appeared in the Limerick Leader following the launch of One For The Road.
Abbeyfeale Coursing Club will launch its new Confined Members 600 Draw in the local rugby club on this Saturday night 24th November at 9.30 pm. The coursing club has carried out an extensive programme of renovations and refurbishments at its grounds in the Killarney Road in recent times. These include the drawing and laying down of numerous tons of earth to create a hill, the installation and upgrading of an all-weather gallop, the building of new sheds in the paddock to facilitate the kenneling of greyhounds, etc., and various other projects and improvements to help with the smooth running of the annual coursing meeting. As a result of all this work, the club has now incurred debts in the region of £30,000. It has, therefore, been decided to launch the Abbeyfeale Coursing Club Confined Members 600 Draw in an effort to reduce this debt and the club has issued an appeal to all members of the public to support the draw. Prizes will be as follows; 1st prize-£10,000. 2nd prize-£3,000. 3rd & 4th prize-£1,000 each. 5th, 6th, 7th & 8th prize-£500 each. Tickets will cost £100. Full details of the Abbeyfeale Coursing Club Confined Members 600 Draw will be unveiled at the rugby club on Saturday night and everyone is welcome.
Fr John Moloney, St Ita`s Terrace, is the pastor of a parish of 50,000 people in Cameroon. It is a very poor area and in order to help him with several projects that he is involved in, Abbeyfeale For Africa are holding a Table Quiz in The Ploughman`s Bar on this Friday 23rd November at 9.30 pm. They have been given a hamper, several vouchers and numerous spot-prizes for a raffle, and they have appealed to the public to come along and support this very worthy cause.
A group of voluntary people have been meeting for the past number of months to plan the setting up of a Community Development Project in West Limerick. They are holding a get-together in the Devon Hotel on this Saturday 24th November commencing at 10.30 am at which an informal group discussion will be held. They are appealing to any interested parties who might have views on any particular needs in the area - which could be addressed by such a project - to come along to the Devon Hotel on Saturday. For further information contact Mary Scannell 068-31482. Joan Callaghan 069-62619.
Abbeyfeale Manchester Utd Supporters Club will hold their next meeting at Donal & Ann`s bar on this Friday night 23rd November at 8.30 pm.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 3, 9, 10 and 12. There were fourteen Match 3 winners and they each received £8. They were; Denis D Lane, The Hill. David O`Connor, c/o Geraldine Murphy. Tim Doody, c/o Paddy O`Sullivan. Neilus Cronin, c/o Paddy O`Sullivan. Gemma McCoy, The Grove. Eilish Mulcahy, Killarney Road. Brendan Sullivan, Knocknasna. Mary Lane, Kilmorna. Dan Fitzgerald, c/o Billy Broderick. Sharon McCoy, The Grove. Shannon O`Connor, The Winners Circle. Sean Ryan, New Street. Aoife Daly, Ballaugh. Joe Collins, Tullig South. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were James W O`Connor, Collins Park. Marie McLoughlin, Limerick. Bobby and Eileen O`Connell, c/o The Ploughman`s Bar. Patrick Wright, Dromcolliher. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Tom Collins, Grague. Paddy Mulcahy, Tournafulla. The jackpot now stands at £4,500 and the next draw takes place in JD Harnett`s bar.
The death has occurred of Patrick Roche, Killarney Road. He is survived by his son Tom, daughters Sheila, Resa and Marie, brothers Tom and Mossie, sister Joan, and by his grandchildren, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
There was another good attendance at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night and, following a great evening of card playing, the Boys from The Mall just edged victory. Winners with 12 games were Mike Dore, Jack Roche and Joe Dore. Runners up with 11 games were Noreen Murphy, Liam O`Connor and James McEnery. Table prizes were won by Peg McCarthy, Nancy O`Connor and Betty McCarthy. Raffle winners were Nora Lyons, Der McCarthy, Teresa O`Connor and Eileen Harnett. The door prize went to Jamsie McEnery. Sympathy was extended to Dan Joe Casey & family, a great supporter of the card game, on the recent death of his wife. R.I.P.
The AGM of Abbeyfeale Credit Union will be held at the Convent Hall on Monday 26th November at 8.30 pm.
Abbeyfeale IFA have expressed their gratitude to everyone who supported the recent fundraising dance in aid of John Dillon`s election campaign and also to Tom Fitzgerald of the Railway Bar who gave the use of his premises and provided sponsorship. Limerick IFA are holding their annual dinner dance at the Woodlands Hotel on this Friday 23rd November and tickets are available from committee members.
Abbeyfeale Golfing Society will travel to Ballybunion on this Saturday 24th November. The tee has been booked from 10 am to 11.30 am.
In rugby, Abbeyfeale resume their Munster Junior League campaign with an away game against Old Christians on Sunday. Following their recent defeat against St Mary`s, The Fealesiders will be anxious to return to winning ways and Old Christians can provide huge test for them.
At the recent AGM of Abbeyfeale Community Games the following officers were elected. Hon. Life President; Michael O`Kelly MCC. Chairman; Noel Murphy. Secretary: Mary Murphy. Treasurer; Maurice Collins. Development Officer; Bridget O`Connor. County Delegates; Noel Murphy, Dan McCarthy, Larry Collins. Committee; Joan O`Connell, Noreen Daly, Nora Mary O`Sullivan, Anne Cullinane, Mary Collins, Caroline Collins, Margaret McCarthy.
The AGM of Fr Casey`s Bord na nOg will be held in the GAA Clubhouse on Wednesday 28th November at 8pm.
13th Nov. Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 3, 8, 15 and 19. The jackpot now stands at £4,400 and the next draw takes place in Leen`s Hotel
Abbeyfeale Parish Missions are attracting huge crowds to the Church each evening. The Missions end on this Saturday 17th November.
There was another excellent crowd at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night and the many new players added a great atmosphere to the occasion. The winners with 14 games were Mary B Dalton, Noel Murphy and Bett Collins. Runners-up with 12 games were Nora Lyons, Mossie Collins and Anita Danaher. Table prizes were won by Maurice Collins, Gobnait Scannell and Sean O`Connor. Ticket winners were Pat Doran, Louis McEnery, Peg Browne and Murt Keating. The door prize was won by Jamsie McEnery. The organizers expressed their gratitude to everyone who showed up on the night. Meenkilly Card Game continues each Tuesday night with proceeds going to school funds.
In rugby, Abbeyfeale 1st XV had a free Sunday last weekend. The 2nd XV were due to play Clanwilliam in The Grove in the Gleeson League, but the Tipperary club were unable to field a team. There is no rugby again this weekend, with many players and officials attending the Ireland V All Blacks game in Lansdowne Road. Also, a couple of Abbeyfeale soccer supporters are on their way to Iran for the World Cup qualifier.
5th Nov. The first phase of the planned facelift for Abbeyfeale is set to commence before Christmas. Tenders for the work have now been received and are being studied by Consultants. The tenders are said to vary between £1.2m and £2m, and work will include improvements at The Square and Main Street areas and a pedestrian crossing at the junction of Main Street and New Street. Talks are to be held with local traders so that Chrismas Shopping will not be disrupted.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 11, 13, 19 and 20. There were six match 3 winners and they each received £17. They were; Michelle Broderick, Killarney Road. Michael Collins, Main Street. John M O`Connor, c/o Geraldine Murphy. Marie Riordan, Upper Purt. Peggy Stack Syndicate,. c/o The Winners Circle. Ann Walsh, c/o Johnny Bob`s bar. Lucky Dip winners who won £20 each are Mike Hartnett, Devon Road. Tom Sheehan, Mountcollins. David Scanlon, Newcastlewest. Peg Browne, c/o Jack Murphy. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Dan Hartnett, Killarney Road. Maureen Hickey, Abbeyfeale. The jackpot now stands at £4,300 and the next draw takes place The Ploughman`s Bar.
Meenkilly Card Game attracted a good crowd on Tuesday night with many new players in attendance. In a very close finish, the winners with 13 games were Maurice Collins, Sean O`Connor and Gobnait Scannell. The runners up with 12 games were Jerry O`Riordan, Peggy O`Riordan and Jer Roche. Table prizes went to Peggy O`Riordan, Jer Roche and Jerry O`Riordan. Ticket winners were Gearoid Keating, Steven Roche, Peg McCarthy and Thomas Collins. The door prize was won by Liam Lane. Meenkilly Card Game continues each Tuesday night with proceeds going to school funds. The organizers have appealed to all local card players to attend.
Abbeyfeale Harriers announce that the opening day of the new season will commence at The Railway Bar on next Sunday 11th November at 11 am. Further Meets this month are; Tooreenard School, Knocknagoshel on Sunday 18th November. Doody`s Cross, Meenavoughan, Brosna on Sunday 25th November.
Brigid Doughton O`Connor has expressed her gratitude to all those who helped or contributed to the recent collection for the Diabetes and Endoctrinology Centre at Our Lady`s Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin. A total of £820 was collected.
Abbeyfeale rugby team were defeated 19-13 by St Mary`s in the Munster Junior League in The Grove on Sunday. (See Sports section)
29th Oct; Abbeyfeale will soon have its own official Manchester United Supporters Club. Meetings to organize the club have been going on in Ann & Donal`s bar since August, and a committee has now been formed which comprises of the following; Chairperson - Denis Daly. Vice-chairperson - Gerard Foley. Secretary - Denis O`Sullivan. Treasurer - Paddy Finucane. Youth Officer - Richard O`Mahoney. Membership is steadily increasing, and two officials from Manchester United are due to visit Abbeyfeale on the 6th November to meet members and to finalize plans to launch the club officially.
Abbeyfeale Parish Mission takes place between Saturday 10th November and Saturday 17th November.
The All Ireland Scythe Championship was originally fixed for Sunday 24th June at Plumbridge, Co. Tyrone, but it had to be cancelled due to the Foot and Mouth crisis in the North. It will now go ahead on Sunday December 16th at the same venue in North Tyrone. Veteran Scytheman Jackie Hartnett of Dromtrasna is poised to capture his first national title after five near misses. He has trained very hard under adverse weather conditions and aims to peak just at the right time. The other Jackie Hartnett (who is a really outstanding scytheman) has been forced to withdraw from the competition due to a back injury, but the man from Purt is adamant that he will be ack in action again next year, le congnamh De. Next year`s event will be held a bit nearer home - at Clonaslee, Co Louth, right beside the beautiful Slieve Bloom Mountains. Guimis Rath De ar an obair.
Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 2, 6, 7 and 19. There were eight Match 3 winners and they each received £13. They were Denis Cahill, Cragg. Joe Cotter, Upper Purt. David Browne, c/o Jack O`Rourke`s bar. Eimer O`Donoghue, Railway Road. Jack Hannon, Kingsland. Marie Enright, The Ramble Inn. Timothy O`Sullivan, Knocknasna. Patrick Carrol, Rockchapel. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Tracey Cahill, Knocknagoshel. Maurice Cotter, Castleisland. Catherine Murphy, c/o Geraldine Murphy. Karen Sexton, Templeglantine. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Dan Meehan, Kilmorna. Butch Murphy, Collins Park. The jackpot now stands at £4,200 and the next draw takes place in DP Lyons` bar.
Fealeview NS and Feenagh NS played out a very exciting draw in the final of the National Schools competition in Rathkeale on a score of Fealeview 3-13, Feenagh 5-7. Fealeview had a good lead at half time but had to withstand fierce second-half pressure from Feenagh before clinching the draw with a late equalizing point. Top scorer for Fealeview with 3-3 was Derry O`Connor. The other scorers were Eoin O`Connell 0-1, John O`Connor 0-1. Eoin McEnery 0-7, Paraic McEnery 0-1. Team; Eoin O`Connell, William O`Connor, Derry O`Connor, John O`Connor, Eoin McEnery, Paraic McEnery, Brian O`Connor, Thomas Gleeson, John Lane. Last week, we inadvertantly stated that Eoin O`Connell had been selected on the West Limerick Primary Schools team. This should have read Eoin McEnery. Congratulations to Eoin McEnery, and indeed to all the Fealeview team and mentors, on an excellent performance. The replay takes place shortly.
In rugby, Abbeyfeale defeated Kinsale in the Munster Junior League by 18 points to 16. (See Sports section)
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