SANDSA Chairperson, Oonagh Murray presents the Junior Club Team of the Year Award to winners Dundrum Coastal Rowing Club – U18
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Newry Shamrocks GAC are in the process of refurbishing their premises at Greenbank Industrial Estate, and over the past few weeks volunteers have spent many hours helping out at the popular GAA venue. In a novel approach the club have set up a Go Fund Me page for anyone that wasn't able to help on the ground but would like to support the club with their renovation programme.
Club members are looking forward to showing off their newly renovated Social Club to the entire community on St Patrick's Day with Irish Dancing, Face painting and games and more from 2pm followed by live music from Deadly Buzz from 6-8pm.
Their new multi functional facility can be used for many different purposes, including Celebratory functions, such as birthday parties, christenings etc; Classes such as Pilates, yoga, circuits; Post and pre match game analysis with 3 large TV’s and Presentations.
If you would like to donate to the club please go to www.gofundme.com
Correction: 15/3/23: There is no event on the 16th of March, Just the St Pstrick's Day events on the 17th.
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A life sized bronze statue in honour of Celtic Football Club's first Manager, Willie Maley is to be unveiled in Newry on Saturday 15 April and all are welcome to attend. Maley was born in 1868 at the Newry Military Barracks roughly where Mourneview Park now is. Planning permission was passed for the two metre high statue at Monaghan Row in the city in August 2022.
Maley managed Celtic from 1897 to 1940 and won 30 trophies for Celtic. His father Thomas Maley was a Sergeant in the British Army and was stationed at the Barracks at the time along with his mother Mary Montgomery.
The sporting and heritage project is being progressed by the Newry Willie Maley Memorial Group, a community group which has campaigned to ensure a fitting memorial to the sporting legend is delivered. The initiative involves the Celtic family and the wider community and close to £80,000 has been raised.
The application is "for the erection of a life sized bronze statue (1.95m high) on a black granite plinth (3m x 1m) in memory of a renowned native sporting manager and player. New granite silver flag paving is also proposed as part of the scheme, to be arranged in the area surrounding the proposed statue and plinth, with surrounding existing planters and garden to remain in situ."
A spokesperson for the group said "As pointed out previously this project was funded by you and only you with no financial backing from any Party or official office and that's something to be proud of, for in the years ahead we can look back and say without contradiction that Statue is owned by the supporters."
The group has thanked Newry, Mourne and Down District Council for their support and advice with the site for the statue.
The Statue Unveiling Schedule
Saturday 15 April
3pm: Linenhall Square/ Mourneview Park Plaque unveiling
3.30pm: Parade from Mourneview Park to Statue site at Monaghan Row accompanied by 3 flute bands.
5pm: Statue unveiling with Tommy Sheridan and three former Celtic players, Joe Miller, Jackie Mc Namara and Tommy Johnson.
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Newry Dominates in Limerick
The Con & Annie Kirby Memorial sponsored by JP and Noreen McManus got off to start on Saturday evening. Boasting a cool €80,000 to the winner. First ran at the Limerick venue in 2013 in memory of Noreen’s parents it is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated classics of the greyhound calendar. Newry man Brendan Matthews has won this classic twice, firstly teaming up with the esteemed, John Boyle of Boylesports.com when Boylesports Hero ran to success and secondly with Cable Bay who was bred, reared, owned, and trained in Newry.
On Saturday Night 5 greyhounds from 72 entered have Newry connections:
Boylesports Vic – Owned by John Boyle and trained by Paul Hennessy 20/1
As I say – owned and trained by Brendan Matthews 50/1
Boylesports Dazl – Owned by John Boyle and trained by Dolores Ruth 14/1
Boylesports Gift - Owned by Joh Boyle and trained by Paul Hennessy 40/1
Mr Incredible – Trained by Brendan Matthews 66/1
*Ante post odds supplied by Bet Hughes
Quite amazingly three of the five won their respective heats, with As I say qualifying in third, sadly Boylesports Vic was eliminated.
Boylesports Dazl produced an incredible debut at Limerick at the beginning of the month and the even money shot built on that win in heat seven. Trained by Dolores Ruth for John Boyle, this one was all one-way traffic as he pinged the lids from trap one to lead. Despite shipping a pretty hefty bump at the opener, it was to prove a routine night’s work for the son of Ballymac Bolger and Ballymac Petsy as he ran out a four and a half length winner over Bogger Lucky in second. The time was 28.81.
Boylesports Gift ran to a virtual solo for John Boyle and Paul Hennessy. The heavyweight tracker meant business from the off as the 2/1 chance broke swiftly from trap three to lead his rivals a merry dance into the opener. Once turning clear, it was all over as a contest as the son of Ballyhimikin Jet and Hugh Dream drew clear to beat Hovex Tommy by seven and a half lengths, in a time of 28.39
Mr Incredible (Malachi - Droopys Saga) isn’t known for his early paced attributes and he too broke poorly to trail the field early doors. In contrast however, the Brendan Matthews-trained charge is known for his power-pack finishes and this was to pay dividends for connections. Picking his way through the field, Mr Incredible was to produce a big effort in coming home one and a half lengths clear of Knockboy Curragh in second. Ryhope Beach, meanwhile, lost very little in defeat as he came through strongly to safely advance into the next week's second round, in third. The time was 28.69
Of the twelve heats on offer, it wasn’t surprising to see the likes of Clona Duke produce an outstanding display. The reigning RPGTV Juvenile Derby Champion, Clona Duke, came into the Classic fresh from an exceptional 28.13 trial around the Munster venue and he built on that performance with a devastating display in heat three. Coming up against some hugely talented rivals, they were no match for Kevin O’Brien and Graham Holland’s tracker as he blew holes in the field in his bid for an historic juvenile double. Running from trap one, Clona Duke came away racing and he narrowly led Pape Di Oro into the opening turn. Once in front, it was always going to take a monumental effort to reel in the son of Malachi and Coolavanny Pearl as he set a scorching gallop before running out a five and a half length winner over Pape Di Oro in second. The time for the even money favourite was a sensational 28.07
Second round heats Saturday 1st April at Limerick Greyhound Track.
Retired Greyhound of the week
Nova would be perfect companion even for an elderly person and really is the best-behaved girl. Walks so gentle on her lead you wouldn’t even know you’re walking a dog. She does LOVE her squeaky toys so much, so she doesn’t like to share with other dogs, although take away the toys and she’s great with all breeds. Please get in contact on Instagram @all_about_greyhounds_ni.
Fact Check
The report, compiled by consultant economist Jim Power, shows the industry made a net contribution to the Irish economy of €132.3 million in 2019 and supported 4,150 full-time and part-time jobs.
Good News
It’s been a long time coming, but Lifford Greyhound Stadium re-opened its gates for the first time since 2019 Sunday past as the North-West venue hosts a soft opening in preparation for their Grand Re-opening next Sunday, 2nd April.
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The second-round heats of the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial took centre stage at Limerick Greyhound Stadium last night and it was a night to remember as Clona Duke equalled the track record, as well as making history in recording the quickest time ever in the Kirby Classic.
A mixed result for the Newry contingent as we seen the exit of Boylesports Dazl due to injury while As I say was eliminated from his respective heat. On the other hand, Boylesports Gift and Mr Incredible were able to qualify in second place.
Bens Teddy produced his customary big finish to reel in Boylesports Gift and maintain his unbeaten run in the Kirby. Under the ownership of Kim Pritchard, Bens Teddy is a joy to watch, and the crowd favourite was once again exceptional in reeling in a top-class opponent last night at Limerick. Running from trap five, Bens Teddy posted an identical opening sectional to last weekend as he broke only moderately to sit third early on. In contrast, Boylesports Gift was paw-perfect at traprise as he bulleted from trap one to set a frantic pace on the inside. The latter continued to lead for Paul Hennessey down the back, but Bens Teddy was at this point improving nicely in behind as he challenged Glengar Ace for second place. Boylesports Gift was going about his business in electric fashion up front but there was a certain air of inevitability about the result once Bens Teddy stormed into second and closed on the leader around the bottom two bends. The son of Droopys Sydney and Beechgrove Bell was to deliver on that assumption on the run for home as he continued to up the ante and stay on powerfully to cross the line with two lengths to spare over the gallant Boylesports Gift in second. Ballymac Johnjoe, as expected, came home fast to claim the final qualifying position in third. The time was a rapid 28.10. (Sec: 16.08)
Ryhope Beach would have been expected to right a few wrongs from last weekend but Burgess Bolger was to have other ideas as he never gave his rivals a sniff in running out an easy winner in the end. An experienced tracker coming into the Kirby, Burgess Bolger was a 5/1 shot at the off and he was quickly into stride from trap one to show a nice turn of earlies to lead. Holding a two length advantage into the back from Road Exile in second, the son of Ballymac Bolger and Clear Mountain was always in control upon entrance to the penultimate turn. In behind however, Road Exile was coming under pressure from the strong-running duo of Mr Incredible and Ryhope Beach and the both were revving their engines as they attempted to bridge the gap on Burgess Bolger up top. The bird had flown in that respect and the striking black crossed the line with four lengths in hand over Mr Incredible, who once again caught the eye in second. Ryhope Beach was another finishing like a train and he claimed the final qualifying position in third. The time for Burgess Bolger was a rapid 28.23. (Sec: 16.17)
Retired Dog of the Week
Silver is 2yrs old, he’s a very happy friendly boy who loves cuddles. He can be alert out on walks and strong on the lead but soon settles. He would be best suited to someone with larger breed experience, He would prefer to be walked in quieter areas, he’s good with other female large breeds. Can live with children older than 10yrs.Contact @allaboutgreyhoundsNI on Instagram.
Fact of the week
Greyhound Racing Ireland spends €2 million a year on Regulation and Welfare. Greyhounds are the most regulated of all canine breeds in Ireland. They're the only breed with their own legislation - the Welfare of Greyhounds Act 2011.
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Last weeks NMD Sports Awards saw ten individuals and sports clubs recognised for their achievements in the sporting field in 2022. Newry man Jimmy Davis who dedicated much of his life to the Carnbane League was posthumously awarded the Lifetime Services to Sport award.
The event celebrated the remarkable achievements of teams and individuals who have made outstanding contributions to sport across the district, as well as paying tribute to the efforts of coaches, volunteers, mentors, teachers and parents who support our athletes and clubs and help to make Newry, Mourne and Down a healthy and active district.
This year’s recipients were nominated for their contribution in the following Junior and Senior categories: Club Team of the Year, Sports Volunteer of the Year, Club Coach of the Year and Sportsperson of the Year. With so many exceptional successes racked up by sporting stars across the district, competition was notable for the award categories.
The event was organised by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council in association with the Sports Association Newry, Down and South Armagh (SANDSA) and over 250 guests were in attendance at the Canal Court Hotel in Newry.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage said, “The NMD Sports Awards, hosted in partnership with the Sports Association Newry, Down and South Armagh (SANDSA) gives us an opportunity to celebrate the high level of sporting performances and the achievements of our remarkable local stars. I would like to congratulate all of those who have been nominated over the nine award categories as the calibre of entries has been truly exceptional.
Cllr Savage continued, “The Council is proud to support the sports community in our district. We continue to foster a culture of physical fitness and wellness and create opportunities for residents of all ages and abilities to engage in an active lifestyle, whether by increasing their daily physical activity or competing in high performance sport. I hope that the NMD Sports Awards leave you all feeling inspired by the passion, commitment and unwavering determination of our local sporting community.”
During his speech, Councillor Savage also paid tribute to the late Mr. Jimmy Davis, who has delivered over fifty-five years of continued support to the Carnbane Football League, formed in 1968. Working tirelessly at a grass roots level he has ensured thousands of football players have been able to play in this league throughout the years.
SANDSA Chairperson, Oonagh Murray said, “It is a privilege to be here this evening and be part of the NMD Sports Awards. The talent in the room is incredible, and the sense of community spirit is so evident among our sports stars, as well as many of the unsung heroes that give up their time each week to make sports available and accessible across the local community. I would like to congratulate all our winners and shortlisted finalists.”
The winners
Check out the Gallery of photographs from the night below.
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Newry Manager Darren Mullen has announced contract extensions for players Lorcan Forde, Brian Healy and Noel Healy which will keep the trio at The Showgrounds until June 2025. Mullen commented “I’m sure our fans will be delighted with these new deals and it’s a sign of the progress at the club that all three lads were more than happy to sign new contracts.”
Speaking about Forde Mullen said “There’s no doubt we have missed Lorcan’s creativity and attacking threat during his injury so I’m delighted that he has signed a new deal. Since he signed for us last season he has been in great form and I’ve no doubt there’s more to come from him. It’s vital that we keep the best local talent and Lorcan most definitely falls into that category.”
Forde spoke of his delight “I’m delighted to sign a new contract with Newry. I’ve enjoyed my first 18 months here so when the guys asked it was a no brainier. Our goal is to be playing in the Premiership and I want to continue to be a part of that starting with Portadown tonight. Big thanks to the guys for believing in me through a few injuries this year as well.”
On ‘The Healy’s’ Mullen said “It’s fair to say the club and our fans have adopted the Healy’s as 2 of our own. Noel has made the left-back position his own and has developed into a fine Irish League player. Brian has followed the same path as Noel in bedding himself in and has become an important part of the squad. He has already scored some vital goals for us and has the potential to become a regular goal scorer for the club over the coming years.”
Noel Healy commented “I’m thrilled to sign this new deal, I have enjoyed five fantastic years now at Newry and I love playing football for this club. It’s now time to work hard and stay in the Premiership as it’s where we and our fans belong.”
Brian Healy commented “I am really pleased to have signed a new deal here at Newry, I am currently enjoying my football here. Since the day I walked in the gate to The Showgrounds the club itself has made me feel so welcome whether that’s the staff, players or the amazing fans. I hope now to work hard in the last few games and help the squad stay in the league where we belong.”
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Former Celtic stars Jackie McNamara, Joe Miller and Tommy Johnson will be in Newry this weekend. The Hoops heroes are in town Saturday 15 April for the grand unveiling of a statue commemorating the first Celtic Manager, Willie Maley.
Willie Maley was born in Newry Barracks in Linenhall Square in 1868 and went on to become one of the Glasgow club's most successful managers. Saturdays events bring to a close a huge three-year campaign by local Celtic fans to raise over £60,000 for the statue in Maley's hometown.
Proceedings on Saturday start at Maley's birthplace at the former barracks site in Mourneview Park on Saturday at 3pm.
A memorial plaque will be unveiled followed by speeches from former councillors Davy Hyland and Pat McGinn. A parade will then proceed from Mourneview towards Trevor Hill and on to Monaghan Street before reaching the statue site at the foot of the Camlough Road. Guest speaker Tommy Sheridan will say a few words, followed by a minute's applause for recently deceased Celtic striker Frank McGarvey.
Designed and sculpted by Tyrone sculptor Barry O'Neil the seven foot statue will be unveiled by Willie Maley Memorial Group chairman Pat McLoughlin. The group was formed in 2020 to raise the necessary costs for the statue, groundworks and associated fees.
McLoughlin spoke of his relief that the huge campaign is nearing its finish and thanked everyone for their support over the last three years. He said: "There were ups and downs the whole way along, but it's absolutely fantastic to see the finished product and makes it all worthwhile at the end of it.
"Every single person is welcome to the parade on Saturday. It will be a fantastic day out and it will be an honour to see the tribute that we are giving to Willie Maley.
"It's long overdue and well deserved for Celtic's first ever manager who put his life into the club and now we're dedicating a statue to him in his hometown.
"It will be seen throughout the world. It's been an honour to be involved in this campaign, and on behalf of the committee and memorial group, I would like to thank everyone that has supported the campaign. Celtic fans have made this happen."
The celebrations will continue afterwards at a sold-out Green and White night in the Canal Court Hotel from 6.30pm. Hundreds of Celtic fans will gather at the event - many from overseas - to mark the permanent tribute to Maley.
Willie Maley
Willie Maley was born in Newry Barracks in Linenhall Square on April 25, 1858. Aged just one, he and his family moved to Glasgow after his father took honourable discharge from the army.
In 1888, the 19-year-old signed for the newly-formed Celtic Football Club. He was appointed manager in 1897 and went on to become one of the most successful managers in Scottish football history leading the Hoops to 30 trophies during his 43-year reign as manager.
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The Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council recently hosted a reception in the Council offices at Monaghan Row in Newry to mark the 50th anniversary of Newry and Mourne Sub Aqua Club. During the reception Cllr Savage presented Mr Jimmy Lyons, one of the founder members and longest serving club member of Newry and Mourne Sub Aqua Club with an inscribed crystal bowl to commemorate the occasion.
Newry and Mourne Sub-Aqua Club/ Search & Rescue was established back in 1973. The Club has a mixed ability of divers from trainee ocean divers right up to technical and they cater for everyone.
Their diving consists of a variety of wrecks and reefs around the UK and Irish coastline and they enjoy mediterranean trips with exciting diving in places like Cyprus, Malta and Egypt! Some of their divers have even travelled to Thailand, Australia and Bikini Atoll. Their BSAC qualification is recognised worldwide.
For any enquiries you can contact Phil.gonnelly@btinternet.com
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After years in the planning, Newry Celtic supporters have a lot of celebrating to squeeze into one day when later this afternoon, 15 April, a statue of Newry Born Willie Maley, Celtic Football Club's first manager will be unveiled.
All are welcome and events start at 3pm at the Linenhall Arch in Mourne View Park where a memorial plaque will be unveiled followed by speeches.
Proceedings on Saturday start at Maley's birthplace at the former barracks site in Mourneview Park on Saturday at 3pm. A parade will then proceed from Mourneview towards Trevor Hill and then down Monaghan Street before reaching the statue site at the foot of the Camlough Road where guest speaker Tommy Sheridan will say a few words.
Today is the result of much hard work by the Newry Willie Maley Memorial Group who raised the funds needed to make it happen via the Celtic family and the wider community.
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