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Representatives from the Pacific Northwest Section of the PGA of America have visited the Newry, Mourne and Down district as part of a familiarisation trip hosted by NI Golf Tours, aimed at showcasing the area's golf courses and visitor experiences. Newry, Mourne and Down District Council welcomed the delegation during their stay in the Mourne Gullion Strangford area.
During the visit, the group played two of the district's most celebrated courses, Ardglass Golf Club and Royal County Down Golf Club, experiencing the quality of links golf that continues to attract visitors from around the world. The delegation also stayed at the Slieve Donard Hotel and took part in a whiskey tasting with Killowen Distillery, reflecting the region's food and drink heritage.
NI Golf Tours, who are proud sponsors of the Pacific Northwest Section, put together the itinerary to give senior decision-makers a first-hand experience of the destination, with the aim of building relationships and generating golf tourism business for Mourne Gullion Strangford.
Councillor Philip Campbell, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, said: "We are delighted to welcome representatives from the Pacific Northwest Section of the PGA of America to Mourne Gullion Strangford. Our district offers an exceptional combination of world class links golf, breathtaking landscapes and authentic local hospitality. Golf tourism plays a vital role in our economy, and visits like this help position our region firmly on the international stage as a premier location for group golf travel."
The visit forms part of the ongoing effort to promote Mourne Gullion Strangford as a destination for golfers seeking championship courses, quality accommodation and experiences both on and off the course.
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Armagh captured the TG4 Ulster SFC title for the third year in a row when they held off the challenge of Tyrone in the final at Owenbeg.
Tyrone had the better start and led by two points after as many minutes. Three points on the trot from Armagh edged them in front and in the 20th minute Aoife Mc Coy netted the first goal of the game after Lauren Mc Conville drove at the Red Hand defence, offloaded to Caroline O'Hanlon who in turn set up Mc Coy who palmed calmly to the net.
Tyrone, to their credit, did not panic and with the next attack the excellent Sláine McCarroll finished a solo run from the halfway line with a low drive to the net.
Tyrone hit the next four points to regain the lead but Armagh hit back and scored the next three points including a two-pointer from Aimee Mackin. In the dying minutes of the half both sides traded points but it was Armagh who went in ahead 1-9 to 1-8.
Scores were exchanged early in the second half and then Armagh struck their second goal in the 15th minute. Blaithin Mackin, who had just been brought on, produced a wonderful high catch in the middle of the field and set up Caoimhe McNally who made no mistake from close range.
In the final quarter Armagh introduced a number of subs including Kelly Mallon who fired over three points.
Tyrone pushed hard and narrowed the score to a single point but ultimately time ran out and Armagh were crowned champions for the third year in a row.
Final score: Armagh 2-13 Tyrone 1-15
Scorers: Armagh: A Mackin 0-6 (1tp, 4f), A McCoy 1-2, C McNally 1-0, K Mallon 0-3 (2f), C O’Hanlon 0-1, E Druse 0-1.
Tyrone: N O’Neill 0-5 (4f), S McCarroll 1-1, A Horisk 0-4 (3f), C McCaffrey 0-3, S Gormley 0-2.
Armagh: B Mathers; M Ferguson, C McCambridge, C Towe; E Druse, L McConville, G Ferguson; C O'Reilly, L Marsden; C Marley, A McCoy, C McNally; A Mackin, C O'Hanlon, A Donnelly. Subs: B Mackin for Donnelly (40), K Mallon for Marley (46), C Henderson for O'Reilly (47), E Melanophy for M Ferguson (54), M Lennon for McNally (59).
Tyrone: L Kane; J Hearty, G McKenna, E Quinn; C Canavan, M Corrigan, C Campbell; M Mallon, A McHugh; S McCarroll, C McCaffrey, E McCanny; N O'Neill, S Gormley, A Horisk. Sub: K Muldoon for Canavan (58), M Maxwell for McCanny (59).
Referee: S Coyle (Donegal).
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Nearly 100 cars lined The Boulevard in Banbridge for the Down Rally Cars & Coffee Press Launch last Sunday 17 May, as motorsport fans, competitors and car enthusiasts gathered ahead of this year's Down Rally. The event, organised by Rathfriland Motor Club, featured rally cars, performance vehicles and classic cars on display.
Visitors had the chance to get up close to the machinery set to compete on Northern Ireland's premier tarmac rally stages, with drivers on hand to meet fans in a relaxed atmosphere. Despite an overcast morning, dry conditions meant attendees could make the most of the displays. Costa Coffee provided complimentary beverages throughout the event, and prizes were also on offer for those attending.
Proceeds from the day were donated to the Slieve Croob First Responders, supporting the local emergency response team. Rathfriland Motor Club Chairman Malcolm Johnston thanked everyone who attended, along with The Boulevard for helping to host the event.
Attention now turns to the rally itself, which takes place on Saturday 22 August. Fans can look forward to the return of the FanZone event at The Boulevard on the Friday evening, featuring driver appearances, rally car displays and family-friendly entertainment.
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Shinken Shobu Ryu Judo Club based at Warrenpoint enjoyed a weekend of outstanding achievement, securing top honours at both national and international level across contest and kata disciplines.
Two of the club’s leading competitors, Dermot McCaul and Paul McConville, travelled to England last weekend to take part in the prestigious High Wycombe Masters, Great Britain’s largest and most competitive club judo tournament. The event attracts elite athletes from across Europe, as well as international entries from South America and African nations, making it one of the most hotly contested fixtures on the masters’ calendar.
For Paul McConville, competing in the Under 81kg category, the competition marked a career milestone. A regular medallist here over the years with multiple silver and bronze awards, gold had always eluded him until now. In a flawless display of skill and tactics, he won every one of his contests with decisive ippon throws, finally claiming the top spot and a well-deserved gold medal.
Dermot McCaul, a three-time bronze medallist at High Wycombe, fought in the Under 90kg division. After an unlucky defeat in his opening bout, he fought his way through the repechage rounds in pursuit of a medal. He made a brilliant start to his comeback, winning his first repechage contest with an ippon within seconds, before going on to push the current champion to the very limit in a tight, hard-fought encounter that narrowly went against him.
Both athletes now have their sights set on a busy autumn schedule, with the Irish Masters Open in Dublin and the British National Championships being held in Scotland this year both taking place in October.
Success was also achieved closer to home at Judo Ireland’s Irish Open Kata Championships, which welcomed entries from England and Scotland alongside Ireland’s finest practitioners.
Nigel O’Neill and Damien O’Hare, widely respected for their deep understanding and technical mastery of all Kodokan judo katas, entered two self-defence-focused categories: Kime No Kata and Kodokan Goshin Jutsu. The pair delivered polished, high-scoring performances to take gold in both disciplines extending their remarkable record as champions for the third year running.
Shinken Shobu Ryu stands apart as the only club in Ireland to teach judo in its entirety, covering not only competition training but also the full range of traditional katas. The club caters for all interests, including dedicated self-defence classes for those who wish to learn practical skills without taking part in competitions.
It was a weekend that highlighted the depth, quality, and versatility of coaching and talent within the club and one that members, coaches, and supporters will remember with great pride.
The dojo has also expanded its offering recently, with Karate classes now running on Wednesday evenings and Kenpo Jujitsu sessions available on Mondays, under the guidance of Chief Instructor Gerard Moore.
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Kerry were crowned All-Ireland U14 Gold champions at St Brigid’s, Kiltoom in Roscommon against a Down team that gave their all but just couldn't get over the line.
They made up for last year’s loss and were deserving winners after a magnificent game of football.
Up front Amyrose Shanahan was a handful for the Down defence all through while at the other end Aisling O’Keeffe was outstanding at full-back for the winners.
When needed in the second-half Lucy O’Connell stood up at midfield as Down piled forward in search of scores.
Down for their part can’t be faulted for their efforts and gave it their all, led by the likes of Mollie Morgan, Dacey Carr and Tierna Rogan.
Down opened the scoring after seven minutes when Morgan pointed from distance, aided by the wind.
From the restart Chloe Coffey set up Shanahan to equalise for Kerry. With ten minutes gone Kerry took the lead when Shanahan pointed again, before they had their first goal chance.
A shot from Éabha Moynihan went just wide and minutes later Shanahan hit the post as Kerry start to get the upper hand.
Down hit back with Morgan on target again, before Dacey Carr pointed to put them in front, 0-3 to 0-2, after 15 minutes.
Coffey had the sides level three minutes later, before Niamh Ní Shé went close to scoring a goal for Kerry.
The pressure paid off, after 27 minutes, when Ní Shé played Shanahan in and this time she found the back of the net, to make it 1-3 to 0-3.
She had another goal chance a minute later, with her shot coming back off the crossbar.
Just before the break Erica Moloney pointed for the Kingdom to see them lead by 1-4 to 0-3 at half time.
Down started the second half well, with Morgan being denied a goal by the Kerry goalkeeper, Shauna O’Riordan, one of several great saves she made in that half.
Morgan pulled a point back, with Shanahan replying at the other end, before O’Riordan made another top-class save, this time denying Sophia Black.
With 44 minutes gone Eadaoin Napier pointed for Down to put three between the sides, before Tiernagh McGill extended Kerry’s lead again to 1-6 to 0-5.
Down were back in contention when they scored a goal. A shot from Carr came back off the crossbar and Black was quickest to react to set up a grandstand finish.
But Kerry didn’t panic and two late points from Shanahan secured the title for her side after an entertaining game.
Final score Kerry 1-8 Down 1-5
Scorers: Kerry: A Shanahan 1-5 (3f), E Moloney, C Coffey, T McGill 0-1 each.
Down: S Black 1-0, M Morgan 0-3, D Carr, E Napier 0-1 each.
KERRY: S O’Riordan; É Dolan, A O’Keeffe, R Fleming; S Hurley, O Lyons, N Ní Shé; A Fenton, L O'Connell; A Deenihan, E Brosnan, C Coffey; A O'Shea, A Shanahan, É Moynihan. Subs: E Moloney, S Curran, R O’Shea, T McGill, A Deenihan, C Coffey.
DOWN: C Travers; F Devlin, R Devlin, C Ferris; K McEvoy, T Rogan, S Branagan; C Cunningham, C Townsend; G Owens, M Morgan, C Donnelly; G Lennon, L O'Hare, D Carr. Subs: S Black, E Napier, E Bennett, N O’Hare, C Donnelly, E Oakes.
Referee: Paul McCaughey (Westmeath).
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Newry City AFC have signed centre-back Caolan Marron from Dungannon Swifts, with the Newry native joining his hometown club ahead of the new season. The 27-year-old becomes Manager Stuart King's second signing of the summer, following the arrival of striker Ryan Swan at the end of May.
Marron brings considerable experience to Newry City, having made over 250 top-level appearances for Glenavon, Glentoran and Dungannon in the Premiership and in European football. The former Northern Ireland Under-21 international has made no secret of his delight at pulling on the blue and white stripes.
"I'm absolutely buzzing to have signed for Newry. It's my hometown club and I can't wait to get going," said Marron. "I'm absolutely a Newry man and I come down to follow the club whenever I get the chance. So for me to come here was a no-brainer for me."
The defender has set his sights firmly on helping the club return to the top flight. "I'm coming in to try and get the club back to where it should be - in the Premiership," he added.
Manager Stuart King was equally pleased to get the deal over the line. "I'm absolutely delighted to get this signing done," he said. "I did some television work at the Dungannon v Carrick European Play-Off game recently and I thought he was one of the best players on the pitch and capped off a superb performance with an unbelievable goal. In no way did I think that three weeks later we would be able to sign him."
King highlighted what Marron will add to the squad. "Caolan is a top level player with loads of experience and he'll not only massively improve us, but will lead from the front. When speaking to Caolan, his attitude and desire to play for his hometown club was really evident. He spoke passionately about wanting to play for his hometown club, something his father wishes to happen too. We're delighted to make that a reality."
The manager also paid tribute to those who helped make the transfer happen. "I have to thank our board for all their support in getting this transfer done and to Dungannon Swifts for their co-operation throughout this process," King added.
Marron's signing follows the addition of Striker Ryan Swan. Thirty year-old Swan will join the club on expiration of his contract with Annagh United. He moves to The Showgrounds, having enjoyed spells with Warrenpoint Town, as well as League of Ireland sides Bohemians and Cabinteely, following a stint with Exeter City earlier in his career. Speaking after the announcement Swan said “This is a big club, a sleeping giant. I want to be here to try and get us back to the Premiership.”
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An Aimee Mackin-inspired Armagh got their TG4 All-Ireland SFC campaign off to a flying start at Cork’s expense in Páirc Uí Rinn on Saturday afternoon.
The opening round of Group 1, which also contains Waterford, saw the three-in-a-row winning Ulster champions dispatch their opponents thanks to an impressive team display.
Mackin will grab all the headlines and deservedly so. The corner forward’s first half hat-trick, including a converted penalty, was the foundation Armagh built their victory upon. Lauren McConville, Kelly Mallon, Cassie Henderson and Aoife McCoy also stood out.
As for Cork, an inability to curb Mackin’s influence as well as some wayward shooting means nothing less than a win away to Waterford will suffice next Saturday night.
Aoife McCoy opened the scoring before Mackin galloped through and sent a superb shot into the top corner to hand Armagh an early 1-1 to 0-0 lead.
Cork laboured in front of goal but were thankful for three Áine Terry O’Sullivan first half scores. Grace Murphy and Emma Cleary also raised white flags during a difficult period for the hosts.
Yet, Armagh deservedly led 3-4 to 0-5 at the interval thanks to a converted Mackin penalty and third goal from close range shortly after. Aoife McCoy and Kelly Mallon efforts completed the Orchard County’s first half total.
Katie Quirke (free) got Cork on the front foot on the resumption. Mackin responded via a left-footed effort but Quirke pointed again soon after. Then, a fisted Leah Hallihan effort preceded Emma Cleary missing the target from close range.
Despite that let-off, a much-improved Cork poured forward until Cassie Henderson came off the bench and split the posts to make it 3-6 to 0-8 with 15 minutes to go.
Kelly Mallon increased Armagh’s advantage but Cork answered via a Quirke free. Then, a flowing Cork move ended with Hallihan palming to the net with eight minutes left.
A rampant Armagh finished strongly. Bláithin Mackin’s two-pointer and Cassie Henderson’s white flag preceded Caoimhe McNally’s late goal to cement Armagh’s win and heap pressure on Cork ahead of travelling to Waterford.
Final score Armagh 4-10 Cork 1-9
Scorers for Armagh: A Mackin 3-2 (1-0 pen, 0-1f), C McNally 1-0, B Mackin (2pt), A McCoy, K Mallon, C Henderson 0-2 each.
Cork: L Hallihan 1-1, Á T O’Sullivan, K Quirke (2f) 0-3 each, E Cleary, G Murphy 0-1 each.
ARMAGH: B Mathers; A Donnelly, C McCambridge, C Towe; E Druse, L McConville (captain), G Ferguson; C O’Reilly, B Mackin; L Marsden, A McCoy, C Marley; A Mackin, C O’Hanlon, K Mallon. Subs: C McNally for C Marley (41), C Henderson for C O’Reilly (44), E Melanophy for L Marsden (58), E Cassidy for A McCoy (60).
CORK: S Murphy; M Duggan, S Kelly, D Kiniry; A Corcoran, S McGoldrick, R Corkery; M O’Callaghan, K Redmond; R Leahy, R O’Regan, E Cleary (captain); G Murphy, K Quirke, Á T O’Sullivan. Subs: L Hallihan for R O’Regan (ht), N O’Sullivan for G Murphy (50), A O’Mahony for M O’Callaghan (51), K O’Driscoll for A Corcoran (52).
Referee: Barry Redmond (Wexford).
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The inaugural Down Rally Cars & Coffee event proved to be a fantastic success as hundreds of motorsport enthusiasts, car owners, families and spectators gathered at The Boulevard, Banbridge for a morning celebrating all things automotive.
A key part of the event was raising funds for Slieve Croob Community First Responders, and organisers were delighted to announce that an impressive £693.60 was raised within just a few hours on the day. The amount raised exceeded expectations and demonstrated the generosity of those who attended and supported the cause.
Organised by Rathfriland Motor Club, the event brought together an impressive display of rally cars, performance vehicles, classic machinery and modern supercars, creating a vibrant atmosphere for visitors of all ages. Enthusiasts travelled from across Northern Ireland and beyond to showcase their vehicles and connect with fellow car enthusiasts over coffee and conversation.
Throughout the morning, attendees had the opportunity to view a diverse range of vehicles, from iconic rally cars and historic competition machines to some of the latest high-performance road cars. The event highlighted the passion and enthusiasm that exists within the local motoring community while providing a welcoming environment for families and visitors.
Members of Rathfriland Motor Club expressed their sincere thanks to everyone who donated, attended, displayed vehicles and helped make the gathering such a memorable occasion. Special thanks were also extended to The Boulevard Banbridge for hosting the event and supporting the local automotive community.
Malcolm Johnston, Chairman of Rathfriland Motor Club, said: "We are absolutely delighted with the success of the event and the fantastic sum of £693.60 raised for Slieve Croob Community First Responders. The support from exhibitors, visitors and volunteers was incredible, and it was great to see so many people come together to enjoy a shared passion for motorsport and cars while supporting a very worthwhile local cause.
"The atmosphere throughout the morning was superb, and it was particularly encouraging to see so many families and enthusiasts attending. On behalf of Rathfriland Motor Club, I would like to thank everyone who played a part in making the event such a success."
The cars and coffee meeting generated significant interest in future Cars & Coffee gatherings, with organisers already looking ahead to building on the momentum and bringing even more exciting automotive events to the area.
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The Desy Jennings Football Festival 2026 has wrapped up after a wonderful weekend of youth football, community spirit and family fun at Jennings Park in Newry. The event welcomed 96 teams and more than 1,200 players, coaches and supporters over the four days from 4 to 7 June.
Despite at times there being torrential rain of biblical proportions, hundreds of matches were played across multiple age groups, giving young players the chance to showcase their skills, build friendships and create lasting memories on and off the pitch. Despite the weather the energy on the pitch never dipped, with players continuing to give it their all throughout.
A standout feature of the festival is its commitment to honouring those who have made a lasting contribution to football and community life. This year's event featured 11 Memorial Cups, each named after individuals whose legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Organiser Marty Jennings said the festival means more than just football. "It is about bringing people together, creating opportunities for young people, celebrating our community and remembering those who have played such an important role in local football. Seeing nearly 100 teams and over 1,500 people enjoying the weekend is a testament to the hard work of everyone involved."
The organisers paid tribute to coaches and volunteers who work throughout the year to provide sporting opportunities for young people, with their commitment helping football to promote physical activity, confidence, teamwork and social inclusion.
The weekend closed with a Family Fun Day on Sunday, with families enjoying entertainment, activities, games and community stalls, ensuring there was something for all ages alongside the football.
Special thanks were extended to main sponsor Playr-Fit Teamwear, along with all volunteers, referees, first aid providers and community partners whose support helped make the event possible.
Planning for the 2027 festival is already under way, with organisers aiming to build on this year's success.
The Winners
Kevin Marron Memorial Cup: Windmill Stars
Oisin McGuinness Memorial: CupLisburn Rovers
Raymond Mullen Memorial Cup: Annagh United
John Doran Memorial: Cup: Glentoran
Artie Green Memorial Cup: Shelbourne
Marty Lynch Memorial Cup: Lisdrum FC
Gary Quinn Memorial Cup: Killingsworth FC, Newcastle UponTyne
Desy Jennings 2016 Plate: Newry City FC
Josephine Devlin Memorial Cup: Camlough Rovers
Shea Haughey Memorial Cup: Cliftonville
Desy Jennings Memorial Cup: Shelbourne
Pauline Jennings Memorial Cup: Warrenpoint Town
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