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Irish Hockey Trophy Semi-Final
Portadown 1's 2-3 Newry 1's AET
Newry continued to pull out all the stops with another win in this incredible season. Having already bagged the Linden cup on New Years Day and the league in February Newry 1's march on in their pursuit of a history making cup treble. There has been very little to shout about in the way of success in recent years for the Newry men which was shown when they won the Linden Cup for the first time in 30 years. However this season has brought about a real turn in fortunes as they have fought and ground out win after win which has lead to this point, where they are on the verge of a unprecedented treble.
Newry travelled to Portadown in the Irish Hockey Trophy on Tuesday evening for their semi final match. The sides had already met on three separate occasions so far this season, Newry coming out on top in two and drawing the other. The Belfast road men knew that it was going to be a unbelievably tough game to win to reach the final, as it turned out to be.
The game had everything, goals, cards, passion and skill which was brilliant for the spectators in attendance. Newry started like a house on fire with Portadown unable to get out of their own half in the opening exchanges defending a number of Newry short corners well. The home side tried to play themselves into the game and the possession evened out as the half wore on, however when Portadown thought they were getting back in it John Taylor fired home a low flick from a well worked short corner to give Newry a one goal lead. Both teams were giving it their all showing they were determined to make the final, fighting for every inch they could gain. Then came a mad few minutes when both sides were reduced to ten men as the umpires flashed harsh green and yellow cards to dampen the game just before half time.
The game wasn't dull for long and in the second half Portadown came right after Newry but they were unable to find a break through as the away side defended solidly. Still the teams fought with passion and determination but as Portadown pushed forward they started to leave gaps, Newry duly exploited this to go two up as golden oldie Richard Nummy slotted home after some good work from Kyle McCombe. A passing move which would not look out of place in the Premier League brought Newry so close to a third when their midfield and forward line linked up with a number of one twos to shred the Portadown defence but the final pass from McKnight to Nummy was slightly over hit and the chance went begging with an open goal at their mercy. David Andrews was next to half a great chance when he collected a cross from the left, dropped his shoulder to wrong foot the keeper but as he played the ball towards the net he it clipped the keepers heel and somehow stayed out.
When people were starting to think the game was over with only five minutes left on the clock, Portadown surged forward and got one back with a great reverse finish from the top of the D. With only seconds left in the game Portadown showed how much they wanted this win as they drove forward again and bundled the ball over the line with the last hit of the game to force extra time and send the team and fans into raptures.
Both teams had given it their all during the game and extra time was probably the last thing either wanted. With the silver goal rule in place Both teams pushed for the winner and Portadown looked more likely in the first period of extra time as they rattled the inside of the post after a great passing move then forced a short corner right on the half time whistle but could not finish. In the second period it was Newry's turn to press and with three minutes gone of the five Colin McKnight popped up on the right hand side of the D and as he drove across he set himself up for a reverse which flew past the helpless keeper and rattled into the net to send the visiting fans into hysterics.
This time Newry did hold out and scrambled of the line and into the cup final where they will play Bandon Hockey Club from Cork. Newry now have one final game this season to really finish off in style.
Team: R. Hanlon, J. Greer, N. McKnight, D. England, N. Davenport, C. McKnight, J. Taylor, C. Henning, R. Irwin, R. Nummy, K. McCombe, A. Gilmer, D. Andrews, A. Foster, J. Glass
They play their cup final on April 12th at 5pm in Belfield Dublin. A spectators bus will be leaving from the club on the day and for anyone wishing to watch the final can contact Jeremy Greer on 07706227391.
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Huge numbers of GAA fans from throughout county Armagh are expected at the first ever combined County Armagh GAA fun walk and annual open day organised by the County Board, which will allow supporters and local media to mingle with their inter-county heroes ahead of this year's championship games.
The fun run will raise much-needed funds to improve our games at county level in all codes. This great event will take place on 5th May 2014. Those who attended the open day last year were more than delighted with what was on offer. One fan summed up the success of last year's event with these words on the Armagh County Forum, '…….thanks to the Amagh County Board, Players and Management for the successful open night, a PR master-class, and what lovely bunch of lads on the senior teams.'
You can also play your part. If you would like to participate in the Fun Walk by signing up though the County Office administrator.armagh@gaa.ie or Tel: 028 3752 7278.
The county players and management will give generously of their time and their goodwill by signing autographs galore and fielding questions from a host of media reporters and fans eager to find out what the feeling in the camp is with the Cavan game imminent.
There really will be something for all the family with; tours of the entire Athletic ground's facilities, a quiz, penalty kick competitions, goodie bags, team photographs for autograph hunters, face painting, prize draws as well as an opportunity for the media to meet the senior county players and management. Armagh TV will record the highlights but as the saying goes, 'Nothing beats being there'.
For a small donation you can place your or a friend's name on our big screen and this will be displayed on our moving strap-line on our multi-media Big Screen for the rest of this year's senior county season. Please contact county office administrator.armagh@gaa.ie or Tel: 028 3752 7278.
The Armagh County Board look forward to seeing all at this year's open day & fun walk on the 5thth May 2014 from 11.00 a.m.
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Thomas Davis and Peace Forrest Ireland
Today members of Thomas Davis and a community driven initiative Peace Forrest Ireland took to our new playing grounds to plant a variety of trees. Peace Forrest Ireland are hoping to plant a Peace Forest stretching from The Donegal-Derry Londonderry border to The Louth-Armagh border. Native trees are carefully selected to suit the particular location. Ultimately they hope this will result in a continuous canopy of trees along the border of Ireland and Northern Ireland and today we had the pleasure to take part in this Cross Border event.
James Cumisky, Landscape Designer picked the trees native to our area and with a selection of volunteers the tree planting got underway. It was a cold and wet morning and we would like to thank everyone who participated. A few pictures of the event are below.
Senior Football / Peil Sinsearach
Senior training continues Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. Please contact Gerry O’Reilly if you 07857093676
Membership / Ballraíocht 2014
Club membership for 2014 is now due- Senior members £30, Underage members £10.00 .Cairde members are free from membership fees plus free from underage players subs which are needed to cover essential transports costs & insurance. Please see any committee member for registration forms. Underage players are asked to contribute £2 per week, Direct Debit members are exempt.
Strictly Come Dancing
Declan McGreevy is taking part in a Strictly Come Dancing event on 12th April in Bellinis. It's for several local charities including PIPS and the Hospice.
If you would like to sponsor Declan or attend the event please contact him for tickets.
£12 for a great nights entertainment - and it goes to a good cause.
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This Sunday the 6th of April will see Newry Wheelers hosting the Tour of the Mournes.
One of the oldest races the Tour of the Mournes is now in its 55th year and is regarded as an Ulster Classic.
The 72 mile route takes the riders from Newry to Newcastle via Warrenpoint and Kilkeel, after the fast start the first hills of the day come at Byransford before the peloton heads into Hilltown and then on to Kilcoo, Castlewellan, Moneyslane before tackling the penultimate and decisive climb at Rathfriland before the fast charge into Newry with only Shim hill to conquer before the sprint at the Test centre on the Rathfriland road.
Newry wheelers have a strong squad and will hope to improve on recent 2nd placings in the past few years from Sean Featherstone and Mark Mc Kinley to take the top spot and the Jim Traynor memorial trophy home.
Des Woods is in great form so far this season as is Jude Sands and Cathal Clarke. As are Juniors But home wins are hard to come by as the rest of the riders look to the promoting club to take up the riding so the Newry Wheelers will need to be on top of their game.
Newry Wheelers Line Up – Tour of the Mournes 2014
A1 Vet – Des Woods
A2 – Drew McKinley, Rory Farrell, Gareth McCullough
A3 – Barry Moaghan, Barry Convery, Declan Reid, Conor Curran, Cathal Clarke, Jude Sands, Gary Henning, James Mulligan,
Racing starts at 10.30a.m from Newry and will finish approx. 1.15/1.30 at the Mot test centre
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Newry Wheelers Alwynne Shannon took first place at the recent Womens & Masters combined Carn Classic Road Race in Maghera. The Rathfriland woman was first Newry Wheeler to take first place this season so far.
The race marked the 5th round of the Bling Bike Kit Ulster Women’s Road Race League with 12 women signed up the race and was a strong lineup of women.
The pace was quick from the off with the masters dictating the pace of the race with a few initial efforts to sprint off the front but they were quickly reeled in by the large group chasing behind.…
An unfortunate pile up caused 6 riders to drop out of the race, some were able to dust themselves off and get back into the race however 3 women sustained some injuries and were unable to continue.
The final climb into Maghera into a headwind made for a challenging finish however Alwynne made a strong burst, giving her first victory of the year.
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U12’s St John Bosco vs. St Bronagh’s
Sunday 30th March in St Colman’s College Sports Complex it was the Bosco v Rostrevor game.
For those parents and spectators this was a beautiful spring morning, a great setting with both teams getting into good pre season readiness and they were treated to a great display of underage football.
Next up for this band of warriors – an away game to Saval on Palm Sunday 13th April – will the Bosco men enter/exit in triumph? Why not come along and see for yourselves. Throw in, Saval at 11:00 a.m. – team meet at JT Carpets at 10:15 a.m.
St John Bosco Gaelic4Mothers
Michaela Downey attended the recent Bosco G4M&O,s mini indoor Blitz which was held in Barcroft Community Centre.
Michaela praised the ladies for the effort and commitment they have shown in the last 8 weeks and was quick to highlight the skill levels of the ladies many of whom have never played Gaelic until the set up of the Bosco G4M&O, s just 2 months ago.
After the 4 team blitz coach Mo Rooney presented the ladies with special medals and thanked the team for the fabulous effort they have all put in over the past weeks. Mo went on to say that he is looking forward to what should be a fun packed season for the team and highlighted the abilities of the ladies especially those who have never played Gaelic in the past.
Bosco G4M&O, s training continues every Thursday night from 7-8pm in the Barcroft Community Centre then Mo will be taking his ladies outdoors for training at the same time and night with venue TBC. New members are welcome at any time just contact Mo at boscomo@btinternet.com or mobile on 07544442519.
Newry City Marathon
It’s coming to that time of the year again, time to get the runners and lycra out and get into training. The club has been asked again to provide marshals for the ever popular Newry City Marathon.
With a new route planned for this year – to Warrenpoint and back all marshals will have to undergo training in order to ensure all H&S aspects are covered.
Can all members who are interested in assisting please contact Paul McCormack.
Maracycle Challenge
The 2014 Maracycle is the 30th anniversary of this great cross border event. The club is investigating the possibility of entering a team. Interested then please let John Tumilty know. The dates
Saturday 28 June 2014 Belfast – Newry – Dublin
Sunday 29 June 2014 Dublin – Newry – Belfast
Heart Health Checks
The club’s annual Heart Health Checks for players (Under 14+) has been organised for TUESDAY 8TH APRIL in the Social Club. This is a very important screening test for players - if you need more information please contact Paul O’Connor
Irish News schools competition
Don’t forget we’re continuing our partnership and supporting our local Primary Schools so please cut out the tokens from the Irish News and leave them with John in the club.
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Around a Pound Sponsored rider Michael Dunlop has his sights set on making TT history by becoming the first rider to win six races in a week. His four victories in 2013 equalled fellow countryman Phillip McCallen's 1996 record and is one less than Ian Hutchinson’s unique 2010 campaign.
He will ride a new McAdoo Racing ER-6 Kawasaki machine and starts from number 6 on the grid.
Speaking about the news Michael commented: “It is fair to say that I haven’t really given the Lightweight Race my full attention in the past, but this year we are going all out to win this race and try and make it six wins from six starts. It’s a massive target, but that is what we go racing for and McAdoo Racing has gone all out on building me a race-winning bike. I’m looking forward to the challenge and seeing if we can put one over the established riders and teams in this class.”
Dunlop will not have it all his own way however. Ryan Farquhar and James Hillier, the 2012 and 2013 Lightweight race winners, return to a grid that boasts an excellent blend of youth and experience, with many of the TT’s established guard being pitched against the sport’s up and coming talent.
Now entering its third year, the Bike Nation Lightweight TT Race promises to be the best yet at the 2014 Isle of Man TT Races fuelled by Monster Energy, not only numerically but also in quality with many of the leading TT riders competing in the three lap race.
Gerard Rice of Around A Pound said "We are delighted to be associated with Michael and always delighted to see him win. We are one of his earliest personal sponsors having sponsored him since 2007. Four wins last year was brilliant"
Gerard who follows the racing is looking forward to the upcoming season, especially heading over to the Isle of Man. Unfortunately Michael isn't riding in the Tandragee 100 this year but should feature at Cookstown, The North West, Ulster Grand Prix and of course the Isle of Man TT. Around a Pound also sponsor the Tandragee 100.
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Senior News
Training Continues every Tuesday in the abbey at 7:30pm (£2). Training is also on Thursday nights on the pitch at 7:30pm. Contact Paddy or Jake if any problems.
Congratulations to Fiachra Bradley, Mick Garvey, Ryan Lundy and Aidan Nutley on securing league status with Armagh hurlers, Well done to Joe O'Connor and the Armagh minor hurlers on their recent victory, commiserations also to Fionnán Burns on Armagh under 21 footballers defeat.
Under Age News
Under 12s, 14s, 16s: training continues every Monday night on our own pitch and on Wednesday night from 6:30pm to 8pm.
Under 14s have their first game this coming Monday v Derrynoose, also Congratulations to all the under 14s who took part in the feile last week, and they look forward now to the Feile Shield v Derrynoose next weekend at 3pm in the athletic grounds
Under 16s also have a game next Friday night, details to be announced.
Under 6's: Under 6 training takes place on Saturdays in Cloughreagh Community centre at 11am. This is a joint venture with Meabh O'Neills. Cost for the hall is £1. All new players are very welcome to join.
Loughgiel Trip:
A trip has been arranged for all underage players from under 8-16 next Sunday the 13th April. The trip to Loughgiel shamrocks will involve a look around their facilities and pitches etc and then over to Scullion hurls to see how the art of Hurley making is carried out. The lads will then have a chance to buy sticks and accessories. At the moment we have a game arranged for under 14/15 players. Cost will be £10 for the trip and we are looking forward to having another great day up there like we had 2years ago.
Fundraising
Monthly Draw:
Once again this year we will be running our £100 a month draw, we encourage as many people as possible to help us out by purchasing a ticket, costing £20.00 which enters you in to the draw monthly, We'd like to thank the people that generously supported us last year, and to those who have bought a ticket for this year. Tickets are available from any senior player or committee member.
Direct Debit:
The club has currently a direct debit set up, where parents, members and supporters of the club, pay £10.00 monthly. Anyone interested in setting this up or who wants more information, Contact Laurence Bradley.
Annual Cycle:
The club is currently in the process of organising the annual cycle, details which should be announced within the next few weeks.
Sponsorship signs
Signs around the pitch are being renewed, anyone who would like their sign renewed or any new business who would like to sponsor us, contact Mick Bra.
Registration
Club Membership is now over-due for all playing and non-playing members, The rates are as follows: Adult membership is £20.00, Senior Membership is £50 (£30 for insurance) and Juvenile membership is £20 per child and £15.00 for every child after that, we hope to see you all there!
Merchandise
The Club currently has a selection of Helmets available at a discounted price, anyone interested in purchasing one or would like more information, contact Paul Elshaw.
Congratulations
Best wishes to newly married couple Fearghal and Aine Lewis. Also Craobh Rua would like to congratulate all the young people from our Club and Parish, who received the Sacrament of Confirmation last weekend
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The revamped Tour of the Mournes took place on Sunday past promoted by Newry Wheelers midst bright sunshine and heavy showers writes Marian Lamb.
The longer 72 mile route caused a few of the riders to demand the return of the 'traditional route' for 2015 as the leg sapping roads and high pace meant that riders had to work hard to stay in play.
A break went early on and as predicted Newry Wheelers Jude Sands was one of the driving forces, anxious to bring the coveted trophy back to the Club. Along with him was another Newry hopeful, sixteen year old Junior, Cathal Clarke, who showed today how he has grown in strength and race tactics. Sean McIntyre of Orchard CC who must have been feeling tired from his efforts in yesterday's John Beggs was also in the break with Curran's David Hamilton. Along with them were Sean Loughran (Cuchulainn CC), Barry Monaghan (Newry Wheelers) and another Junior, Ryan Reilly from Foyle CC.
The group kept up a blistering pace and opened a gap of over a minute back to the chasing group which was powered by riders such as Mark Kane (Northern Dave Kane) and Jason Henry (U/A). Newry Wheelers had this covered however with Des Woods, Mark McKinley and Gareth McCullough all in there watching and making sure that no potential threats were taken up to the break. The strong Nicholas Roche Performance Team pairing of Mark Downey, another winner yesterday, and Aaron Swan were always a danger.
The road out of Kilkoo heading for Castlewellan included some long steep drags but there was a strong tailwind and it was here that Drew McKinley and Gareth McCullough seized their chance. Having already broken from the main bunch which had splintered by this stage they powered up the climbs eventually closing the gap to the leaders. This was some ride by both men.
The excitement was already building and the home club were more and more hopeful of a Newry win with such a dominant presence in the break.Word was coming in that three riders, McKinley, Reilly and Hamilton had broken free of the leaders and were out on their own increasing the gap all the time.
As the riders came around the roundabout heading into the final straight tension was building at the line. Three riders appeared and it was heads down for the sprint. Reilly was out in front and it was a gamble if he could hold it to the line. But his gamble paid off as the ecstatic teenager powered over the line to take the win.
It was almost two minutes later before the remnants of the original break appeared. First in was Newry duo Gareth McCullough and Jude Sands followed by Derek Cunningham (Bikeworx) and Des Woods of Newry.
A few seconds later McIntyre soloed home to take points for eighth place. The final two places in this race went to Jason Henry who took the bunch sprint from Mark Downey..
This was an excellent promotion by Newry Wheelers and much of the organisation lay with Drew McKinley who ensured that everything was in place. The roads were well marked and both warning and distance signage was in place. Afterwards Newry Wheelers had their usual fantastic spread of food in the Newry Sports Arena and many thanks to all those who supplied the food and catered for everyone
Thanks are also due to both the ambulance crew and the race doctor. It is unfortunate that their services were required today. Two riders were taken to hospital for a check up as a precaution following a crash. There were a large number of civilian motorbike marshalls covering the race and their help is much appreciated. Cycling Ulster would like to wish those involved in the crash a speedy recovery.
Tour of the Mournes 2014 Results.
Ryan Reilly (Foyle CC)
David Hamilton (Curran Racing)
Drew McKinley (Newry Wheelers)
Gareth McCullough (Newry Wheelers)
Jude Sands (Newry Wheelers)
Derek Cunningham (Team Bike Worx)
Des Woods (Newry Wheelers)
Sean McIntyre (Orchard CC)
Jason Henry (Unattached)
Mark Downey (Newry Wheelers)
Report by Marian Lamb, Cycling Ulster
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