Community and GAA notes Nov 9th
January 05, 2025
Timoleague Strike Gold Once Again
All in Timoleague and especially the dedicated local Tidy Towns committee were in celebratory mood on Friday last when Timoleague retained their gold medal and increased their marks significantly on last year. It was an early start for Chairperson, Marian O’Callaghan, accompanied by fellow committee members, Marie Mc Carthy and Mary Crowley who made the journey to Croke Park for the national awards ceremony. Excitement was at fever pitch as the medal winners were announced. The bronze medal winners were listed first and then the silver winners. There was no mention of Timoleague on those two lists. Either we were gone off the radar or we were on the gold medal list. A shout of jubilation that could be heard back in Timoleague reverberated around the auditorium as Timoleague was listed as a gold medal winner for Cork West. That was all our three worthy representatives wanted confirmed. A mixture of joy, satisfaction and relief, all rolled into one best described the emotions experienced on Friday morning last at Croke Park.
Now that the gold medal was in the bag, a closer look at the finer details revealed that Timoleague were awarded a record 383 marks – an increase of 11 on last year’s total. Ballincollig, who won the overall title of Ireland’s tidiest town received 386 marks. When put in context, Timoleague are just three marks behind – a phenomenal achievement. Timoleague also received a Highly Commended Award, being awarded a county 2nd prize, sandwiched in between Rosscarbery (384) and Clonakilty (381) – we sure are in good company!
The travellers returned to the village at 8pm to an enthusiastic reception from Tidy Towns representatives and dedicated local volunteers. All were at pains to stress that this achievement would not have been possible without the fantastic local community involvement. This award has been many years in the making and former officers and committee members, some sadly no longer with us were fondly remembered for their contribution. No more needs to be said except that a final push is needed to reach the summit – onwards and upwards for the coming year. Congratulations to all involved on a job well done.
County Success
Ibane Gaels secured an historic Division 1 county hurling final win last Saturday evening. St. Colemans from Cloyne/Russell Rovers were the opposition in Bishopstown 4G astroturf. After a shaky start for Ibane, which included a number of wides, a great run from Dara Walsh resulted in a well taken goal from Donagh Flynn. The goal settled Ibane and allowed midfielders Charlie Twomey and Kevin Hennessy get on the ball, with both going on to have superb games. With Conrad Murphy, Mike Collins, Joe Crowley and Adam Barry solid in the backline, our forwards came more into the game. Flynn and Jack Twomey took their scores well to build up a 5 point half time lead. An early second half run from Flynn, where he expertly drew his man, fed Luke Murphy, and he instinctively doubled on the ball to billow the net. Murphy and Flynn continued to dominate the scoring, thanks in no small part to James Crowley (now operating on the 40) and the hard- working Dara Walsh. A final score of 2-18 to 1-14 led to jubilant scenes and the victorious captain, Dan Moloney, graciously accepting the cup. After a number of years of hard work from the coaches and players, it was fitting culmination for a successful 2024 with the divisional and league titles already secured.
Congratulations to the management of Barry Harte, Ross Twomey, Bertie Smith, Vincent O’Donovan, Tony Crowley, Ciaran Harte, Christy Crowley, Jack Lawton & Eamon Barry. Team; Sean Flynn, Conrad Murphy, Dermot Dineen, Dan Moloney, Mike Collins, Joe Crowley, Adam Barry, Kevin Hennessy, Charlie Twomey, Jack Twomey, Aaron Fleming, Donagh Flynn, Luke Murphy, James Crowley and Dara Walsh. Subs; Dara Murphy, Robert Hennessy, Ben Dwyer, Jamie Collins, Riley O' Donovan, Matthew Power, Dylan Kelly, Jack Henchion, Cathal Hennessy and Andrew Lovell.
Underage Season
The Argideen Rangers underage season finished on a high with a carnival like atmosphere in Lady's Well last Sunday. Cork senior hurlers, Shane Kingston and Shane Barrett (fresh from his All-Star award and announcement of vice-captaincy of the Cork team) were generous with their time and words of support to a captive audience. The guest stars fielded questions, signed autographs and took part in the many matches taking place from the Under 6 to under 12 teams.
Players and management from the victorious Ibane Gaels minor group County Champions were on hand with their three trophies won this year. Members of the Tidy Towns Committee were also lending their support to the day and were highly commended for their Gold Medal national win. A large team of parents and club members were on hand to serve up a selection of food from the barbeque and home baking.
The numerous GAA coaches deserve high praise for volunteering with their time and expertise along with the parents who supported the teams and travelled the county throughout the season. Argideen Abú for 2025!
50th Celebrations
Last week we made mention of the sad closure of Ummer Smoked Products at Inchybridge after 50 years in business. This week we are glad to write of Charlie Madden’s Bar celebrating 50 years of trade at Mill Street. The late Charlie Madden and his wife Tessie purchased the well- established licensed premises from the late Maureen O’Driscoll and opened for business on Friday, November 8th. 1974. The bar has seen many changes since then and has been enhanced greatly over the years. Food is now an important part of the business and both Sheila and Simon are to be congratulated as it goes from strength to strength. An open invitation is extended to all to come along on Friday night next, Nov. 8th. for a trip down memory lane, with music, food, drinks and lots of fun. Celebrations begin at 9pm.
GAA Lotto Draw
There was no winner of the Argideen Rangers GAA club lotto jackpot of €10,700 last Sunday night at Charlie Madden's Bar. The numbers drawn were 5, 11, 13 and 26. Lucky dip prize winners included: Terry and Ann O' Sullivan, Ardgehane; Pauline Smith, Cregane; Marcel Chramosil c/o Cathal Dineen; Aidan Conrecode, Australia and Tim & Noreen Collins, Clonakilty.
Next week’s draw will take place at Monk's Lane onSunday night, November 10th at 9pm when the jackpot on offer will be €10,850. Tickets at €2 each or 3 for €5 can be bought at Foley’s Centra, Pad Joe’s Bar, Monk’s Lane, Charlie Madden’s Bar, The Brewery Bar or from any club officer. Supporters of the draw are also asked to avail of modern technology by using the club’s on-line link by visiting www.smartlotto.ie where one can avail of the user-friendly website. There is also a link to this site on the club website.
Graveyard Rosaries
Rosaries recited at the local graveyards will continue this Sunday, Nov. 10th. After the 11.30am mass in Timoleague, the rosary will be said at the graves of the clergy in the church grounds. In the afternoon, prayers will be said at Clogagh Cemetery at 2.30pm and at Kilmalooda at 2.30pm.