Community and GAA notes Nov 16th

Farmers Outing

Thirty people gathered at the car-park beside Timoleague Abbey recently for the annual Timoleague Farmers Outing. This event is eagerly looked forward to each year and this occasion was no exception. Having boarded the bus, they headed for Midleton. On arrival they made there way to Irish Distillers where they were met by Farran native, Catherine Condon. Catherine occupies a senior position in the distilling process at the plant and was delighted to meet and greet many neighbours and friends from home. Having availed of a magnificent tour of the distillery and checking the end product – purely as a quality control measure, it was then on to Dripsey for the next leg of the journey. A visit to view John Seily’s vintage David Brown collection was of great interest to all and seeing some of the exhibits brought back many happy memories to those who once owned a David Brown. The next port of call was Mai Fitz’s Bar and Restaurant, Lissarda. After a hearty meal which was thoroughly enjoyed by all, it was then back to base at Timoleague where the festivities continued with music and song at Charlie Madden’s Bar. Such was the success of the day that all have put their name down and booked for next year’s trip, as of yet, destination unknown!

Expansion of Facilities

Argideen Rangers GAA club has over many years developed and enhanced their magnificent facilities at Our Lady’s Well Sports Complex. Originally bought and developed by Timoleague Community Association and officially opened in 1980 by Liam O’Murchu of RTE, the pitch and dressing rooms have undergone many changes over the years and the addition of an all weather astro turf facility has been a major boost. The steady increase in active participation by local sports people has given rise to a shortage of time slots for training especially at peak times during the season. Not only are the adult members of Argideen Rangers and the under age of Timoleague GAA using the facilities but the Ibane players from under 13 to under 21 and The Ibane ladies, both underage and adult, in addition to camogie players are all availing of the facilities. On many evenings the vast number of players, both male and female seen training at the complex is a joy to behold.

The need for a second pitch has long been on the radar of the club. Discussions with a local landowner have now concluded. At a largely attended meeting of members of Argideen Rangers at Timoleague Community Hall recently, the sub-committee appointed by the club to engage with the landowner gave a detailed presentation of the negotiations to date and plans going forward for the acquisition of ground for a second pitch. A very informative discussion took place and it was unanimously agreed by all present that the final phase of the plan should proceed. This was welcomed news to all present and a seal of approval by both parties was roundly endorsed at the meeting.

Local Recognition

We in Timoleague have been fortunate that many of our local stars have received recognition by being selected by Cork management committees for various teams over the years from minor to senior and all grades in between. Others have been selected on development squads and now local young girls have joined the list being selected on camogie and ladies football panels. Now comes the news that local club mentors are to serve on the management committees of the Cork minor football and hurling teams for 2025. Paul Holland, a former Argideen player and coach has been appointed as performance coach on Keith Ricken’s Cork minor football management team. Diarmuid Corcoran, who has been coach of Argideen Rangers premier junior hurlers for the past few years has been announced as one of the selectors in Fergal Mc Cormack’s Cork minor hurling management team. Both Paul and Diarmuid are to be congratulated on their elevation and carry the best wishes of all at Argideen for the season ahead.

GAA Lottery

There was no winner of the Argideen Rangers GAA club lotto jackpot of €10,850 last Sunday night at Monk's Lane. The numbers drawn were 21, 23, 25 and 26. Lucky dip prize winners included:Mary Ann Coughlan, Garrettstown; Eileen Buttimer, Chapel Ave; Mary McCarthy, Bandon; Aidan Conrecode, Australia and Iris & Imelda McSweeney, Chapel Ave.

Next week’s draw will take place at The Brewery Bar on Sunday night, November 17th at 9pm when the jackpot on offer will be €11,000. 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.

GAA action

The Ibane Minor footballers finished their football season on a high with a 3-11 to 2-10 win over Bandon in the P2 Challenge Cup final. The Junior C hurlers are scheduled to play Doheney’s in the opening round of the championship. The game under lights is on in Dunmanway on Friday 15th at 8pm with a double check before travelling advised.

Race Night

Argideen Rangers will hold their annual race night on Saturday, November 23^rd at Charlie Madden’s Bar. This is the club’s major fundraising fixture and your support as always is most appreciated.

Memorial Service

Timoleague parish memorial service will take place at Clogagh church on Sunday next, November 17^th at 7pm. All those with parish connections who passed away during the year will be remembered at this service of remembrance. Timoleague Parish Council extends an open invitation to all to attend and join with them later for a cuppa and a chat at the hall.