Sligo Sport Magazine

may 2016, ISSUE 4, VOLUME 2

Deal with pressure the Leicester City way

Sligo Camino Way “Arise and go now...”

Sligo swimmers @ S.W.M.L in Omagh

Darts Premier League Finals @ The Sally Gardens

Sligo's U12s Rugby Team win their Connacht blitz

Kieran Finn targets National Clay Pigeon Shoot record

Coola Fall Short in School Final

Sligo Yacht Club Western Championships

Irish Cross Country NPS Round 1 @ Union Wood

All You Need to Know About The Tyre

Sligo Martial Arts Academy Updates

• Running • Cycling • Hill Walking • Kayaking • Basketball • Archery • Mountain Biking • Equine Events • Boxing • Hiking • Rallying • Karate • Surfing • Fishing • Shooting • Handball • Sailing • Workouts • Tennis • Horse Racing • Canine Agility • and much more!

3

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

BRAY 2-0 COOLA POST PRIMARY SCHOOL, SLIGO

St Patricks and Easter Monday Salmon competitions

Jose Salmon (16, 24)

Congratulations to George Conway and Noel Burns who won the St Patricks and Easter Monday Salmon competitions last Sunday with 9lb3oz salmon. The competitions had run on for a while but now they are won roll on the mayfly.

Sligo City Boxing Club

I

t was a historic day for Bray’s Dublin Oak Academy as Joaquin Margain lifted the First Year ‘B’ Boys Cup following a solid performance against Connacht Champions Coola Post Primary School from Riverstown.

A brace of goals by Jose Salmon in the opening half was enough to see John McShane’s side reach a momentous occasion for the School.

The Bray boys were made up of students from Mexico, Spain, Italy and Chile and they certainly turned on the style at City Calling Stadium, Longford Town FC on Wednesday last (April 27).

The physical superiority of Dublin Oak was evident early on but the talented Johnny Kenny and Conor Healy worked tirelessly throughout the game to keep the Sligo side in

contention.

Bray’s Salmon sliced through Coola’s back four on the quarter mark to slot past Kearns from close range for the opening goal of the game.

Dublin Oak doubled their advantage eight minutes later as Jose Salmon was again on target.

Diego Aldape was denied a Bray hat-trick three minutes from halftime as his rocket smashed off the Coola crossbar.

The second half was far more even and the Coola lads battled hard to get back into this contest. Captain Ciaran McKeon was a busy man trying to get to grips with the Bray onslaught as Conor Kearns did well to keep the deficit to two.

Coola’s Flynn, Kenny and Healy were magnificent for Kevin McCarthy’s side but the Bray

defense were adamant to keep a clean sheet for netminder Ivan Mourino.

Bray still have a League semi-final to fulfil so their Cup celebrations will be put on the backburner until their season is completed.

DUBLIN OAK ACADEMY, BRAY: Ivan Mourino, Leonardo Davila, Federico Madrigal, Francisco Vega, Maurice Del Gado, Joaquin Margain (Captain), Daniel Madero, Ignacio Escudero, Jose Salmon, Diego Aldape, Alejandr0 Torreagrosa SUBS: Fabian Munoz for Madero (55), Juan Pablo Garza for Salmon (28), Juan Carlos Villarreal for Madrigal (49), Pablo Barreda, Diego Vives for Escudero (59), Sebastian Murrillo for Torreagrosa (53), Carlos Hernandez for Aldape (53) TEACHER: John McShane COOLA POST PRIMARY SCHOOL, SLIGO: Conor Kearns,Brian O’Connor, Aaron McKenna, Paul Mahon, Ciaran McKeon (Captain), Jason McGoldrick, Luke Kennedy, Lee Deignan, Johnny Kenny, Conor Healy, Thomas Flynn.

SUBS: James Keegan, Gareth Keville, Diarmuid Gilmartin for O’Boyle (59), Daniel Murphy for Flynn (40), Conor O’Boyle for Kennedy (28), Oran McKenna, Niall Wheleman, James Keegan (GK) EXTENDED SQUAD: Aaron Mulvey, Jamie Donovan, Seán Gilmartin, Seán Mullen, Alex Hamilton, Ryan Sheridan TEACHER: Kevin McCarthy PRINCIPAL: Damien McGoldrick REFEREE: George Burke (Midlands)

Managing Director/Editor: Seamus Casey seamus@sligonow.ie Design: Stephen Finney steve@sligonow.ie

Sales: Alan Gaffney alan@sligosport.ie Richie Bradley richie@sligosport.ie Lisa Gilmartin lisa@sligosport.ie Cover Photo: Patrick Regan

Editorial: Kate Winter Eamon O’Neill John Graham Cian Love Patrick McCarry

Member Patrick Myers is National Champion, pictured here with his club coaches. Great Result for the new club supported by Sligo East City Community Sports Hub initiative.

Carrowmore Archer hosting a SIFA only, official 18x2 rounds SBG, Sunday 15th May 2016 The shooting grounds will open at 9.00am on the day of the shoot Registration from 9.30am to 10.30am Shoot will commence with all Archers at their allocated starting targets at 11.00am Lunch will be at 1.00pm so shooting will cease on the Course at that time, Re-Start at 2.30pm from target stopped at for lunch Estimated event finish

Photography: Jordan Cummins Patrick Regan jumpingthegun.com outdoorfitnesssligo.com Cian Love Sportsfile

time 5pm RED pegs in the morning Yellow pegs in the afternoon Scores—will not count if this rule is broke Entry charge: Adults 10 with Juniors and Cubs 5 Toilet facilities provided There will not be a raffle SIFA Membership Cards will be required at Registration in order to Shoot and the SIFA Registration Slip must be handed in at Registration

Published by: IBS Publications Limited Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo F91 NX0T Tel/Fax: 071-9154538 Web: www.sligosport.ie Email: info@sligosport.ie

The information in Sligo Sport is carefully researched and believed to be accurate, but the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors or omissions. Statements or opinions expressed herein are not necessary those of the editor or publisher. Advertisements within the publication are not endorsed by the publisher. Neither are any claims made within the advertisements. Before consuming any products mentioned in the publication readers are advised to consult with their general practitioner or equivalent professional for opinion or advice.

4

SLIGO TRIATHLON CLUB HOSTED THEIR FIRST NATIONAL SERIES EVENT OF THE YEAR

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

Sligo Mugendo

PHOTOS BY SEAN CARLETON

Congratulations to Michael Whelan and Niall mc Dermott out of Sligo Mugendo. Both are full contact Irish champions 2016

S

ligo Triathlon Club hosted their first National Series event of the year with their pool based sprint. It was a capacity quality field for the event & with glorious weather it made for a great days racing.

A great day for Westport Con Doherty and Alan O’Reilly coming in first and second in the main mens race, Kieran Jackson from Waterford coming in third. In the main womens race the winner was Helen Foley with Caron Ryan in

Second & Johanne Flanagahn in third. There was some success for Sligo Triathlon club with members Eamonn Mcandrew winning his age group & Elaine Garrett winning the Ladies Super Sprint Event.

Ballinacarrow boxing club

Congratulations to Dean Clancy fighting out of Pictured here after winning A boy 4 national title.

• 25 metre swimming pool • Childrens Pool • Steam room • Gymnasium (newly refurbished with up to date equipment) Astro Turf Pitches • Sports Hall

Classes at the centre include aqua aerobics, children and adult swimming lessons *Morning Lane Swim Session *Fun float sessions *Senior citizens only hour *Summer Camps (Multi Activity) *Childrens Birthday Parties Pay as you go option or monthly/yearly membership, gift vouchers available

Cleveragh, Sligo 071 9160539 • email: regsport@gmail.com • Find us on facebook - Sligo SportsComplex

6

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

IT SLIGO HONOURS STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

T Sligo golfer and Sports Scholarship student receives the overall Personalty of the Year Award (Male) from Professor Vincent Cunnane (President IT Sligo) and Camlla Kerins (Retail Manager AIB Sligo

T

he student achievements of IT Sligo’s Clubs and Societies were honoured at a special awards ceremony in the Best Western South Hotel in Sligo last Thursday.

Student representatives from the Institute’s 70 clubs and societies gathered for a gala evening, which was organised in association with AIB. Each year, the awards honour the outstanding achievements of students through their activities

with clubs and societies.

IT Sligo sports scholarship student, Declan Reidy, was named male Personality of the Year for his golfing exploits over the last 12 months, which saw him secure a prestigious Royal & Ancient golfing scholarship, as well as reach the matchplay stages of this year’s West of Ireland Amateur Golf Championship at Rosses Point. The final year Business with Marketing student is also finished 4th in the R&A sports scholars tour-

nament at the prestigious St Andrew’s course – an event which also carries world ranking points.

Newport’s Sophie Knox, a final year Mechatronics student, collected the women’s personality award for her exploits with the Institute’s badminton club. Sophie is Chair of the Institute’s badminton club and is also team captain, guiding IT Sligo to a runners-up spot in the recent intervarsities competition.

The High Achievement awards in sport (male and female) went to World Champion kickboxer Dessie Leonard and soccer player Rachel Kearns, a member of the IT Sligo women’s soccer team which reached the final of the recent Intervarsities Cup. Both students are current IT Sligo Sports Scholarship recipients.

Watersport featured prominently on the night too, with the surfing team’s Intervarsities success seeing them pick up the Club of Year accolade, while the men’s basketballers recent All-Ire-

land triumph saw them take home the Team of the Year prize.

The IT Sligo choir also hit the right notes, as it was named Society of the year. The choir which was set up last September, comprises students and staff members, and has proven to be a big hit. It played a central role in the inaugural Sligo Sings Concert at the Hawk’s Well Theatre last November, and the Institute’s 1916 commemoration ceremonies in March.

In addition to the main awards, each club and society nominated as the Personality of the Year the student who contributed or achieved most through that club. The list or recipients is below.

Congratulating all the award recipients, Professor Vincent Cunnane, President of IT Sligo said: “The role of Clubs and Societies has never been more central to IT Sligo’s ambition to produce rounded graduates of the highest calibre. You are leaving behind a great legacy to those students

who are following behind you.”

Special guests on the night included Mayo senior gaelic football captain, and former Sigerson Cup winner with the Institute, Keith Higgins, who presented the Institute’s hurlers with their Fergal Maher Cup winners medals.

Irish women’s Soccer International Emma Hansberry, who graduated from IT Sligo last October, was among the invited guests.

Main Award Winners Club of the Year – IT Sligo Surf Club; Society of the Year – IT Sligo Choir; Highest Achieving Sports Person of the Year (Male) – Dessie Leonard; Highest Achieving Sports Person of the Year (Female) – Rachel Kearns; Personality of the Year (Male) – Declan Reidy; Personality of the Year (Female) – Sophie Knox; Team of the Year – Men’s Basketballers.

SLIGO'S U12S RUGBY TEAM WIN THEIR CONNACHT BLITZ Held in Ballina earlier. The future is bright for Sligo Rugby. Well done boys!

Dessie Leonard winning double gold at the national kickboxing finals.

SPORT GUARDS, BITE GUARDS & BLEACHING TRAYS ADA provides a range of sports and mouth guards and other retainers with our easy to use self impression kits.

Mouth guards, which are now mandatory for GAA players, can be bought over the counter but these are not recommended by dentists or us at ADA dental laboratory due to their insufficient protection. Proper sports guards are custom made to the dental impression taken from the player and guarantee a secure fit.

Advanced Dental Aesthetics • 28/29 Castle Street, Sligo F91 E820 • Tel: 087-4558741 • www.adadentallab.ie • info@adadentallab.ie

7

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

Membership Rates starting from €130 for 3 Months, that’s less than €44 a Month

Complimentary Swimming Lessons for all our Members

Telephone: 071-9161053 - Email: leisure@leehotels.com

Kennedy

Picture Framing For all your framing needs.

Specializing in Sports Jerseys, Medal Cases, Personalized Gifts for all Occasions.

Marble Arch Caves are one of Europes finest showcaves allowing visitors to explore a fasinating natural underground world of rivers, winding passages and lofty chambers both by boat and on foot.

The Caves are open daily at 10.00am from mid/late March to September. The last tour of the day is at 4.30pm (5.00pm in July/August). It is advisable to telephone prior to your visit to ensure that you can be accommodated and to check the availability of guided tours as the caves can be effected by heavy rain.

Education packages are available for school children and for those interested in lifelong learning. An events programme is delivered throughout the year. All other sites in the wider Geopark are open all year round.

Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark 43 Marlbank Road, Legnabrocky Florencecourt, Co.Fermanagh N.Ireland, BT92 1EW Tel: +44(0)28 6634 8855 E-mail: mac@fermanagh.gov.uk Web: www.marblearchcavesgeopark.com

Circular Road, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo Tel: 071-9120941 Mob: 087-2202253

8

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

SLIGO RFCS U18.5 WIN THE CONNACHT LEAGUE 2016

F

or the second year running Sligo RFCs U18.5 squad have been succesful in winning the Connacht League. It has been evident that Sligo RFC’s Youth Section has been producing some very stellar players and results in the last few seasons.

On Saturday Sligo’s 1st XVs AIL team beat Leinster Junior League Champions Enniscorthy with no fewer than 5 players from the current and last season U18.5 squad. Not to mention 3 players starting on the Irish U20’s team in recent months.

This Sunday at the neutral ground in Castlebar, Sligo U18.5s

faced Connemara RFC’s All Blacks. Sligo had reached the final by beating a strong Buccaneers outfit last weekend by 1 point in a hard fought match in Hamilton Park. That match unfortunately left captain Ross Hickey injured with a torn hamstring.

On Sunday a strong wind blowing along the pitch was to be a major factor in the final match of the season.

Connemara kicked of at the whistle and for the most part of the first half, playing down wind, pressured Sligo and kept them in their own half. Sligo defended really well and kept their heads

RUGBY COACHING

AIRE approved Est 1997

cool with some solid defensive kicking, but never really managed to bring the game into the Connemara half. The pressure finally yielded a try for Connemara after yet another line-out and a pursuing maul from the Sligo 5 meter line. The conversion was good and with a few minutes to go in the first half connemara was leading 7 – 0. At the restart Connemara collected the ball, but a few phases later conceded a penalty that Sligo quickly took and through a great break by Sean Wynne where he off loaded to Aiden Cummins that carried the ball another 5 meters until Shane Flanagan,

coming off his wing, cut back across the way of play and at a brilliant timed pass by Cummins got the ball, bursting through a gap in the Connemara defence and scored under the posts. 1/2 time score was 7 all.

At the start of the second half Sligo pressured hard and on a couple of occasion was very close to scoring their second try, but fierce defence by Connemara held Sligo at bay.

Halfway through the 2nd half Sligo got a penalty at a difficult angle to the posts, but narrowly missed. Not long after Connemara conceded another penalty, on their own 22 in front of the posts and the Sligo went 10-7 ahead.

It was Connemara that were to score the next and last try of the match after some sloppy line speed on defence from Sligo that allowed the Connemara forwards to push towards the try line. After a great deal of possession they scored and converted the try going up 1410. the next phase of play was all Sligo and yet again Connemara conceded a penalty with 10 mins to go that Sligo’s 10, Niall Gray, took full advantage of.

Sligo was now only 1 point behind and although they had most of the play it was a breakout by the brilliant Connemara outhalf that nearly

cost Sligo the match for sure and only a lack of discipline by Connemara got Sligo off the hook via a penalty awarded to them close to the Sligo try line.

With under 2 mins of play left Sligo kicked to touch, won the line out and went through several phases, including a blocked attempt at a drop goal that somehow Sligo retained and within another couple of plays Connemara’s achilles heel, lack of discipline at the breakdown, yield Sligo a kickable penalty 30 meters from goal.

The pressure on the Sligo kicker was immense, but Niall Gray kept a cool head and struck a sweet ball that sailed over for the 3 points and a win to Sligo RFC 16-14 in the final act of the game.

Sligo U18.5 team: Sean Wynne, Sean McVeigh, Calum McGrath, Paul Kelly, Cian Hough, Jakub Wojtkowicz, Adrian Cummins, Mark Keegan (C), Christian Nielsen, Oisin Rouxel, Shane Flanagan, Niall Gray, Graham Kerr, Jack Gormley, Sam Donaghy, Michael Kilcoyne, Thomas O’Hehir, Keelan Brennan, Conor McGovern, Vincent Reynolds, Benjamin Egan, Oisin Conlon.

Ross Hickey and Philip Carter both injured.

Coach: Joe Walsh and Manager Niall Gray Snr.

Sligo RFC coaches put on a fantastic session last night to kick off the club’s East City outreach programme. Training sessions are open (and free!) to all boys and girls aged between 7-12 and will continue every Wednesday. See poster in photos below for more info. This is a great opportunity for kids to take their first steps in to the sport and begin their involvement with Sligo Rugby club.

‘An Equestrian Establishment with a difference’ • Lessons for all ages and levels of experience on school horses or riders own horse • Dressage & showjumping training to advanced level • Off road trekking in scenic Ox Mountains • Training shows, camps, 4 week intensive courses, clinics & Student training.

• Qualified trainer (BHSAI, HSI & FETAC) • Resident rider with proven compe""on record • Homebred schoolmaster horses • Horses & ponies for sale from Beezies Stud • Top class, all weather & customer friendly facili"es

EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

From mid May Fitness Fusion will be using WEC as it's new venue for it's classes on Mondays and Wednesdays at 8pm with Fitness trainer Liam Murray contact details 086 8427081.

Call Simone: 087 6793696 / 071 9184207 • www.woodlandsequestrian.ie • Loughill, Lavagh, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo

BURKE DOORS

GARAGE DOORS AND AUTOMATIC GATE SYSTEMS SERVICE / MAINTENANCE

HANDMADE GATES

With over 25 years experience we offer an unrivalled reputation for service, maintenance and repair for all makes and types of roller doors and gate systems. Whether we installed your door or not we are available 24 /7 to receive your call.

Our hand made gates offer an attractive way to secure your home and property.

COMMERCIAL

RESIDENTIAL

Our industrial door and entrance options offer high security, modern design and regulated access to your premises. We have best in industry products and the experience needed to install and maintain to exacting standards.

Burke Doors offer residential roller and up and over doors in a wide range of style and colour.

All of our gate options are available with or without automatic opening systems.

We can offer advise and best competitive prices so why not call today.

BURKE DOORS INSTALL, MAINTAIN, SERVICE & REPAIR Contact us today: 086-8480906 • david@burkedoors.com • 093-40120 Caherlistrane, Galway

Industry leading suppliers and over 25 years experience

PHOTO PATRICK REGAN

R

ichie McLoughlin is Sligo’s own two-wheeled king of speed. A road racer who has competed at lower levels and made his way up into the professional arena, the sportsman is readying himself for the biggest challenge of his career; the coveted Isle Of Man TT. “It’s the Mecca for racing”, he states emphatically. We sent Eamon O’Neill on his bike to catch up with Richie, to find out exactly what it takes to get to the TT. On your marks…

The month of May has only just begun as I sit down to chat to Richie Mc Loughlin, but thoughts of the world famous Isle of Man TT are already firmly planted in the Sligoman’s mind.

With the event revving to start on 28th May, there’s much to be done before Richie gets there; “I could do with a secretary”, he tells me; “there’s so much paperwork with licences and so on”, he adds in a fluster.

In less than a month’s time, Richie will be taking to the Isle of Man circuit, realising a dream for an interest that has been in

his family for generations. “My dad had bikes all his life, but he was never involved in racing or anything”, says the amiable rider as we sit down for a chat.

“We were brought up on bikes to begin with”, he confirms. The ‘we’ Richie is referring to is himself and brother Christy, and it was the older McLouglin brother that first donned a helmet; “bikes are in the family, but racing only came in when my brother started In 2004”, he says.

Keen to help out his sibling who was competing on an amateur level, Richie soon found himself wanting to take part: “I followed Christy into it.

He was doing track racing and circuits, and I was going with him and helping him out all the time. I was into bikes anyway, so I figured if I’m going to go, I might as well compete at it.”

It was a decision that would prove fortuitous to the passionate family, as fate would soon befall them: “I went at it in 2005 on the short circuits”, says Richie taking up the story; “and

Christy became injured at the end of that first season, so that was him out”. It delivered a blow to the biking-mad family, however not a fatal one; “he never raced again after that, and I just carried on from there by myself”, says Richie.

And so began Richie’s stint as a short circuit racer. “You do a rider assessment and you get your race licence after that”, he says of his official entry into the competitive biking world. To make it into the bigger leagues however, Richie knew that it was a matter of working his way up through the ranks: “To go road racing, you have to progress your way through the short circuits, from club level to national level,” he explains.

Making big noises on the small scene, things were going well for Richie until disaster struck at a race in Belfast: “It was 2009 when I was due to do my first road race, and about a week before that I had a crash at Kirkistown”, says Richie taking up the story; “I had a badly broken leg out of that, so that was the end of that season for me.”

Richie didn’t ride again until the following year, and though the wobble didn’t put him off, he does admit to questioning the sportsmanship of some of the competitors: “I was disillusioned with the way that the younger riders were carrying on; they’d go through you or over you to get one more placing”, he states disbelievingly. The accident didn’t put the determined

Richie receiving 4th place award at the Isle of Man Manx GP young man off however, and Richie quickly got back up on the bike: “The accident wasn’t my fault, it was someone else that took me out, so I didn’t doubt myself”, he reasons.

The result of which was that the younger McLoughlin brother refocused his efforts to move away from the short circuit scene, and onto the more disciplined sport of road racing.

“I progressed well enough on the roads in 2010, and until 2012 I was in the support championship. I won the Southern Centre Championship that year, and came third in the

Irish and Ulster championship”, he says proudly. From there, Richie got “upgraded”, as he puts it, to the national level where he has competed ever since.

12

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016 The step up also meant that he was free to compete at an international level, which lead him into the big leagues: “I knew then that I was going to be riding with the big boys”, he says. It was then that Richie qualified for the North West 200 for the first time, however, his hopes of competing were dashed by the Irish weather: “It was rained off on race day”, he says despondently, adding with a wink; “it happens most years – it’s called the ‘North Wet’ around the paddock!”.

Opting to focus his energies elsewhere, the rider had his eyes on one particular event: “For me, the TT was always my main goal”, he says of the annual Isle Of Man event. Wasting no time, he entered the 2013 Manx Grand Prix, which Richie describes as “like an amateur TT”, wisely opting to take it on first to get a feel for the course. It was a decision that was to pay off, with the Yeats’ County man placing forth in the newcomers’ race.

It was a great introduction, but the rider wasn’t fully satisfied; “I only done eleven laps, which in my mind was not enough, because when you step up to the TT, you’ve got that amount of laps done by the Wednesday in practice week”, he reasons. It was this frustration that led Richie to go for the big prize; to compete in the TT itself.

“The TT is the mecca for all racing”, states Richie unflinchingly. “It’s the road racing capital of the world and it’s nearly thirty-eight miles long, per lap”, he informs me. In terms of speed, Richie’s most recent jaunts to the Manx island saw him tackle the course on a 600cc bike, which he says performed disappointingly at still eye watering speeds of up to 165mph. “I’d be hoping for 180mph plus”, he opines.

A family man with wife Aoife by his side, and a four year old called Zack, I ask Richie if safety is a concern, given the high mortality rate which has claimed some of the sport’s top names on the roads. Richie pauses before answering; “everybody knows the risks”, he says simply before conceding; “it could be seen as a selfish sport, because, even though the rider knows the possible outcome, by the time they put on their helmets, they’ll still do it”.

Are the bikes perhaps bikes getting too powerful, I ask? “I can’t see them getting too much more powerful”, reasons Richie; “It’s as close to being as fast as it can get for road race circuits”, he states.

Moving on, the conversation turns to the camaraderie among riders in the paddock.

“Oh yes”, he perks up; “I was chatting to an English lad at one of the races a couple of weeks ago”, says Richie; “it was his first road race, and he said that he’d prefer to race over here rather than back home in England because everyone’s friendly in the paddock. If you’re stuck for anything; a spare part or need to borrow a tool, someone will always help you out”. He continues; “It’s simply not like that elsewhere”, adding; “it’s like a family in the paddock; everybody knows everybody, and there’s a lot of family involvement – people bring their wives and their kids, it’s a real family affair”.

As our time comes to an end and I ask Richie what his goals are for this season, his thoughts turn once more to the TT; “I’m heading over on 25th May, and I’m looking to have a big increase on speed”, he says, getting back to his point about last years’ unsatisfactory performance. It’s this year though that Richie sees as time to put his experience into action: “I feel now that I do know the circuit a lot better, and I know what to expect”, he states. All of which bodes well for his target; “I’m going on a 1,000cc bike as opposed to a 600cc, and straight away I’d be expecting increase in speed”, he says, with his voice stepping up a gear.

And long term goals?

“There’s a replica trophy of the big one that they give out to the winners at the Isle of Man”, he says; “they give smaller replicas of them, according to speeds as they go down, and the silver replica would be ideal”, he reasons. And what of the big trophies, does he see himself getting his hands on one of them? Richie is realistic; “I don’t see myself ever lifting the big trophy”, he concludes; “well, not unless I steal it!”

“Road racing is a predominantly Irish sport.

They do a bit of it in Europe, but it’s different”.

13

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

For Further Information Please Contact Visitor Services, OPW, Unit 20, Lakeside Retail Park, Claremorris, Co.Mayo, Ireland Tel: 01-6476000 Email: infor@heritageireland.ie

For Further Information on the OPW Heritage Card Please Contact: Tel: 01-6476592 Email: heritagecard@opw.ie

Parkes Castle

Donegal Castle

Boyle Abbey

Sligo Abbey

Ceide Fields Visitor Centre

Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery

14

DEAL WITH PRESSURE THE LEICESTER CITY WAY U

nless you have been living underground for the past few weeks you wont fail to have heard about, and be impressed by, Leicester City & their journey to winning the English Premiership. It’s been quite a tale & one that will be talked about many a year from now.

There are so many facets of their performance that I could talk about. For this article though there’s one that’s been ever present since their rise to the top.

How they dealt with the pressure of expectation. If you Google ‘Leicester City pressure’ you get a monster

Jamie Vardy

1,410,000 results! When is the bubble going to burst, how will they deal with the pressure of going & staying top etc. etc.

I’ve read a few interesting spotlights on how they did this and I thought they would be useful to highlight 5 of them.

The Manager, Claudio Ranieri, set realistic targets & revised them all the way throughout the season. It started with the original goal which was to hit 40 points for the season, which they managed in 20! He then set the target of getting more points in the second half of the season than they had the first. When that was going well it was to get into Europe and then with only a few games remaining it was to win the league. Realistic

clear and tangible goals were set & revised throughout the season.

They celebrated achieving these mini goals throughout the season. When they reached 40 points they celebrated with champagne, when they had their first clean sheet they went out for pizza. I’m not saying do this but celebrating the small success on the way to the bigger prize is something you should be doing if your aren’t already. Enjoy the journey not just the end game.

It was said that he deflected pressure from the team by doing this. I don’t agree with this as pressure comes from within. Each of the team would have had to have handled any pressure themselves. They all did this

brilliantly of course.

Perhaps this was down to their mood. James Vardy talked about how they loved to have a laugh as a team.

Make light of situations & try & have as much fun as they could. Certainly when you are in good form life’s that bit easier. If your finding the pressure of your sport getting to you this year why not lighten up a bit. It’ll loosen you up & allow you to perform more freely.

I read an article today around the great work the sports science and medical team have done. More importantly how all the different aspects of the club work together to get the best results. Having the right team behind you is crucial whether its getting the right coaching, right conditioning & treatments or just listening to family and friends who support you (why listen to the ones who don’t). This doesn’t matter if your going for Kona or running you first 5k choosing your ‘team’ will make a massive different to your enjoyment and performance.

Obviously there are plenty more elements to this success and I’m sure there will be many a book written on how they did it. What I’d like you to do is just have a reflect on the ones I’ve mentioned and see which ones you are incorporating into you game.

There really are some simple steps here that are sure to raise your level no matter what your doing.

John G works as a Transformational Coach based in Sligo. For information on upcoming courses delivered by him or any queries around how he can help your game, your business or yourself go to www.johngcoaching.com or Facebook John G Coaching

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

Swimming lessons help with childrens’ maths results, study finds Swimming classes help middle class children boost their maths grades, a study by UCL has revealed.

Children who take part in organised sports and physical activities were one and a half times more likely to reach higher than expected grades in their maths test at the end primary school at age 11, it found.

“The chance of experiencing success in sports raises pupils’ confidence and self-esteem.”

Dr Emily Tanner of NatCen Researchers claimed that the sense of achievement children experience while engaging in activities like swimming and dancing motivates them to do well in their academic studies as well.

The study, which was carried out

by NatCen Social Research, Newcastle University and ASK Research, analysed information on more than 6,400 English children born in 2000-01. The study’s lead investigator, Dr Emily Tanner, of NatCen, explained the link between engaging in sports and other extracurricular activities and increasing grades in maths. She said: “The chance of experiencing success in sports raises pupils’ confidence and self-esteem. Activities like after school clubs can help a child value school in a new way and establish stronger relationships with staff.” ‘Social skills are important’ She said sports also enhanced social skills and generated a positive experience of school which in return made children apply themselves harder in their academic studies. She explained: “Social skills are important for learning.

In sports activities and organised sports children are mixing with a different group of children from the ones they mix in class. The relationship with social skills can be carried through to their academic studies. “For children who may have had a negative experience in their academic learning, this provides a more positive experience.”

The study also found that among disadvantaged children, those who attended after school clubs also fared better than their peers who didn’t take part in such groups.

They achieved an average of two points higher in their tests at the end of primary for English, maths and science, researches said.

15

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

SLIGO CAMINO WAY

The craic is BACK!

“Arise and go now...”

J

oin us on 2nd July 2016 for the most rewarding day of the summer!

Trek 34km from Dromahair, Co. Leitrim to Coolaney, Co. Sligo and discover the Sligo Camino. Registration is now open for the 2016 Sligo Camino which will take place on Sat 2nd July along the Sligo Way. The Camino will follow the Sligo Way through

some of the finest scenery in the West of Ireland. The route is a challenging mixture of tracks, trails, forest paths, finishing with 8km of country lanes around the Annaghmore Estate.

Route highlights include: The ruins of historic 16th century Creevelea Abbey on the banks of the River Bonet.

Skirting between Lough

Gill and Slish Woods around Killerry Mountain

the Battle of Carrignagat in 1798.

Getting up close to Yeats’ Lake Isle of Inishfree.

Tranquil back roads through the Annagh Beg estate to Coolaney, winner of Sligo’s tidiest town.

The best cup of tea you’ve ever had at the finish!

Slieve Dhá Éan and the secluded mountain lake of Lough Lumman.

Trekking along the banks of Ballygawley Lough and through Union Wood.

The Teeling memorial to

It’s Tag Time. Tag season 2016 kicks off on Thursday May 19th with a brand new committee who can’t wait to get the post-game party started in the clubhouse in association with the Garavogue Bar. Get your team registered today!

For full details and to register log onto www.sligocamino.ie

Members of Sligo Mugendo club enjoying a great club day out in the viper airsoft combat gaming zone

Some of the competitors representing Sligo Mugendo in the national championship

Mullaghmore, Co. Sligo. Moneygold Grange Co. Sligo Phone: 087-2540190 Web: www.inishmurrayislandtrips.com CATERING FOR ALL GROUPS AND FISHING TRIPS

Inishmurray Island has been uninhabited since the 1940's wth the last occupants vacating in 1948. Located in Donegal Bay 7km off the coast of Sligo.

There is much to see on the island with its varied landscape and abundant wildlife together with ancient ruins of a monastry.

16

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

NORTHWEST MOUNTAIN BIKE CLUB

PHOTOS: JORDAN CUMMINS

2016 Irish Cross Country NPS Round 1, Union Wood

Wow what a fantastic weekend here in Sligo’s Union wood at the first round of the national points series and the first time the club has organised a event on this

scale. The whole weekend went flawlessly thanks to the hard work of the Northwest Crew. 30+ !! On the day. From trail work, marshalling, the car park stew-

ards bob, Micheal,David and Will. ( worst job of them all) top job from he lads out there all day! Thanks to Max Power for all his expertise and guidance! A Legend who really runs a fantastic series along with his seasoned helpers who helped us with sign on and timing. Well done to Enda, Kyle, Bryan, Keigro, head marshal Damien (amazing job) Trish and des on sign on, Terry on the mic, Thomas on the quad running around all day! Darragh Kerrigan creative for trophies and posters, Kate’s kitchen,Sligo for lunch for all the marshals, Connacht cycling for kids timing, Meave and Martin for back up timing, Coillte for the use of a fantastic facility, and last but not least all of ye who made the Trip to our Forest! We hope ye enjoyed it.

For now we are done!!! Time to ride our bikes again!

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

17

18

WOODLANDS EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

Ursuline college

Simone and her two homebred horses were competing over the last month in Belfast at the Northern Ireland dressage festival at Danescroft. Beezies Double Diamond won the novice warm up class scoring 71.77% and then went on to place 3rd in the novice championship. Beezies Big Brother also scored consistently over the two days to place 3rd in a competitive advanced championship.

Ursuline college Senior Golf Team ..Maeve Rooney, Ella Mc Dermott and Niamh Cronin Well done to Simone Hession with her horse Beezies Big Brother and our Chef d'Equipe Mary Cox who represented Dressage Ireland in the pre race Parade at Punchestown

Beezies Double Diamond

Beezies Big Brother

An Post Yeats Hazelwood Cycle Family Day Photos by Colin Gillen

Ursuline college 1st year soccer squad

Congratulations to Helen Monaghan who was presented with the match ball by FAI officer Diane Fay after scoring her hat -trick..Score Ursuline (6)Laura Oates (2) Helen Monaghan (3) Cathy Harrison (1) v St Caimin's (0) All Ireland Final on 18th May

Timetable Starting 11th April • Childrens Classes, Yeats Country Club, Rosses Point, Co. Sligo Mon 11th April - Mon 13th June Pre-lifesaving 6.30-7pm Lifesaving 1 / Lifesaving 7-7.30pm Lifesaving 3 / Lifesaving 3A 7.30-8pm Swim Fit 7.30-8pm Beg / Beg-Improver / Improver 6.30-7.00pm and 7.00-7.30pm classes

Tuesday 12th April until Tuesday 14th June 3.30-4pm 4-4.30pm 4.30-5pm 5-5.30pm 5.30-6pm

Thursday 14th April until Thursday 16th June 3.30-4pm 4-4.30pm 4.30-5pm 5-5.30pm 5.30-6pm 6-30pm

Friday 15th April until Friday 17th June 3.30-4pm 4-4.30pm 4.30-5pm 5-5.30pm 5.30-6pm 6-30pm

ADULTS SWIM CLASS EVERY MONDAY 8.00 - 9.00PM

Telephone: 071-9171544 • 086-8512008 or email us at sligoswimschool@gmail.com

19

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

BUNKER BAR

@

Special Offer for Golf Societies

Play 1 Round get 1 Free during the same year Special Offers and Deals available on request - Call Kevin 085-2350221 Our wonderful 18 Hole parkland course has plenty to thrill whatever your level of experience.

SPECIAL DEAL FOR SENIOR GOLFERS... (Monday to Friday) Round of Golf, Meal and Buggy Hire all for €30 SERVING FOOD 7 DAYS A WEEK AND OPEN TO ALL THE PUBLIC - Come and sample our delicious food Our Facilities Include: • 6 Bay Driving Range • Practice Chipping/Putting Area • Bunker Bar and Restaurant • Golf Shop with Trolley/Buggy Hire Whether you are a Golf Society a sociable Fourball, or a Corporate Outing, we think you will find our packages offer good value golf in a truly beautiful setting.

Woodbrook, Carrick on Shannon, Co Leitrim • Call Kevin 085-2350221

PHOTO: DARREN FLYNN PHOTOGRAPHY

Sligo man Kieran Finn targets National Clay Pigeon Shoot record in Aid of Pieta House 1000 clays to be shot in each Province over four consecutive days in support of Pieta House & Suicide Awareness

S

ligo man and NARGC (National Association of Regional Game Councils) member, Kieran Finn, is aiming high in his quest to raise awareness and funds for Pieta House, the centre for the prevention of self-harm depression and suicide.

Kieran, who has previously raised over €20k for MS Ireland, Autism Awareness Ireland, and others, has set himself a target of shooting a total of 4,000 clay pigeons over four consecutive days in Ulster, Connacht, Leinster and Munster.

Speaking in advance of the May 19th launch of the National Clay Pigeon Shoot for Pieta House in Castledargan Hotel Ballygawley Co Sligo, Kieran said “I did not know until recently that 10 Irish people a week take their own lives, or the fact that eight of them are men.” Kieran, who is a member of Ballintogher Gun Club and St Michaels GAA club Ballintogher, added “In recent years, we have been left brokenhearted in every county in

Ireland following the tragic loss of men and women, young and old, who lost their battle with depression”. He believes that it is vital that we support Pieta House in its work. “Pieta House is a nonprofit organisation and 90% of its income comes from fundraising.

It currently has almost 180 therapists and administration staff so we will be doing our utmost to raise as much awareness and funds as possible to support the great work Pieta carry out every day”.

In 2015 alone, over 5,000 people came through the doors of Pieta House suffering from suicidal ideation or engaging in self-harm. The Pieta House staff provide a specialised treatment programme for people who have suicidal ideation or who participate in self-harming behaviors.

Donna Burke from Pieta House, said she was delighted that Kieran Finn and his team have decided to run the event in aid of suicide prevention “One of our goals is to have a centre

within 100km of every person in Ireland and we’re well on our way to achieving this. To help bring us closer to this important goal, we have identified three areas most in need of our service - namely, the North West, the South East and the Midlands. We are extremely grateful to Kieran for organising the Clay Pigeon event and all funds received will allow us to reach our goals, and help those most in need, that much quicker”.

Donna added “We’re passionate about our life-saving work. As 90% of our income comes from fundraising events, we rely heavily on the support and encouragement of our volunteers and friends of Pieta.”

Kieran, a proud grandfather to three year old Shane, revealed that to give himself the best chance possible of Shooting at 4,000 clay pigeons over four consecutive days, he has been in special training since September 2015 at Sligo gym ROM, assisted by specialist trainer Terry Quinn. “I have competed in two World Championships, including South Africa in 2012 but nothing will be as gruelling or as physically and mentally demanding as the challenge I am undertaking for four days, starting on 29th of July this year”. To take on the 4,000 clay pigeon challenge, Kieran needed the help of the specialist team at ROM Gym to gain the 21

pound weight and muscle mass needed to withstand the impact of 103,500 recoil pounds of energy that he will be hit with over the four days.

Finishing in Sligo on August 1st in Riverstown at Lough Bo shooting centre where Kieran will target his final 1,000 clay pigeons, the fourday event starts in the Irish shooting Sports Grounds, Meenbanivane in Knocknagoshel Co. Kerry on July 29th, followed on the 30th in Streete Gun Club in Streete Co. Westmeath, and the Raphoe Shooting Grounds in Raphoe, Co. Donegal on July 31th. Kieran said he was delighted at the support the event has attracted so far.

“The Official Facebook page for the event – National Clay Shoot for Pieta – is generating great interest already and I’m

delighted too that 80 other marksmen, 20 in each Province, will join me on the day and each will target 200 clays of their own.

In total we’ll be aiming to shoot at 20,000 clays over the four days”.

There are a number of ways to make a donation and support Kieran in his efforts to raise awareness and essential funds for Pieta House: Contribute directly on Kieran’s sponsorship page on https://www.justgiving.com/Kiera n-Finn Contact Kieran on 086 1578608 More information on the event is available at the official Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Nati onal-Clay-Shoot-for-PIETA452374578295644/?fref=nf

22

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

Online Foundation course The final Foundation course of the year takes place in Summerhill college on Monday 23rd of May 7-10pm Cost - 20 euro to register email liamog.gormley.gm.sligo@gaa.ie or enda brady st marys enda@ifq.ie

Coolera Strandhill Musical treat We are pleased to announce our 4th Annual Musical Treat which is a hugely popular event and promises to be a wonderful night of entertainment. The event will be held at 7.30pm on Sunday 22nd May in the Star of the Sea Church, Ransboro. Starring Sandy Kelly with special guest Charlie McGettigan and local artists.

Tickets cost E10.00 and may be purchased at Keanes Centra, Strandhill, Cosgroves Centra, Magheraboy, Coolera House, from committee members and at the door.

St. Michaels GAA Well done to everyone from the St Michaels area and all cyclists who took part in the An Post Cycle 2016, great excitement in our club grounds for the Food Stop, also thanks to all the marshalls who helped out.

Great fishing for April with Ewings Sea Angling and boat charter

Lovely to see a few mackerel about, plenty of mouths fed!

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

23

Get Your car ready for Summer time.

Tyre Shop Buy Tyres Online.

We fit them same or next working day.

All prices including VAT @23% and fitting.

Some sizes have to be ordered.

Call 0719167948 for more info http://www.mgmotors.ie/shop

Get Your car ready for Summer time.

Tyre Shop Buy Tyres Online.

We fit them same or next working day.

All prices including VAT @23% and fitting.

Some sizes have to be ordered.

Call 0719167948 for more info http://www.mgmotors.ie/shop

28

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

latest update from Eamon McAndrew

By Mark Foley Easkey 10km-It had been a while since I ran a 10km so I was looking forward to it. My weight had slipped below 68kg during the week. I used to race 10km like I race triathlonsgo hard off the bike. So in previous 10km I would knock out a 2.50km to start, settle into 3.15km and hold on for the last few km. This method had some limited success, but it was very hard on the body. Now I look for some else to set the pace and run off them. In Easkey two of us went off together. I felt really comfortable after 2km and started up a bit of a conversation with the other guy. It turned out he was a triathlete from Kilkenny. I chatted to him for about 3km telling him all about my exploits in the Ironman Barcelona. In fairness he was not doing a whole lot of talking. The pace was about 3.25km. I was still aerobic and felt great after 5km. There was a bit of a drag from 5-6km so I started to put a bit of time into Ray. At 8km I looked at my watch and it was 27.30 so I had 6.30 to sub 34 min. So I put the hammer down and shifted into top gear or as I like to call it-Tommy Threshold-3.10 pace. I closed for a 34.15 with 10.2km on the clock. I was very happy with my performance and felt I raced it well. I definitely left time behind me in the first half of the race. In the next outing I will try not the chat as much.

The was a great course, it tracked the coast for a couple of km, It only had one drag for about 1.5km and a nice downhill to finish. The refreshments were great and everyone was well feed. I was presented with a large pottery replica of the Easkey Castle and a cash prize. I would definitely recommend this race in the future.

My recovery from this race was quick which is always a good sign. I am looking forward to running with some of the Sligo

Sligo Tri News The annual Sligo pool sprint was held last Sunday. The event was a huge success and attracted a top field of athletes. Con Doherty and Heather Foley added yet another victory to their growing list of wins in 2016 over the weekend as they came home in 1st place at the Sligo Pool Sprint triathlon. It’s great to see top athletes in action and not afraid to race each other hard.

Doherty, who is back home following a winter of training in Australia and racing on the international ITU circuit, won the race by almost 2 minutes over his fellow Westport man Aichlinn O'Reilly.

But with just one second separating the pair on the swim and a further single second separating them on the bike, it wasn't until the run leg that Doherty pulled clear, running an impressive 15:59min over 5km to seal victory. O'Reilly managed to hold off a fast finishing Kieran Jackson to take 2nd

place by half a minute, with Jackson posting the second quickest run split of the day to take third.

In the women's race, newly crowned National Duathlon Champ for 2016, Heather Foley took control soon after getting on the bike to pull ahead of the field and comfortably post the quickest bike and run splits of the day. The battle for second place was hotly contested with junior athlete Caron Ryan just piping Joanne Flanagan by 14secs.

There was a strong showing from Sligo Tri members with myself (Eamon McAndrew) putting in a strong performance all be it with some mechanical issues on the bike.

The event was a credit to all involved, with a special acknowledgment to race director Fergal Henry and the volunteers for give their time to make the event a success. In all 260 athletes of all abilities, shapes and sizes completed.

AC lads, hopefully they can pull me out into PB tertiary. Typical forty year old still looking for PBs Sligo Pool Sprint Let me start by telling you that I am a shocking pool swimmer. I have heavy legs and my arm cadence is a bit fast. On the flip side put me in my magic wetsuit and a lumpy sea and I go like a demon. So the swim took a fair bit out of me. I held the draft for the first 400m and then the fatigue set in and I swam the second half on my own. So I started out like a fish and finished like a clam. Onto the bike and it took a while to get going. When I finally got the power down I started making ground on the completion.

Then bang-on the top of the final hill I lost my chain, I tried three times to reset it but failed. As it was down- hill all the way to transition I decided to hop on the bike and free wheel back to transition. All the good work on the bike was now gone. I racked the bike, stripped the fangs and decided to really nail the run. I ran 16.51 for a solid 5km. This was only a B race for me and is a good gauge of where I am at and what I need to work on.

My swim is coming on and is a work in progress. I am looking forward to getting back in the sea-(level the playing field).

On the bike I have loads on base endurance done so it time to start pushing it up into the top of the pyramid for peak performance. I finished 7th overall but I can assure you that I will be a different prospect in a month’s time.

Next up is the Ballina half marathon which I have always wanted to do but it has never suited my plans. My PB for a half marathon is 1.19 and this was in a Half Ironman in the Kerry mountains-(1.9km swim90km bike-21km run)-all in a day’s racing. Needless to say I think I can improve on this, by how much? Time will tell.....

Enniscrone/Kilglass indoor astro turf arena ratified On Thursday evening last, Enniscrone/Kilglass GAA club members formally gave permission to the club to proceed with a revolutionary indoor astro turf facility and gym complex that will be situated at the club grounds in Quigabar. Complete with a kitchen and toilets, this facility is one of only three in the country and is set to make Enniscrone/Kilglass’ facilities among the best in the country. First and foremost, however, the project is intended to be a centre for the development of young footballers within the parish, with the view to providing a world-class training facility to produce better and skilled players.

Speaking following ratification of this major development, club chairman Declan Rouse commented: “This is a landmark day for our club, and one which firmly sets out our intention to provide high quality facilities to players of all ages in Enniscrone/Kilglass.

“Our ambition is to return to being a prominent force on the playing fields, and with this project we are stating our ambition to produce footballers capable of competing with the best. “Our coaching structure at present is well organised and with huge numbers at younger age groups, this complex when complete will provide the ideal facility for underage players in particular to hone their skills all year round. “In addition, this centre could well become a hub for various other local groups, who are currently without a centre to undertake their activities. “All in all, this is a big step in the right direction for Enniscrone/Kilglass and I, as with other club members, look forward to the exciting times ahead.” Construction on the project is set to start in the coming months.

Teach your baby to swim with Water Babies

Fully Qualified World Class Instructors Award-winning programme teaches babies from birth

To join in the fun call us on 091388256 or visit www.waterbabies.ie Teaching you to teach your baby to swim Saving lives through water confidence and safety skills Weekday and weekend local classes held in Radisson Blu, Rosses Point and The Clarion Hotel Now taking bookings for our Summer term starting in May 2016

Maternity & Infant Award: Best Mum & Baby Activity 2013

Families First: Best Activity Provider of the Year 2012 & 2013

What’s on 4 Little Ones: Best National Baby & Preschool Activity 2013

Water Babies Summer Term www.waterbabies.ie

Water Babies Summer term starts 5 May 2016 and they are taking bookings for classes. Classes take place in the Radisson Blu, Rosses Point and The Clarion Hotel.

Water Babies is run by Jamie and Lisa Cobbe and currently teaches over 700 babies and toddlers per week in Galway, Sligo, Mayo and Limerick.

The Water Babies programme is designed to make the most of babies’ natural affinity with water. It teaches confidence and safety, using specialist techniques that see many swimming short distances from as young as 30 months. Baby swimming is an entirely safe and gentle activity which helps parents bond with their baby while giving them a lifetime’s water confidence and safety skills.

Swimming from birth stimulates brain and muscle development in babies in a safe, relaxed way. Babies absolutely love the fun and freedom of being in water, and sharing this experience with your little one is one of the most exciting and rewarding things you could ever do. Using word association, movement, games and songs, we create sessions that are informative and heaps of fun.

The Water Babies swimming course is different to traditional swimming lessons. Water Babies only uses warm water pools (30° or above) so babies

can join classes from birth and immunisations are not required in order to start classes. And while the emphasis is on having fun, the course is carefully structured. Each of the lesson plans is worked out to progress learning and understanding.

Our main aim is to enable your child to be incredibly confident and happy in the water, right from the word go in an environment that is safe and enjoyable for both parent and child. Baby Beginner classes are suitable for babies aged between 4 weeks and 14 months.

To find out more call us on 091 388256 or visit www.waterbabies.ie.

28

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

Sligo Yacht Club Stages Mirror Dinghy Western Championships

S

ligo Yacht Club hosted a successful Mirror Westerns event at the weekend, 12 boats altogether sailed with visitors from RCYC, Lough Ree YC, Mullingar SC, Sutton DC. The overall winner was Caolan Croasdell with Alexander Farrell from LRYC. Matthew White with Niall McAllister (RCYC) was 4th overall and winner of the Bronze fleet, Mícheál Broaders with Cian Lynch-Kealy was 2nd in Silver, other local sailors included Jack Curran with Noah Canham, Max Van Dergjin with Gus Bamber, Robert Kieran with Oisin Brennan, Sarah White, Ben Kelly, Brian And Finn Raftery. Great support from club members on rescue and committee boat, Brendan Brogan was PRO, ably assisted by Bob Kieran and Owen Carton. Thanks to all who provided food for the visitors and members on the Saturday night also to bar and office for registration and results. Next event is the Easterns, Lough Ree 21-22 May.

Robert Kiernan and Oisin Brennan (SYC)

North West Physiotherapy

Chartered Physiotherapists Shirley Foley MISCP Mary Mulvany MISCP Ray Finan MISCP

Upper Pearse Road, Sligo • Tel: 071-9162334 /9171912 Email: info@northwestphysio.ie www.northwestphysiotherapy.com North West Physiotherapy Sligo

Sports and Exercise Medicine Clinic Assess • Diagnose • Treat • Rehab

• Sports Injuries • Back and Neck Pain • Orthopaedics • Manual Therapy • Trigger point dry needling • Flexibility Assessments • Orthotics Clinic Times: Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm

29

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

Patrick White and Jack Hayes Mullingar SC

Max Vandergjn and Gus Bamber (SYC)

Max Vandergjn and Gus Bamber (SYC)

Patrick White and Jack Hayes Mullingar SC

Oscar Langan Sutton DC and Lughaidh Croasdell LRYC 3rd Overall

Overall winners from Lough Ree YC, Caolan Croasdell and Alexander Farrell with Commodore Mick Spain.

Mícheál Broaders and Cian Lynch-Kealy SYC

McAllister brothers Oisin and Rory from Royal Cork Yacht Club. 2nd Overall

ack Curran and Noah Canham (SYC)

Matthew White (SYC) and Niall McAllister (RCYC)

30

GREAT IRELAND RUN NATIONAL 10k

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

Strandhill Golf Club 50/50 Draw results for March €100 Joe Tuffy €50 Jimmy Giblin €50 Bernard Mahoney €50 Claire Gallagher & Mary Corcoran €50 Rory O Connor €36 Fr Dominic Gilooley Enter the draw for April for only €8. Draw envelopes are available in the bar, golf shop and from the office. You can also sign up for entry by direct debit and direct debit forms are available from the same locations.

All funds raised through the monthly 50/50 draw go towards the financing of the course development

The Sligo Masters & Senior teams that competed brilliantly in the National Road Relays in Raheny.

R

oughly 10,000 elite athletes,runners and walkers of all ages and abilities came together in the Phoenix Park for the 14th Great Ireland Run. This race opens with the National 10k Race Championships. Conditions were cool and clear but a strong swirling wind made the athletes work for their times on the notoriously tough Phoenix Park 10K course. In the Womens Race, the first woman home was the former European Cross Country Champion Fionnuala Britton (Kilcoole) in 33:30. The Sligo ladies did themselves proud. Mari Johnston (42.11), Amanda Cunniffe (46.03), Cathy McCarthy (48.38),

The Sligo Masters & Senior teams that competed brilliantly in the National Road Relays in Raheny.

Pics courtesy Seamus Somers

Fionnuala Silke (48.48), Aishling Kennedy (48.55 PB) and Fiona Melvin 52:59 all ran well. In the Mens Race, Mick Clohisey (Raheny Shamrock) won his first National 10k Road title in 30:00 though he was beaten for overall glory by Englishman Andy Maud who won in 29:55 seconds.

Richard Gorman (32.55) was 19th overall and should be well in the hunt for an M40 medal. Strong running by Seamus Somers (33.59) brought him home in 37th while Damien Kennedy (36.46) completed a fine team performance as the 3rd scorer for Sligo AC Masters team.

There were good runs by David Kearins (37:43), Alan Kearins (38:41),

Michael O’Connell (38.48), Bill Carty (40.24 PB), Joe Davey (44.26) Brendan Mc Carrick (49:03) and Enda Whelan (43.55).

A super performance from Leo Doherty saw him power his way to victory in the Junior race 2.6k in 8.08.

Eoin Carty in 7th can also be well pleased with his day’s running as can Tara and Liam. Ross Doherty, younger brother of Leo, completed a good day for the Doherty household when he was 3rd in the 911 2K race. Well done also to Aoife Morris who ran excellently to finish 2nd in the Junior Girls Race.

Words: David Kearins Photos: Susan Leonard,Michael O’Connell

The Sligo Way Ultra Date: Saturday, 2 July 2016 - 6:00am Contact Name: David Downes Contact Number: 0872274230 Email: downes23@eircom.net County: Sligo Type: Running Distance: Ultramarathon Taking place on July 2nd 2016 and with places strictly limited to 50, The Sligo Way Ultra is the first self-supported ultra-run along The Sligo Way in Sligo, Ireland. Places are strictly limited to 50 runners and we are welcoming solo runners and paired teams. The Sligo Way is a way-

marked long distance walking route which starts at Lough Talt on the Sligo/Mayo border and continues eastwards for approximately 80km/50 miles along the Ox Mountains, ending at Dromahair, Co Leitrim. The route is signposted using a combination of wooden marker posts and metal finger posts and covers a range of terrain, including quiet country roads, lane ways and forest tracks. The event is not-for-profit basis and any surplus

funds after all costs have been met will be donated to the Dromahair Arts & Recreation Centre (DARC) to support local development initiatives. Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/TheSligoWayUltra

Strandhill Golf Club Golfer of the Year 2016 2016 will see the staging of a Golfer of the Year competition which is to be played over eight qualifying competitions throughout the calendar from April to October. The eight competitions will see four played from the blue tees and four from the white with an equal mix of stableford and strokeplay competitions. The best five cards from the eight competitions will count towards the final tally.

There will also be a prize for the Most Improved Golfer of the year which will run from the start of qualifying competitions right up until the last 18 hole qualifying competitions in early November.

The winners of both competitions will receive a crystal trophy and a voucher.

The Men’s Competition Committee would like to thank competition sponsor, Padraic Tuffy, QFA for his generous sponsorship of the competition.

Best of luck to all competitors in this fantastic competition.

Qualifying Competition Dates Sun May 8th Stableford – White Tees Sat Jun 4th Stableford – White Tees Sat Jul 2nd Captain’s Day Strokeplay – Blue Tees Sat Aug 6th President’s Day Strokeplay – Blue Tees Sun Sep 4th Strokeplay – White Tees Sun Oct 2nd Strokeplay – White Tees Sat Oct 15th Stableford – Blue Tees Midsummer Classic at Strandhill Golf Club (Course Development Fundraiser) It’s that time of the year again so be sure to keep the date free in your diary. Sunday June 26th will see the staging of the Midsummer Classic and we hope to build on the enormous success of last year’s competitions by increasing the number of entries from last year.

The format for the day is a team scramble event over 18 holes. Entry for a teams of four of any combination is €120 and there will be music and fun and games all day.

There will also be a free bar-b-que in the evening before the prize giving.

Last year proved to be an extremely well supported and fun day and this year is already shaping up to be even better. Just like last year there will be excellent prizes up for grabs.

Book your team now on 071 9168188.

SLIGO ACUPUNCTURE & TUINA Tuina (Deep Tissue Massage) • Sports Injuries • Sciatica • Ankle or Wrist Pain • Joint Pain • Neck Pain & Stress • Back Pain For information or to make an appointment Contact Shane on 087-1340772 • www.sligoacupunctureandtuina.com

31

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

MIRROR WESTERNS HELD AT SLIGO YACHT CLUB

S

ligo Yacht Club hosted a successful Mirror Westerns event at the weekend. This was the first of the Mirror Regional Events which will culminate in the Europeans being held in the Royal Cork Yacht Club in August. 12 boats sailed in the event with visitors from Royal Cork Yacht Club, Lough Ree YC, Mullingar SC and Sutton DC. The overall winner was Caolan Croasdell with Alexander Farrell from LRYC. Matthew White (Sligo Yacht Club) and Niall McAllister (RCYC) were 4th overall and winner of the Bronze fleet, Mícheál Broaders with Cian LynchKealy (SYC) were 2nd in the Silver fleet, other local sailors included Jack Curran with Noah Canham and Ben Kelly, Max Van Dergjin with Gus Bamber, Robert Kieran with Oisin Brennan, Sarah White and Brian And Finn Raftery.

Results: 1st Gold Fleet and overall winner: Caolan Croasdell with Alexander Farrell from LRYC, 2nd

Gold Fleet, Oisin and Rory McAllister (RCYC), 1st Silver, Oscar Langan (Sutton DC) and Luaidgh Croasdell (LRYC), 2nd Silver, Mícheál Broaders with Cian

Ballymote Handball

Lynch-Kealy (SYC), 3rd Silver, Sarah White and Eoghan Duffy (SYC), 1st Bronze, Matthew White (SYC) with Niall McAllister (RCYC), 2nd Bronze, Patrick White and Jack Hayes (Mullingar SC), 3rd Bronze, Jack and Eileen Currren (SYC), 4th Bronze, Max Van Dergjin with Gus Bamber,5th Bronze, Robert Kieran with Oisin Brennan, 6th Bronze, Noah Canham and Ben Kelly and Brian and Finn Raftery.

Overall this was a great effort with support from club members on rescue and committee boat, Brendan Brogan was PRO, assisted

by Bob Kieran and Owen Carton.

The office was managed by Monica Barry and Una L’Estrange. Many members took part in a major spring clean on slipway, outside and inside the club in the run up to the event. The Clubhouse was busy on Saturday night with food provided for the visitors and members.

Laura Finn from the Ballymote Handball club emerged as the winner of the girls 17 and under b grade at the recent 40* 20 national finals held in Galway where she defeated Tipperary,s Eimear Meagher in the final 15-6 15-3. This year has been a successful year for Laura so far in which she reached the final of the girls u17 championship losing out narrowly to Kilkennys Dearbhall O Keefe 21-19 21-15 held in Kingscourt Co Cavan. Laura will also be representing Connacht in the upcoming Provincial Team of ten competition in the u17 grade.

Taking part also from Ballymote in national finals were Connor Finn in the Boys 15 and under grade where he reached the semi final of the plate competition and Cormac Finn in the boys 11 and under grade this year this grade was played as a fun event with the emphasis on playing games without the pressure of winning or losing Cormac was in a group with six others in which they all played each other where he won five of his six games.Ballymote Handball club would like to thank Collooney handball club for the use of their top class 40*20 court over the past few months for training .

Innisfree Wheelers It is with pleasure that Innisfree Wheelers announced that this year's recipients of our 1st Charity cycle of the year--The Three Counties Tour June 4th-- is Downes Syndrome Sligo Latch-on service. This is a literacy and technology hands on programme to commence/continue the literacy development of the participants. A very worthy Charity I'm sure you all agree and will no doubt support it well.

Bike Fit Me

Sligo Yacht Club - Mirror dinghy racing on Sligo Bay under Ben Bulben

We are pleased to announce the opening of the new BikeFit & Performance Studio in Wine Street, Sligo. We are available by appointment for Bike Fitting, Power testing & analysis, Watt Bike Racing, Cycle Coaching & Training Plans, Bike Skills, 1 on 1 coaching, Personal Training, Group Training and Fitness Assessments.

Fully equipped Training studio available for group & club hire. Contact us for more details.

Special offer for 2 weeks only. Free WattBike racing session with all Bike Fits, Performance Testing services & Personal Training Sessions.

Check us out on FaceBook

32

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE SLIGO SWIMMERS WHO SWAM IN THE S.W.M.L IN OMAGH. THEY HAD SEVERAL SWIMMERS ON THE PODIUM

ALL UPHOLSTERY WORK UNDERTAKEN

Bars, Hotels & Private Houses / Fabric Books Available Cashel, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071-9622700 Mob: 086-3486267 • Email: txupholstery@yahoo.ie • Web: www.txupholsteryservices.town.ie

33

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

SLIGO SWIMMERS WELL REPRESENTED AT CLAREMORRIS A GALA

T

he recent Claremorris A grade meet held on Sunday 17th April proved to be a very productive competition for the County Sligo Swimming Club team. Kitted out in their striking new club tracksuits and tshirts, the team made the trip to Claremorris Leisure Centre for a long day of racing, under the watchful eye of head coach Eduardo Santos.

With 28 Sligo swimmers attending the meet, swimming in 84 races, the Sligo team performed superbly, achieving 13 podiums places, 44 PB times, as well as quite a number of new Division 1 and Division 2 qualifiers.

Podium success was achieved by Ronan Kilcoyne in the Boys 11 and under age group who was in superb form winning gold in the 100m Backstroke and bronze in the 200IM. Ronan also had a great swim in the 100m Butterfly to finish in 5th place. He qualified for the Irish Age Groups Division 2 meet, which will be held in Limerick at the end of June/start of July. In the 14-15 Girls age group, Carrie McDaid had an excellent day of racing with podium places in all four of the events she competed in, winning gold in the 100m Backstroke, silver in the 200m IM and the 200m Breaststroke, and bronze in 100m Butterfly. Carrie actually shared 3rd place in the 1415 Girls age group 100m Butterfly event with teammate Penny Lee, as both girls touched the wall at exactly the same time, in a time of 1:16.86. In the 12-13 Girls age group, Maria Lyons had a great race in the 100m Butterfly, winning bronze and knocking 1.63 seconds off her previous time in the process, to finish in a time of 1:16.14.

In the 14-15 Boys age group, Eoin Anderson had a brilliant swim to win a well earned gold in the 200m Breaststroke event in a fast time of 2:49.59, a PB of nearly 6 seconds. The time also qualified Eoin for the Division 1s in July. In the 16 & over age-group, David Woods won bronze in the 200m Breaststroke. Also competing in the 16 & over age-group was Peter Mooney who won silver in the 50m Freestyle and two bronzes, in the 200m IM and 100m Backstroke.

The club had many other excellent PB performances on the day, the highlights being a massive 49 second PB

by Penny Lee in the 200m IM, a 26 second PB by Sean Keaney in the 200m IM (and a new Division 2 time), and, competing at his first A gala, a 20 second PB by Eoghan Kearns in 200m IM. Other good swims, PBs and Division 1 or Division 2 times were achieved by Adam Hunter, Joshua Fortune, Conor Melvin, Owen Eglinton, Niall O’Donovan, Patrick Maher, Anthony Maher, Patrick McPartlan, Ciara Connaughton-Jones, Sarah Melvin, Tara Monds, Danielle Farrell, Tara Walsh, Jane McGlinchey, Rachel Martin, Ciara Lynch, Naoise Scott-Ryan, Ella O’Donovan.

This concluded a very positive meet for the team Sligo swimmers and the club would like to sincerely thank all the team staff for their work supporting the swimmers on the day.

Next up for the club is the Irish Open Swimming Championships which take place from this coming Thursday through to Sunday, at the National Aquatic Centre, Dublin. This competition is a FINA recognised qualification event for the Olympic Games in Rio and is an IPC sanctioned event. Everyone involved with County Sligo Swimming Club would like to wish the five swimmers from the club the very best of luck at this major gala. The swimmers competing are Maeve Keaney, Jade Murphy, Carrie McDaid, Ciara Lynch and Peter Mooney.

Gilroy Glass Ltd • Manufacturers of double glazed units to trade and retail • Replace your existing double glazed units with energy efficient units •Complete glazing service • Stockists of all types of glass • Glass cut while you wait

Tel: 071-9145400 Fax: 071-9140132 • Mobile: 087-2341 985 • Hazelwood Road, Sligo

34

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

DARTS PREMIER LEAGUE FINALS @ THE SALLY GARDENS

A great day of darts in front of a large crowd. Massive congrats to Peter Savage who beat Seamus Sammon 8-6 in the final of the cup. Congratulations also to Declan Finan who won the Shield beating Tony McGowan 6-4 Peter threw great stuff all day and is a worthy winner. Thanks again to the Salley Gardens for holding the finals.

An Aladdin’s Cave of Soft Furnishings and Services to Transform Your Home

Large Range of Ready Made Curtains

Our Professionally trained staff, with years of experience in all aspects of Window treatments and soft furnishings will offer you a personal service not found anywhere else.

Large Range of Fabrics to choose from for Roman Blinds & Curtains

We offer High Quality Motorised Roller Blinds

Large Range of Wooden & Metal Curtain Poles

Union Street, Sligo • Telephone: 071-9146299 • email: sales@plan4.ie • Visit us online @ www.plan4.ie

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

35

GREAT EVENING AT THE FINN VALLEY Sligo AC athletes who had a great evening at the Finn Valley Little Athletics open track meeting. Well done to all. Photos courtesy Susan Leonard

Amanda Kilcullen, Damien Kennedy, Rich Gorman, Cathy McCarthy, Fionnuala Silke, Mari Johnston and Seamus Somers Photo courtesy of Tomas Greally

36

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

SLIGO ALL STARS PHOTOS: Jordan Cummins Email: jordancumminsphotography@gmail.com

S

ligo All-Stars are delighted to announce that we have been accepted back into Basketball Ireland Men’s National League Division 1 after an 8 year hiatus. This is the right direction and next step for our rapidly growing club. We are really excited to have the opportunity to compete at this level again. A huge thank you to all the players, parents, sponsors, coaches and committe members who dedicate so much of their time and hard work to the club. We would like to sincerely thank Basketball Ireland for their support and look forward to

working closely with them going forward.

“We’ve been blown away by the reaction to news of our return to National League Mens Division 1 next season.

Thanks for all the positivity and well wishes. Fund raising will be a huge part of our return and one of the ways you can help is through our 300 Club! A great way to support our club and a chance to win some big cash prizes. If you would like to support Sligo All-Stars please contact any member of our committee by email: allstars.sligo@gmail.com or 300allstars@gmail.com”

Congrats to Sligo All Stars Luke Sherlock and Paul Frain on their debut representing Ireland U15 vs Scotland

Our U14 boys are doing us proud at the all Irelands in Cork

U14 Boys AICC 2016 On the wrong side of some very close games but their effort and commitment to each other is great to watch!

37

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

SLIGO ALL STARS PHOTOS: Jordan Cummins Email: jordancumminsphotography@gmail.com

Congrats to Jack Moran on his huge achievement of making the Irish U16 Boys Basketball team for this summers European Championships. Sligo All-Stars are very proud of this young man and look forward to helping him develop further into the future.

Congratulations to Oisin O’Reilly on being selected to the Irish U18 team for this summers European Championships. This is Oisin O’Reilly’s second time to make an Irish team having been on the U16 team last year. Its a fantastic endorsement of Oisin’s talent and the relentless work ethic that very few players have. What makes this achievement extra special is that Oisin is actually a year young as he is also part of the U17 Irish Squad which are in European Championship action in summer 2017.

Basketball fans....

Our full time coach Pau Vila is putting on summer skill sessions starting this Friday. The emphasis of these sessions will be fun but with the view to

improving ball skills and shooting. The times and days are as follows: Friday 6pm-7pm U10’s boys and girls

from 7pm-8pm U12’s boys and girls Saturday 4-5:30 U14’s boys and girls 5:30-7 U16’s boys and girls

*****5 euro per session***** The sessions will be great fun and are open to all boys and girls interested in basketball.

Non club members are more

than welcome!

Remember..... TEAMS are made during the regular season, PLAYERS are made in the off season!!

The Mill Centre, Coolaney, Co. Sligo • Email: themillpharmacy@outlook.com • Tel: 071-9133587

38

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

AN POST YEATS TOUR OF SLIGO 2016

MAY BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Lavelle’s Caravan and Camping Park Golden Strand, Dugort, Achill Co Mayo • Tel: 086-2314596 • email : joseph.lavelle@yahoo.com If you are considering a camping holiday in Ireland, then take a look at what Achill Island has to offer.

Our Family owned caravan and camp site combines modern facilities with good old fashioned family fun. Wake up to the sound of the ocean in the morning and end the long summer days with a spectacular sunset in the western horizon.

The park has a children's play area and is maintained daily to the highest levels.

We are open from April to October and we encourage that you make a booking enquiry in advance.

• Domestic & Commercial BER’s • Display Energy Certificates • Part L Compliance Reports • Energy Audits • Insulation Advice Reduce your Electricity / Heating Bills & Reduce your carbon footprint Improve the comfort Level in your home Energy Improvements pay for themselves over time

Contact Pierce O’Reilly • 071-9310315 / 085-8222894 • First Floor, Unit 3, Wine Street Car Park, Sligo • www.propertydoc.ie • info@propertydoc.ie

40

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

Sligo Martial Arts Academy Great buzz in dojo - lots of sweat and hard work mixed with laughter, what it’s all about....

New Brown Belt leading the way One of our new brown belts Ellen,getting her first chance at instructing,hard to stand up in front of a crowd and do this but we nurture and encourage our students along the way,well done Ellen

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

41

DONAGHY MOTORHOMES

THE LARGEST RANGE OF MOTORHOMES IN THE NORTHWEST OF IRELAND

• Motorhome Sales • Motorhome Service • Motorhome Accessories

The largest Motorhome Dealership in Ireland, supplying new and used Dethleffs, Knaus, Swift, Hymer & Carado, as well as Knaus Vans.

Located in Donegal one of the most beautiful counties in Ireland – we invite you to come and visit us.

Our Sales Team boasts many years on the road and in the showroom. Damian McElchar 086 0435643 knows all the techie stuff, like how to get the stabilisers down or the awning back up or how to fix the seat when Gerry breaks it. Call Damien and tell him exactly what you want. If he does not have it already, he will find it for you.

Motorhome‐Salesman Gerry Doherty 086 043 5641 loves talking about motorhoming and he gets paid for it – what a job ! Ask him any question – he has all the answers (most of them are right). We think Gerry dreams about Motorhomes. Gerry has forgotten more about motorhome options that most people will ever learn.

DRUMNAHOE, LETTERKENNY, COUNTY DONEGAL • TELEPHONE: 074!9129235

MOTORHOME PARTS ONLINE WWW.DONAGHEYMOTORHOMES.IE

42

Ballisodare Bay Cycling Club A date for the diaries Ballisodare Bay Cycling Club Holding their annual charity cycle on 25th June with two route 55 & 75 Km both heading back towards the west with food stop at Dromore West Community Centre. Please spread the word as it will be a great day out for yee cyclists.

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

McCormack Fuels & Sligo Tenis Club!!

GAME SET & THE PERFECT MATCH!!

Manorhamilton, St. Clare’s Comprehensive 10K & 5K Run/Walk

McCormack group are delighted to announce that they are sponsoring the West of Ireland on the May Bank Holiday Weekend

Sligo Athletic Club @ The Easkey 10k and 10 Mile Races The winner in the 10k Donal Egan and 2nd place Ronan Matthews and missing from the photo is Neil Faulkner (3rd)

Belfast Marathon 2016 The 35th Belfast City Marathon was held on Bank Holiday Monday with the race starting at Belfast City Hall and finishing at Ormeau Park. The event attracted 3,000 marathon runners while a further 14,500 took part in other events including a team relay race, a walk, a wheelchair marathon and a fun-run.

In the full marathon, Kenyan Joel Kipsang Kositany earned his third Belfast Marathon victory with a time of 2:17:39 finishing ahead of compatriot Eric Koech. Sligo AC had two athletes competing. Matty Regan finished 52nd overall and broke the magic sub 3 mark for the first time by running 2:59:57. His running mate,and Defence Forces comrade, Ross Downey finished a very credible 86th in a time of 3:07:10. Great running,well done lads.

Well done to Enda Whelan who won his category in the Limerick Half Marathon

A few of the hardy Sligo Athletic Club crew who travelled to Easkey today to take part in the 10k and 10mile races.Well done to all our runners in Easkey. Photos courtesy Cathy Mc Carthy

Gold for Richard Gorman & Gold Team Medal in National 10k A huge well done and congratulations to Richard Gorman who won Gold in the highly competitive M40 category at the National 10k in the Phoenix Park on Sunday with a superb run in a time of 32.55. It is a massive reward for the dedication that Richard applies to his training and is thoroughly well deserved.

The news could get even better as we await confirmation that our men’s M35 team have won team GOLD medals. Seamus Somers being the 2nd Sligo man home with a great time of 33.59 while the former ex Sligo Rovers midfield dynamo Damien Kennedy the third man to finish in 36.48. GOLD team confirmed.

Congratulations to all candidates who passed there grading at Sligo Higashi Karate Club.

43

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

GET ON YOUR BIKE FOR CROÍ!

BRIDGE CLUB RESULTS Captain’s Prizes Results Tom & Ann Daly Kathleen Keane & Trine Godsell Mary Brennan & Una Gleeson Claire Griffin Trophy Results 1. H.Demmel & J.Hargadon 2. G.McCafferty & P.Kilcawley 3. C.Lappin & K.Hegarty 4. H.Clarke & B.Johnson Patsy O’Hara ( founder member) presented the Patsy O’Hara Cup to the Club.

11th April 2016 North/South 1st. A.Flanagan & P.Neiland 2nd. M.Dufficy & G.Hynes 3rd. M.Heraughty & C.Johnson 4th. P.O’Hara & A.McGill East/West 1st. J Hargadon & H.Demmel 2nd. P.Kilcawley & G.McCafferty 3rd. U.Gleeson & M.Brennan 4th. L.Walsh & M.Corcoran

J

ust over 5 weeks to go until the Croí Tour de Lough Corrib cycle on Sunday June 12th.

The cycle is the biggest event for local heart and stroke charity Croí each year, with over 1,000 cyclists taking part. Entry is FREE, but participants are asked to fundraise to support the charity’s life-saving work.

The route is fully supported with refreshment stops, lead & sweep vehicles, medical support, on the road

repairs & lots of volunteers on hand on the day!

The charity are still looking for some volunteers to help on the day. If you are interested in lending your support, contact Aoife on 091-542404 for more information.

Corrib Oil are once again the main sponsor for the event, with Velocity Bike Store, Al Hayes Motors and Caragh Precision as associate sponsors. All cyclists must pre-register online

on www.croi.ie/cycle in order to be part of this great event.

Photo Caption: Just over 5 weeks to go until the Croí Tour de Lough Corrib with cycling. Entry is FREE but people are asked to fundraise to support the life-saving work of Croí. Register now on www.croi.ie/cycle. Photo Shows (LR); Neil Johnson, Croí, Alice O’Dea and Matt Stafford, Corrib Oil (Main Sponsors) and Eoghan Clifford ParaCycling World Champion.

4th April 2016 North/South 1st. P.Kilcawley & G.McCafferty 2nd. C.Johnson & M.Heraughty 3rd. G.Hynes & M.Dufficy East/West 1st. M.McGowan &U.Gleeson 2nd. A.Pugh & A.Mullen 3rd. S.McMunn & B.Pugh

Darts Six Nations Cup The Great Southern Hotel Sligo - 24th to 26th June

The Republic of Ireland Men's squad for the 6-Nations Cup in Sligo

Family affair. Molua Donohoe . Eoghan Donohoe . Niall Colsh. Tom Colsh with Brian Colsh in Cox seat on the Garavouge recently

Draw Women’s Group One 1. Netherlands 2. Northern Ireland 3. England

Men’s Group One 1. Netherlands 2. Scotland 3. Northern Ireland

Women’s Group Two 1. Wales 2. Replublic of Ireland 3. Scotland

Men’s Group Two 1. Wales 2. Republic of Ireland 3. England

CLARKE PLANT HIRE ALL WORK GUARANTEED • 15 YEARS EXPERIENCE

• Astro Turf Service • Civil Engineering • Groundworks • Footpaths & Kerbs • Concrete Work • Concrete Cladded Tanks• New Builds & Extensions • All renovation work undertaken • Maintenance of Windmills also available

Fast Track Machine Available • Plant & Tipper Hire Machine Excavation • All Concrete work • Deep drainage service available Contact James: 087-2765194 • Email: jamesclarkeplanthire@gmail.com • Lugdoon, Templeboy, Co. Sligo

44

COUNTY SLIGO SURF CLUB HOUR OF POWER

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

Sligo Surf Club Competition results

The third comp is over and we can see that the kids are all improving. One more to go and we can then crown the tour champion of each age group.

U10. 1st Cathal Deery 2nd Lou Sacolax 3rd Lorcan Southcombe 4th Cillian Deery 5th Zav Heffernan 6th Loughlin Heffernan U12 1st Sky Sacolax 2nd Mika Sacolax 3rd Owen Mc Kirdy Beautiful morning to restart the Hour of Power at County Sligo Surf Club

T

he hour of power is back on again each Sunday folks. We’re going to hit the water at 10am so if people could be down there suited and booted by 9.45am that would be great. It’s been a bit chilly lately but the wind is going westerly

again so it should be a few degrees warmer. Just make sure if the kids have, gloves, hoods and booties that they bring them. We won’t be splitting the group for the first few weeks so it will only run for one hour.

The more parents in the water as

well the better.

Also please make sure that the kids are members of the club for insurance purposes. You can join up on the Irish Surfing website and there should also be a link on this page.

See you all on Sunday morning!

County Sligo Golf Club

U14 Boys.

1st Nico Garcia 2nd Sky Sacolax 3rd Alex Gilheaney 4th Owen Mc Kirdy U14 Girls 1st Susana Garcia 2nd Calina sacolax 3rd Arianna Torres 4th Sara Mc Kirdy U16 Boys 1st Rodrigo Garica 2nd Nico Garcia U16 Girls 1st Calina Sacolax

New 3rd Green

U18 Boys 1st Rodrigo Garcia 2nd Ewan Foy 3rd Nico Garcia Congrats to all the boys and girls for their participation, and to Andy Kilfeather (Irish Junior Coach) in helping the kids and giving them a pep talk prior to each heat. A big shout out to our resident life guard Pauric Deery for standing around in the cold all day ensuring the kids are being well looked after.

Get into Golf evening at County Sligo Golf Club was a great success

Lynns Dock, Sligo • Tel: 071-9157830

BEDS • SANDING • FLOORING

Laminate Floors Only €5.99 sqyd

We would love if your club could submit pictures and reports on what is happening in your organisation on a regular basis and we will be sure to include it. It is important that we get as much involvement from clubs such as yours from the get go so any info you have please send it to seamus@sligosport.ie or feel free to contact me on 085 2498067.

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE TYRE about dog training.(Well, at least for me it is!) When you see that “aha” moment on your dog’s face when he realises what the this thing is all about. So keep your dog on the spare tyre until he is confident in running to it and jumping through it on his own, even from a distance and at a reasonable height. Of course you can still point in the general direction handling is what makes agility so interesting (again, for me anyway) - but you shouldn’t have to stick your hand through the tyre to make your dog do it. If you need to handhold in this way, your dog hasn’t quite got the idea and needs a bit more practice.

Also make sure you reward you dog while he is jumping through the tyre - not when he has already landed. A quick “good dog” while he’s in the air followed by a treat asap will do. Clickers work great. If you use a ball It was still a fair struggle at our first competition this year, so we need to keep practising it! or a toy, throw it while the Isn't Louis demonstrating it perfectly in this picture though? dog is flying through the tyre. Too often, handlers small/medium height and he look of the tyre varies in a safe and flexible remain silent while the dog manner. The frame of fixture 60 cm at the large height, based on the rules. The is doing exactly the thing making it a mid-range small must be substantial or IKC rules state that, “The they wanted. Likewise, the and large jump and lower secured in such a way that tyre/hoop must be directly handler is silent when the than medium height jump. dogs cannot knock the mounted in a substantial dog does the wrong thing.

The height of our tyre is NOT obstacle over from either frame structure which must How is the dog supposed to ADJUSTABLE; it simply flips direction.” be secured in such a way know the difference? (And over from small/medium to that dogs cannot knock the Basically, our tyre complies no, don’t give out to the with the IADSA and FCI rules large. Look at the pieces at obstacle over from either dog for doing it wrong. It the corners; small triangles but not IKC. The thinking is direction; the frame shall was likely your fault.) for smaller dogs and large that if our dogs learn to do not have a beam across Finally, one more really triangles for large dogs. the suspended tyre, they the top.”. FCI rules say that, important point: if your dog The real trick with the tyre is will have no problems with “The tyre must be has run past the tyre and to teach the dog to aim for the tyre fixed to the frame, adjustable in height (chains you need to bring him the centre. While it’s ok to whereas vice versa could or rope), fixed or rigid back, make sure you bring point at the centre in the certainly be an issue. attachments are not him back around the entire early days, it can’t be a There are also minor allowed.” IADSA rules are obstacle. Don’t let him long-term solution for the differences in the heights, in-between: “Two types of come back between the obstacle as you can’t but it’s always the aperture tyre are acceptable: Type tyre and the frame as that’s always get there ahead of centre which is measured 1: The tyre / hoop must be the thing you don’t want your dog. We have a from the ground, so the directly mounted in a him to do. If your dog is “spare tyre” we use to actual jump height substantial frame structure never allowed to go there, teach the dogs to jump depends on the size of the which must be secured in he will quite likely never through it. After a bit of tyre - minimum tyre size is such a way that dogs think of doing it either. If this practice, the dog should ~45 cm in diameter - again, cannot knock the obstacle starts to become a problem understand the tyre and depending slightly on the over from either direction; again, go back and would no longer need rules. Looking at the actual the frame shall not have a practice on the spare tyre jump height of our tyre, it’s excessive pointing. This is beam across the top. Type again with someone 30 cm when set to one of the cool things 2: The tyre to be suspended holding it.

T

45

Run As One Dog Agility Club Competition results

Results from club competition on Sunday 3rd April: Small beginners: 1. Liam & Alfie 100.90 Nicola & Winnie elim.

Paul & Millie elim.

Medium beginners: Poppy & Elmo 0.00 2.

Patricia & Speedy 24.44 3.

Sharon & Loki 38.93 4.

Pamela & Dexter 40.21 Large beginners: Courtney & Daisy 28.50 Bronwyn & Dubha elim.

Denise & Beth elim.

Kath & Barney elim.

Tina & Molly elim.

Ava & Poppy elim.

Large advanced: Seamus & Spooks elim.

Kate & Woody elim.

Tina & Lolly elim.

Medium advanced: 1. Pamela & Toby 17.66 Caroline & Wilf elim.

Small advanced: Suzanne & Wallace elim.

Pamela & Benny elim.

League rankings 1/4: Poppy & Elmo 0.00 2.

Pamela & Toby 17.66 3.

Patricia & Speedy 24.44 4.

Courtney & Daisy 28.50 5.

Pamela & Dexter 40.21

Sligo Martial Arts Academy We specialize in the art of Karate and Brazilian Ju-Jitsu.

“We teach people the skills of martial arts in a warm and friendly environment”

We train Karate and Brazilian Ju-Jitsu and feel that these styles offer each student a well-rounded base of self-defense and combat situations. Our club mandate is to ensure that all students enjoy training and feel better both mentally and physically after a session.

Check out our Website for our Class Times & Venues

Karate - BJJ - Youth Clubs

Phone Michael on: 087-6296933 Email: sligomartialartsacademy@gmail.com Website: www.sligomartialartsacademy.ie

46

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

Corbett Sportsfield Services

RM Topsoil & Stone Call John: 087-6655871

Warriors Run Strandhill 2016 Professional Sportsground Construction and Maintenance Services for GAA, Soccer and Golf Clubs Utilising the most up to date machinery available for use on sports pitches and golf courses our qualifications and experience, ensures that your grounds are maintained to the highest standard all year round.

Moorehall, Ballyglass, Claremorris, Co. Mayo • Mobile: 087-4139724 Tel: 094 - 9360160 • Email : corbettsportsfieldservices@gmail.com Website: www.corbettsportsfieldservices.com

Loads of Top Quality Top Soil Screened or Un-Screened Only €15 Per Tonne All; types of Farm Stone and Garden Stone Covering Sligo, Roscommon & Leitrim areas

If you are taking part in this year’s Warrior Run in Aug and wish to support a local homeless charity please contact Mary on 087 7708865 or e mail mary@northwestsimon.ie for a sponsorship card, the charity will also be at registration on 19th May at The Strand Bar and The Draft House. www.northwestsimon.ie

Pitch Dimensions Buncrana Co. Donegal

Specialists in Pitch and Tennis Court Construction and Maintenance 15 years experience in agriculture drainage private developments and plant hire We specialise in Astro Turf Sand Based and Basalt Dust pitches and Tennis Court Construction

Tel: +353 (0)74 9361015 E-mail: pitchdimensions@eircom.net www.pitchdimensions.ie

Electrical Contractors Burgular & Fire Alarm Systems Access Control Gate Automation & Barrier Systems IP CCTV

Barry Gallagher 085-8888-999

IRISH CONCRETE STAIRS

Concrete stairs offer a fast and sturdy option in any development and have many benefits over wood.

Escape in a fire: Concrete has a significantly higher fire resistance than wood.

Flood resistant: Concrete stairs are a lot more flood resistant.

Sound proof: You won’t hear people running up and down concrete stairs.

Faheens,Midfield, Swinford ,County Mayo Contact James for a friendly, reliable service: Telephone: 087-0578566 • www.irishconcretestairs.ie

Over 24 years in business creating & maintaining gardens • All landscaping work undertaken • Garden Design & Consultancy • Home Garden Maintenance Program • All work Guaranteed “We pride ourselves in doing any job professionally and efficiently with practical landscapes that are easy to maintain”

Telephone: 086-8624855 • 071-9173010 www.mcgowanlandscapes.com Email: mcgowanlandscapes@gmail.com

Suitable for: • People with limited mobility • People who have had hip surgery • People with back aches

The Ideal Gift Order Now! For details of your local stockist Phone Noel: 087-9896948

47

SLIGO SPORT MAY, 2016

Goalpost Nets

Scaffolding Hire Sligo Over 15 years in business supplying throughout Sligo & North West Scaffolding and Acrows available to Buy or Hire from our yard Supply and Erect Service Available Tube and Fitting Scaffolding also available with plastic planks for clean room environments Our Fully Trained & Certified Professional Teams specialise in providing tailored scaffolding hire solutions, using the right equipment in the right place at the right time.

Top Quality Animal Feeds From Also specialising in equestrian, yard and agri supplies.

Phone: 086-8039502 Email: johngriffinshs@gmail.com www.scaffoldinghiresligo.ie

Full Size or Kids Size Football Nets Unit 3 Rathrippon Business Park, Union Rd, Collooney, Co Sligo • nwagri@eircom.net • Tel: 071-9118892

Michael O Doherty Plexus Bio Energy

Michael Fitzpatrick Construction Ltd BUILDING, PLANT HIRE, CIVIL ENGINEERING CONTRACTOR

• Plant Hire •Machinery for Sale • Commercial Building Contractors • Civil Engineering Contractor • Groundworks Contractor • Landscaping (Domestic & Commercial) • Fencing • Land Drainage • Outdoor Gym Installer • Council Contractor

Approved therapist to help you retore your life energy. Treat conditions such as pain, stress, disease and sports injuries

Professional Drycleaners The Perfect Spot for all Sports Club Kits Computerised system so your club knows what teams kits were laundered and when

Tel: 071-91853023 • Fax: 071-9853898 • Mobile: 087-2594815 info@builderplanthire.ie www.builderplanthire.ie

Pearse Road, Sligo Town • Phone: (071) 916 9791 Open Mon -Fri 8:30am - 6:00pm / Sat 9am-6pm keadysdrycleaners@gmail.com

Sea Fishing Sligo.ie

Boat Charters & Sligo Sightseeing Tours In Sligo Sea fishing Sligo has taken advantage of Sligo’s beautiful scenery and operates trips to the majestic island of Inishmurray, to the wild Aughris Pier and bar and the scenic coast lines at Rossess Point, Coney Island and Mullaghmore.

We operate a number of trips and tours to suit our groups and our fishing enthusiasts.

We can also offer trips which will allow you to catch a glimpse of some of our friendly dolphins or take you to seal rock where the seals are known to relax throughout the day!

Tours & Trips

Fishing

Contact: 087-4540002

Sightseeing

Call Tommy for all your fishing needs 087-2397789 info@seafishingsligo.ie www.seafishingsligo.ie Rosses Point Sligo, Co Sligo, Ireland

• Car Servicing • Clutches • NCT Pre-Test • Headlight Alignment • Emissions Testing • Puncture Repairs • Tyres • Electrical • Diagnostics • Brakes and Exhausts • Starters and Alternators (Supplied & repaired)

Tel: 087- 61 88 000 • Ballymote, Co. Sligo

What can be treated?

Because we work at an energy level it doesn’t matter what your problem is. Our job is to deal with what causes your problem, so people come to our clinics with every conceivable problem be it physical, emotional or mental. Children also benefit hugely from the treatment.

How does the therapy work?

Your body is made up of energy and if this energy system becomes imbalanced then your body becomes. We balance that energy system with specially developed techniques which in turn allow the body to heal.

What is the role of the Plexus therapist?

The first step in the bodies healing process is to get your energy system balanced and flowing again. The Therapist will also create a health-care programme for you depending on what your problem is. This involves looking at your diet, teaching you how to deal with your stress on a daily basis, look at your muscular and skeletal system and most importantly get your mind focused on your journey back to health.

Contact Joseph McGuiness on 086 3051356