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INSIDE: D15 firm wins JumpStart 2011 award P10

‘The west is best for a mighty Mayo holiday break’ TRAVEL: P22-23.

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September 1, 2011

FAB NEW SCHOOL: Doors open for first time at Littlepace school Page 6

Travelling troops: Local Scouts attend jamboree Handball: Kennedy closes in on national eight-in-a-row Page 32

THE SCOUTS of Ath Cliath 15 Scout County were well represented last week at the 22nd World Scout Jamboree in Sweden. Over 40,000 scouts and guides gathered near Rinkaby, Sweden, to share the unique experience that is a World Scout Jamboree. A total of 11 Scouts from Huntstown, Blanchardstown, Porterstown and Castleknock Scout groups, along with two Scouts from Huntstown attended as members of the Caithne Troop, one of 17 Irish troops who travelled to Sweden.

See Story on Page 2

Sport Awards: August’s stars of the month nominees inside Page 29

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ................8-10 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ......... 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Over 1,000 thefts recorded this year

Latest statistics reveal extent of criminality

Q LAURA WEBB

BLANCHARDSTOWN Garda station is dealing with more cases of theft than any other offence so far this year, with over 1,000 recorded in the first six months.

In the latest crime figures provided by the Central Sta-

tistics Office, 1,057 theft and related offences were reported at the Blanchardstown Garda station for the first six months of 2011.

For the year of 2010, the same offences had 2,621 reports.

Burglary and related offences stood at 259 by the end of June of this year. In 2010, there were

691 burglary and related offences, an increase of 82 compared to the 2009 figure of 609.

Meanwhile, damage to property and to the environment has seen 529 cases reported to the Dublin West station as of the end of June 2011.

Full Story on Page 4

2 BLANCH GAZETTE 1 September 2011

BLANCHARDSTOWN LIBRARY: EVENTS

EVENT Scouts gather from all around the world

Focusing on Europe THIS month sees a number of Europe Direct events taking place at the Blanchardstown Library.

These include a volunteering and community information fair and an exhibition from EU Citizenship – Freedom Security and Justice: tenth anniversary of 9/11.

On display at the library’s reference section from September 5 is an exhibition called EU Citizenship-Freedom, Security and Justice: tenth anniversary of 9/11.

Wednesday, September 15 the organisation is holding a Make a European Flag Workshop for children aged 5-12 years, booking can be done through the library’s lending desk.

The volunteering and

community information fair presented by Europe Direct with community groups and local organisations takes place on September 21 from 3pm until 7pm.

This fair provides information about volunteering opportunities in the local area.

English classes also start on September 21 at 6.30pm for beginners and 7.30pm for intermediate English class.

Booking can be made at the Library desk.

On September 26 from 2.30pm European Day of Languages is celebrated through arts, crafts and language activity for children aged 7-12 years.

Book at the desk.

Join in to create a piece art work that will go on display in the Library.

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The Scouts of Ath Cliath 15 Scout County

Local scouts enjoy world jamboree Q STEPHEN DUNNE

THE Scouts of Ath Cliath 15 Scout County were well represented last week at the 22nd World Scout Jamboree in Sweden.

Over 40,000 scouts and guides gathered near Rinkaby, Sweden, to share the unique experience that is a World Scout Jamboree.

This is an event which happens every four years which allows scouts only one chance to attend as a youth member.

A total of 11 Scouts from Huntstown, Blanchardstown, Porterstown and Castleknock Scout groups, along with two Scouters from Huntstown attended as memebers of the Caithne Troop, one of 17 Irish troops who travelled to Sweden.

Those too old to be scouts attended as international staff.

They played an exceptional role in the smooth planning, construction and running of different programme zones at the Jamboree.

Under the guidance of Declan Heaney, the Ath Cliath 15 commission-

The 22nd World Scout Jamboree took place in Sweden

er, many of the enthusiastic scouters constructed and delivered the Quest programme; a physical zone which pushed scouts to work as a patrol to solve clues and complete a massive obstacle course.

It proved a widespread success with scouts from all over the world.

Declan Heaney praised the hard work of the young team saying: “They

should be extremely proud of themselves, they worked hard and tirelessly, they gave everything they could often working very long days.”

The World Scout Jamboree was a unique experience for the young people of Dublin 15.

Scouts did not travel with their own local group but mixed together with several groups to form a Jamboree troop.

Led by Stephen Dunne and Aoife Heaney, D15 scouts joined with scouts from Malahide, Dolymount and Longford to form the Caithne Troop; part of an 800-strong Irish contingent.

They spent 16 days together in Sweden and also enjoyed many preparation camps in the pre-

ceding year.

It gave them a chance to meet with scouts not only from all over Ireland but also from156 countries from around the world.

Under the theme of spontaneous programme scouts could sample hundreds of activities including a Ferris wheel made of rope and wood, zorbing, zip lines, ice climbing, swimming in the lake or simply chilling out around the fire with new friends.

They shared customs, food, language and traditions but most of all they had great fun and made many new friends.

This was a truly magnificent experience and all those involved look forward to the next World Scout Jamboree, Japan, 2015.

1 September 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 3

POLITICS Socialists ‘optimistic’ on taking Dublin West seat

A&E to remain at Connolly

Councillors ready to contest byelection Q LAURA WEBB castleknock@gazettegroup.com

SOCIALIST Party councillor Ruth Coppinger has confirmed she is to contest the Dublin West byelection, which, it is believed will now take place on the same day as the Presidential Election.

With speculation mounting that the byelection will be held on the same day as the Presidential Election, this will leave less than two months for candidates to campaign.

The Dail seat has been left vacant since the untimely death of former Minister for Finance, and local Fianna Fail TD, Brian Lenihan.

At present, none of the main political parties – including Labour, Fianna Fail and Fine Gael – have confirmed who will con-

test the election for them.

Cllr Coppinger said she was “optimistic” on securing the seat, saying: “It just depends really on how much of an anti-Government move there is.

“We are going to need someone who will campaign with the community, and fight on issues affecting them.

“Three major issues now are the cuts being implemented at Connolly Hospital in Blanchardstown, and there is also the pending introduction of the home tax household charge, and the water charge, and it would send a really strong statement on those issues, and on all of those austerity measures that are being taken, to send someone from the Socialist Party into the Dail. I think we have a chance.”

Meanwhile, Labour’s Mulhuddart councillor, Patrick Nulty, who narrowly missed out on a seat to Brian Lenihan at the recent General Election, said no candidate has been selected for his party, but he will be putting his name forward.

“I will be very hopeful that the local members in Dublin West will select me to contest the byelection.

“In the recent General Election, I narrowly lost on the final count so, if selected, I would be fighting very hard to take the seat when the byelection is called,” he said.

No formal selection process has been undertaken in Fianna Fail yet, according to Cllr David McGuinness, who was Deputy Lenihan’s running mate during the Feb-

ruary General Election.

The young councillor is expecting his party to discuss it “fairly soon”.

“I have already said that I am always ready to stand for the party. I think the party is at a very difficult position, given that it has no seat in Dublin.

“While I am not being complacent, saying I am the right guy, Michael Martin has already said the Dublin West byelection is crucial to the party – it is our only [potential] seat in Dublin, and we intend to retain Lenihan’s seat. Martin said on national radio that he will be looking to a younger member of the party to take it on.

“That certainly suggests that I fit the bill, but, as I said, if it comes my way, I will take it – but, in politics, anything can hap-

HOSPITAL

Socialist councillor Ruth Coppinger

pen,” said Cllr McGuinness.

When asked about his party moving the writ, he said: “Traditionally, the party that loses the seat, for whatever reason, would have the option to move the writ [to call the byelection].

“So, under that scenario, Fianna Fail would move the writ, but, ultimately, it is the Government’s decision to hold the election,” said Cllr McGuinness.

Meanwhile, Fine Gael councillor Kieran Dennison said he was “still look-

ing” at his options, adding that he hasn’t discussed it with anyone yet, and noone has discussed it with him.

“I don’t really want to comment on it, because I am looking for assurances from the party that I will be able to campaign on Fine Gael policies and [not] so much just on Government policies.”

On speculation that the byelection could be held on the same day as the Presidential Election, on October 27, most councillors agreed it is a logical day to hold it.

DUBLIN West TD and Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton, has met with the HSE, who confirmed that Connolly Hospital’s full Accident and Emergency department will remain.

Commenting after the meeting, Minister Burton said: “I have been advised by the HSE that they are committed to maintaining a full Accident and Emergency service in Connolly Hospital. The proposal to have a joint academic campus between Beaumont Hospital, Connolly Hospital and in conjunction with the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland is also proceeding.

“Accident and Emergency services need to be provided to a catchment area which has a population of approximately 300,000 people. It is essential that we retain Accident and Emergency Services in Dublin West.”

4 BLANCH GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GARDAI Latest statistics reveal extent of criminality during first half of 2011

Theft tops the charts in Blanchardstown crimes Q LAURA WEBB news@gazettegroup.com

BLANCHARDSTOWN Garda station is dealing with more cases of theft than any other offence so far this year, with more than 1,000 reports recorded in the first six months of 2011.

In the latest crime figures provided by the

Central Statistics Office, 1,057 theft and related offences were reported at the Blanchardstown Garda Station for the first six months of 2011.

For the year of 2010, the same offences had 2,621 reports.

Burglary and related offences stood at 259 reports by the end of June of this year. In 2010,

COUNCIL: RESUMES

Summer’s over for politicians THE summer is over for local political representatives, who are back in council chambers to discuss issues related to their elected areas.

The last Area Committee meeting or council meeting for local councillors was in July.

On September 1, local councillors return for more council business,

there were 691 burglary and related offences – an increase of 82, compared to the 2009 figure of 609.

Damage to property and to the environment saw 529 cases reported to the Dublin West station as of the end of June, 2011. In 2010, there were 1,200 such cases.

Figures for controlled drug offences show 206

incidents for the first half of this year. In 2010 there were 373 such incidents reported.

Public Order and other Social Code Offences for the first half of this year saw 314 offences reported at this Garda station.

For the 12 months of 2010, there were 601 such offences.

Last year, there was

a rise in reports of attempts/threats to murder, assaults, harassments and related offences, with 234 cases, compared to 216 in 2009. For the first half of this year, the number of such cases stands at 127.

There has been a significant reduction in reports of dangerous or negligent acts, with figures showing

460 cases in 2008, compared to just 227 in 2010, while the figures as of the end of June, this year, stood at 100.

The number of robbery, extortion and hijacking offences is half the 148 cases reported in 2010, with 74 reported in the first six months of this year.

Fraud, deception and

related offences for the first six months of this year stood at 72, just over half of the 127 cases recorded for 2010.

Weapons and explosive offences are currently at 64. Over the past two years, there has been a slight decrease in such offences, with 116 reported in 2010, compared to 131 in 2009.

PICTURE TO THE EDITOR: SAVE THESE TREES DEAR EDITOR,

FINGAL County Council intends knocking these magnificent trees down to facilitate the Porterstown Link Road development.

These trees are more than 100 years old and are irreplaceable.

I think it is a terrible shame.

with the first Castleknock and Mulhuddart Area Committee meeting since the break.

Issues to be debated at the first meeting include updates on Hansfield Train Station, an update on the Old School House in Porterstown, and the taking in charge of a number of estates in Dublin 15.

Liam Tighe Address with editor

Petition for a Hartstown Park ranger ALMOST a thousand people have signed a petition calling for the restoration of a permanent park ranger for Hartstown Park.

The petition was handed to Fingal County Council last week by local Labour councillor, Patrick Nulty, who helped residents collect the signatures.

Speaking on the matter, Cllr Nulty said: “This petition was a

tremendous exercise in community action, with local residents mobilising their friends, family and neighbours to register their objections to the actions of the council.

“There is an overwhelming belief that Hartstown Park requires a permanent park ranger presence. There have been examples of local clubs having

matches disrupted due to antisocial activity and, while the park ranger service would not prevent such things directly, passive supervision of the park at all times would be useful.

“Since these changes were introduced unilaterally by council management, I have consistently said that some parks require a permanent presence.

Hartstown Park is one of those cases. I hope the council will listen to the community on this issue, and review their policy,” said Cllr Nulty.

Fingal County Council recently introduced a mobile park ranger service, removing permanent park rangers at a public park to instead provide supervision to all parks within the area.

1 September 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 5

POLICING Responsible serving certs are presented

SUICIDE: PROJECT

Light Up The Sky in D15

Inspector John Kelly praised the three local licensed premises whose staff took part in the training exercise programme on the responsible serving of alcohol

TRAINING: ORGANISERS’ SURPRISE AT LOW TAKE-UP OF VITAL COURSE

Licensed businesses urged to take course Q LAURA WEBB news@gazettegroup.com

MORE licensed premises in Dublin 15 are being encouraged to take up a “vital” training exercise programme on the responsible serving of alcohol, after just three establishments received certificates for the programme, organised by the local policing forum.

Safer Blanchardstown, the local policing forum in Blanchardstown, has for the last three years held training seminars on responsible serving.

Three licensed premises – EuroSpar at Hartstown, CarryOut (Mulhuddart, Tyrrelstown, Ashtown) and Castleknock Hotel – were presented with a certificate of participation by Inspector John Kelly at Blanchardstown Garda Station this week.

However, of the 48 licensed holders contacted about the training, just three sent all their staff on the training course, which surprised all involved.

Speaking to The Gazette, Insp Kelly said: “This is a safety back-up for them. We would be encouraging people, as

Ian Garrigan, O’Brien’s Carry Out, Tyrrellstown was presented with a certificate by Inspector John Kelly

many as possible, to avail of the training, because it is a legal issue, but it is also a health and safety issue.

“It is generally run by Safer Blanchardstown in the Community Week, which is usually one week in September and October. “ We w o u l d a l s o encourage premises taking part to get all their staff trained, as many as possible, more so their part-time staff because they would have less experience.

“The purpose of today [certificate presentations] was to recognise those who have taken part, and I congratulate them

for getting involved,” he said.

When asked why he thought people haven’t taken up the training, Phillip Jennings, coordinator of Safer Blanchardstown, said it was unclear.

“The first year we ran it, we contacted everybody, by phone or by email, and they were all fairly interested in it – then they just didn’t turn up.

“I don’t know what it is; some people have inhouse training, but we want to encourage more to take part.”

Christopher Furey, manager, EuroSpar in Hartstown, sent 20 staff members on the course,

and believes it is vital to take part.

“As a manager, and as a local business trader, we have a legal reasonability, so there is no question [about taking part]. I am surprised that not many businesses have availed of this.

“We are a communitybased business. It is local customers that shop in the shop, and local people who work in the store, and we have a responsibility to the local community. We will be sending people every year to it,” he said.

According to Kevin O’Brien, of CarryOut, there is no excuse not to take part in the course, because it is also available online for those who cannot attend the training course.

He said: “In today’s climate, it is crucial to take part. For your own responsibility, and your own piece of mind, the actual business viability is reliant on it because, if someone is caught serving alcohol to under-age people, they are potentially closed for a week, which could finish a business off in today’s climate.”

SUICIDE Awareness in Dublin 15 will hold a “Light Up The Sky” ceremony in a local park to mark Suicide Awareness Day this September.

On Saturday, September 10, the local suicide awareness group will take part in a national event across Ireland for Suicide Awareness Day. Light Up The Sky will see Chinese lanterns released into the sky at Corduff Park at 10pm, to mark the day.

Lillian Parker, of Suicide Awareness, said: “This is a great event to highlight the growing problem of suicide in our community, and also to remember a loved one.

“Our event is part of a series of events that will take place across the whole of Ireland. We would invite anyone who is interested to come along and take part,” she said.

6 BLANCH GAZETTE 1 September 2011

EVENT: EXPO AT FINGAL VOLUNTEER CENTRE

The expo is aiming to get more people interested in volunteering

Inviting the public to volunteer LAURA WEBB

THE Fingal Volunteer Centre is hosting its second volunteer expo this year as par t of European Year of Volunteering celebrations, and is bringing a host of organisations seeking volunteers with it.

For the second time this year, Fingal Volunteer Centre, located in Coolmine Industrial Estate, is holding an exhibition in Fingal to invite the public to volunteer for an organisation within their community.

Following the success of the expo in Blanchardstown earlier this year in March, it was decided to host another exhibition to get more people interested in volunteering.

“We had great success at the Blanchardstown Centre with 20-plus organisations, including our own stand attending.

We were able to inform volunteers of all opportunities across Fingal, it was a thriving success and that is what we hope for this day too. Like the one in March, we show you what volunteering opportunities are available, how you can apply and how you go about getting involved,” said Glynis Dunne, development officer at Fingal Volunteer Centre.

“Statistics have shown that a very high number of people say they would volunteer if they were asked, so at these kind of

expos, events or stands, we invite organisations to promote their volunteering opportunities and it is in a way saying, we need you to volunteer, we are asking you to volunteer,” she continued.

The Fingal Volunteering Expo is being launched

by RTE weather presenter Nuala Carey on Thursday, September 1, at the Pavilions Shopping Centre and takes place from noon until 8pm. Organisations taking part include: Age Action, Bereavement Counselling Ser vice, Focus Ireland, Scouting Ireland, Remember Us special needs group and Fingal Citizens Information Service and more.

Every year volunteer organisations take part in expos, stands, community events and fairs, where volunteering opportunities are made known to the public. However, with this year being European Year of Volunteering, the organisation is going the extra mile to get even more people involved.

“I think having a very defined and named year - this is the year of volunteering - puts it there in black and white that we need to recognise the amount of activity and work that is going on from volunteers and to say let’s have more volunteers,” Glynis explained.

For further information on the Fingal Volunteer Centre log onto www.volunteerfingal.ie

Food for thought: Local children enjoy a close look at Wagamama noodle bar SIX local children from Blanchardstown Foroige youth project were at noodle bar Wagamama in Blanchardstown Retail Park recently where they enjoyed a morning with head chef, Juan Carlos Manteca and general manager, Daniela Jozefcakova, learning about

Asian cooking, nutrition and how a restaurant is run.

Foroige is the leading youth organisation in Ireland, working with approximately 50,000 young people aged 10-18 every year through volunteer-led clubs and staff-led youth projects.

EDUCATION: FIFTH EDUCATE TOGETHER SCHOOL FOR DUBLIN 15

New school gets set to open its doors LAURA WEBB

IT’S an exciting milestone for school starters in Littlepace, as the doors open for the first time at their new school Blanchardstown West Educate Together this week.

Not only will the students be nervous about starting a school, but the faculty at Blanchardstown West Educate Together National School will also be feeling butterflies as the school opens for the very first time.

O ve r t h e s u m m e r period, contractors were working hard to refurbish the temporary accommodation for the school so it was complete in time for the beginning of the new school year.

Principal at the new school, Fergal Collins said: “This is a really exciting time for the

parents and the teachers but especially for the stars of the show, the children. Their learning journey will begin in Blanchardstown West with the huge advantage of being the only class to get the teachers’ full attention. Tus maith leath ne hOibre a good beginning is half the work.”

Blanchardstow n West Educate Together is now one of five Educate Together Schools in Dublin 15, it joins Powerstown Educate Together, also set to open this year, and established educate together schools in Castleknock, Tyrrelstown and Castaheany.

The school will run from pre-fabs at the site of Mar y Mother of Hope in Littlepace for two to three years before moving to a permanent school building site elsewhere in Dub-

The school will run from pre-fabs for two to three years

lin 15. However, no site has been earmarked for a permanent building for the school yet.

According to Educate Together ’s Regional Development Officer Jarlath Munnelly, the huge growth in population in Dublin 15 has led to the development of five Educate Together National Schools.

“T here are five schools now. It is an area that has had huge population growth and the Educate Together schools that are already there are all very popular and are expanding very quickly. Castaheany is now a big school, Tyrrelstown has just moved into a 24 classroom school, there is

huge demand.”

For the first day of school at Blanchardstown West Educate Together NS, the school star ts at 10am and 8.30am every morning after that.

For further information on the school, or for a pre-enrolment form log on to www. bwetns.ie

1 September 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 7

PROJECT Delving into the world of older generation

Exploring growing older with fashion Q LAURA WEBB

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blanchardstown@gazettegroup.com

‘When you are knocked by other people you go under and if you’re ever knocked and you come out of it, then you express yourself as much as you can’

A DUBLIN 15 lady says she feels ‘rejuvenated’ after taking part in a project by Draiocht’s former artist in resident who explores growing older with fashion, and asks whether older people abandon fashion, or does fashion abandon older people.

In a world obsessed with beauty and style, photographer Garvan Gallagher wanted to delve further into the sartorial world of the older generation.

In his first solo exhibition following a 15-month long stint as artist in residency at Draiocht, Blanchardstown, he shows a different side to Dublin 15’s older generation.

The exhibition, My Way, which launches on Thursday, September 1, uses photography and video to explore growing older with fashion, and looks at whether older people abandon fashion, or does fashion abandon older people.

He takes the iconic fashion photograph and uses a collaborative approach with 10 residents of Dublin 15, recreated various fashion photographs with each person, substituting the younger body with the older body.

Speaking to the Gazette before the launch of the exhibition on September 1, 77-year-old participant Anne Flanaghan from Clonsilla, said she was only too happy to be part of the project.

“Garvan came to a group of people who were in the Blanchardstown Partnership and

Strong showing for retail awards Q LAURA WEBB blanchardstown@gazettegroup.com

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asked would we engage in this fashion exhibition he is doing. A number of us agreed and as a result I have been rejuvenated.

“He brought me into the awful place in Parnell Square and two girls from Dun Laoghaire painted me up and another lady brought the clothes in and dressed me up and the apparition that appeared is what you see in the fur coat.

“I am very happy with it because that is what Garvan wanted to do and I don’t mind being regenerated, or rejuvenated,” she giggled.

“In the picture I look tired, but I was a lost soul looking for whatever I was looking for the there is another picture of me looking like me.”

Her position on whether fashion has abandoned the older generation or whether the older generation has abandoned fashion is that it is “up to the individual”.

“I think it is up to the brain, the attitude, the personality of the person.

Just right now, I am wearing co-ordinated trousers and top from an old and new fashion mix, and I think I look great.

“It is all about confidence and how the person hasn’t been knocked by other people.

“When you are knocked by other people you go under and if you’re

ever knocked and you come out of it, then you express yourself as much as you can. I have been knocked in my time, but at this age of my life I am not going to be knocked.

“I am looking forward to the exhibition, and I had a great time taking part,” she added.

My Way launches in Draiocht on September 1 at 6pm and runs until November 5.

BUSINESS: SHORTLIST FOR 2011

Local Anne Flanaghan in a picture from My Way

Anne says she felt rejuvenated after her experience

LOCAL retailers are making their mark with a strong showing of local companies listed in the 2011 Irish Retail Awards shortlist.

Companies located in Dublin 15 shor tlisted for Store of the Year 2011 include: Docmorris at Superquinn Shopping Centre, Blanchardstown; 53 Degrees Nor th and Curr y’s/ PC World at the Blanchardstown Retail Park; Butlers Chocolate Cafe, the O2 store and Kay’s Foodhall all at the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre.

Nick Halller of Topaz on the Fonthill Road and Mark Howard of Curry’s/PC World, Blanchardstown Retail Park are both shortlisted for the Manager of the Year 2011 Award.

Organised by Retail E xc e l l e n c e I r e l a n d , Ireland’s largest retail industry body, this year’s shortlist was selected from hundreds of Ireland’s top performing retailers.

Award winners will be announced during the Retail Excellence Ireland Awards on November 5 at the Radisson Hotel in Galway.

Commenting on the 2011 short-lists, chief executive, Retail Excellence Ireland, David Fitzsimons said: “Ireland’s retailers have responded to the challenges they are currently facing by upping their game significantly.

“We were pleasantly surprised at the level of investment that retailers and their employees are putting into their businesses.

“The quality of this year’s nominees shows that, in spite of the unprecedented challenges facing Ireland’s retail industry, it is in good hands.”

8 BLANCH GAZETTE 1 September 2011

PHOENIX PARK Ashtown Castle and Visitor Centre

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‘There are lots of facilities there and we are at the planning stage for a Victorian glass house at the end of the garden, that won’t be there for I’d say another year. It’s just a wonderful place in the park for everyone young and old’ -------------------------------------------------------

Pat Blair of the OPW

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Ashtown Castle and Visitor Centre attracts thousands of visitors each year

An array of attractions for all at Ashtown Castle Q LAURA WEBB blanchardstown@gazettegroup.com

NESTLED in the heart of the Phoenix Park, one of the largest designed landscapes of any European City, Ashtown Castle and Visitor Centre has grown to become a tourist magnet attracting thousands of visitors each year.

Located just yards from Ireland’s most famous house, Aras an Uchtarain – The President’s residence, Ashtown Castle and Visitor Centre has an array of attractions for visitors young and old.

Visitors can enjoy tasty treats at its restaurant, tours of the Ashtown heritage castle, the beautifully restored Victorian

walled gardens and, for the kids, a modern and safe playground.

It is also at the centre of Ireland’s answer to the Chelsea Flower Show, the Bloom Festival, which has taking place at that location since 2007.

Explaining what attracts people to the grounds, Pat Blair of the OPW said: “It has so many different things to do. We have guided talks; we have video rooms where people can watch the history of the Phoenix Park; the pope’s original big red chair from his visit to Ireland in 1979 is upstairs.

“There is a beautiful courtyard and the restaurant is there too. We hold exhibitions throughout most of the year in the

gallery room.

“The walled garden is well worth a visit and the kids’ playground is right beside it.

“There are lots of facilities there and we are at the planning stage for a Victorian glass house at the end of the garden, that won’t be there for I’d say another year. It’s just a wonderful place in the park for everyone young and old,” says Pat. With its location just minutes from Aras an Uchtarain, the visitor centre makes for an ideal location to distribute free tickets for a tour of the famous house.

“Each Saturday, a limited number of tickets are given out on a first come first serve basis; anyone interested should con-

tact the visitor centre directly.”

The two-and-a-halfacre Victorian walled garden is currently being restored to its original mid-Victorian layout and is open to the public seven days a week.

Every second Saturday of every month the Phoenix Park professional gardeners are on hand at the walled gardens to answer any gardening questions visitors may have from 10.30am until 12.30pm.

In its history story, Ashtown Castle was owned by John Connell, known as John of Ashtown, a distant ancestor of the Liberator, Daniel O’ Connell in 1641.

At that time, the estate consisted of 200 acres and included two

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‘It has so many different things to do. We have guided talks; we have video rooms where people can watch the history of the Phoenix Park; the pope’s original big red chair from his visit to Ireland in 1979 is upstairs’

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thatched cottages and a small orchard.

By 1662, James Butler, the Twelfth Earl of Ormond, developed a Royal Deer Park, which included Ashtown Castle and its lands when he was appointed Lord Lieutenant of Ireland increasing the land to 800 hectares with lands on the southern bank of the River Liffey.

This land would later be excluded from the deer park following the building of the Royal Hospital at Kilmainham in 1680, as was a narrow strip of the parkland located beside the river, where Chapelizod Road ran.

The castle became the residence of one of the keepers of the Phoenix Park, after Marcus Trevor

Viscount Dungannon was appointed Ranger to the Phoenix Park in 1668.

Modernised and incorporated into Ashtown Lodge in the late 18th century, the castle became the first residence to the under secretary of Ireland in 1782 and in 1922 became the first residence to the US ambassador.

Papal Nuncio lived at the lodge in the early 1930s until 1978. By the early 90s extensive restoration works had been carried out to become the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre with its wellknown Phoenix Cafe.

For further information log onto www.phoenixpark.ie or call the visitor centre at 677 0095.

1 September 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 9

EVENT Inaugural Craft Means Business conference

Vivien Walsh

Oisin Geoghegan, Susannagh Grogan, Vivien Walsh and Philip Gaffney at Craft Means Business Conference

Celebrating the Year of Craft ROUND 100 guests attended the inaugural Craft Means Business conference in the Phoenix Park recently (June 30), which was organised by the Fingal County Enterprise Board to high-

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light the achievements of Irish craft and design companies in retail and export markets, marking 2011 as Year of Craft. Speakers included Oisin Geoghegan, CEO of the Fingal County Enterprise Board,

Melissa O’ Gorman, Oisin Geoghegan and Greg O’

Oisin Geoghegan speaking at Craft Means

Gorman

Business Conference

Oisin Geoghegan and Philip Gaffney

Greg O’ Gorman and Melissa O’ Gorman from the Kilkenny Shop, Philip Gaffney from O’ Gowna Giftware, Susannagh Grogan, a textiles designer and Vivien Walsh, a jewellery designer.

Susannagh Grogan pictured

Suzanne May and Christina Sanne at Farmleigh

10 BLANCH GAZETTE 1 September 2011

EVENT Dublin 15 company Safefood 360 wins JumpStart 2011

Rachel Murphy and Lauren Walsh who were part of the winning team of Safefood 360

D15 firm jumping for joy HE LINC (Learning and Innovation Centre), ITB (Institute of Technology Blanchardstown) announced the winner of JumpStart 2011 as Safefood 360 at a special awards ceremony recently. They were presented with their awards from Gavin Duffy. A special award was also presented to Woods Whelan Ltd. Winners, Safefood 360 will receive a fantastic prize worth €25,000, which includes the cost of the incubation space for 12 months at The LINC, the varied and fantastic mentoring support available to the winning company from industry experts and also €2,000 in cash.

Safefood 360 is a web-based food safety management system that allows food processing businesses manage all aspects of food safety in one fully integrated solution. Co-founders Philip Gillen and George Howlett have many years’ experience in the technology and food industry respectively. Launched in April 2011 their software application has received a very warm welcome from the food industry globally and has already received interest from plants on all five continents.

Judges Dragon Den’s Gavin Duffy, yourlocal.ie managing director, Emer Jameson, Lucia O’Riordan, Regional Retail and SME Manager, AIB, Assumpta Harvey, Manager The LINC, Oisin Geoghegan, Fingal County Enterprise and bizstartup.ie Editor Sorcha Corcoran, Board with JumpStart 2011 winners Philip Gillen and George Howlett of Safefood 360

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Special Award winner, Brendan Woods, Woods Whelan Ltd with Oisin Geoghegan, Fingal County Enterprise

Mark Keyes, Shane Walsh and Jason Darcy all from the LINC

Gerry Delaney, mentor at the LINC and Gerry

John Hughes and William Cirillo of Innovation Zed Ltd with Linda Farrelly and

Will McCreevey and Keith Robertson, Snap Printing

Bedford, Iompair based in the LINC

Cathal Lane

Blanchardstown

1 September 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteFITNESS FITNESS

Brought to you by Derry Temple personal trainer and pilates instructor

MOTIVATION: GET PROPER INSTRUCTIONS, BETTER RESULTS AND SUPPORT WITH GET

Getting in shape and into Group Exercise Training F you have decided to get serious about becoming fit and are about to embark on a fitness programme, then you probably plan on joining a gym.

Unfortunately, all too often, people sign up to their local gym with the best of intentions, only to quit training a short while later. The main reason for such an early resignation is often due to a lack of direction and support when training on their own.

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Going solo without the support of friends and the close guidance of a fitness professional can be daunting.

You may wonder what exercises to perform and find it difficult to gauge the appropriate training intensity. Not having any help often leads to boredom, frustration and a lack of results. This is followed by a loss of motivation and the consequential resignation of “I quit!”

You don’t need to be

lonesome or bored on your gym visits because you can easily find companionship and leadership in Group Exercise Training (GET). The most popular form of GET that has seen a recent surge in popularity is Bootcamp.

For those who choose not to go to the gym, it offers more variety then any other training available; the result is that it is tougher for your body to adapt to and so you can expect to see better

You don’t need to be lonesome or bored on your gym visits because you can easily find companionship and leadership in Group Exercise Training

results for longer. A good Bootcamp class will involve both interval and circuit training resulting in all the health benefits associated with exercise along with fat loss and muscle toning. Training as part of a group is also a great way to meet people who share the same goals and get the support that you need to succeed.

Your Bootcamp trainer will provide you with guidance and motivation, as well as feedback on your technique.

If you don’t want to train as part of a large group, you can always invest in a trainer along with friends to get a reduced cost and have the personal guidance of a professional. If your

friends are not interested and you still think this would be your favoured option, then contact your gym. They should be able to pair you with someone or may already have a small group of trainees

the progress being made by others in your group.

You also find yourself in friendly competition realising that, if they can do it, you can, too. In this environment it is easier to push and motivate

world agree that GET is one of the fastest ways to get your body in great shape.

DTFitness is a health and fitness business that specialises in helping people lose weight

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‘Training as part of a group is also a great way to meet people who share the same goals and get the support that you need to succeed’

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that you can join.

Training with others is like having a built-in support system that bestows you with a wealth of encouragement and motivation. It allows you to measure your development against

yourself to work harder than you would on your own.

Research has shown that group support plays a huge part in helping people achieve their fitness goals and fitness experts around the

and getting the body they want. As a Gazette reader you will receive €10 off their upcoming Bootcamp, Personal or Group training by simply mentioning this article.

For further details log onto www.dtfitness.ie

www.gazette group.com All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away

1 September 2011 GAZETTE 13

On track: Woodie’s and awards AT THE Woodie’s DIY Senior

A FUN RUN: MAKE-A-WISH-FOUNDATION IRELAND

Marathon to make a wish come true Q STAFF REPORTER

THE Make-A-WishFoundation Ireland is currently looking for participants in this year’s Dublin City Marathon to run on behalf of the foundation.

Make-A-Wish grants wishes to children aged three to 18, who live with life-threatening medical conditions. This wish can create a memory for both the child and their family.

It’s an opportunity for them to forget about hospitals, injections, treatment and even sickness, if only for a while.

When you have a sick child and you live in Kerry, for example, your child’s treatment takes place in Dublin.

Can you imagine the stress on parents and siblings with regards to school runs, lunches, homework and even play time, when your priority and thoughts are always

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‘There are over 220 children waiting on a wish to be granted and with a new child added to the list everyday they really need support as they get no government funding at all and totally rely on fundraising’

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with your sick child and his or her next three-day treatment in Dublin?

All too often, the siblings resent the sick child for monopolising their parents. Make-A-Wish allows the sick child to become the hero and to put the smile back on everyone’s faces.

The concept of MakeA-Wish began in America back in 1980, when Chris, a seven-year-old boy with leukaemia, told his mum he wished he could be a policeman for a day.

She decided to do her utmost to make his wish come true and with the help of the local police

force – the first wish of the Make-A-Wish movement was granted. Since 1980, Make-A-Wish is now in every state in America and in 37countries worldwide, with Make-A-Wish opening in Ireland in 1992.

The foundation have granted all sort of wishes, visits to football grounds such as Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge where the children have met the players and managers, trips to Disneyworld to meet their favourite characters or, for girls, simply having a bedroom turned into a pink Barbie room.

There are many wonderful stories of how

wishes have added joy to a child’s day and given the family something to smile about, if only for a short time.

Currently, there are over 220 children waiting on a wish to be granted and, with a new child added to the list every day, they really need support as they get no government funding at all and totally rely on fundraising.

Awareness They are looking for people to run on behalf of the foundation to help raise not only funds, but awareness of the charity too, and whether you raise €10 or €1,000, it all really helps. They will be there on the day to assist you in any way possible and they are always at the end of the phone should you have any queries.

For further information, call Make-A-Wish Foundation Ireland on 01-205 2012 or visit www.makeawish.ie

Gaming: Meet Super Mario’s dad and legendary Nintendo figure

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Track and Field Championships, Paul Hession (Athenry AC) produced the performance of the championships in the 200m winning in 20.51, achieving the A qualification standard for both the World Championships and the London Olympic Games. After what he described as a ‘frustrating’ season, the Galway man was delighted to have finally run the time, particularly in Dublin.

He was pushed all the way

by U23 European finalist, Steven Colvert (Crusaders AC), who was second in 20.84, while European U23 400m silver medallist, Brian Gregan, was third in 21.09 in a personal best. Paul was awarded the cheque of €500 for the Woodie’s DIY performance of the meet.

Pictured are Ray Colman, Chief Executive of Woodie’s DIY and Garden Centres presenting a €500 cheque to Irish Record Holder, Paul Hession.

SEE GAMING PAGE 25

14 GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC RADIO: A FRESH OUTLOOK FOR O’CALLAGHAN AND 4FM

Afternoon delight for Gareth’s radio relaunch Q ROB HEIGH

Imelda May

COMPETITION: Win special Imelda album FOLLOWING her recent appearances on Conan O’Brien’s late night talk show on American television, as well as the stage of Grant Park in Chicago at the Lollapalooza music festival, Imelda May is releasing a new version of her hit album, Mayhem, next month, and Gazette Music have five copies to give away in our exclusive competition.

More Mayhem features the full original album, as well as new tracks Gypsy, Blues A Calling and upcoming single, Roadrunner, as well as a cover of Patsy Cline’s Walking After Midnight, and remixes of Inside Out and Proud And Humble.

Imelda’s stint stateside has seen her hailed in all quarters, and the impression she has made has propelled Mayhem to number one on the Billboard New Artist chart.

To win a copy of More Mayhem, simply answer the following question: Where in Dublin is Imelda May from?

Send your answer to competition@gazettegroup.com, with the subject line “Imelda Mayhem”, before Friday, September 9.

DU BL I N h a s b e e n blessed in recent years with the appearance of several new stations catering to more niche audiences that fall outwith the traditional demographic lines that programmers identify when planning their content.

Radio Nova and P h a n t o m F M h ave blazed a trail for rock and indie, and now, Classic Hits 4FM are aiming to do the same thing for, of course, lovers of classic hits.

The multi-city broadcaster is gearing up for a huge publicity campaign to draw what it sees as a prime market to the station as they fill their airtime with the kind of songs that are instantly recognisable and loved across a wide section of the population.

Speaking to Gazette Mu s i c l a s t we e k , a very familiar voice of Irish radio, Gareth O’Callaghan, was clear about the place that 4FM will take in people’s hearts with their new approach.

“We are targeting a broad audience as well, basically, people who love good music from any era. What we are offering is something people are going to say, “Yes, this is for me”.

“We have a broad remit as to the kind of music we can play, from the ’60s and the late ’70s and ’80s, all the way through to the best tracks of the last five years – good, classic music, from all genres.”

O’Callaghan is a well known voice on Irish radio, his 2FM show in the afternoon being a stalwart of the airwaves

Gareth O’Callaghan in the offices of 4FM: “People need to listen, because they will like it.”

for many years, and he has returned to that slot on 4FM as part of the relaunch, after a period hosting their flagship breakfast show, and he is thrilled with the response of the increas-

worked fantastically well. “ I t ’s r e f l e c t e d o n the messages we get in to the studio – I’ve never seen such a busy text screen, and we’re swamped by the many

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‘We’ve got rid of all the things that people had thrown at them and was told was good radio in the last 10 years, and stripped it back to what works - a friendly voice and great music’ --------------------------------------------------------

ing number of listeners who are tuning in and getting in touch with the show.

“We’re relaunching the station with a new schedule and new presenters. Myself, I am back on the afternoon show after having hosted the breakfast show on 4FM, and that has

ways that people can get in touch with us – on Facebook, on Twitter and email and text as well.

The feeling I’m getting is that people are really responding well to what we’re doing, and we want more people to get involved and listening.”

With a potential reach of 2.7 million people across the areas that 4FM broadcasts in, there is every chance of it breaking the traditional habits of radio fans.

“The ratings are climbing at a phenomenal rate, and we want to build on that with our new approach,” said O’Callaghan.

“There has been such a huge change in the station, we know w h e r e we ’r e g o i n g .

In six months’ time, I believe we’ll have a firm foothold all round the country.

“The next six months will be a challenge, but we believe we are going to be very successful. I believe, in 18 months, we are going to be one of the biggest radio stations in the country.”

O’Callaghan is convinced that the formula will work because, he firmly believes, that

4FM is hitting the right note at the right time.

What we’re doing at Classic Hits 4FM now is re-establishing what radio is all about – entertainment.

“We’ve got rid of all the things that people had thrown at them and was told was good radio in the last 10 years, and stripped it back to what works - a friendly voice and great music.

“With the current doom and gloom, we’re helping to remind people of when things were better, when they were more involved in the music, and we’re trying to recreate that.

“We simply play the music that people love, what you listen to when you want to feel good.

The music speaks for itself.

“We need to convince people that they need to listen, because they will like it,” said O’Callaghan.

1 September 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

Edited by Dawn Love

Armani launches first regenerative skincare range “THERE is skin. And then there is Armani skin – a skin that you want to touch, a skin that you won’t forget, a skin that appears luminous, youthful, desirable,” says world-famous designer Giorgio Armani,whose luxury skincare brand has just launched its first advanced regenerative skincare range.

To create the first Advanced Regenerative Skincare, Giorgio Armani Laboratories say they were inspired by the research work of Professor Peter Lorenz, Plastic Surgery, Head of

the Scarless Skin Repair Laboratory at the Stanford School of Medicine.

During his general surgery research training at UCSF, Professor Lorenz was part of a team that made a major discovery. The foetuses that bore impor tant surgery in utero, did not show any scar when born. They regenerated perfectly.

“Ideally, we want tissues to heal with a perfect replacement tissue.

This is what we mean by tissue regeneration.

For skin, regenerative healing would result in

new skin. The appearance of the regenerated skin would be just like the surrounding normal skin – a perfect match of colour, texture, and feel to normal skin,” says Lorenz.

The range includes Multi-Corrective Rejuvenating Cream €85,Youth Regenerator Serum €95, Eye Rejuvenatin Serum €60 and Cosmetic Water €40.

Giorgio Armani Regenessence is available exclusively at Brown Thomas Dublin and Brown Thomas Cork from September 2011.

A delicious new multipurpose oil

Giorgio Armani’s advanced regenerative skincare range includes the Youth Regenerator Serum (top right) and the Multi-Corrective Rejuvenating Cream (above)

Wedding fair

Newly crowned Miss Ireland, Holly Carpenter, will be amongst those attending this year’s Radisson Blu St Helen’s Wedding Fair Sunday, September 25, from 2pm – 6pm.

The annual event is a must for brides-to-be with a huge range of

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suppliers taking part with all the latest fashions for your big day, tasty food ideas, Cathy O’Connor, TV3’s celeb stylist and the chance to enter a competition to win a two-night stay at the stylish Missoni Hotel in Edinburgh for two people.

And if you book your

wedding at the Radisson Blu, St Helen’s on September 25, you will receive a 20% discount off your wedding menu price and complimentary sparkling wine reception for your guests.

For information, contact Radisson Blu St Helen’s Hotel Stillorgan on 01 218 6000.

IRISH company, Tan Organic, has just launched a new multipurpose product, Oil Arganic, that can be used for dry, cracked skin, hair, nails, stretch marks and scars.

The delicious new oil is formulated with ingredients such as argan oil, rosehip oil, macadamia oil, sweet almond oil and avocado oil. Tan Organic says it’s also perfect for use during tanning to prolong tan and ensure tan wears off evenly.

It is soon to be available nationwide at €24.99, and you can order online through www.skinlogic.com

16 GAZETTE 1 September 2011

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day from around the capital

A host of well-known faces from sport, politics, entertainment and business got together to launch this year’s Blue September Ireland initiative this week

Gazette Contacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251

Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com

Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

Blue in the face? It’s on trend this month!

THE inaugural Blue September Ireland campaign launched this week with the aim of challenging Irish men to face up to cancer.

Blue September Ireland will raise awareness of bowel, lung, prostate and testicular cancer, while fundraising for the following Irish charities: Cancer Care West, The Marie Keating Foundation, The Mater Foundation and The Mercy Hospital Foundation.

Key supporters of this year’s campaign include An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Bernard Jackman, Trent Johnson, Karl Henry, Gerry McEntee – Consultant Surgeon at the Mater Hospital, and the Leinster, Munster and Connacht Rugby teams.

Blue September Ireland is encouraging people to host a Blue event, by either painting their faces blue one day in September, hosting a Blue themed day in work or to create a completely new Blue idea to raise vital funds.

Unislim have designed a healthy eating plan – Food Max For Men – written for men. This plan will not only help men to lose weight, it will boost their health and increase their energy levels. The plans are available to purchase online at www.unislim.com or at any Unislim class nationwide.

All proceeds will go directly to Blue September.

DIARY Calling carnivores!

A LITTLE beyond the pale for the Diary this week, but we received a most intriguing email from the southeast! It reads: “My dad (O’Flynn’s Wholesale Victuallers) is a quality butcher in Waterford and one of the oldest family butchers in Ireland (oldest record I can find is 1846). With over 165 years in the business comes lots of ‘meat’ know how!

“We want to start a campaign to get the Irish people’s favourite recipes into one collection. To do this, we need lots of recipes and we would love some help in rallying the community!

“The Butcher and Us want to bring a community cook book, filled with recipes and tips that focus on meat as the main ingredient of each dish, from traditional ‘comfortstyle meals’ to tapas and other interesting ways of cooking meat.

“We want to collect the community’s favourite meat recipes from breakfast specials, to dinner favourites to BBQ secrets.

We are going to collect them all into a very special cookbook.

“We need people to email thebutcherandus@gmail.com with their meat recipes along with their name, where they are from, email address and phone number so we can get in touch before the book is published.”

So, any passionate Dublin carnivores out there who would like their meaty recipes included in this gastronomic tome should get in touch – just don’t forget to send the Diary a sample of your finest dish.

Laugh for Peamount THE Friends of Peamount Hospital will kick off their year-long fundraising drive this month with a special event at Dublin’s Laughter Lounge on Eden Quay.

The society is aiming to raise money to replace older buildings at the hospital, as they get set to celebrate their centenary next year. The event will kickstart a fundraising drive that will end with next year’s centenary celebrations, sure to be a highlight for many in the area.

The event takes place on Wednesday, September 28, and will see The Panel regular Jarlath Regan MC for a night of comedy.

Tickets, priced at €25 each can be purchased from Fran Brennan at 01 6010300 ext 292 or email fbrennan@peamount.ie

1 September 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: KEEPING CANINE FLEAS AT BAY IS ESSENTIAL FOR A DOG’S GOOD HEALTH

Keeping your pet from those pesky parasites HE phone’s been ringing with requests for education workshops – hailing the start of the new school year.

One of the most popular requests has been from mums’ groups looking for my Pesky Parasites workshops, dealing with canine fleas. And, while these pests are more likely to cause problems during warm weather, I tell callers they’re also known to hang around during the cool season due to their abilities to continue their life cycle indoors.

Ah, those dreaded fleas.

We can never, ever underestimate the determined little freeloaders.

Ok, they can be neutralised, however, they’re very resilient and have a four-stage cycle making it difficult to get rid of them.

For example, did you know a flea can live in our environment for over a year without feeding and is protected by their impenetrable shell? It’s at this stage they survive most treatments and return to breed and repopulate year after year – sort of like a series of bad horror movie sequels.

Remember Friday the 13th?

So, be warned, one hatched cocoon can produce over a trillion offspring in her nine-month life-span. This army can continue to fight time and again, causing a serious health risk to your pet (in extreme circumstances, anemia). So you see, treating your pet is essential for their good

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health and in order to kill any errant fleas entering from other quarters.

Remember, fleas can jump over six feet and will get into your home via pets and humans. If you’ve white clothing, like runners, sports socks, t-shirts – they love it.

They’ll get into the sitting room and live there unnoticed and will happily reproduce without you ever knowing… well, not until the problem is at

worms to your dog.

So, how do I check for fleas?

• Check your dog’s coat for flea dirt (feces) • Comb your dog’s coat while he’s lying on a white sheet of paper – black flecks that resemble dirt will fall onto the paper.

Transfer them to a damp piece of paper and, if they turn reddish brown, then it usually means fleas have sucked blood from

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‘A flea can live in our environment for over a year without feeding and is protected by their impenetrable shell. It’s at this stage they survive most treatments and return to breed and re-populate year after year – sort of like a series of bad horror movie sequels ’ -------------------------------------------------------

an advanced stage. So, it’s best to treat everywhere; indoors, outbuildings like garages, sheds, dog kennels, etc.

Here’s a checklist:

your pet and have passed into the flea’s waste matter. If they remain black, the flecks are possibly just regular dirt on your dog.

Whew!

How will fleas affect my dog?

Preventing fleas?

• Dog will incessantly chew and scratch at himself, often until the area becomes hairless, raw and weeping. This can cause scaling and a bacterial infection.

• Display visible patches of hair loss due to scratching.

• Possible skin allergies.

• Fleas may transmit other parasites like tape-

• In the house: Regularly hoover carpets, bedding, and furniture and anywhere else your dog spends time. Remember to immediately dispose of your hoover bag, otherwise it will act as an incubator for un-hatched fleas. Regular washing of your dog’s bedding will help.

• In the garden: Fleas thrive in shady, protected areas where your dog

loves to rest. Keep an eye on these areas and use an insecticide (usually sprayed through a garden hose). Always read the label, use extreme caution, consult your vet and keep your dog away from this area until it is safe to allow him return. Alternatively, use a natural flea repellant like cedar chips along the fence line or in dark areas.

• Keep your grass short and get rid of any dark, moist heaps like leaves or rubbish.

• Your pet’s diet: Fleas l ove m a l n o u r i s h e d animals because their immune systems are weak. Make sure your pet has a balanced diet. Consult your vet for advice on proper feeding.

Treatment:

• Flea shampoo • Regular grooming • On-pet spray • Monthly spot applications • Treat all dogs in the household So readers, if you want your pet to live free of disease, irritation, allergies and infestation, do not allow this remorseless enemy to survive in his environment.

Always check with your vet, but I believe prevention is better than cure and personally use a systemic monthly flea product, which dramatically reduces the flea burden in mine and my dog’s environment.

For more info log onto www.dspca.ie, check with your vet or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca. ie

Fleas can jump over six feet and can get into your home via pets and humans

WE HAVE 146,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 60 10 240

18 GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS

Lexus unveils its new safer GS 350

LEXUS has unveiled the new GS model in the US and the news is that the car will reach the Irish market in 2012. Lexus claims that the new GS is more spacious and has a bolder design than in the past.

The car has a redesigned chassis with a

wide, strong stance that delivers a new level of crisp and precise handling.

The track, wider by 40mm at the front and 50mm at the rear, works in combination with a revised suspension design to what Lexus claims is a more assured stance and

superior cornering performance.

The car features a new suspension system. In the front, aluminium upper and lower control arms employ larger bushings.

The rear sub frame has been completely redesigned to accommodate a new multi-link

rear suspension, to give better rear-end control.

With the stiffer platform and lighter components, the shock absorbers can use lighter-viscosity oil, responding faster to small inputs.

The increased use of aluminium reduces weight and results in sig-

nificantly improved agility, ride comfort, body control and steering precision.

The new Lexus GS will include hybrid and F-Sport versions. For the Irish market there will be the GS 450h full hybrid and GS 250 petrol engine derivatives.

The new Lexus GS 350

Chevrolet showcase new Malibu CHEVROLET will be showcasing the new Malibu model at the upcoming Frankfur t Motor Show. The car was not previously available in Europe. It will go on sale next year and be the brand’s new flagship model.

With a wheelbase of 2,737mm and a track width of 1,577mm, the new Malibu has an athletic posture. Its grounded stance and an integrated spoiler combine to give the car an assertive look.

Thanks to a drag coefficient close to the Volt’s 0.28, Chevrolet claims that the Malibu will be one of the most aerodynamically efficient cars in Chevrolet’s passenger vehicle line-up. The drag coefficient close to the General Motors Volt at 0.28, helping to keep fuel consumption levels low.

The Malibu will have the option of a 164bhp 2.0-litre diesel or 169bhp 2.4-litre petrol engine – expect that diesel power will dominate in Ireland and the rest of Europe.

There will be the option

Chevrolet’s new Malibu

of both manual and automatic transmission.

The car will be fitted with chassis control technologies including fourchannel anti-lock brakes (ABS), full-function traction control, four-corner electronic stability control (ESC), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), brake assist system (BA), corner brake control, hydraulic brake fade assist and drag torque control.

When it comes to safety features, the new Malibu will be one of the best-equipped vehicles in the segment. It will be pedestrian-protectioncompliant in all markets where it is sold.

A total of eight airbags, dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags, driver and frontpassenger pelvic/thorax side-impact airbags as well as roof rail-airbags with rollover protection, are standard safety features for all global markets. Rear park assist and a rearview camera are available with mid- and up-level offerings.

The new Volkswagen Jetta received a five-star rating in the most recent Euro NCAP crash test survey

More five stars at Euro NCAP tests but it’s getting tougher THE latest set of Euro NCAP crash test results brings an additional reward and more fivestars, but not everyone is ready for tougher requirements in 2012.

This month’s top scorers with five-star results are the Audi A6, the BMW X3, the Chevrolet Aveo and Chevrolet Orlando, the Citroën DS5, the Hyundai i40, the Opel Ampera, the VW Golf Cabriolet and Jetta.

Only the Kia Picanto receives an overall rating of four stars, a result poorer than many of its city-car competitors.

The new Picanto is fitted with Electronic Stability Control as standard in Ireland, but not in

every European market, so hence the lower fourstar rating as the lowest model specification is selected for the test.

The new Opel Ampera electric car achieved an overall rating of five stars.

The new range-extending EV reached the maximum points in the side pole test as a result of a well optimized balance of structure, interior and restraint system.

Also released this month are the Chevrolet Aveo and Chevrolet Orlando, which showed good whiplash and adult occupant protection scores. This compares with the previous Aveo which made headlines due a poor struck-

through two-star adult occupant result.

Some of the tested vehicles have obtained high scores for child occupant protection.

The Hyundai i40 and both VW Jetta and Golf Cabriolet scored 86%.

Michiel van Ratingen Euro NCAP secretary general said: “Euro NCAP evaluates child safety for each model tested and encourages car manufacturers to provide equally good protection for adults and children. We consider child protection as a very important part of the overall star rating and have plans to step up our requirements even more in the coming years.”

W h i l e m a ny c a r s

released continue to impress in the areas of adult and child occupant protection, pedestrian protection scores are generally still lagging behind.

The Opel Ampera,Audi A6 and Citroen DS5 only just meet Euro NCAP’s 2011 pedestrian requirements for a five-star rating. None of the cars in this current batch would meet the more stringent five-star requirement of 60% coming into effect in 2012.

A few car makers have already stepped up, showing much higher pedestrian scores such as the recently tested Ford Focus. Euro NCAP hopes that others will follow suit

soon.

Euro NCAP is encouraged to see important advanced safety systems being offered to consumers on more and more models. The largest model yet for Citroen’s premium sub-brand, the Citroen DS5, also achieved five stars. The car is fitted with the Citroen Localized Emergency Call, a PSA Peugeot-Citroen technology recognised in 2010 under Euro NCAP Advanced.

The new BMW X3 comes with Advanced eCall. This is a system that is able to automatically notify emergency services providing critical details of the crash event.

1 September 2011 GAZETTE 19

RoadSigns Road Signs THE IRISH MX5 OWNERS CLUB TO HOLD THEIR FIRST EVENT: THE

Skoda now offers more 4x4 versions than any other car company and the Yeti 4x4 with its smooth DSG gearbox (above, right) gives an easy to drive option when road conditions get wet and icy. The entry price for a 4x4 Yeti is €29,545 before delivery charges with the DSG option adding an extra €2,000 to the price.

Skoda Yeti can tough it MICHAEL MORONEY put the 4x4 performance of the Yeti SUV

to the test in the difficult off-road conditions of Southern Russia

KODA needed to take us to new limits to prove a point – that the Skoda Yeti can tough it out when it comes to off-road driving. The hills of Wicklow, Kerry or Connemara were not enough of a challenge, so we crossed Europe to the edge of Russia’s Black Sea and the city of Sochi from where we began a two-day Yeti journey into the Caucuses Mountains.

The holiday resort city of Sochi will be the base site for the 2014 Winter Olympics. It sits against the backdrop of the high Caucuses Mountains.

The area is mountainous with interesting off-road sections, while the winding roads are busy with construction machines, as Sochi re-creates itself to be a modern centre for the Winter Olympics. The road conditions through the mountain regions varied between poor and

S

SPECS: SKODA YETI 2.0 TDI 4X4 DSG Top speed: 177 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 11.6 sec Economy: 18.8 km/litre (5.3 l/100km or 53mpg) CO2 emissions: 155 g/ km Road Tax Band: C (€302) Euro NCAP Rating: 5 Star 2009 Warranty: 2 years Entry Price: €30,000+

miserable.

Truck traffic dominated as the construction work is at full pace. Machines and trucks worked night and day to complete the huge transformation of sleepy villages into a world class winter sports and skiing centre.

The off-road areas were rough and hard on the cars, with steep declines of large rubble- type rocks and occasional river crossings – not the type of conditions that I expected to see the Yeti being comfortable in.

We took the Skoda Yeti

into the hills near Sochi.

This Yeti was powered by a 1.8-litre TSI petrol engine and fitted with the smooth DSG automatic gearbox. I believe that a similar and more costeffective Yeti with the same gearbox system and powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine will achieve similar performance in Irish conditions.

We travelled across some rough off-road conditions, with deep ruts and rubble trackways where the Yeti coped well.

The Yeti’s off-road ability is provided by a rearwheel-drive gearbox that delivers drive to the rear axle when conditions get difficult. The system uses what’s called a Haldex gearbox. It sends drive to the rear wheels once the front ones come under pressure.

The Yeti has a dashmounted button that engages the drive when you face off-road challenges. The system works

like the hill descent system that other 4x4’s offer.

When driving down steep hills the system automatically holds the Yeti with an ABS braking type of engagement. You simply take your foot off the brake pedal and let the system control your descent. Very soon you develop confidence in the Yeti’s off-road ability.

Popular

The 1.8-litre TSI petrol engine that powered our Russian Yetis is not popular on the Irish market where fuel prices are higher than in Russia.

In its favour this engine is very smooth and as powerful as the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel version more common here, even it if has lower torque figures.

For our conditions, the diesel power with its lower CO2 rating of 169g/km and a price tag of €33,395 would achieve similar offroad performance.

Torque was not an issue on the cars tested – they fared well in all road conditions and compensated for a lower torque with a smooth and lively onroad performance. The diesel powered versions have nearly double that level of torque and that’s why you get a higher trailer pulling capacity.

They also have lower CO2 ratings, down a band from the petrol powered models, giving a saving of almost €200 in annual road tax. They are also significantly more fuel efficient by at least one-third.

After two days of on and off road driving, the Yeti proved its off-road ability convincingly. I no longer need to be convinced about its offroad ability. It was just a long way to go to prove a point.

When we descended the rugged off-road test routes on the hills the cars took to the roads

without a rattle. That’s just what you expect and no less – that’s the standard set by established 4x4s on the market. Skoda’s Yeti has to meet that standard and it does. For everyday driving, you can expect the Yeti to be as smooth as any other car on the road.

Most people don’t think of the Skoda Yeti in the tough stakes – now I no longer need to be convinced. The Yeti with its off-road features can cope with the rough and the smooth that’s expected from modern 4x4s.

For Irish conditions, with diesel power, it’s at the affordable end of the market with 4x4 starting prices from €29,545, before delivery charges.

The smooth driving DSG gearbox adds about €2,000 more to the price and pushes the car into a higher Band C tax category. If you can afford to live with this, it’s so much worth it!

Irish MX5 Owners Club will hold their first event on Sunday September 25. It will be a Club Run for any MX5 / Eunos Roadster Mk 1 Mk 2 or Mk 3 Owners.

The run will start and finish in Leinster and will take in some of the most interesting roads and beautiful scenery in the area.

Final details will be announced for owners to make their own arrangements to join us.

The club is looking forward to good weather for their first event and meeting with many new members. For more information, contact David Sykes, of The Irish MX5 Owners CLUB on 0863359590 or email: theirishmx5 ownersclub@gmail. com

20 GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS VW dealers’ €99 service offer VOLKSWAGEN dealers are offering a new service offer for all Volkswagen models, registered since 2007.

For just €99, a registered Volkswagen dealership will ensure your vehicle receive a service programme for €99 that includes, oil filter and change, free wash and vacuum, 34-point health check, upgrades check and a Volkswagen service stamp, which is only available from a registered

Volkswagen dealer.

All services carried out at a Volkswagen dealer include the Volkswagen 10-point Service Promise, exclusive to the Volkswagen Dealers Network. Among the items of the Service Promise, Volkswagen dealers will promise to match any like-for-like written quote, using Volkswagen Genuine Parts, within a 10km radius of any Volkswagen Service Centre. They will promise to fit wiper blades

and exterior bulbs bought from them free-of-charge.

They will also replace all exterior bulbs, including sidelights, headlights, brakelights, foglights and reverse and indicator bulbs. If you need interior, Xenon or LED lights replacing, they will provide a competitive quote for fitting those too.

They also promise to give your car a 34 point visual inspection through our Service Clinic absolutely free with no obliga-

tion. They will also check for any warrantable product enhancements recommended by Volkswagen and perform these freeof-charge.

The promise includes that every time you come for any job that takes over an hour in their workshops, they will wash and vacuum your car for free.

If the work takes less than an hour, but you’d still like it cleaned, just let them know and they will do that for free too.

The new Audi A8 hybrid combines a four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor

Audi given green light to build the hybrid A8 AUDI has given the green light for the production of the A8 hybrid. The car is expected to be available on the Irish market in 2012.

The Audi A8 hybrid will combine 2.0-litre four-cylinder TFSI petrol engine with electric motor for zero emissions driving and in excess of 15.6km/ litre (44mpg). The new A8 hybrid will offer performance befitting its 245bhp and 480Nm outputs, despite delivering more sub-148g/km CO2 output and all-electric, emissions-free running at speeds of up to 100km.

The 2.0-litre TFSI engine, which has been modified in some areas,

generates an output of 211bhp and makes a 350 Nm torque peak available between 1,500 and 4,200 rpm. The combustion engine works together with a disc-shaped electric motor which generates 40 kW (54bhp) and 210 Nm. The permanent magnet electric motor is mounted in the space usually occupied by the torque converter in front of the modified eight-speed tiptronic transmission.

A multi-plate clutch that operates in an oil bath connects or disconnects the electric motor and the TFSI engine. The smooth and fast-shifting hybrid transmission guides

the torque to the front wheels. Audi claims that its wide gear spread contributes to the efficiency of the Audi A8 hybrid.

The Audi A8 hybrid will be capable of reaching 100km from rest in 7.7 seconds. The car will be able to drive at up to 100km/hr purely on electric power and has a range of up to 300km at a constant 60km/hr.

The car will have a choice of three modes.

The ‘EV’ setting gives priority to the electric drive, while the ‘D’ option efficiently controls both the engine and the electric motor. The ‘S’ mode and the tiptronic gate place the emphasis on optimal

acceleration.

The hybrid saloon has five operating states, with the TFSI engine alone, with electric drive only or in hybrid mode; recuperation and boosting are also possible. Two displays show the driver all operating modes in detail.

Audi claims that the Audi A8 hybrid will be one of the lightest cars in its category. Its ASF (Audi Space Frame) body is made almost entirely of aluminium, with ultrahigh-strength steel used only for the B-pillars to optimise rigidity. It is roughly 40% lighter than a comparable steel construction.

1 September 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS REPORT: WORLDWIDE FIGURES Sales have stabilised at Harvey Norman HARVEY Norman has announced its worldwide sales from their Australian, New Zealand, Slovenia, Ireland and Northern Ireland business totalled €4.45b ($6.18b AUD) for the 12 months ended 30 June 2011. When compared to sales for the same period in 2009, this was an increase of 1.7%.

The Republic of Ireland operation managed to stabilise sales with only a slight decrease of 0.2% for the same period, while sales in Northern Ireland increased by 3.2%. Both Irish divisions grew sales for the second half (Jan – Jun) against last year, with the Republic of Ireland operation growing sales in Q3 by 1.9% and Q4 by 4.6%.

Encouraging

“It was really a year of two halves for us, with sales flat before Christmas, and then some encouraging growth in the six months to June,” said Blaine Callard, chief executive of the Irish Operation.

“Consumer sentiment continues to be very weak, and shows no signs of recovering soon.

Big ticket retail sales in furniture and electronics have been hit the hardest, so it’s about getting a bigger slice of a smaller pie.

Strategy

“We will continue to improve our operation, investing in our people, our service and our stores. The strategy for us is to focus on growing marketshare. Revenue growth in the second half is very positive for us against such a difficult economic backdrop.”

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS

INTEREST RATE WORRIES Q – The ECB rate is forecast to go up c. 0.75% over the next nine months. My current margin is 1.1% which will mean the total rate in nine months’ time will be 3.1%. I am currently paying interest only and my 25-year €235,000 mortgage reverts to a capital and interest repayment schedule in nine months’ time also.

Twenty years will still remain on the term at that point. I don’t think I can afford the new repayment. Should I ask for an extension on Award-winning architect, energy specialist and TV personality Duncan Stewart and B&Q Ireland’s, Luke Dolan

the interest-only term ? Jack - Churchtown

RETAIL: B&Q AND STEWART ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP

A – By asking to extend your interest only pay-

Helping you save energy and money B&Q Ireland has announced a partnership with award-winning architect, energy specialist and TV personality, Duncan Stewart.

The partnership will see Duncan making it easier for people to improve their home’s energy efficiency, save money on their energy bills and make homes more comfortable.

Duncan Stewart will work with B&Q Ireland to offer his expert advice and experience and will provide regular tips and advice through in-store communication and online at www.ener gysaverscheme.ie

The partnership marks the launch of B&Q Ireland’s campaign to help householders start saving energy and money. It will also include the official launch of the Energy Saver Centre at Liffey Valley on September 7.

This will be a one-stop energy shop, offering expert advice, a free home energy audit, DIY energy saving products and fully guaranteed installations of energy measures such as internal / external insulation, boiler upgrades and solar panels Energy specialist, Duncan Stewart said: “I am passionate about helping people recognise that

there is a lot that we can do to make our homes warmer and more energy efficient.

“With energy bills continuing to rise and our homes becoming harder to heat in winter, there are simple measures that we can all take to help save energy and save costs. Most energy upgrades pay themselves back overtime, increase long-term comfort and increase the value of our homes.

“I am delighted to be working with B&Q to offer advice and expertise on this area and hope that it gives people the confidence to consider

making their homes more energy efficient.”

Luke Dolan, B&Q Ireland, added: “In September, we will officially open our Energy Saver Centre in Liffey Valley where customers can come and speak to our energy expert and our team of fully trained energy advisors, who will offer them real advice and guidance on how to make their homes more energy efficient, comfortable and ultimately save them money ” Duncan Stewart will be at B&Q Liffey Valley on September 7 to talk to customers and provide advice.

Counting the cost of college

WHETHER you are a first time student, or returning after the summer break, your finances may not be top of your to-do list. College is expensive, whether you’re living at home or renting, you’ll find your money disappearing quickly when you’re on a tight budget. The National Consumer Agency’s (NCA) have five steps on www.itsyourmoney. ie to help you manage your money and make sure you have enough to last the academic year.

The steps cover everything from

finding accommodation to dayto-day expenses, such as food and travel tickets.

Our budgeting tips will help you make sure you balance the books all the way to the end of the college year. We also have some top money saving tips to get the most from your bank balance and with everything from second hand shopping to discount sites, it’s definitely worth a look. Try out the Economiser (www.economiser.ie) the NCA’s online tool to help you

minimise household bills.

Opening a student bank account may not be the most exciting prospect, but making sure you choose the right account for you is important. Our student cost comparisons on www.itsyourmoney.ie will help you to compare student current accounts, credit cards and loans across the market.

Our money management steps are here to help you make the most of your college experience without stressing about your cash!

ments and withhold the capital element, you are only kicking the can down the road. Say you were given a three year interest-only extension, it means that your capital repayments when you do resume in three years’ time will have to pay ALL that capital over a shorter period – 17 years.

Currently, you are paying € 460.21 each month and in nine months’ time, if the interest rates rise by 0.75%, this payment will be € 607.08 – an increase of € 146.87 per month. If you pay back the capital also, this payment will go to € 1,325.77 per month.

If you assume you will be given a moratorium on the capital for three years paying that € 607.08 per month, you will then be required to repay your € 235,000 over 17 years costing you € 1,493.90 per month – over € 1,000 per month increase on your current interest-only payment.

What you need to do is budget – work out exactly what your income and your expenditure are.

Property prices are not going up any time soon and you need to work out a plan that is effectively going to repay your mortgage and allow you a certain dignity of lifestyle. You could negotiate extending the term but you may lose your tracker rate by doing so – this should be your last resort and you should try to maintain that tracker at all costs.

In the meantime, cut your own costs if you can or earn more and query all expenses. Best of luck.

Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

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22 GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL GazetteFestival A top-notch weekend getaway in County Mayo

Dunderry House

The Spirit of Folk Festival to take over the lush Meath countryside with music and other family events WITH boutique festivals popping up all over the place, the Spirit of Folk Festival, being held in the lush County Meath countryside from September 23 to 25, looks set to stand apart from all others, with a plethora of exciting events to keep all the family happy.

With an emphasis on community-based activities, as well as a stellar musical line up of folk legends, this boutique festival is gearing up to be a treat for all the senses and promises to be a soothing way to end the festival season.

Seventies folk heroes, Dr Strangely Strange, who have just been added to the line up, will take to the special Magnakata stage along with Gay Woods of Steeleye Span, Fiach, Lisa O’Neill, Rob Cunningham, The Young Folk, Owensie, Hot Sprockets and St John the Gambler.

The weekend will kick off with a lively Ceili Mor on Friday and guests are encouraged to bring their own musical instruments and join in the fun.

Event organisers have promised a weekend to rival Bilbo Baggins’ birthday bash with an endless list of unconventional activities including archery, ancient astronomy, falconry, battle re-enactments, storytelling in a candle lit cairn, burning effigies, medieval games, fireworks, community games, shamanism as well as a Mind, Body and Soul area.

Revellers can indulge themselves in the many holistic treatments that will be on offer including Indian Head Massage, Reiki, Acupuncture as well as a spot of either Kundalini or Laughing Yoga for those who want a meaningful festival awakening.

Campers will not have far to walk to the main festival area and those counting the pennies will be thrilled to know they can bring along their own tipple. However, lots of delicious food will be available on site.

Ticket Details - €95 for weekend camping pass, €59 for Saturday Only. Kids under 12 go free.

Tickets are available online from tickets.ie or directly from Dunderry Park by calling 046 90 74455.

JESSICA MAILE

AS you drive west across the country, the flat scenery of the midlands gives way to the dramatic hills and mountains of Mayo and it’s then you know you’re in for a great weekend.

Arriving in Westport, you can not help but be delighted by the colourful pubs, varied shops and many restaurants in this lovely town. Shops like Foxford Woollen Mills and Carraig Dunne have some of the best of Irish goods on offer and there are restaurants from Chinese to Indian and traditional pub food to Italian Standing in prime location is the Castlecourt Hotel, which is an excellent location to spend all of your time or to use as a base to visit the delights that Connaught has to offer, including Croagh Patrick, if you feel daring.

I have read many a

review about this hotel and I was not disappointed. The friendliness of all the staff is definitely what makes this hotel such a success.

The most amazing thing about staying there was the fact that you were not yet another figure on a corporate hotel chain’s balance book. This is a large, family-run hotel,

and spacious and the fourposter bed was a unique sleeping experience.

The hotel bar was a pleasant way to end an evening, either outside in the cosy armchairs or inside at Petie Joe’s Bar, as locals and guests mingled as the live music played away and conversation filled the air.

This hotel also offers

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‘The Castlecourt Hotel is well worth the trip across the country to experience the delights of the West of Ireland. Enjoy the beautiful scenery that you forget is within easy driving distance.’

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and that is a unique thing in itself. You can feel the warmth and attention to detail that you would expect from a small hotel or B&B. The bedroom was grand

a great choice for eating with the informal dining at the Courtyard Bistro and the elegant Orchard restaurant. The food was of top quality and the staff always ready to help

The hotel is in a prime location within the town of Westport

make your dining experience one to remember.

The Castlecourt Hotel also has an excellent leisure centre, the C Club, which includes a 20-metre pool and kiddies’ splash pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, a fully-equipped gymnasium and even a hair salon.

But the real secret of a stay at the Castlecourt Hotel is the spa. If you still have that tension from work or you ache from a days’ adventure exploring the Mayo countryside, then spending time at Spa Sula is the best way to let all that stress and tiredness just melt away.

The choice of steam room or sauna allows you to sweat away all of your troubles and pains only to bring you back to life with the amazing choice of hot and cold showers.

The Caribbean rain shower cooled the heat of the sauna, making me ready to explore the salt room.

After all of the indoor treatments, it was a refreshing and unique treat to sit in the outside jacuzzi, which is in its own private grotto. The warmth of those bubbles were soothing as I filled my lungs with that pure cool country air.

I treated myself to the Sundari Abhyanga Massage, which is a full-body, oil massage that deeply relaxed my tired muscles but also rejuvenated me

The Castlecourt Hotel, in

at the same time.

After my massage, I lingered in the soft music and ambient light of the relaxation suite, which allowed me to drift away from reality and made me wonder if it was safe to drive or operate machinery after my time in Spa Sula.

So, all in all, the Castlecourt Hotel is well worth the trip across the country to experience the delights of the West of Ireland. Enjoy the beautiful scenery that you forget is within easy driving distance.

The staff and facilities of this Wesport hotel will leave your mind full of happy memories and have you planning your return trip as soon as you get home.

For more information on the Castlecourt Hotel for a Mayo getaway, go to www.castlecourthotel.ie

1 September 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs Joe Walsh Tours to operate private charter flights to Leinster rugby games for 2012 season JOE Walsh Tours is the official tour operator for Leinster Rugby and will be operating private charter flights with Cityjet to all away games in both the Heineken Cup and RaboDirect PRO12 competitions of the season 2011/2012.

The tour operator offers both flight only and full package options, which include hotel accommodation and coach transfers to and from your hotel and the grounds.

Fans can follow the RaboDirect PRO12 new season matches on the official Leinster Rugby Team charter from as little as €129 inclusive, which includes return flight, checked in luggage and all taxes – free match ticket for all RaboDirect games is also included in the price.

Book early to secure a seat on the official Leinster Rugby team flight and share the thrill and excitement with the Boys in Blue. Fixtures are Ospreys v Leinster - September 1; Scarlets v Leinster - September 23; Edinburgh v Leinster October 27; Cardiff Blues v Leinster – January 6; Glasgow Warriors v Leinster – February 24 and Newport Gwent Dragons v Leinster - May 4.

Heineken Cup staying in a three-star hotel for the Montpellier Hérault v Leinster Rugby for one night costs from €444 per person on November 12, 2011, or four-star from €474 per person.

For bookings and further information, call Gill on 01 2410888 or email gill.osullivan@ joewalshtours.ie, or visit www.joewalshtours. ie/leinster Westport, Co Mayo, is a large, family-run hotel with an attention to detail that you would expect from a small hotel or B&B

It’s a berry good month for a Shelbourne Hotel extravaganza THE Shelbourne Hotel is berry-focused this August, with a delicious range of berrythemed cocktails and a Very Berry Afternoon Tea. The special afternoon tea will include delicacies such as mixed berry macaroons, blackberry financier, strawberry tart, blueberry muffin and raspberry chocolate moelleux.

The Very Berry extravaganza continues in the hotel’s Number 27 Bar, with a selection of delectable cocktails, each showcasing a particular berry. From blackberry fruitini to raspberry mochatini to vodka bramble, there’s a wide selection of berry-based potions available.

Throw in an overnight stay with full Irish breakfast in the morning and a champagne afternoon tea for two in the Lord Mayor’s Lounge, from €232 per room. Book online at www.TheShelbourne.ie.

The Orchard restaurant

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Petie Joe’s Bar

The welcoming lobby

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24 BLANCH GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Bastien and Bastienne MOZART takes centre-stage at The Mill Theatre, Dundrum, with this production of his one-act comedy, written when the musical maestro was just 12-years-old, in 1768. His dramatic love story shows that the path of true love never runs smoothly, and certainly not for Bastien and Bastienne ... Presented by Opera Theatre Company, this production is sung in English, with music direction and piano accompaniment by Andrew Synott. Soprano, Nicola Mulligan, and tenor, Dean Power, take the title roles in this 45-minute show. The production runs on Sunday, September 4, with admission at €18/€15.

Mountains to Sea DLR Book Festival BUILDING on the massive success of the festival with book and arts lovers, the Mountains to Sea DLR Book Festival returns to The Mill Theatre to delight once again. Running at The Mill for two nights as part of the overall festival, the theatre will play host to two playwrights.

On Wednesday, September 7, from 10.30am to 12.30pm, Patrick Ness and Meg Rosoff will be in conversation with Dr Padraic Whyte. For ages 13+, and priced at €3 admission, Patrick and Meg are two of the most critically-acclaimed and popular authors writing for teenagers today.

Then, on Thursday, September 8, Roddy Doyle will guest at the Festival, from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Suitable for ages 9+, and priced at €3, Roddy’s talk will see him discuss his new children’s book, Greyhound of a Girl.

For further details, see http://www.mountainstosea.ie, and http://www.milltheatre.ie/.

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Mountains to Sea DLR Book Festival CONTINUING the city-wide love of books and the arts, the Mountains to Sea DLR Festival has a wide range of events taking place at its Dun Laoghaire base and surrounds, including the following events – and many more ...

The DLR Literary Tour, on Sunday, September 4, will take in some of the literary sights and points of interest in the DLR region, home to a surprising number of Ireland’s literary greats. Assembling at Blackrock Dart Station at 10.45am, some familiar faces (and voices) will guide walkers around the area.

Also on Sunday, September 4, younger readers will warm to the blood-chilling tales in An Audience With Darren Shan. The horribly talented writer is the world’s most popular horror writer for children, and will enthrall with his insightful talk at 3pm.

On Wednesday, September 7, The Pavilion will welcome acclaimed US novelist Robert Coover to deliver the annual Beckett Address. A master of writing, which he also teaches, Coover credits Beckett with the revelation that it was no longer possible to “go back and write another 19th century novel”, and his address promises to be a must-see – or must-hear – for Beckett fans. The Beckett Address will be delivered at 8pm.

For further details, see www.paviliontheatre.ie/.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 Noah & The Tower Flower BALLYMUN is the setting for a comic production on its only Irish dates before transferring to a New York run. Noah and Natalie begin to fall in love – but can they leave their pasts behind, and look to the future, together?

Highly-praised by critics, and winner of a number of awards, Noah & The Tower Flower plays nightly at 8pm on Friday, September 2 and Saturday. September 3, with admission priced at €12.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 My Way LAST this week, but definitely not least, My Way, by Garvan Gallagher, is running at Draiocht until November, and is a superb collection of thoughtful studies concerning fashion, aging and self image. The memorable range of photographs and video pieces can be seen on the ground floor gallery.

For further details, see www.draiocht.ie/.

Sally (Emma Roberts) and George (Freddie Highmore) have to learn how to navigate the complexities of high school life as they grow older

Gets by, well enough Kate thinks that there are certainly worse films about teens out there, finding The Art of Getting By to be fairly diverting Q KATE CROWLEY

WHAAAAAT? A critic, criticised? I feel no less astonished than the portly workhouse foreman in Oliver Twist, facing an upstart in an unexpectedly gruelling situation.

However, criticised I was, for my review of the latest Spy Kids, last week.

(No complaints thus far over One Day, which leads me to conclude everyone else finds it as equally insipid as I.) Last week, I gave Spy Kids a One Star rating, yet have since been told, in no uncertain terms, that it was “brilliant”, and must thus amend my score to a Five Star grade, instead.

After all, much like portly workhouse foremen, film reviewers are both mystified by, and intimidated by, knee-high whippersnappers, especially those who discover you don’t like the same films that they do.

FILM OF THE WEEK: The Art of Getting By +++ (12A) 83 mins Director: Gavin Wiesen Starring: Freddie Highmore, Emma Roberts, Sasha Speilberg, Sam Robards, Youth Ishoos ...

OUR VERDICT: CERTAINLY not wishing to patronise any younger readers, Kate nevertheless suggests that this could appeal particularly to “tweens”, thanks to covering the complexities of life on the edge of adulthood, and how boys and girl friends may have to face the awkwardness of trying to be boyfriends and girlfriends instead. It’s a nice turn from Freddie Highmore.

So, Spy Kids, I salute you, as you are indeed brilliant (and not at all the awful mess I hinted at, last week).

Small children thus appeased, I turn my attention next to older children – these “tweens” I keep hearing about – who are likely to like The Art of Getting By. Freddie Highmore stars as George, something of an unfocused high school slacker with a talent for art – although he never finished his work.

Enter Sally (Emma Roberts), another high school kid following her

own mind, and, even though she seems to be quite different to George – having some rich friends, for starters – they get along okay.

George and Sally start hanging out more and more, despite the distractions of different friends and interests, but, as George falls further behing in his schoolwork, Sally’s interests are piqued in an artist.

Not quite purely platonic friends, George’s life seems to get more and more confused, as his mother and stepfather are clearly having

problems at home, which doesn’t sit too well on our fatalistic, lovelorn antihero.

Troubled home, failing at school, mixed-up feelings, a girl friend who isn’t a girlfriend ... Boy oh boy, George is having it tough.

Inevitably, the friends can’t carry on as things are, and, with Sally seemingly lost to another, and realising that he needs to focus on getting on with his life – not least to help support his mother – George has to face up to just catching up with school work, in preparation for whatever’s next.

The only thing he hasn’t really prepared for is what Sally really means to him – and what he may really mean to her ...

Boy meets girl. Boy loses girl. Boy ... well, I don’t think I’d shock many readers with how this film turns out. Casbalanca, it ain’t – but what it does, it does well enough,

I guess, and seems to be at least slightly anchored in faintly believable late teenage life.

Slightly unner ved by my knee-high score accuser, I’ve perhaps been less demanding than usual with this film, which isn’t the worst tween film I’ve ever seen.

It’ll certainly get you by on a lazy afternoon or evening at the cinema.

And now for something completely different. If anyone has a large trail of breadcrumbs available, I’d like to use them to try and drag The Tempest into sight, as it continues its lonely lurching somewhere out on the cold, windswept plains of Unreleased Land, despite being finished eons ago.

After all, who wouldn’t like to see Helen Mirren, Russell Brand and Alfred Molina romping around in a Luvvied-up film of Shakespeare’s tale?

On second thoughts, perhaps not ...

1 September 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING Meet Super Mario’s dad SHANE DILLON

PREVIOUSLY, I briefly touched on creativity found in gaming – and there are few things that sum up “creativity” in gaming than the legendary games designer, Shigeru Miyamoto.

“Who?”, many, if not most Gazette readers may ask, as the beaming gentleman to the right could easily walk down O’Connell Street without a flicker of recognition.

And yet, for decades, hundreds of millions of children – and a similar number of adults – around the world have grown up with his most famous creation – Super Mario.

Indeed, Mario is just one of a number of iconic gaming characters, and moments, that Miyamoto has been directly respon-

Another weebyte A Jobs that’s now going ...

WITH apologies to those who may well think that I’m in thrall to Apple this week, it’s hard not to comment on Steve Jobs’ stepping down as CEO of Apple, late last week.

Few would have thought a mere decade or so ago that Apple – then very much an also-ran company, languishing far behind PCs in uptake and interest – would have stormed into the public eye as they have, let alone predicted its near-vertical rise in value and fortune.

As such, Jobs’ vision, drive and determination has done much to push gaming to the fore on smartphones, and in the public eye.

Despite his departure, it’s likely that Apple will continue as a major force in driving mobile gaming.

sible for throughout his career, to date.

To many, the 59-yearold is Nintendo; with the global company’s fortunes, future and fun directly tied to the charismatic designer.

Born in a quiet corner of Japan, Miyamoto spent his childhood living in what sounds like a fairly idyllic way – wandering through forests and exploring caves, his curiosity and spirit of adventure leading him to soak up the world around him, wondering what could lie ahead over the next hill or around the next corner.

These are traits that gamers will instantly recognise in his greatest works – those games in the Mario or equally long-running Zelda titles – where exploration, fun, creative thinking and

positive reinforcement are their own rewards, cementing Nintendo’s reputation as gaming’s most family-friendly and focused company.

Miyamoto’s role as Nintendo’s “secret weapon” long since diversified from designing games into being involved with the company’s new platforms and consoles.

From the Wii to the recently-launched 3DS, Miyamoto has been both the public face of the company’s changing fortunes and directions, as well as a solid figurehead for the business world to get behind.

After all, if there’s one thing that Miyamoto seems to understand more than anyone else on the planet, it’s what makes a game work, and be fun – making him the

Bytesandpieces Apple’s plan to keep growing NOW firmly established as a key player in the gaming sector, Apple’s IOS tank looks set to roll even deeper into the global gaming landscape.

It’s all thanks to the flurry of media speculation since late last week, with the announcement by “key insider figures” that Apple is planning to release a “cheap” iPhone, much the way as it did with the iPod Nano.

What sounds obstensibly like a bid to produce a more affordable iPhone to target lucrative markets in China, and other mass-market economies, would also have a very direct impact on mobile gaming penetration. Watch this space – the iFun is going to get a lot more interesting ...

A patently interesting court case Legendary Nintendo figure, Shigeru Miyamoto

Willy Wonka of gaming.

Today, with Apple making vast inroads into gaming as a publisher, there’s a lot of talk of Nintendo being under pressure to crack the portable gam-

ing smartphone market, by developing a similar distribution model.

One thing’s for sure – having Super Mario’s dad on your side couldn’t hurt any company ...

PEELING off yet another Apple story this week, many gamers, tech wizards and lawyers alike are following the company’s dealings with Lodsys, a Texas-based company that recently launched a lawsuit claiming that Apple, and many other big companies, violate a number of its patents.

Nothing has yet gone to court, but the issue of technology patents remains an interesting potential thorn for a wide range of games developers and publishers to keep an eye out for ...

GAZETTE

26 BLANCH GAZETTE 1 September 2011

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1 September 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

SUMMER HEROES:

August’s nominees for Dublin Sports Awards are announced: Page 29

RETRO RUNNING: BLACKROCK NATIVE SET TO TURN ATHLETICS AROUND IN PARK

Doherty taking a backward step to go forth sport@gazettegroup.com

If you find yourself in Fitzherbert Park and you think things are running in reverse, you might find that you are exactly right.

Blackrock resident, Garret Doherty, is an exponent and champion of retro running, the skill of actually running backward. With practice, you can become quite fast, and Garret has medals from the World Retro Championships to prove it.

Gazette Sport asked Doherty why retro running was so popular.

“Retro running is the most beneficial exercise in the world. If you go forward all the time, you’re using all the same muscles all the time. Hence half runners are injured at some time in their careers.

“If you go backward, it’s lower impact, because you’re landing on your toes and it’s like dancing, that’s why it’s so much

fun. It burns 30% more calories, as you’re using a different set of muscles, it improves your balance, coordination and peripheral vision.

The association with the reverse athletic event stems from a childhood training exercise.

“My father was an underage soccer coach, and he had me and my brothers running backward on the beach at Five Fingers Strand, near Mallon Head, when we were

Donegal man Garret Doherty is leading a revolution in running and training

younger. Years later, that came back to me in the park in Fairview, I started running backward, and people were really intrigued by it.”

There is an international aspect to retro running, and Doherty took part in the world championships which took place last year in Austria, its sixth year.

“I won a gold and two silver medals at the championships, and I took part in the 3k and 10k races in the same day. There are all the same track distances as you’d find in any other international track events.”

Doherty has also raced closer to home, and has a goal this month in the

Dublin half-marathon.

“I ran the Dublin Marathon backward in 2009, and last year I did it halfbackward, half-forwards.

Now I’m planning on running to break the backward half-marathon record in Phoenix Park on September 17. The record is 1 hour 35 minutes, and I think I have a chance.

“I run a class once a week in Fitzherbert Park, if people are interested.

It’s really fun, it’s a proper workout, and your back and hamstrings get a break from the pounding they get when you run normally.”

For more information, log on to runnerretro. com.

28 BLANCH GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteSport Sport

Amy Wolfe wins the ladies’ race

Triathlon 2011

Aoife Lynch, Amy Wolfe and Katie Cooke, the top three lady triathletes

Matt Malloy finishes with a minute’s lead

Treble the fun in Phoenix VER 900 competitors took part in the 2011 Gatorade Dublin City Triathlon, which took place at the River Liffey and the Phoenix Park last weekend. One of the final races on the Vodafone National Series for this year, the races were keenly contested.

In the men’s race, Matt Molloy finished strongly 1 minute 24 seconds ahead of the rest of the field, with a total time of 2:03:39 for the 1500m swim, 40km bike and 10km run.

In the ladies race, Amy Wolfe, the current National Standard Distance Champion, stormed home, followed by Aoife Lynch in second and Katie Cooke in third place.

O

The feeling of achievement at the finish

The three-stage race took competitors through the Phoenix Park

Top three men, Matt Molloy, Kevin Keane and Shane Scully

Getting some support over the line

1 September 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 29

in association with

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS - AUGUST NOMINEES

FastSport

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

+ STARof the

Pender named top coach at Homeless World Cup

MONTH

HANNAH TYRRELL

GARY THOMPSON

STEPHEN MCNALLY

ROUND Towers’ football star Tyrrell has been instrumental in the successes of both her club side’s intermediate ladies cup victory and in the successes of the Dublin ladies team in the Aisling McGing competition this term.

SWORDS must seem a million miles away but Thompson is far from homesick as he takes on the tracks of Japan in the Formula 3 competition, taking the podium recently to become the first Irishman to win a race on the Asian circuit.

THE Dunboyne based Orwell Wheelers rider struck gold in Italy when he came first in the European Masters’ Track Championships, his first international competition and his first-ever competition on an indoor track.

LUCAN CYCLING CLUB

CASTLEKNOCK GAA

DSDAC LADIES

THE road and track race club found a medal streak when they produced a string of outstanding performances to claim gold medals at both the elite and youth track team national championships last month.

THE dual codes at the Somerton club converged in success recently, with the senior sides in football and hurling achieving or closing in on promotion to the intermediate divisions of the Dublin leagues.

THE southside athletic club’s ladies team claimed a famous victory in Tullamore last month when they claimed the Premier Women’s divisional title at the Woodies’ DIY National Finals.

+ TEAMof the MONTH

WELCOME to the 2011 Dublin Sports Awards, as we mark our local sportsmen and women’s August sporting achievements across the capital and, indeed, across the nation.

We’re delighted to once again be able to celebrate the finest achievements in Dub-

lin sport, with some huge efforts at local levels coming to our attention in a variety of well-known, and some, less prominent, sports.

Ever y form of sporting achievement, at any level and in any sport, is valuable and gives an indication of the diversity of sporting commit-

ment there is around our fair city at all times of the year.

Let us know!

Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin — and give you, or your team, a chance of being one of our monthly stars.

Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/ gazettesport.

You can also check out the latest stories from GazetteSport at our new website, www.gazettegroup.com

IRELAND’S Homeless World Cup soccer coach, Mick Pender, was named as Fair Play coach of the tournament after the tournament, held in Paris, came to an end last week.

Ireland finished eleventh out of the 48 teams involved, ending their run with an impressive 10-4 victory against England. The Irish quickly found their feet and stormed into a two-goal lead, before they were pegged back to 4-3 at the break.

The second half saw Ireland turn on the style, scoring some excellent goals and in the end they ran out easy winners.

“It’s been a long and tiring ten days but the memories of the performances and the friends made will linger long in the players’ minds long after this tournament is over,” said Sean Kavanagh of Team Ireland.

30 BLANCH GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Leinster winners: Elmgreen claim the Crumlin Challenge ELMGREEN Golf Club were the Leinster

winners of the 2011 Musgrave Crumlin Hospital Club Challenge at Hermitage Golf Club last week. Pictured are, from left, Pat Cashman, Crumlin Children’s Hospital, Norma O’Sullivan, Musgrave Group, Robert Pierce, captain of Elmgreen, Paul Kerr, captain of Hermitage, Denis Murphy and Graham Temple, who were on the Elmgreen team. Missing from the picture is Brian Smith of the Elmgreen team.

Photo: Ronan Quinlan

Mountview mourning loss of Vinny Mannion RUGBY: SPENCER AND BYRNE CUP WINS FOR COOLMINE FOOTBALL and the community of Mountview are mourning the death of local community legend, Vinny Mannion.

Vinny, pictured above with Graham Carey and Glen Crowe, was chairman of Mountview Boys and Girls FC for 18 years and managed numerous teams during his tenure.

Vinny was one of the founding members of St Peregrine’s GAA club, Mountview Pitch and Putt Club and Mountview Camping Club.

For his services to sport within the community, he was voted Fingal County Council Sports Personality of the Year in 2003 for all his hard work within the community.

Vino is survived by his wife Lorraine, sons Vino Jr, Sean, daughter Michelle and five grandchildren.

Summerfest set for next weekend THE 2011 Tesco mobile SARI Summerfest, the largest intercultural soccer tournament in Ireland, is set to take part this year at the Garda and Camogie Sports Grounds, in Phoenix Park on September 10 and 11 from 11am to 5pm each day.

The Summerfest will also coinciude with the CONCERN kitefest, where kite flyers from around the world will display their kites and give kite workshops for children.

The two-day festival also includes a wide array of entertainment for all the family.

For more information, see www. facebook.com/sarireland.

St Peregrine’s hosting two special events ST PEREGRINE’S GAA club are holding a family fun day on September 10 at Blakestown from 12 noon onwards.

The day will feature an array of fun competitions and matches.

The club are also hosting the popular mini-All Ireland leagues from September 5 to 11.

Registration for the event takes place in the club hall from 7 to 8.30pm.

For more information, see the club’s website, www.cnp.ie.

Coolmine firsts and seconds were victorious in their openeing matches of the 2011/12 season

Cup double opens campaign sport@gazettegroup.com

FRIDAY night lights shone brightly at Ashbrook as Coolmine opened their season with a duo of victories in the Spencer and Byrne Cup against Monkstown and Malahide.

Coolmines first XV were in fighting form for their opening competitive game of the season and keen to impress new coach, Rob Forbes, with a good performance against the side who put them out of the competition at the semi-final stage.

Scrum half Alan Cousins set the tone after 4 minutes when he almost

breached the opposition defence, but the first points of 2011/12 were scored by new captain Brian Moran, with the first try duly converted by Donal Crotty.

Fifteen minutes later, Moran ran a great line for his second try, and his hattrick was not long in arriving, crossing the whitewash after picking up a loose ball from the back of the scrum.

With the last minutes ticking away Coolmine didn’t slacken off the pace securing another two tries before the break.

Firstly Donal Crotty showed a great burst of speed up the right wing

to touch down in the corner, and then a great offload from Rob Kersey set David Stacey free to leave the home side leading 31-0 going into the break.

Coolmine started the second half as they finished the first. A pop pass from Donal Crotty let hooker John Lee in for Coolmine’s sixth try and, four minutes later, Moran chased down a grubber kick for his fourth try of the game.

The visitors did manage to pull back a consolation try after 30 minutes, but Coolmine responded with another two tries to finish the game off leaving the

final score at 52-7.

The Coolmine seconds, meanwhile, were in Byrne Cup action at home as well, and faced off against north county opposition in the form of Malahide.

Although it turned out to be a comfortable victory in the end it was a hard won battle with Malahide proving to be well-organised in defence.

Coolmine dominated the opening stages and spent most of the first 20 minutes camped in the opposition half but failed to come away with any points.

Malahide’s first visit into the Coolmine 22 after 26 minutes secured them

five points after sucking the home side’s defence into a maul close to the posts.

The try seemed to spur Malahide on, but two penalties put Coolmine a point ahead going into the break.

Coolmine started well from the restart and tries from Michael Grainger and Paul Feeney gave the home side a comfortable gap of 18-5.

A great solo run from winger Colin Durkan beating three men up the centre of the pitch on the 30 minute mark left the score beyond Malahide and the final whistle left the score at 25-5.

1 September 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 31

in association with

ALL-IRELAND: LOCALS PLAY PART IN FINE EFFORT .

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ST BRIGID’S THE All-Ir eland Football Score

Best of luck to Paul Winters and

Forecast Competition is back again.

the Dublin minor hurlers this Sun-

Score sheets can be picked up from

day vs Galway in the All-Ireland

behind the bar or by contacting

final. There will be raffle for tickets

John Fleming on 087-269-7208.

for All-Ireland hurling final tick-

Well done to Eoin Kennedy who

ets this Thursday in Russell Park.

advanced to the 60x30 All-Ire-

Members must be present on the

land handball final beating Dessie

night to receive tickets. Make sure

Keegan. Eoin goes for his eighth

you have your 2011 Membership

straight 60x30 title this Saturday in

paid. The same rules will apply for

Abbeylara. He faces Robbie McCa-

the All-Ireland football final.

rthy in a repeat of last year’s final.

Hard luck to the junior camogie

Congratulations to Barry, Sean,

girls who lost out to Faugh’s in their

Declan and the Dublin footballers on their hard-fought win over Donegal.

Congratulations to the minor footballers as well.

championship final.

Big thanks for ever yone who helped club coaches John O’Loughin and Paul O’Brien with the hugelysuccessful summer camps.

TYRRELSTOWN Dublin Under-16s local representatives put on a strong showing in the second half. Picture: GAApics.com

Young Jackies denied All-Ireland by Kerry LADIES U-16 C’SHIP Kerry Dublin

4-10 2-13

sport@gazettegroup.com

CASTLEKNOCK’S Leah Mullins and Sinead Comer ford were both part of the Dublin U-16 ladies footballers who pushed Kerry all the way in their bid to claim back-to-back All-Ireland titles at this level.

With a quarter of the match to go, her side had produced a remarkable comeback to level their game with Kerry and leave the tie in the balance.

But the Kingdom finished the stronger of the sides to end the junior Jackies’ dreams of taking the title back to the capital once again.

Kerr y had opened proceedings in style, putting a goal and two points on the board before the girls in blue registered their first score, a point from a

free in the 9th minute from McGrath.

Almost immediately, McGrath repeated the feat within the minute with her second converted free.

Immediately from the kick out, Dublin were back on top of the Kerry defence, and there were no fewer than three shots on target, which bounced off a series of Kerry players and the woodwork to deny the Dubs a first goal.

Niamh Rickard did get on the end of a Kerry clearance, and salvaged a point out of the melee.

From the next passage of play, a free to Kerry was taken and converted by Leanne Mangan to leave just the goal in it, and the Kingdomettes stepped up the pace.

The Dubln backs held firm, however, and no score was registered on either side for some seven minutes,

but Kerry did put a few attempts wide, until they sent in a rocket of a shot which keeper Emily Rheinish deflected over the bar.

Undeterred, Kerr y tried again and Nicole O’Connor got the credit for a goal that just rolled over the line.

Points from McGrath and Eabha Rutledge did briefly reduce the margin, but Kerry were not finished, and added another goal before the interval for a 3-7 to 0-5 lead.

The wide margin proved a prelude to a sublime Dublin spell early in the second half as McGrath led the charge back into the tie.

She pointed from a free just 30 seconds into the half, before getting on the end of the ensuing kick-out and pointed another from play soon after.

Her speculative effort then dropped under the

crossbar while another score and one from Stephanie Adams continued the ascendancy.

Captain Carla Rowe came bursting from the half back line and in a series of quick passes found herself with a clear shot which flew the green f lag once again.

The Dubs were on a roll. Two more points in the space of a minute, both from Rickard levelled the score with 14 minutes left on the clock.

The Kingdom girls had made their first point of the half just before the Dublin goal and got another from a free and went one up.

But, unfortunately, Dublin’s inspiration dried up, and nothing more came the Blues w ay u n t i l t h e 2 3 r d minute, when they registered two more points from Mullins and Kilm a c u d m i d f i e l d e r, Molly Lamb.

TRAINING for the junior teams is back

Tyrrelstown GAA club is delighted

to two sessions a week: Thursday at

to announce that they will be holding

6pm, and Saturday at 10am on the

their annual golf classic on Saturday,

pitch at Belgree. There will be match-

September 3. It will take place in Hol-

es starting back this Saturday, so a

lystown Golf Club. Due to its phenomo-

good turnout will be needed. For more

nal success last year, there is sure to

information, please contact Clare on

be a demand for places, so please book

0851617718.

early. Tickets are now very limited. The

Training for the senior team is every Tuesday and Thursday at 7.15pm on the pitch at Blanch IT. There are some very important matches for the team com-

cost is €180 per team of four, and this also includes a meal in the clubhouse.

Follow us on Twitter, or you can like our page on Facebook.

ing up, and new players are always

Also a big thank-you to all who donat-

welcome. For more information, please

ed in our collection over the weekend.

contact Charlie on 0834088152.

This was much appreciated.

ST PEREGRINE’S CONDOLENCES to the Mannion fam-

jackpot is €5,000.

ily on their their recent bereavment,

Any member not buying lotto tickets

and also to Innisfails on the passing of

should visit CNP.ie and support your

James Foran.

club for only €2 a week. Lotto is also

Congratulations to Eric Lowndes and the Dublin minor footballers on

available to play online using the link on the club website.

reaching the All-Ireland football final,

Entertainment in clubhouse this

and indeed the Dublin senior football-

Saturday in the club is from Sean

ers in reaching the senior final.

Dixon.

Comiserations to Danielle Pugh and

Club shop is open on Mondays,

Megan Leech who played in the ladies

Wednesdays and Fridays from 6 to

U-16 defeat to Kerry.

7pm, and on Saturdays from 10am to

Thanks to Gordon Ward and John Lowndes for organising the summer camp last week which was a great success.

Club lotto was not won. Numbers drawn were 1, 5, 2 and 27. Next week’s

12pm.

Bingo is on Wednesday night at 8.30pm.

If anybody within the club would like to make a difference and join a committee please see club website.

Follow GazetteSport on Facebook and Twitter and online at www.gazettegroup.com

ALL OF YOUR BLANCHARDSTOWN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

COOLMINE ON POINT: Ashtown club register duo of cup wins in opening ties P30

SEPTEMBER 1, 2011

AUGUST AWARDS Monthly nominees revealed inside P29

GazetteSPORT

St Brigid’s man Eoin Kennedy has hit top form at just the right time as he goes in search of an eighth successive All-Ireland senior singles handball crown

Magic eight beckons for handball legend Kennedy fully focussed on taking yet another All-Ireland crown as McCarthy in his sights for third successive year blanchsport@gazettegroup.com

LOCAL handballing legend Eoin Kennedy has sights set on a ninth – and eighth in succession – All-Ireland senior singles triumph when he faces the rising star Robbie McCarthy next Saturday in Abbeylara.

The return visit to the final comes off the back of a brilliant 21-12, 21-8 success against Mayo’s Dessie Keegan as he produced some of his best form of 2011 to date.

The St Brigid’s man was in total control of the tie, bossing the court from the centre as the Ballaghadereen man wilted under a barrage of passing shots from Kennedy who bossed the pace and tempo of the game.

It means yet another showdown with Westmeath man McCarthy on Saturday (4pm), the pair locking horns for a third year in a row.

And, speaking to the Gazette, while the accolades are a welcome bonus, he says he is solely

focussed on winning this next match.

“I’m definitely looking forward to it but it’s not something I really think about. It’s more about taking the game as it comes. It’s been a long summer and this is the culmination of the hard work.

“Robbie is still a young lad at 23 but he’s already into his third final so it feels like he’s been around for a long while and is getting better every year. But I’m playing really well and last weekend was probably my best performance so I’ll try and replicate that.

“I’m definitely still hungry and it does make it easier to come back every year if you’re successful.

It would be much harder putting in the hours if you didn’t have that success.

McCarthy is very much on the rise as witnessed in his final four success against Wexford’s Barry Goff. The Mullingar man took the first game 21-12 in a high quality tussle in which the pair went blow for blow until McCarthy broke the spell with a series of eight points on the spin.

The second game, meanwhile, lasted 45 minutes as the players firstly traded aces until 6-6. Goff bounded forth with a strong run to lead 13-7 but McCarthy summoned up his reserves to bring the back level at 16 each.

But it proved in vain as Goff worked his opponent round and picked off some stunning points to tie the contest up with 21-18 victory in the second game.

The large crowd then braced themselves for a thrilling deciding game but that belonged wholly to the championship runner-up of the past two seasons.

McCarthy’s fitness and pace in that third game certainly caught the eye but his precise lob serve from the right side into the back left corner and brilliant corner kills from Goff’s returns, made remarkable viewing and he astonishingly opened up a 20-1 lead. Goff did rally to make it 20-6 but McCarthy was always destined to collect the last ace and he did so to set up another enticing final.