Castleknock

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January 31, 2013

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M a l a h i d e • Carpenterstown P o r t m a r n o c k • • KLaurel i n s e a ly • C l•a Roselawn r eMonth h a lXX, l 2012 Castleknock Lodge INSIDE: Funding for local Gathering events is announced P4

tough brake: D15 deemed unsuitable for cycling initiative See Page 9

Great spectacle: Specsavers grand opening Tennis:

McGee to lead Ireland in Davis Cup first round Page 30

the new Specsavers store in

Blanchardstown arrived in style last week as they held a family fun day to show off their new premises and great range of eye wear to the local public. Janice Gorman with her children Jack and Lauren were on hand to have a bit of fun as the facepainters, clowns and jugglers brightened up a January day.

See Gallery on Page 6

Football:

Castleknock made to do it all over again Page 31

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES.......................6 DUBLIN LIFE....................11 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................27

School, parents in bid to ensure road safety Traffic incidents cause concern at St Mochta’s NS and prompt petition

 laura webb

Essential safety measures are being considered to ensure children are safe walking to and from St Mochta’s National School, with its parents associa-

tion set to petition for support on the ongoing traffic problems in the area.

A number of safety issues surround the parking of cars and heavy traffic at the school, located at the junction of Porterstown Road

and Clonsilla Road.

Several incidents involving cars gave rise to the school’s concerns including a child being bumped by a parked car when it rolled back; however, no one was injured.

Fingal County Council intends to instal bollards along the path to curb parking problems, just one of the measures it is considering as a solution to the issues.

Full Story on Page 8

2 CASTLeKNOCK Gazette 31 January 2013

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Westend Shopping Park: Some Dublin 15 shoppers were shocked to find their cars clamped after returning from a few hours shopping

Westend defends its new three-hour parking limit Westend Shopping Park has defended its decision to introduce a three-hour maximum parking limit from Monday to Friday, saying it is intended to stop outside workers from using the facility.

Some Dublin 15 shoppers were shocked to find their cars clamped after returning from a few hours shopping at the Westend Shopping Park, which is adjacent to the Blanchardstown Centre, but which is not owned by the same management company.

Mulhuddart councillor David McGuinness (FF) said he was concerned about the impact the

 laura webb lwebb@gazettegroup.com

restrictions will have on shoppers in the area.

A spokeswoman for Westend Shopping Park said they introduced it because workers in the local area “were taking advantage” and using around 150 of the 650 available spaces available every day. “It had a real impact on car parking spaces for our shoppers,” the spokeswoman said.

“This was going on for

a number of months, but I think it has resolved itself. There is clamping that happens, but no genuine customer of Westend Shopping Centre will be clamped.

There is a number given when the clamp goes on, [which] the customer rings.

“If a shopper came in to do some shopping here and then nipped over to the [Blanchardstown] centre, if you came back and it was made known you were a genuine shopper you will not be clamped and you will not be charged.

“If it did come to a case that you had been clamped by accident, a

full apology will be issued by the management here at the centre.

“There are signs throughout the car park, so it is well documented,” she added.

However, Cllr McGuinness says he isn’t convinced by their reasoning and he will look to have the clamping policy removed.

“The general population don’t see this to be any different from the Blanchardstown Centre… the largest marketing tool of the Blanchardstown Centre is that they offer an abundance of free parking.

“They may say people won’t be charged, but we

know from experience that the whole appeals procedure is so complicated and €120 out of anyone’s pocket, even if you’re going to get it back, it is so much money.

“I don’t think any shopping centre is all that busy Monday to Friday and there are places closer to park than Westend, so I am not convinced of that argument.

“I think members of the public are going to be really unhappy to hear about it. I will engage with the public and get their reaction. I think they [Westend Management] need to hear about it from the public,” he added.

‘Unsightly’ advertising sign set for removal A large sign at the entrance of Laurel Lodge, advertising the construction of the Castleknock quality bus service, is to be removed.

The sign was erected when the project was completed in 2007 and has remained there

since.

In a report to local councillors, Fingal County Council said one of the funding conditions of the scheme was that the advertising board be put up and remain in place for a period after completion of the contract.

“As the project was funded under the National Development Plan 2007-2013, and this period is now coming to an end, the council will make arrangements for the sign to be removed,” the FCC report continued.

The report followed a question by Castleknock councillor Eithne Loftus (FG) asking that the council make arrangements to remove the large sign, saying the project has been completed for several years now and the sign is “unsightly”.

31 January 2013 CASTLEKNOCK Gazette 3

RDS

hazard: hay bales the source of farmyard blaze at the castle

Dublin parks seminar

No one injured in Luttrellstown fire  Laura Webb

lwebb@gazettegroup.com

Hay bales were the source of a fire that broke out at the farmyard near Luttrellstown Castle last week.

On Thursday, January 25, fire services were called out to Luttrellstown at about 9.35pm, where water tankers were also used to help stop the fire.

According to a spokesperson for Dublin Fire Service, the fire crew were in attendance for some time to put out the fire.

The fire was scaled down at about 3am and it was dampened down until about 5.50am the following morning to

make sure the bales would not reignite.

It is understood that fire fighters remained at the scene until about 10am the next morning, when the area was given the all clear.

called the fire brigade.

“There was no damage done to any buildings. Everything was put out and no one was injured, and no property damaged.

“It happened in the

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‘Everything was put out and no one was injured’

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A s p o ke s m a n f o r Luttrellstown Castle and Country Club confirmed the incident.

“We have a farmer we work with and he was doing a big cleanup in the yard. Some of the straw beds caught fire. He tried to put it out himself but it just started to grow so they

farmyard area, which is not near the castle or the clubhouse… it is close to the Westmanstown side of the property,” he added.

Mulhuddart councillor Kieran Dennison (FG) commented on the incident and said the main thing was that “nobody was hurt... we are delighted with that”.

Time to act: Seven years waiting for action on A Vision for Change seven years to the day after the publication of the mental health

policy A Vision for Change (AVFC), Mental Health Reform has called on the Government to prioritise its implementation. Orla Barry, director of Mental Health Reform, commented: “It is striking that, despite the Government’s stated commitment to developing community mental health services, the years since the publication of A Vision for Change in 2006 have seen the proportion of spending on mental health services decrease from 7.2% to 5.3% of the overall health budget.” Pictured (l-r) holding seven clocks representing the anniversary are Mental Health Reform volunteers Hannah Ryan, Stephen Garry, Donal Browne, Aisling Concannon (centre), Kate Purcell, Andy Haughey and Christine Hynes.

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The Phoenix Park superintendent Margaret Gormley will be speaking at the Irish Georgian Society and Irish Language Institute’s seminar in the RDS on February 12.

The seminar, Dublin’s Victorian and Edwardian Parks, will be on the subject of an overview of Dublin’s inheritance of public parks. Anyone interested in finding out more or to book a place log onto www.phoenixpark.ie Meanwhile, the popular cafe and tourist attraction at the visitor centre in the Phoenix Park will be closed for the following dates: Monday, February 4, and Tuesday, February 5, and Monday, February 11 and Tuesday, February 12.

4 CASTLeKNOCK Gazette 31 January 2013

FastNews

support Funding announced for Gathering

Deerpark Rd to be examined Fingal council is to examine the damaged road surface at an estate entrance on the Castleknock Road. According to Fine Gael councillor Eithne Loftus, the road surface at the entrance to Deerpark Road is “deteriorating” and needs urgent attention.

In response to the councillor, a spokesperson for Fingal County Council said the area would be “examined and any restoration works considered necessary will be included on our Works Programme.” Adding, the works will be carried out on a “priority basis” and will be “subject to available funding”.

D15 charity offering free counselling A local Dublin 15 charity is offering a free counselling service to people over the age of 18.

Crosscare Drug and Alcohol Programme has launched a free counselling service.

The service is a oneto-one counselling service for anyone over 18 with concerns arising from drink or drug use.

Anyone concerned about their own substance use, or use of drink or drugs by another person, can avail of the service.

Counselling is available in Crosscare

Love is in the air at the zoo

Blanchardstown by appointment. Call 01 836 0911 to book an appointment.

 laura webb

Council plant 5,000 trees Over 5,000 trees were planted in the Dublin 15 area by Fingal County Council last year.

The total number of trees planted in the Castleknock and Mulhuddart Ward in 2012 has been estimated to be 5,502.

According to the council, 302 of these were standard trees on street parks and open spaces. The remaining 5,200 were whip plantations in Dunsink and Waterville.

event: animal attraction

Donal Connell, chief executive, An Post, with Leo Varadkar TD, Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and Jim Miley, project director, The Gathering 2013 at the unveiling of An Post’s new postage stamp celebrating The Gathering Ireland 2013 at the GPO

Everything from film to underwater hockey  laura webb

Locals near and far are coming together to celebrate the year of the Gathering, as funding for Dublin 15 events is announced.

A total of 26 Fingal Gathering events have been given financial support under the IPB Gathering Ireland Fund.

Four of these events are in the Dublin 15 area and include the 2013 Fingal Film Festival in Draiocht Theatre from May 8 to 10, the Dublin Underwater Hockey Invitational Tournament in the National Aquatic Centre on June 22, The Strawberry Fair in the Strawberry Beds on June 22 and the Igbo Union 2013 Annual Convention which will be held in August, in a variety of locations including the Crowne Plaza Hotel in

Dublin 15.

Local TD and Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varadkar praised the organisers of the four events in Dublin 15, as well as the other 22 events in Fingal.

In total, more than 1,300 events across Ireland were selected for support under the €2 million scheme.

“It’s great to see so many community Gatherings being organised, and I’m delighted that four events in Dublin 15, and 22 in Fingal, have qualified for support. It promises to be a great year in Fingal for the Gathering. I want to wish each of these Gatherings every success,” Minister Varadkar said.

Several sporting events in Fingal are also being supported, including the Skerries Ras on May 26,

the Skerries Triathlon on June 23, and an international cricket match in Malahide in September.

T h e t h r e e e ve n t s selected by IPB Insurance to be flagship Gathering festivals for Fingal are the St Patrick’s Day Festival in Swords; The Summer Solstice Session in the Seamus Ennis Cultural Centre in Naul in June; and the 2013 J24 World Championships Sailing Event in Howth in August.

A fund of €2 million from IPB Gathering Ireland was administered by city councils, IPB Insurance and the Gathering project, based on an agreed application criteria.

A key factor in the evaluation process was the capacity of each event to attract overseas visitors. Funding streams under the €2 million

IPB Gathering Ireland stream have now closed and local plans are under way to bring these events to fruition.

Other events in Fingal being supported in the scheme include, St Sylvester’s Infant School’s Irish Comenius Gathering in March, Baldoyle Forum Ltd for the Baldoyle and Sutton in Art project in May, the events department in Fingal will get a grant for the Fingal 10k Road Race in July as well as a grant for the Fingal Festival of Football (Harmony Cup) in August.

The Gathering will be celebrated throughout Ireland for the year of 2013. It kicked off in Dublin on New Year’s Eve with a major party.

For further information on the Gathering, log onto www.thegatheringireland.ie

Love is in the air at Dublin Zoo as it gets ready to open its doors early for an exclusive Valentine Date for couples everywhere.

On Saturday, February 16 and Sunday, February 17, the Zoo is offering couples a very unique alternative date this Valentines.

On this extra special date, couples will experience one of the most interesting destinations in Dublin. Ticket holders will gain entrance to the zoo from 8am. They will then collect a romantic breakfast picnic from Haughton House and go on to experience the early morning sights and sounds of the zoo.

The team at Dublin Zoo will host special keeper talks on the courtship, breeding and exotic romantic rituals of some of the animals. The special keeper talks will be on Sulawesi crested macaques at 8.15am, orang-utans at 8.45am, flamingos at 9.15am, elephants at 9.30am, giraffes at 10am and gorillas at 10.30am.

Romantic

Tickets for this special Valentine’s date can be purchased online at Dublinzoo.ie. There are a limited number of 100 tickets available per day to ensure that the visitor’s experience is truly romantic.

Tickets cost €60 per couple. For more information on Dublin Zoo log on to their website at www.dublinzoo.ie or follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ dublinzoo.

31 January 2013 CASTLEKNOCK Gazette 5

6 castleknock Gazette 31 January 2013

gazetteGALLERIES

John and Harti enjoying the family fun on offer at the new Specsavers store

in the frame: specsavers open in blanch

A great spectacle

T

HE new Specsavers store in Blanchardstown arrived in style last week as they held a family fun day to show off their new premises and great range of eye wear to the local public.

The eye wear specialists could clearly see that a bit of fun was needed to brighten up

Gosia Mrozowsca and Matt Bolland

January and the facepainters, clowns and jugglers certainly did just that.

The opening is good news for the local community as it will offer a professional and local service from highly trained staff with high-tech facilities and state-of-the-art eye care.

Mick Brennan

Janice with children Jack and Lauren Gorman

31 January 2013 castleknock Gazette 7

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Angelo De Francesco, balloon modeller

Members of the public get a look at the new store

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Anne Hamilton with Georgie

Gillian Murphy

8 CASTLeKNOCK Gazette 31 January 2013

Just the business: Sarah takes gold

FastNews Aisling Art Group to hold exhibition A local art group, the Aisling Art Group, will display their works during an exhibition at the Visitor’s Centre in the Phoenix Park from February 1 until February 15.

A total of 10 artists, including the five group members, will exhibit a wide range of subject matter.

“The idea is to have many artists so that they appeal to different people, and we try to give a wide range,” member Anne Prendeville explained.

Works being exhibited include portraits, still life and landscapes.

The Aisling Art Group meets every Wednesday evening with their tutor Jim Donnolly.

Members also include Catherine Cahill from Castleknock, Evelyn Hanrahan from Swords, Meave Seavers from Swords and Mary Morris.

“We are always happy to hear from other artists interested in exhibiting,” Anne continued.

For information on the group, call Anne on 0876786613 or Mary on 0876271950.

Castleknock Community Centre AGM The staff at Castleknock Community Centre would like to give notice that its annual general meeting takes place in February.

The AGM will be held at 9pm on Tuesday, February 19, in the Castleknock Community Centre.

Motions for the AGM should be submitted in writing to the Secretary c/o Community Centre no later than 5pm on February 9.

Pictured is Sarah Courtney from Mount Sackville Secondary School, Chapelizod, who was awarded for her outstanding achievement in Leaving Certificate business studies.

Sarah was among four students from various secondary schools around the country to be awarded with gold medals for their outstanding achievements in business studies in last year’s Junior and Leaving Certificates.

The winners were presented with their medals by Danny McCoy, director general at the Irish Business and Employers’ Confederation (IBEC) at the Business Studies Teachers’ Association of Ireland (BSTAI) awards ceremony, hosted by the Irish Banking Federation (IBF) at their offices in Nassau Street, Dublin.

The awards recognise the achievements of students in accounting, economics and business at Leaving Certificate level and business studies at Junior Certificate level.

st mochta’s: petition to halt traffic incidents near national school

Parents move to ensure road safety for children A series of essential traffic measures is being considered to ensure a safer road environment for children attending St Mochta’s National School.

A number of safety issues surrounds the parking of cars and heav y traffic at the school, which is located on the junction of the Porterstown Road and Clonsilla Road.

S e ve r a l i n c i d e n t s involving cars have been reported, including one when a parked car rolled back and bumped a child; however, no one was injured.

The school’s parents association is organis-

Labour councillor Peggy Hamill

ing a petition seeking suppor t from gardai on the on-going traffic problems.

They area also demanding that the safety of children and pedestrians is prioritised and that Fingal County Council (FCC)

instal a fully-lighted pelican pedestrian crossing, bollards along the footpath at Porterstown Road, r umble strips to indicate the need to slow down and the repainting of the road markings that indicate the school clear zone.

In a report, the council said it intends to install bollards along the footpath to channel children towards the two uncontrolled crossing points and will also serve to stop motorists parking on the footpath. The report went on to say that rumble strips are not recommended for residential areas because of the

noise they generate.

The school has three school wardens across all the roads leading to St Mochta’s and the council said they will examine the demand for signalled crossing outside school times.

Each measure is subject to funding, however. A spokesperson said the installation of bollards and the widening of a narrow footpath “are reasonably low cost and feasible” in the short term.

Fingal also want to seek discussions with local gardai about parking enforcement: “A greater presence would help to encourage a

more responsible attitude from the parents,” a FCC spokesperson said.

Commenting on the situation, Castleknock councillor Matt Waine (SP) said that parking and pick-up is a “major problem” for schools across Fingal, but that this site is the worst case in Dublin 15.

He asked whether there was scope for tackling the situation during St Mochta’s proposed new school building at the site and urged that a meeting with Blanchardstown gardai happens soon to discuss the “seriousness of the issue.”

Labour councillor Peggy Hamill said that the traffic issues have been a difficulty for a long time: “One would imagine that it would be on every parent’s mind to park properly and not to obstruct.

“The idea that a car which was parked actually rolled and bumped into a child, I just can’t understand it… Luckily no one was hurt but that sort of behaviour is uncalled for. I think the onus is on all of us… to put in place measures to prevent a serious accident occurring and make the lives of school children safe,” Cllr Hamill added.

31 January 2013 CASTLEKNOCK Gazette 9

council Area unsuitable for cycling initiative

Brakes put on calls for bike scheme in D15  laura webb lwebb@gazettegroup.com

It might be working well in Dublin City but, for now, the brakes have been put on calls to see the popular public bicycle scheme established in Dublin 15.

The bike hire scheme in the city has 44 bike stations scattered around the area, with users pedalling close to five million journeys in the less than three-and-a-half years that the scheme has been in operation.

The scheme is funded by outdoor advertising company, JC Decaux.

Labour councillor Mary McCamley had asked Fingal County Council if there were plans to bring such a sponsored scheme to Dublin 15 in the future, and if companies would be interested in coming on board.

In a report responding to the councillor, a FCC spokesperson said factors that contribute to the successful scheme in the city include current levels of cycling, topography, cost

of car parking, amount of congestion, cycle friendly infrastructure and the distribution of major trip attractors throughout the area.

Although Dublin 15 shares some of these factors, the council says it “suffers by comparison” when it comes to “cost of car parking, amount of congestion and distribution of major trip attractors throughout the area”.

The Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport via the National

The bike hire scheme in the city has 44 bike stations scattered around the area

Transpor t Authority (NTA) is examining the potential of introducing public bike schemes to other regional cities including Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford.

“The potential of a public bike scheme in Dublin 15 is analogous to a roll out in these regional cities in terms of its overall feasibility

and sustainability both financially and service level. It is the intention therefore to await the outcome of the existing regional cities bike scheme project and review the transferability of those schemes to Fingal,” the council spokesperson said.

Expressions of interest for the provision of spon-

sorship to public bike schemes in regional cities were sought by the NTA in November 2012, and submissions are being considered.

Further invitations to tender relating to the provision of the service on street will follow with the earliest scheme becoming operational estimated to be 2014.

COURT Man loses murder appeal A Castleknock man jailed for stabbing his wife to death in front of their children almost four years ago has lost his appeal against his murder conviction.

David Bourke denied murder but admits he stabbed his wife Jean Gilbert in August 2007 at their home in Laverna Dale, Castleknock, under severe provocation because she was going to leave him for another man.

He tried to appeal his life sentence, given to him in March 2009, under the grounds that the trial judge did not explain the defence of provocation to the jury properly, making his conviction unsafe.

However, the court rejected the argument made on Bourke’s behalf and dismissed the appeal.

10 CASTLeKNOCK Gazette 31 January 2013

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Olympic boxing gold medallist Katie Taylor with her parents, Peter and Brigid

Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field and director Steven Spielberg

Lights, camera, action!

M

ANY people gathered outside the Savoy Cinema in Dublin recently to see the stars on the red carpet at the European premiere of Lincoln. World famous director Steven Spielberg and the film’s lead actor, Daniel Day-

Lewis, were joined by guests including Rosanna Davison and Olympic medallist Katie Taylor. Some of the guests later went to the Burlington Hotel where props from the film were auctioned off in aid of the Wicklow Hospice Foundation.

Rosanna Davison with her parents, Diane and Chris de Burgh

31 January 2013 Gazette 11

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dublinlife

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centenary: events should be marked in ‘appropriate fashion’

Descendants of 1916 heroes call for creation of museum  paul hosford

The direct descendants of two of the leaders of the 1916 Rising have called on Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, the Minister for Arts and Culture, Jimmy Deenihan, and the Minister for Finance, Michael Noonan, to back their proposal for the the creation of a 1916 Museum at 16 Moore Street. The group is also calling for the site’s National Monument sta-

tus to be protected.

The group want the premises to be ready so that the museum can be delivered in time for the 1916 centenary.

The members of the descendants group include Nuala O’RahillyPrice, the granddaughter of The O’Rahilly, the only leader of the Rising to be killed in action. He died on what is now O’Rahilly Parade, just off Moore Street.

Also in the group is John Connolly, the son of Roddy Connolly, a former Labour TD for Louth and grandson of James Connolly, who was the de facto leader of the rising.

The O’Rahilly and both Connollys were present in the GPO in Easter 1916.

John Connolly said that the museum would be a lasting legacy of a pivotal moment in Irish history.

“We want the centenary of 1916 to be marked with

a lasting legacy, not just another passing parade.

The proposed museum will be the centrepiece of an enduring legacy for our citizens and for visitors alike.”

Ms O’Rahilly-Price added; “The pivotal events of 1916 need to be marked in an appropriate and fitting fashion.”

The group also launched a newwebsite www.1916rebellion museum.com

Nuala O’Rahilly Price and John Connolly, grandson of James Connolly, with members of the Save No 16 Committee and Moore Street Traders’ Association at the launch of a new website and virtual tour for a proposed museum. Photograph: Eric Luke

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12 Gazette 31 January 2013

dublinlife

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Healthy way to cook and eat

Students from across Dublin have been invited to take part in the Takeaway My Way contest once again this year.

T he nationwide schools cookery competition, which was launched by awardwinning chef Neven Maguire, along with Safefood and St Angela’s College in Sligo, challenges post-primary students to cook a healthier version of their favourite takeaway dishes.

Now in its third year, the competition is open t o a l l p o s t- p r i m a r y school students, including students in Youthreach centres.

Launching the competition, Fiona Gilligan, director, marketing and

communications Safefood, said: “Learning to cook and eat healthily are skills that can last students a lifetime and we would encourage all students, whether studying home economics or not, to grab an apron, pick their favourite takeaway dish, show us their passion for food and enter the competition.”

To enter, students can submit their recipe online at www.safefood. eu/takeawaymyway or complete and return by post the entry form sent to their school before February 22.

jigs and reels guaranteed to get you moving If you are looking for

Award-winning chef Neven Maguire was joined by Sophie Sherlock from Collegiate Grammar School and Tully Irvine from Portora Royal School, Enniskillen, to launch safefood’s Take Away My Way cookery competition for postprimary students

something a little different and bit more energetic this Valentine’s Day, then a Gathering event called Ceili for

Valentine’s could be just up your street.

You and your beloved can dance the night away to a live ceili band and, whether you are a set dancing aficionado or just like to leap around, the craic is sure to be mighty.

As well as live music from Traditional Arts Collective (TAC), there will also be sean nos dancing displays on the night.

TAC’s aim is to bring ceili back with jigs and reels guaranteed to get you moving.

Special guest for the night will be Amaliya Morgan-Brown from Bandon, Oregon in the USA – named after Bandon in Co Cork.

The entrance fee is €10 at The Grand Social, 35 Lower Liffey Street on Valentine’s night from 8pm to 11.55pm.

Calling all volunteers for Lollipop Day With just one month to go until the 12th annual Lollipop Day, the Oesophageal Can-

cer Fund (OCF) is calling for the help of volunteers across Dublin this February.

Lollipop Day sees thousands of people selling lollipops for €2 nationwide every year, in an effort to raise vital funds for oesophageal cancer research, and the OCF are seeking the help of volunteers on Friday, February 22 and Saturday 23, 2013.

“We are very fortunate to have an everincreasing number of dedicated volunteers, all of whom make Lollipop Day a success every year,” said Noelle Ryan, chairperson of the OCF. “But we still need more volunteers, so if anyone or any group is interested in helping out, please contact us on www.lollipopday.ie or on Lollipop Day’s Facebook or Twitter page.”

For more information on Lollipop Day, to volunteer or to make a donation, go to www. lollipopday.ie or, to volunteer in Dublin call Sara on 087-2320970.

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31 January 2013 Gazette 13

C o m m e r c i a l F e at u r e

Tifco Group Photo – Mary Buckley (Group Operations Manager, Tifco Hotels), Pius Furlong (GM, Crowne Plaza Northwood), Niamh Murphy (GM, Crowne Plaza Dundalk), Garret O’Neill (General Manager, Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown), Magda Rybka (Deputy General Manager, Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown), Enda O’Meara (Managing Director, Tifco Hotels)

blanchardstown: EUROPEAN HOTEL OF THE YEAR

Prestigious award for the Crowne Plaza THE annual Hotel Stars Awards for Crow ne Plaza Hotels in Europe were recently held in Dublin for the first time, and at this annual event, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) recognised hotels and people for their outstanding performance and contribution to the business and the local community in which they operate.

The winners are the best performing IHG hotels and individuals across Europe.

At the awards ceremony, Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown was awarded both the Torchbearer Award and more importantly, the Crowne Plaza Hotel of the Year award for the Europe Region.

Hotel of the Year Award This category recognises hotels that have achieved outstanding results and have gone the extra mile to exceed expectations and bring their brand to life when looking after guests, employees and the local community.

Receiving the Award – Angela Brav, CEO of IHG Europe, Garret O’Neill (General Manager, Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown), Richard Solomons (CEO IHG Worldwide) at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre.

Torchbearer Award T h e To r c h b e a r e r Award recognises hotels that have achieved the highest levels of excellence through outstanding service.

The guests at these hotels have responded with extremely high guest satisfaction scores.

Garret O’Neill, General Manager, of Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown accepted the award at the IHG European Conference which was held in Dublin for the first time and said “I was very proud to accept these awards as it recognises all the hard work and team effort we’ve put in

this year.

“We’re constantly striving to go the extra mile so guests can expect a consistently high standard when visiting our hotel and we’ll continue to work together to keep delivering the same experience year on year”.

Angela Brav, CEO Europe said, “Our hotels are only as good as the people working in them, so we are fully committed to supporting and developing our people.

“We aim to provide the right environment, support and inspiration they need to fulfil their capability and these awards are a reflection of the fantastic talent we have working in our hotels across Europe”.

Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown is based at the Blanchardstown Centre with 188 guestrooms and conference facilities for up to 600 guests.

For more information please contact: Jennifer McKenna, Director of Sales & Marketing, Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown, Phone (01) 897 7741; email – jmckenna@ crowneplazadublin.ie.

All of the staff at the Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown were delighted to learn that the hotel has been awarded the acclaimed European Hotel of the Year Award by the InterContinental Hotels Group

Gazette

14 Gazette 31 January 2013

dublinlife FEATURE From Pirates to Porter, Praed’s played them all theatre: high society star talks to the gazette

 bairbre ni Bhraonain

bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

WHAT a swell party this is! The stage version of Hollywood musical, High Society, is coming to the Bord Gais Energy Theatre for five nights this February with a cast that includes Michael Praed – one of the heroes of 1980s TV show, Robin of Sherwood.

The show is packed with well-loved Cole Porter songs such as True Love and Did You Evah, and also stars Sophie Bould as Tracy Lord, Daniel Boys as Mike Connor, and Keiron Crook as George Kittredge.

Ahead of its Dublin run, The Gazette spoke to Praed, who plays Dexter in the musical. He started by reminiscing about his love for the city.

“It’s been a long time since I was in Dublin, and that was for the musical, Carousel – it must be 19 years ago now. I can’t wait, because Dublin is my all-time favourite venue and I really don’t give false praise.”

He discussed the genesis of the current stage musical version of High Society. “It’s very similar to the 1956 film version, but its true origin was a play called The Philadelphia Story in the 1930s.

“It was commissioned for Kathryn Hepburn on Broadway, and was then made into an awardwinning film with Jimmy Stewart.

“Then, 17 years later, High Society was made and some changes were made to the original

story, such as the Bing Crosby character – that I play – had been a yacht builder in the original, but is a jazz pianist now in High Society.”

For Praed, who has been in a string of musicals throughout his career, the music in High Society is the main star.

“It has such a beautiful score. Now, when I say that, I mean that there are very few composers who are truly iconic, and Cole Porter is one of them.”

Praed has been performing in plays and musicals since the 1980s.

“I got my lucky break with the Pirates of Penzance years ago. I love musicals, because there is a certain alchemy that can happen with them – when the music is good and the production is well done – that goes to the heart of truth.

Magic

“There is a magic in music that is different; it moves people in a different way, and with an evocative scenario, can have a huge impact on an audience.”

Harking back to his TV days, he recalled his time as Robin of Sherwood in the mid-1980s show.

“There were two seasons of it and, to be absolutely truthful with you, it was incredibly hard work.

We’d to be up at dawn and doing a fight scene, and work right through till evening. Yet, it was unbelievably rewarding, too, and the talented people I worked with were extraordinary.

“There was no time

When talking to The Gazette about his upcoming role in the musical, High Society at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre, Michael Praed was happy to reminisce about his roles in some of the smash-hit TV shows of the 1980s

for a private life though.

It was brutal going but, having said that, it wasn’t like coal mining or fighting the Taliban or even driving a bus.”

Praed then went on to play Prince Michael of Moldavia in the smashhit television show, Dynasty.

“It was the numberone show in the world,

and was a very well-oiled machine. I was welcomed with open arms and the crew was delightful.”

Special buzz

He does not have a preference between TV work and stage work. “I like them both, and you can’t really compare them. Yet, theatre does give you that special

buzz, thanks to the presence of an audience, and I can’t wait to feel that with a Dublin audience again.”

High Society runs in the Bord Gais Energy Theatre from Tuesday, February 5 until Saturday, February 9. Tickets are available from Ticketmaster at 0818 719 377, and cost €20.

31 January 2013 Gazette 15

DublinGazetteNewspapers cub reporters and photographers: december 2012 winners

H Reporter

Photo

of the

of the H

conor white

clara kinsella

Conor White from St Conleth’s College proved neither shaken nor stirred when he told us all about the school’s Build A Bank challenge which was given a special agent sheen with a James Bond theme. The mission was achieved and the project a big success, as was Conor’s article about the event, which wins him this month’s prize.

Clara Kinsella from St Finian’s Community College in Swords snapped a very jolly Michael Carruth when the Olympic gold medallist visited the school for its annual awards evening.

Michael encouraged the students in a motivational speech that included the wise words, “if you believe, you achieve”.

Well, Clara must have believed in her skills as a snapper, as she has achieved glory with this month’s prize picture.

MONTH

MONTH

Gazette

schools Get involved with our Gazette Schools pages

Dublin Gazette Newspapers are continuing to reach out to all the schools in our catchment areas to become a closer part of our community than ever before.

Schools are the beating hearts of communities, one of the last places around which a community can gather.

We are calling on budding writers and photographers from all of our schools to help fill the schools pages and, in order to encourage the next generation of journalists and snappers to get involved, we are partnering with Harvey Norman to present the Dublin Gazette Newspapers’ Cub Reporter and Cub Photographer of the Year awards.

For more details, contact rheigh@gazettegroup.com, or on 01 601 0240.

Gazette

16 Gazette 31 January 2013

dublinlife

Q&A

business

Each life stage needs a plan CONTINUING my examination of financial planning for each stage of your life, this week, I start by looking at where you may be after the “Young and free” stage (as detailed last week).

GWEN O’Donoghue, Fresh Images

The beauty of caring for your customers GWEN O’Donoghue of Fresh Images beauty salon in Churchtown is set to celebrate 20 years in business next month.

She qualified in 1989 at Loriam Beauty Therapy College in Dawson Street, with ITEC, CIBTEC and CIDESCO qualifications.

When she spoke to Gazette BusiHow long have you been in business?

It’s hard to believe but it’s 20 years this year. I opened my doors in 1993.

What makes your business successful?

I think it’s the personal touch. I’ve always worked in my business. There are so many salons where you are just a name. We get to know our clients, remember what treatments they like and how they like them done.

We remember their birthdays and get to know all about their families. It’s a friendship as well as a business.

What do you offer your clients that differs from your competitors?

We offer value for money and very competitive prices. We try to keep up with all of the latest trends and give the best customer care.

We really do care what our customers think about us. We want them to feel that their hard-earned money is well spent at our salon.

How has the recession affected your business?

Yes, I don’t think that any business hasn’t been affected. The spending power of people has decreased, so we have to make sure that they feel that they are getting value for their money.

What have you changed about your business to combat the effects of the recession?

We invested in a new skincare brand called Guinot from Paris two years ago, and that has a large follow-

ness this week, she said: “I worked in a couple of salons before running a salon in Rathgar for three years, before opening my own in Churchtown.

“I started with just a couple of rooms out the back of a tanning salon, and, after three years, I took it over.

And here I am today, 20 years on.” ing. We felt that people were looking for more results .

There was a time when they just wanted a massage – now, they want technology coupled with pampering.

We all want to look and feel good, and especially in a recession, morale can be low, but if you look good, you feel good too, and it reflects on in all aspects of your life.

We constantly run special offers which keep clients interested. We also have a loyalty programme that returns free treatments to our clients to thank them. This is very popular, because when you get something for free, it always feels sweeter.

Old loyalty programmes meant you had to wait forever before getting your free treatment but with ours, you see results after just a few treatments.

What law or regulation would you change overnight to help your business?

I would like to see a set standard of training across the board. When I was at college, you had to have several top qualifications to get a job; they allowed you to work all over Europe.

During the Celtic Tiger era, there were numerous beauty schools setting up and running courses, but they are only pieces of the courses instead of the full thing.

It means that not every salon has the same level of qualified staff performing treatments, but they are charging the same. That is why you get such a variation in therapists – some aren’t as qualified others.

Relationship and children If you settle down with a partner, your financial priorities will almost certainly alter, especially if you have children. The financial actions you may want to be thinking about include such thrills as: • Creating an emergency fund.

• Protecting both your incomes (if relevant) in case you are unable to work.

• Life insurance for both you and your partner.

• Buying a home with the help of a mortgage.

• Whether you should be saving money, in case you want to send one or more child to private school, and/ or in case one or more goes on to further education.

• Retirement planning.

• Short-term saving for cars, holidays and so forth.

If you have built up any debt, then becoming debtfree should be a priority.

The Middle Years Financial priorities in your middle years will vary according to how much money you have earned during your 20s and 30s – and how you have spent or invested it. For some, it can be a period of relative affluence with a higher level of disposable income

becoming available; for others, it is a period of worry as retirement looms. Your priorities may include any or all of the following: • Creating an emergency fund.

• Protecting both your incomes (if relevant) in case you are unable to work.

• Life insurance for both you and your partner.

• Paying off your mortgage and any other debts.

• Retirement planning.

• Short-term saving for cars, holidays and so forth.

• Planning for long-term care if you are worried that your pension and/or the State may not provide for you sufficiently.

Although pension planning should have been a priority as soon as you started work, the truth is it is not until many people are in their 40s or even their 50s that they begin to consider their retirement. Providing for a comfortable old age, therefore, may be the most pressing need. Next week: retirement.  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

technology: storymap tells capital’s stories

Reasons to be ’appy when uncovering Dublin’s story  laura webb

EXPLORING Dublin has taken on a whole new dimension, thanks to two film-makers who are behind a new smartphone app that sets out to tell the capital’s hidden stories.

The Storymap App was launched last week and aims to rejuvenate the old tradition of storytelling, while combining the latest technology in film and mobile apps to capture a portrait of Dublin life, past and present.

The app includes a library of 80 stories, presented in audio or HD video, each tied to a particular location in the city and told by a differ-

ent Dubliner.

C o - f o u n d e r s To m Rowley and Andrew Flaherty first launched the project in 2011 as a website, www.storymap.ie.

They discussed how they came up with the idea.

“We both arrived back from working abroad and we were really frustrated with the way the city was being represented – bleak, empty and finished,” says Flaherty.

“For us, the things that made Dublin truly special were still there to be celebrated – its people, its stories, its humour and its charm.

“We couldn’t find work, and so we began Storymap as a way to use our skills to showcase the real cultural wealth

Tom Rowley and Andrew Flaherty are pictured at the launch of Storymap. Picture: Dominic Ledwidge O’Reilly

of Dublin, in a way noone had ever seen before.

The support we got from people amazed us.”

Co-founder Rowley says: “For a local person, it gives them a chance to see the city with fresh eyes.

“By using the app and seeing a well-told story on the spot, you get to see it in a whole new light, and build a new

connection with it.”

Stories include The Spire by Roddy Doyle, The Gap In The Map with Ciaran Wallace, and The Liberty Boys by Colm Keegan.

The app was developed in DIT by Jamie Osler and Eoin Rogers, and overseen by Bryan Duggan, and is on sale in the Android and iPhone app stores for €2.59.

31 January 2013 Gazette 17

asdfsdaf P27 TRAVEl P24

MOTORS P23

OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week



Gazette

style P18

Pets can you give faye a new home?

A remarkable line-up: Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field and Stephen Spielberg at the premiere of Lincoln at the Savoy

red carpet: legends of cinema come to dublin for lincoln fundraiser

A Presidential premiere

 rob heigh

A bitterly cold Sunday in January was brightened considerably last week when the stars and director of the acclaimed new movie, Lincoln, came to town to support a cause close to the heart of lead actor Daniel DayLewis.

The European premiere of Lincoln at the Savoy Theatre on O’Connell Street, and a special post-screening dinner and charity auction, were held in aid of the Wicklow Hospice Foundation, a fundraising organisation of which Day-Lewis, Katie Taylor and Chris de Burgh are among the patrons.

Wicklow-resident Daniel’s mother passed away in a palliative care cen-

tre in England and was moved to support the campaign for the creation of a similar facility in his adopted county.

Speaking at the premiere, Day-Lewis said: “I’m really grateful people turned out for this. We’ve been doing benefits like this for a while, but with the economic situation at the moment, we were not sure an event like this would be possible. But we explored it a little bit and it turned out we could do it.

Hospices are vital facilities that every county needs. We need these places, and we need to take care of people in the late stages of their lives.”

The screening and gala event afterwards are believed to have raised over €250,000 for the foundation, bringing it ever closer to its fundraising target of €3 million.

Director Stephen Spielberg explained how he came to debut his latest film in Dublin.

“Daniel really believed in the cause, and once he explained it to me, I believed in it as well. I’m very close to Ireland. I made Private Ryan here, and it’s a film close to my and Tom Hanks’ heart, and that was my introduction to the culture. It was such a wonderful experience; we have come back to Ireland time and again ourselves, myself and my wife and children.

“Daniel didn’t have to convince me for long to bring the European premiere here. He threw it out as a possibility, and I said we should commit to it now, it was a great idea.”

The film tells the story of the passing of the 13th Amendment to the

Constitution that abolished slavery at a time when the country was in the midst of the Civil War, which lasted for four years and claimed the lives of 750,000 citizens. Lincoln himself was committed to the reunification of the country at a time of extreme division, and his belief in democracy, the constitution and America helped to deliver peace and emancipation to the nation. Sadly, he only lived to see a few days beyond the end of the civil war before he was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth.

The film has been roundly hailed as another Spielberg masterpiece, and the lead role appears to have been one that Day-Lewis was born to play. continued on Page 22

DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dogs Trust, Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity, to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs.

Our Dog of the Week is Faye, a three-year-old Lurcher cross. This lovely lady was abandoned because she was pregnant and went on to break records in Dogs Trust having the largest ever litter, 15 puppies.

All of her puppies have found their forever homes and we now hope its Faye’s turn to finally get a chance to relax and look after herself for a while.

Faye is polite, sweetnatured, affectionate with a beautiful soul. This supermom just wants to snuggle up on a big sofa with plenty of toys to occupy her.

If you think you can provide a good home for Faye, contact Dogs Trust at 01 879 1000. Further information about their work can be found at www. dogstrust.ie. All dogs that are adopted from Dogs Trust are vet-checked, vaccinated, neutered and micro-chipped before being re-homed.

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 31 January 2013

OUT&ABOUT Dressing right  LAURA WEBB

LIFE STYLE SPORTS recently launched its first Men’s Fitness and Running Campaign – No Excuses. No Regrets.

This campaign is dedicated to men’s running and fitness and is supported by the store’s top brands Nike, Adidas, Asics and Under Armour.

Basically the message to everyone that as we all decide to get fit, following some overindulgence over Christmas, the one thing we need to make sure is that we train in the right clothing.

With this in mind, the retail giant is also launching Fitness

Accessorize Leather Driving Gloves €34 NOW €16.90 Nike Steady €50 Miss Selfridge Zip Detail Embellished Dress €85 NOW €32 rs: wea penterNOW Accessorize Mod Egyptian Study Belt €10.90 Car€23.50 el Holl

(Life Style Sports Exclusive), Adidas Prime Zip Hoody - €46 €35 , Adidas TF Perfect ¾ Pant Adidas Clima Long Tank - €30

Under Armour Coldgear Compression Mock €55

Adidas 3 Stripe Fitness Track Top €52 NOW €35

Nike Shape Medium Support Bra Top €35 NOW €25

Adidas Kanadia €70

Nike slim shorts €28 Adidas Clima Core 3/4 tight €35

31 January 2013 GAZETTE 19

when getting fit Product Experts in store. Their job is to advise customers on the right footwear and clothing to wear for each sport.

Mark Stafford, chief executive, Life Style Sports said: “More and more Irish people are looking to fitness and outdoor training to give them a release from the pressures of modern life. We know that participation levels are at a record high as people take to the streets, beaches, roads and bootcamps everywhere, determined to get active and be social. At Life Style Sports we are confident we have the best running and fitness range on the high street.” All items featured are available at Life Style Sports.

NIke Flex €65

Adidas Adiviz Jacket €65

Adidas Response 7in Shorts €32 €25

Under Armour Coldgear Compression Mock €50

Adidas Duramo 4 €50

NIke Dri Fit Cotton Sleeveless Tee €22

Acc essStyle orize Egy Life Sports ptian StuTeam d Belt Member €23.50 NOWAlvaro €10.90wears: Under Armour Storm Hoodie - €48, Under Armour Tech SS Tee - €22, Under Armour HG Mirage Short - €22 Adidas Clima 365 pants €45

GAZETTE

STYLE

Gazette

20 gazette 31 January 2013

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

Theatre

THE pavilioN THEATRE 01 231 2929 David Meade- Mind Reader

BBC’s fastest rising star is returning to the stage hot on the heels of his smash hit record-breaking TV series Make Believe, after three years of unprecedented success on BBC One. With a show that is as hilarious as it is jaw dropping, Meade has just returned from a US tour February 4, tickets €20.

Draiocht 01 885 2622 Beckett X 3

GODOT Theatre Company London are back with three more short Beckett plays on Wednesday, February 6 at 8.15pm in the Draiocht Studio. Tickets are priced at €10.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 462 7477 WAG

Former Fair City actress Gemma Doorly makes her directorial debut with her play WAG starring her former Fair City colleague and good friend Sorcha Furlong. Following its sell-out tour, WAG is a black comedy and modern fable. Set in the lavish surroundings of a sports star’s mansion while he is away, his wife has invited a guest around for a drink and a chat – his mistress. Running from Thursday, January 31 until Sunday, February 2, tickets are priced at €16 with €12 concessions.

Hugh Jackman takes Anne Hathaway’s Fantine to safety

review: les miserables hits the screen, led by hathaway

Not revolutionary IT IS one of the most famous stage musicals in the world.

It has continued to thrill audiences across the globe and has been the subject of countless school plays.

It is odd then, that Les Miserables would still, to this day, be without a definitive screen version.

It has been seen as unfilmable and a 1998 adaptation of the Victor Hugo novel, sans musical numbers, limped to a paltry $14 million at the US box office.

The difficulty comes from a number of different factors.

Firstly, it is a story that jumps forward in time of ten and suddenly.

Secondly, it is a story that is not about any one thing. It is ostensibly the story of Jean Valjean ( Hu g h J a c k m a n ) , a convict attempting to

Film of the Week: Les Miserables h h h (12) 158 mins Director: Tom Hooper Starring: Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Helena Bonham Carter, Sacha Baron Cohen

 Paul Hosford phosford@gazettegroup.com

make a better life while evading the clutches of police inspector Javert (Russell Crowe).

But the story of Valjean is weak as a central strand for a film that clocks in at two and a half hours.

Jackman does an admirable job, particularly vocally, in infusing his Valjean with whatever humanity he can, but the film is so scattergun, the exposition so wanting that he just doesn’t have the room to be a character on which to hitch such a large film.

It is a shame, ultimately, because Jackman does

OUR VERDICT: AMBITION is not a problem here, as Hooper takes on a massive task. He tries to capture a definitive screen version of one of the most famous musicals ever. Unfortunately, he comes up short, with excellent performances and some nice visual flourishes not enough to compensate for a weak script, muddled scenes and rushed characterisation making for a film that feels more like a missed opportunity.

his best and takes the film on Valjean’s famously broad shoulders.

He is aided by a star turn by Anne Hathaway, all blotched skin and short hair.

As her Fantine becomes more and more desperate, selling her hair, teeth and body, Hathaway excels and her version of I Dreamed a Dream, shot in one extended close-up, is spine tingling.

In one take, she claims the song as her own, demanding that hers be the definitive touchstone for the performance going forward.

It is incredible to see, particularly given that there were some who thought that Catwoman could not play the heroine of Les Mis. There are less good performances, though.

Russell Crowe’s Javert is purposely rigid and inflexible, but Crowe’s complete lack of humanity makes any late character changes completely pointless.

Amanda Seyfried is another who, while obviously talented, is hobbled by the script’s inability to nail down a central narrative.

Her Cosette, essentially the most important character in the film, is lost in the maelstrom of songs, revolution and characters.

Another criminally underused is Samantha Barks, the British actress making her film debut.

Her Eponine is excellent, but underutilised.

With the popularity of Glee, there is a weariness of musical film and television and much of that comes down to autotune and the lack of authenticity it brings.

Luckily, Hooper kept a dedication to live performance throughout the shoot and the results are mixed, but at least they are authentic.

Jackman str uggles occassionally and Crowe slips into rock power balladeer, but Hathaway, Barks and the surprisingly good Cohen and Carter lift the film as close to definitive as possible.

31 January 2013 GAZETTE 21

GAZETTE

GAMING BYTES&PIECES

NIKE+ KINECT FITNESS: STEP UP TO EXERCISE

Plenty of help to fight the flab FOLLOWING Christmas over-indulgences, I’m probably not the only person wishing to ditch a few, um, unexpected kilos that have mysteriously jumped onto my weight.

How did that happen?

Why do I suddenly resemble Homer Simpson?

Well, step forward an interesting and well-developed Kinect title that should get that unwanted flab moving.

Nike+ Kinect Fitness for the XBox 360 is something that seems tailor-made not just for the New Year (and all those resolutions to get fit and healthy that we all tend to make, and then ditch by the time February rolls around), but for the whole year round.

Certainly, given our generally miserable weather,

A COLLAPSE OF NOTE

HMV vouchers anger many AT THE time of writing, HMV’s recent collapse in Ireland has stung a lot of consumers, angered at the now worthless HMV vouchers they have.

As was seen with the GAME chain’s collapse last year, the Irish wing of the international chain has been shut and shuttered, although the British stores have remained open and trading, as the Irish stores were placed into receivership, while the British stores entered administration – both procedures are disastrous for any company to face, yet have very different operations.

Of course, the most regrettable collapse of HMV in Ireland is the loss of hundreds of jobs across its 16 stores here (and the knock-on impact on local economies and sub-contractors). However, as extensive media coverage has shown, consumers have felt stung by its collapse, with the decision not to honour any gift vouchers sold in Ireland up to the point the chain closed its stores angering many.

This decision was not helped by the announcement that the still trading British HMV stores are honouring vouchers sold up to its administration, there.

With the news that restructuring firm Hilco has bought HMV’s debts, thus stabilising the firm – in Britain, at least, thus giving some breathing room to attempt to rescue the chain – HMV’s 90-year history isn’t fully concluded.

Unfortunately, for now, it seems likely that HMV Ireland’s legacy has struck a sour note with many ...

Although I’m not normally a fan of such home exercise titles, there’s no denying that Nike+ Kinect Fitness is a very well put together title – with ubiquitous Nike branding here and there, of course – and will reward those who want to get fit and will make an effort. As always with such titles, a decent amount of exercise space

 SHANE DILLON

sdillon@gazettegroup.com

and the continuing budgetary pinch of the recession, anything to help you exercise at a more than affordable price all year round at home is to be welcomed.

Enough wittering – what, exactly, is Nike+ Kinect Fitness about?

Well, as the name suggests, it’s all about getting fit, courtesy of a wide variety of programmes devised with Nike.

By picking a virtual fitness instructor, an initial fitness assessment then determines your general

BYTES&PIECES THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME

is advised to help get the best results from Nike+ Kinect Fitness.

fitness etc, right now.

From that starting point, the title – you couldn’t call it a “game”, – then puts you through your paces over the following weeks, with a wide variety of exercises to put you through your paces.

And, believe me, there’s plenty there to face up to, as you’d be surprised how much you can do at home, and how challenging it can be.

While we’ve seen plenty of similar titles before – the entertaining Wii Fit on the Nintendo Wii

springs to mind – there’s no doubting that Nike+ Kinect Fitness is a step beyond (no pun intended), as the range of exercises, challenging goals, genuine sense of achievement should be enough to motivate you towards becoming healthier.

Obviously enough, for such an all-round fitness title, you’ll need a decent amount of space for some of the more challenging exercises (just as you would at a gym, or exercise spot), and also for the required Kinect sensor

WITHOUT more solid details, I’m not delving too much into this just yet, but given all the smoke signals, wild speculation and pure gossip here and there, it looks very likely indeed that 2013 will see the successors to the PlayStation 3 and XBox 360 released, following on the heels of the recently released Wii U. All of the current-gen consoles (well, really, that just leaves the PS3 and the 360, now) have enjoyed

attachment to properly track exactly what you’re doing.

And, of course, the biggest “flaw” with Nike+ Kinect Fitness is you, the user – it’s a great title that’s very polished and pretty comprehensive, but, not unlike learning Latin, it’s either something you want to do, or you don’t.

However, as a welldesigned title with a consistently good use of the Kinect sensor, and a genuinely motivating feeling of progress, it’s to be recommended.

the longest lifecycle of any console, to date, and both consoles continue to see remarkable games and franchises being rolled out – 2013 has some outstanding titles on the way for both consoles.

However, it’s no secret that both Sony and Microsoft are keen to release their next consoles, and given the evidence to date, 2013 looks set to be a lucky year for gamers (with deep pockets, of course). Watch this space ...

Gazette

22 Gazette 31 January 2013

OUT&ABOUT

Interview

stephen spielberg from p17 In the movie, Day-Lewis utterly inhabits the title role as the iconic leader Abraham Lincoln, which has led to him being tipped for more Oscar glory come February 24. Spielberg was fulsome in his praise of the actor.

“I’m so grateful Daniel agreed to play Abraham Lincoln. I never imagined anyone could play Lincoln other than Daniel. I approached him three times over a five-year period, and, eventually, he said yes.

“We had to get the research right. Lincoln is the most compelling figure on the American national landscape. He saved the American experiment in democracy, and pretty much saved the constitution. He didn’t do it alone, a lot of people helped him do what he did.

“We’re only telling a small part of the gigantic Lincoln story, on the last four months of his life, but it’s enough of an intimate focus to give you a real idea who he was as a human being,” said Spielberg.

Although the movie documents a very specific and significant moment in American history, Spielberg said that he felt there was a message in the movie for an international audience.

“The film is really about the power and responsibility of personal, intimate leadership.

It’s about a leader who was one of the people.

There was no firewall between him and the people who elected him, and no firewall between him and the compassion he had for the people of the United States of America, and the tremendous anguish and mourning [he felt] for the war that took more lives than all of the American wars combined.

“I think it’s a great story, he’s one of the most amazing characters in global history. Every country has a Lincolnian figure who was inspirational and did great things in its formation or during a crisis, and everyone can relate to Lincoln, based on figures from their own nation.”

Stephen Spielberg at the European premiere

MUSIC

MUSIC REVIEW: sophomore release from welsh power trio

Utterly Formidable and Joyous effort  ROB heigh rheigh@gazettegroup.com

THERE are some things about music that are indesputable. That Prince will always test your patience as a fan.

That you will never completely get Captain Beefheart. That there are some people whose lives you’ll change when you introduce them to Tom Waits.

Another indisputable truth is the enduring appeal of the power trio.

Jimi Hendrix Experience, Cream, The Jam, Husker Du, Nirvana, Muse, the original PJ Harvey lineup — legends all.

Get set to reserve a place on that list for The Joy Formidable, who have just released their second album, Wolf’s Law, and who last weekend demolished The Academy with an astonishing live set.

The Welsh trio began to stake their claim for a place on rock’s pedestal with a couple of EPs and their debut release, The Big Roar, which collected some of the stand-out tracks from their initial releases.

Their studio incarnation, though, is only a small part of the story — live, The Joy Formidable truly soar with an energy and ferocity few current acts in any genre can muster, and they have thrilled and awed crowds

The Joy Formidable: Matt Thomas, Ritzy Bryan and Rhydian Dafydd

at festivals internationally over the last two years since the release of The Big Roar. You don’t get an opening slot for Foo Fighters without being a little bit special, and TJF are way more than just a little special.

Some of that lightnng has been caught in the bottle of Wolf’s Law. From the dramatic, operatic strings that open the record and lead into their explosive lead single,

This Ladder Is Ours, this is a stadium-sized statement of intent.

From Cholla onward, there is a progression through the record as TJF seem to be intent to document their growing maturity and confidence as a band. Drawing on what they have learned on stages across the globe and in the studio, the dynamic and drama that fill this record are unparalleled. Recording

in Maine in winter obviously agreed with the band, and the fruits of those sessions have made for something that could well be high on the lists of the albums of 2013.

Even the beautiful acoustic Silent Treatment is filled with wisdom and power. When Matt, Ritzy and Rhydian play together, their unity of purpose comes out in the glorious rock noise they create.

Wolf’s Law is a pretty

amazing achievement for a second album. The kinds of heights achieved here are usually reserved for bands much further down their career paths.

Hopefully, this will lead to an absolutely legendary third record, which will have the added ingredients that the experience of loftier slots on festival bills will bring.

They are truly Formidable indeed.

31 January 2013 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 23

GAZETTE

MOTORS road

NOISE Fiesta, a stylish mobile workshop

The Audi A3 has a top speed of 216 km/h and goes from 0-100kmh in 8.6 seconds

AUDI: ENTRY-LEVEL MODEL WITH THE FEEL OF AN EXECUTIVE MODEL

Awe-inspiring A3 is a cut above the rest  CORMAC CURTIS

AS a rule, I don’t like to know too much about a vehicle I am testing until I’ve been behind the wheel for a few days. I have even gone so far as to avoid walking behind the car entirely in case I see what size engine is under the hood.

So, a few weeks back, while I was waiting for the keys of the Audi A3 that the dealer was trusting me with for a week, I happened to glance at the spec sheet of the model in question.

The car was packing a 4-cylinder, 2-litre diesel engine pumping out 150bhp (almost as much pulling power as my first 6-cylinder, 2.5-litre petrol saloon), it was going

to go from 0 to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds, top out at 216km/h and produce a paltry 106g of carbon per km (combined).

But that’s not all.

On top of all that, this little beauty was going to sip an average of just 4.1 litres of diesel per 100km driven (combined).

If you’re anything like me, the first time you sit in this car, the build quality alone will give you pause for thought.

Combine that with an exceptional driver’s cockpit, and you begin to feel that you are about to drive something very special indeed.

Frankly, I get the distinct feeling that the tens of thousands of euros more spent on each of Audi’s executive models

somehow trickles down to each of the A3s.

I was told that the air vents alone contain 42 moving parts, just so the driver can adjust the “shape” of the airflow – to me, that sounds like the kind of R&D reserved for the A8 fleet, but somehow makes it to this incredible entry-level model.

Even in the base-level trim, the driver is treated to a clean, uncluttered and incredibly intuitive set of controls.

T h e n ow- f a m i l i a r “i-drive” style wheel just rear of the gear stick takes care of much of the adjustments and settings of the sat nav, stereo and phone – there is even an option that gives the surface of the controller a touchsensitive feature that ena-

bles the driver to write letters and numbers in order to prompt and control sat nav, telephone and stereo functions without taking their eyes off the road.

I will fess-up that it took me at least a day to figure out how to make the LCD screen disappear back into its housing in the dash, but when I did, it was a delight.

I’m not a fan of the new big screens that seem to be in every car, the ones that stick straight up out of the console I find particularly annoying as most drivers only use them occasionally.

Going to the trouble of making this feature available in the A3 speaks volumes of the attention to detail that Audi have committed here.

T he test model I enjoyed was in Glacial White Metallic and is just so well-proportioned it almost seems a shame to offer it in a four-door version.

The front grille is almost disproportionately large… almost. In reality it, along with the gorgeous, slightly jaunty headlights, gives the front end of this car a perfect look and expression.

The body looks strong without resorting to an overly “muscular” look, so it really offers something different and attractive.

I’m not sure what I was expecting from the A3, but what I drove was something special, and I would gladly sit in it every morning for many years and never get bored.

THE new Ford Fiesta Van, which has just arrived in Ireland, delivers class-leading fuel efficiency and segment-first technologies for both large and small businesses.

All diesel engines in the new van achieve sub-100 g/km CO2 emissions and 3.7 l/100 km (76.4 mpg) or better.

“The new Fiesta Van is a stylish mobile workshop for light duty tools and equipment that makes great business sense,” said Eddie Murphy, chairman and managing director of Ford Ireland.

“Both local tradesmen and urban delivery fleets will appreciate its sharp, professional looks, while relying on its versatility, dependability and exceptionally low running costs.”

Fiesta Van powertrain choice now includes the new 75 PS 1.5-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel, alongside the 95 PS 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel and 82 PS 1.25-litre Duratec petrol units.

The van’s package of leading Ford driver assistance and safety features includes a number of important segment-first technologies.

In Ireland, the vehicle is available in three series: Fiesta Van, Trend Van and the really stylish Sport Van. Prices start at €14,620 excluding delivery and related costs.

CUTTING OUT THE NONSENSE ABOUT INSURANCE: LOW-COST car insurance company, No Nonsense, has announced the launch of SmartDriver – an innovative technology aimed at cutting out the nonsense in the car insurance market by offering cash back based on individual driver behaviour. This state-of-the-art telematics technology aims to

cut out the nonsense in the car insurance market by rewarding safe drivers for their behaviour on the roads.

The news comes as the EU gender directive has banned insurance discounts based on gender and will be seen by many younger women as an ideal way to avoid the significant increase in premiums and instead get cash back of up to 30% with No Nonsense.

Kate Cepeola and Darragh Griffin (both four) and Jackie McMahon, general manager of No Nonsense, pictured at the launch of SmartDriver

24 CASTLEKNOCK gazette 31 January 2013

Gazette

&ABOUT OUT fast TRAVEL NEWS Set your heart on a romantic getaway for two Valentine’s Day: perfect escape for two

Hotels.com have it all for a city break

If you plan on spending this year’s Valentine’s Day enjoying a romantic city break, choosing the right place to stay isn’t as complicated as you may think. Since love is in the air, Hotels. com are offering some great offers on some of their top hotels in some of Europe’s most romantic city destinations.

If it’s passion in Paris you’re looking for, the Platine Hotel is situated in the heart of this romantic city. The Art Deco hotel is in easy reach of the Eiffel Tower and plays homage to the life of Marilyn Monroe with pictures adorning every bedroom. Prices start from €252 per room, per night.

Love can also be found in Rome and staying at the Eurostar’s International Palace means you’re within easy walking distance of some of Rome’s most popular tourist hotspots. Prices start from €84 per room per night. For more information, visit www.hotels.com.

Make haste north with great offers Heading up north this Valentines? If so, Hastings Hotels have some great offers to help ensure your romantic getaway is one to remember.

With Valentine offers available from Thursday, February 14 until Saturday, February 16, why not enjoy a luxurious overnight stay, a romantic dinner for two, a glass of bubbly, as well as a full Irish breakfast (and an exclusive Valentine’s duck) from just £65pps.

Choose to stay at the Everglades Hotel in Derry from £65pps, Ballygally Castle in Antrim from £70pps, Europa Hotel in Belfast from £80pps or the Slieve Donard Resort and Spa in Newcastle from £85pps. Culloden Estate and Spa in Belfast is also available to book from £110pps.

Luxury extras are available at each hotel including champagne and chocolates in your room on arrival, or why not surprise your other half with a luxury spa treatment at the Culloden or Slieve Donard.

See www.hastingshotels.com or call 048 9047 1066.

Loved-up couples everywhere have plenty of choice when it comes to planning a romantic getaway this Valentine’s.

W hether you’re tempted to fly abroad for a romantic city break, or fancy making the most of the Emerald Isle, there are plenty of special offers and idyllic escapes to choose from.

Romantic Escapes Whisking your one and only off to west Cork will mean you find the perfect spot to enjoy long romantic walks at The Celtic Ross Hotel in Rosscarbery. From February 15-17, visitors will enjoy two nights’ accommodation with a full Irish breakfast and a romantic dinner in

Druid’s Restaurant.

The Valentine’s and Romance package includes some extra treats such as wine, chocolates, a love-heart balloon as well as a late check out. One night stays are available at €179.

For more information, visit www.selecthotels. ie For those interested in spreading the love while still keeping it within the budget, the Clarion Hotel in Sligo is offering the perfect escape for two.

The hotel is offering one night’s B&B on either February 15 or 16, with the addition of some subtle romantic touches.

Offering Valentine

dates a free upgrade to a suite – the package also includes a mini-spa treatment per person, a four-course dinner with a glass of bubbly and chocolates, as well as a complimentary drink.

Plus, the check-out time is extended to 2pm.

Available at just €99 per person.

Details: 071 9119000; www.clarionhotelsligo. com If it’s that something extra you’re looking for, The Twelve Hotel in Bearna leaves no stone unturned with its special Lovebomb package. In keeping with its name, the hotel is offering 12 special Valentine specialities.

First, you check into a suite. Next, petals are

LocalMatters S u p p o r t lo c al bus i n e ss

Advertise with the Gazette call 60 10 240

The Twelve Hotel in Bearna is offering 12 special Valentine specialities

strewn across the bed and you enjoy some bubbly, two red-iced muffins from the hotel bakers, a packed picnic for a romantic stroll and a candlelit dinner.

Then comes the pampering in-room treatments, Love Potion cocktails, fun framed caricatures of you and your other half, as well as a discount gift voucher for Hartman’s Jewellers (just in case the need to drop to one knee suddenly presents itself!) and a wrapped rose on checkout… And as for the twelfth? “The wonderful 12th itself!”.

At €450 per couple, the package is available from February 13-15.

Details: 091 597000; www.thetwelvehotel.ie

There is plenty of choice

Loved-up chic While the infamous Irish countryside pulls at most heartstrings, city chic can also spell romance.

A getaway to the fourstar Pembroke Hotel, located in the heart of Kilkenny City, promises a two-night escape with chocolates and champagne on arrival.

Couples can enjoy dinner in Statham’s Restaurant on the evening of their choice, as well as breakfast each morning.

And since it’s just a twominute walk from Kilkenny Castle, the stunning canal walk and the city’s renowned nightlife can ensure you see some of the local sights on the second day. Priced at €149pp.

Details: 056 7783500; www.pembrokekilkenny.com Whites of Wexford has the ideal package to help couples unwind

31 January 2013 CASTLEKNOCK gazette 25

Gazette

Travel

fast

TRAVEL NEWS The Celtic Ross Hotel in Rosscarbery in west Cork

Cayo Coco in northern Cuba

Cliff House Hote in Ardmore, west Waterford

in romantic getaways this Valentine’s Day. Picture: Karolina Laser

this Valentine’s.

The four-star luxury hotel is located in the heart of Wexford Town and its Valentine’s offer includes an overnight break with dinner and a glass of bubbly on arrival for just €69 per person.

Relish the time out with a treatment in the Tranquillity Spa followed by afternoon tea or candle-lit dinner in the Terrace Restaurant.

For more information, visit www.selecthotels. ie.

Sultry Spa Break If you really want to spoil your loved one, adding a special spa treatment to the romantic night away will win y o u m a j o r b r ow n i e points.

Just minutes from Dublin, Dunboyne Castle Hotel and Spa is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway.

From €112 per person sharing, guests can enjoy an overnight stay with a chocolate and rose-petal turn down, dinner in the hotel’s Ivy Brasserie restaurant with a complimentary glass of bubbly and access to the award-winning Seoid Spa, offering a range of Valentine’s treatments, including couples massages.

See www.dunboynecastlehotel.com or call 01 8013500.

Nothing else says I love you quite like a fivestar escape and where better than luxury on our own doorstep at The Shelbourne Hotel.

Enjoy an Elemis facial for her and an indulgent hot-towel shave for him, plus full use of the hotel’s fitness and thermal suites.

To round off your pampering treat, cosy up in the Saddle Room

Restaurant for a gourmet dinner by candlelight before ending the evening with a night cap at the popular Shelbourne Bar. This overnight break is priced from €370 per room per night, and the package is available until February 17, 2013.

Details: 01 663 4500; www.theshelbourne.ie

Food Lovers Food is the language of love this Valentine’s Day, according to the Cliff House Hotel, a five-star hotel overlooking the historic village of Ardmore, west Waterford.

And what other way to spend a romantic V-day evening then a feast at Martijn Kaiuiter’s award-winning, Michelin-starred cuisine.

The House Restaurant showcases the best produce to be found on Irish land and sea and

The luxurious spa at The Shelbourne Hotel

guests can savour the applauded delights of the prestigious chef. To complete the gourmet experience, wake in the morning to a full Irish breakfast before depart-

Whites of Wexford

ing for home. The Valentine’s Gourmet package is priced from €360 per room.

Details: 024 87 800; www.thecliffhousehotel.com

Pack your bags and enjoy an exotic Valentine destination Telling your loved one on the evening of Valentine’s Day to pack their bags for a flight the next day can only prove one thing – that your partner is clearly on to a winner.

For those looking to really spoil their partner this year, Thomas Cook Far and Away has two exotic Valentine destinations to offer.

Whisk your special someone off to the West Coast of Africa and stay in the threestar Hotel Seaview Gardens in gorgeous Gambia, just a short stroll from Kololi beach. A 14-night stay is priced at €1,249 per person sharing, departing on February 15 from Gatwick.

Or how about celebrating Valentine’s Day itself on a romantic beach on the sundrenched island of Cayo Coco in northern Cuba?

A hideout by buccaneers in the early colonial period, Cayo Coco is part of a chain of beautiful islands called King’s Gardens.

Thomas Cook is offering 14 nights on an all-inclusive basis at the three-star-plus Tryp Hotel, with all meals and drinks included from just €989 per person sharing, including transfers from Gatwick, departing 15 February. Connecting flights from Irish airports can be arranged.

Call the Thomas Cook Far and Away team in Dublin on (01) 514 0316, log onto www. thomascook.ie or visit your travel agent.

26 Castleknock Gazette 31 January 2013

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31 January 2013 CASTLEKNOCK Gazette 27

athletics P28

asdfsdaf gaelic games P27 P31

dublinsport Let the Gazette keep you up to date with all the best local sporting action from around the city as we cover all the stories that matter to you and your community



Gazette

awards P28

FastSport lucan make dream debut:

Michael Darragh MacAuley was on hand to launch Setanta Sports’ coverage of the Allianz National Leagues in Dublin city centre last week

football: ballyboden man admits 2012 league form did not reach full intensity

MacAuley hoping for fresh Dubs’ outlook for new year BALLYBODEN St Enda’s man Michael Darragh MacAuley believes there is a much stronger resolve around the Dublin senior football panel going into 2013 after a tepid reign as All-Ireland senior football champions.

Speaking at the launch of Setanta Ireland’s live coverage of the Allianz league last week, he admitted that the sky-blues “didn’t reach the intensity levels required last year in the league and consequently didn’t get results.

“In 2011 we reached the league final on the back of our high intensity levels

and this gave us a great platform for our successful championship campaign.”

But 2012 was a lower key affair in the league and it permeated into the championship campaign.

“I think we didn’t realise it at the time, but lads’ heads just weren’t as clued in as much as the year before, simple as that.

“I knew we’d struggle with that early in the year, but thought we’d get our heads together. But in talking to people, all the panel, everyone’s heads weren’t in the right place at the right time. Eve-

rything has to be 100%.

“If one player is off, and we had a few players not hitting full whack last year, that’s all it takes. It’s only a matter of inches in winning in All-Ireland, it really is,” he added.

But the Boden man says that, with the fresh impetus of Jim Gavin at the helm, the mood is confident.

“With Jim in place there is a blank canvas for all the players, consequently new players will want to show the new management team just what they can do and Cork will offer a great test first

day out.”

He is speaking of the opening day clash against the Rebel county on February 2 at 7pm in Croke Park.

The clash of the Dubs and Cork is not the only action from headquarters and at 5pm Kildare and Donegal throw in for what should be a great curtain raiser between the newly promoted Lilywhites and of course the reigning All-Ireland champions.

The third and final televised game of the opening weekend is the all-Ulster clash between Down and Tyrone.

CHESS teams from St Jude’s, Skerries, Lucan and Malahide all took part in the first community games event of the year in Jobstown last Friday night.

At U-12 level, Lucan were competing for the very first time and claimed the gold with former national champions taking silver with the former, featuring Muhtarim Ul Haiq, Jordan Maldianu, Andrei Buda, Mustakim Ul Haiq and Brandon Amerai, making it through to the Leinster finals.

Malahide took gold at U-16 level with a team featuring David Deneher, Killan Burke, Aaron Cummins, Alessio Roselli, Jacob Flynn, David Kearney. The Leinster finals will take place in Longford on Sunday, April 7.

c o n ta c t s Acting Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@gazettegroup.com

For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@gazettegroup.com Phone: 01 651 6205

Gazette

28 CASTLEKNOCK Gazette 31 January 2013

SPORT

DublinGazetteNewspapers 2013 dublin sports awards january nominees

AMID the winter weather and a glut of cancelled fixtures, local stars from around the city braved the elements to produce some truly stunning sporting feats, starting off the New Year in breathtaking fashion. Conor McGregor saw in the year with one of the earliest victories, further announcing himself on the world stage. A number of Dublin’s young stars made strong impacts in the O’Byrne Cup with Eric Lowndes, stepping straight up from minor into the senior ranks, chief among them while Swords man James Cluskey is in the form of his life on the tennis circuit. On the team front, January means basketball’s cup finals with Palmerstown CS shading out a number of other Dublin schools for this month’s nomination. Malahide United claimed All-Ireland glory to add to their 26-county title of last summer while St Joseph’s, Lucan made a significant camogie breakthrough.

H STARof the MONTH

james cluskey

eric Lowndes

conor mcgregor

THE Swords LTC club member had an amazing January, winning an ITF Futures doubles title in Germany before finishing as runner-up at another event in Germany and also in France, making for the perfect warmup for the Davis Cup

THE Naomh Peregrine tyro enjoyed a hugely impressive month as he made a smooth transition from minor level to Jim Gavin’s senior set-up, lining out to great effect in Dublin’s run to the O’Byrne cup final despite his tender years

LUCAN resident Conor McGregor became just the second double weight world champion in the history of mixed martial arts with a first round knock-out against Ivan Buchinger at Cage Warriors fighting championship on New Year’s Eve

st joseph’s college, Lucan

malahide united

palmerstown CS

IN QUICK succession, St Joseph’s College in Lucan landed the school’s first and second A camogie titles with their juniors starting the run with victory over St MacDara’s. Their senior side followed up with a win over Maryfield to match the feat.

MALAHIDE United’s U-16 side added an All-Ireland title to the SFAI crown they won last summer when they defeated St Oliver Plunkett’s from Belfast at the inaugural DB Sports Tour national cup finals in Dundalk’s Oriel Park

A BREATHTAKING display in the middle stages of their All-Ireland U-19B final at the National Basketball Arena saw Palmerstown claim the national honours with Cyril Kwan scooping the most valuable player title into the bargain

TEAMof the MONTH H

Sweeney and Cullen the Raheny star attractions  sport@gazettegroup.com

DSDAC’S Joseph Sweeney in the lead Picture: Peter Mooney /flickr.com/photos/peterm7/sets

DSDAC’S Joe Sweeney stormed to another decisive win in last weekend’s AXA 29th annual Raheny 5 road race but the star of the show was undoubtedly North Sligo AC’s Mary Cullen who lives in nearby Santry.

Her career has been blighted by injury and illness in the last two years but, in her first serious competitive race in over 15 months, she smashed the women’s course record finishing a remarkable 12th overall in the race in 25:55.

The magnitude of her achievement is underlined by the fact that she is the first Irish female athlete to dip under 26 minutes for five miles on Irish soil. The defending title holder and Olympic marathoner Linda Byrne, another DSD club member, stayed with Cullen in the early stages of the race but eventually had to give way. She finished second in the women’s race in 26:35.

The standard at the top of the field is underlined by the fact that 119 athletes finished under 30 minutes. At the head

of affairs Sweeney and his Tallaght AC rival Tom Fitzpatrick had broken away from the rest of the field by the one-mile marker while Kilkenny’s Brian Maher was alone in third spot.

In the end Sweeney prevailed in 23:53; Fitzpatrick was second in 24:02 while Maher took third place in 25:00. Simon Ryan was the host club’s top finisher taking fifth place in 25:11 just ahead of Cillian O’Leary while Ian Conroy was eighth.

Notable too was the performance of 47-year-old Mick Traynor who finished a remark-

able 17th overall and won the O-45 category in 26:10; his clubmate Damien Martin was second in O-45 in 26:46.

Of the other local clubs involved, 17 athletes from Lucan Harriers took on the race. In the men’s field, First home for Lucan was Derek Taylor, in 29:40 ahead of Patrick Holden in 32:13.

On the women’s side, Lucan’s first home was Bernie Stapleton in 37:01, she was quickly followed by Lisa Convey in 37:26 and Deirdre Counihan was seconds behind them in 37:50.

31 January 2013 CASTLEKNOCK Gazette 29

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30 CASTLEKNOCK gazette 31 January 2013

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: castleknock enjoy top portuguese coaching

McGee to lead Ireland in Davis Cup opener CASTLEKNOCK man James McGee will lead the Irish Davis Cup team this weekend as they take on Estonia in the Euro/Africa Zone Group II first round tie.

He will be joined by Sam Barry, Swords man James Cluskey and the returning Colin O’Brien for the tie at the David Lloyd Riverview facility in Clonskeagh which gets underway on Friday and runs through to Sunday.

McGee is back on home turf for the first time in a month after an intense spell of training and competing. This included a strong showing at a $10,000 Futures event in Eilat, Israel where he picked up four strong wins before falling in the final to Czech man Jiri Vesely.

The 25-year-old, though, has become Ireland’s top ranked played on the world list following the retirement of Conor Niland and is close to his highest position at 342.

Returning to the Davis Cup, though, will no doubt bring back fond memories after last season’s heroics in Egypt last April where he won a thrilling five-setter against Sherif Sabry in a match that was split over two days due to bad light.

In the face of a hostile crowd, he eventually prevailed 6-4 in the decisive set for a result which meant Ireland avoided relegation in dramatic style, McGee describing the match as the most memorable of his career.

The side is captained by Garry Cahill who said of the upcoming tie: “Estonia are tough first round opponents for us but we have a strong and fit team and we are really looking forward to the tie at David Lloyd Riverview.

“Hard work and a good team spirit will be key to a successful start to our 2013 Davis Cup campaign. We have just completed a 12-day intensive training camp in La Manga, Spain and confidence in the Irish camp is very high.

On top of that, home advantage counts for a lot in Davis Cup.” Speaking about his first Davis Cup tie on home soil, Sam Barry said: “It is always an honour for me to be selected on the Irish Davis Cup team and whilst I am excited about playing at home for the first time, our focus remains on winning the match against some tough opponents.”

The Castleknock Celtic U-12 group enjoyed a high level coaching camp with SC Braga’s Hugo Vicente this week in Porterstown Park

Celtic blunt Swords edge ndsl u-9 Castleknock Celtic Swords Manor  sport@gazettegroup.com

6 1

CASTLEKNOCK Celtic’s NDSL U-9 Red team were determined not to be beaten by the inclement weather and switched their game against Swords Manor from Porterstown Park to their all-weather pitch at Laurel Lodge last weekend.

The first half was a tight affair as both teams showed some rustiness after the mid-season winter break. The half ended 1-1 with Celtic having taken the lead midway

through the half with Ciaran Murtagh firing in a well taken free kick.

After the break, Celtic’s dominance saw them go 3-1 ahead with well taken goals from Malik Shushan and Ben McDonagh.

James Murgatroyd hit Celtic’s fourth to put his side out of sight. The team didn’t have it all their own way and some solid organised defending from Conor Boyle and Jatin Ramesh helped keep Manor at bay with Dauda Danson and Sam Mulhern working hard in midfield.

Cillian Hegarty and Jack O’Neill added fine

sean gael awards Keane and Galvin pick up lifetime GAA honour st brigid’s Mattie Keane and Phil

Galvin received Sean Gael awards at Erin’s Isle last weekend.

Keane is pictured with Andy Kettle, Dublin county board chairman, at the ceremony.

They were honoured with Cumann Luthcleas Gael Merit awards for over 60 years of service to Lucan Sarsfields. The Sean Gael awards is a method of paying tribute to GAA members by the county board for their lifetime of service.

goals to leave the home side comfortable 6-1 winners.

Elsewhere, Celtic’s Under-12s squads were treated to a two-hour coaching session by Portuguese football coach and youth academy director of Sporting Club Braga, Hugo Vicente at Porterstown on Saturday evening.

His clinics involve a workshop broken down into two sections: theory and practice.

Vicente, who also spent some time coaching at Benfica, has been engaged in a series of coaching clinics in Ireland this

week and was the guest of the Celtic management teams, Robbie Ryan, Peter Killian and Antonio Mantero, whose teams are flying high in their respective DDSL divisions.

Vicente is concerned with a number of aspects of the Irish system currently.

“I feel there is a lack of contact time with the ball, especially in terms of the youth. The quality of that contact time is also questionable.”

For example, he continued: “I find sessions in Ireland are very drillorientated or focused on shadow plays, because

they want their players to know how to play the game.”

With the kids, Vicente was working on game related situations, developing the skills of the players, with relevant phases of play being demonstrated and then implemented by the players.

Hartstown/Huntstown FC, meanwhile, consolidated their position at the top of the AUL Premier C Sunday league as they put 3 past Castleknock Celtic without reply in their game played on the HHFC all weather pitch on Friday night, despite some atrocious rain.

31 January 2013 CASTLEKNOCK gazette 31

Gazette

Local Dubs trio unable to see off Kildare  sport@gazettegroup.com

ST BRIGID’S Shane Supple and Paddy Andrews, along with St Oliver Plunkett’s/Eoghan Ruadh Bernard Brogan, were unable to turn the tide as Dublin fell to Kildare 1-16 to 0-17 after extratime last Saturday night in the Bord na Mona O’Byrne Cup final at Par-

nell Park.

The tie was ultimately decided by Tomas O’Connor’s 1-2 in the second half of extra-time as the Lilywhites came back from three points in arrears.

Kildare struck for the decisive goal in the first minute of the second half of extra-time when a scramble in the square

concluded with the powerful Clane man firing past Shane Supple from close range.

The Dubs had put themselves in a winning position by half-time in extra-time when points from Paul Hudson (two, one free) and Crokes’ Pat Burke had carved out a three-point advantage for the home side.

Kildare had also closed out the concluding moments of normal time on the up when points from John Doyle (free) and Padraig O’Neill forced extra-time.

In normal time, Dublin threatened early on but squandered several simple point-scoring opportunites that cost them dear in the endgame.

football: somerton club paint cork blue and gold

Club Noticeboard castleknock A VERY anti-climatic weekend for the

come. Just contact Brendan on 085

club as the All-Ireland junior foot-

1329397.

ball semi-final ended in a draw after extra-time.

A huge effort was put in by the lads, and hopefully they can finish the job

Tickets for the the club fashion show are on sale now. It is on February 28 in the Castleknock Hotel. Tickets are €20. Contact Joyce on 086 8098590.

next weekend in the replay. The club

We are looking to expand our team

would also like to say a massive thank

of lotto ticket sellers in the local pubs

you to everyone who came out and

on a Thursday evening.

supported the team.

Training provided and whatever

Details of the replay will be posted

commitment you can give will be

during the week, and if we even get

greatly appreciated. Anyone inter-

half the crowd that we got this week-

ested please email info@castle-

end that would be brilliant.

knock.net or phone Mick Lynch on 086

The nursery is on every Saturday morning at 10am and all newcomers and new families are more than wel-

2531600.

Please continue to send in your registration forms for the coming year.

st brigid’s THE 2013 memberships are now due.

Our club calendar for 2013 is now

Any member with issues regarding

available in the club shop, from behind

membership can contact our club

the bar or by contacting Cathy on 086

secretary Mary O’Connor at mar-

821 0502.

yaoc@hotmail.com.

or broken mobile phones. Please leave

Dancing on Saturday, February 16 in

them in the collection box behind the

the clubhouse with its own members

bar.

taking to the dance floor. Tickets are €20 and are now on sale.

Castleknock’s Rory Corcoran on the charge forward last weekend against Kenmare

Castle replay-bound after Kenmare draw all-ireland jfc semi Castleknock 1-12 Kenmare 0-15  sport@gazettegroup.com

WITH an army of blue and gold behind them, Castleknock departed from The Carpenter early last Sunday morning en route for Mitchelstown to take on Munster’s champions Kenmare in the All-Ireland junior club football semi-final.

The biggest game in the club’s short history, Mitchelstown was swamped by the travelling support with conditions perfect in spite of the recent bad weather.

Within minutes of the throw-in, Rory Corcoran found himself taking a penalty to open the scoring after Dessie Carlos was taken down by the Kenmare goalkeeper, who was lucky to stay on the pitch.

Corcoran buried the spot-kick and Castleknock had the perfect start but a slow first half, with plenty of wides, Kenmare scored mainly from frees while Tommy Corcoran kicked two hardearned points from play, leaving it locked at 1-2 to 0-5 at half-time.

The second half saw the introduction of Kevin

Kindlon who made an instant impact when he popped over his first of four points after a well worked effort starting with Alex Griffith in the goals.

Castleknock built a four point lead and looked like they had one foot in Croke Park for the final.

But Kenmare showed great character, even after being reduced to 14 men, to level the game once more.

Just before the full time whistle, Kenmare had a chance to steal the victory had it not been for Conor Prunty who put the Kenmare full forward, Paul

O’Connor, under enough pressure to force a pass to their wing forward, whose shot was heroically blocked by Jamie Tunney ensuring the game went into extra time.

Extra time was end to end stuff as both teams swapped scores and their share of the lead. Shane Boland and Ciaran Kilkenny were key players in the dying minutes as they both created and scored vital points, the latter earning a share of the spoils meaning both teams will return to do it all again next Saturday for a place in the final against Ballinasloe.

The club are still collecting your old

The club are hosting Strictly Come

The annual club Mass takes place on February 1 at 8pm in the club.

Club nursery for four- to seven-

Our junior ladies footballers are on

year- olds continues every Saturday

the lookout for a new manager/coach.

morning from 9.30-11am. New mem-

If interested, email info@stbrigidsgaa.

bers and families welcome. Contact

com.

Paul on 087 9154748 or see the website for more info.

The St Brigid’s coaching development programme for 2013 has been laid out,

New adult members, male and female

the programme has four months of

also welcome as training for 2013 sea-

courses and workshops that will be of

son begins soon. Please email info@

value to people looking to start from

stbrigidsgaa.com.

scratch, with no GAA background

Congrats to Phil Galvin and Mattie

and there will also be more advanced

Keane on receiving their Ciste Shean

courses for people looking to improve

Gael awards on Saturday.

on their already vast knowledge.

The club lotto this Thursday in the Roselawn Inn, the jackpot is €14,200.

All details, dates and times are on the club website!

garda/westmanstown PRE-SEASON training continues for

towngaels.ie

the men’s intermediate and junior

Training continues for all juvenile

panels on Tuesdays and Thursdays at

teams. Boys and girls from Clonsilla,

7pm and Saturday mornings at 9am at

Lucan, Clonee and Blanchardstown

Westmanstown.

from 8-16 years are welcome to join.

The ladies pre-season training on Mondays at 7.30pm at Westmans-

Contact club GPO Declan Jennings for more information at 085 8006101.

town, the Tyrrelstown gym at 7pm on

Please note that all juvenile teams

Wednesdays and 7.30am on Saturday

(U-8s and higher) are now required by

mornings at Westmanstown. New

Dublin GAA to wear gum shields in the

members welcome.

2013 season. Best wishes for 2013 to

The Gaels nursery (five to seven years) runs every Saturday from

the newly elected juvenile committee formed at last Thursday’s AGM.

10am. Sessions are held indoors in

Finally on a personal note, a big thank

Crunch Fitness, Westmanstown for

you to Kevin Heffernan for making the

the duration of the winter. Ask for

life of a Jackeen who spent his forma-

Geraldine Cullotty. For the latest

tive Summers in the wilds of Limerick

information, visit www.westmans-

all the more bearable.

32 castleknock gazette 31 January 2013