Clondalkin

Clondalkin GAZET TE FREE

January 24, 2013

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INSIDE: Check out The Gazette’s complete guide to the perfect wedding P15

Rugby:

Clon’s J4 side brave elements in league tie Page 30

Soccer:

Bell’s Molloy excited about Inter Cup date Page 32

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

SUPER HONOUR: Local businessman named as Kerry Person of the year P4

Plan for tower garners praise  PAUL HOSFORD

THE work of a group dedicated to improving the Round Tower in Clondalkin has been praised this week after their ambitious plans were made public.

The group is working with the Office of Public Works and South Dublin County Council, and is seeking to have the area around the tower improved, to promote

awareness and appreciation for the Round Tower, and to promote it as a tourist attraction.

The Clondalkin Tower Committee is led by architect Peter Ging, who said that all of the groups involved were “passionate” about improving the tower.

“It is very much an icon for Clondalkin,” he said.

Full Story on Page 2

Step to it: Braving the elements for Operation Transformation DESPITE the wet weather, noth-

ing could dampen Clodagh and Elbha Sherlock’s enthusiasm as they joined lots of other people at Corkagh Park for the Operation Transformation walk recently.

Given the nationwide interest

in the highly-successful television programme, and with the public’s increasing interest in exercise, there was a great attendance at the event, with everyone putting their best food forward for better health.

See Gallery on Page 6

2 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 24 January 2013

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DUBLIN GAZETTE INITIATIVE New heritage group wins praise NEWSPAPERS I N F O R M AT I O N Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 - 6010240 Dublin Gazette Newspapers publish eight weekly quality free titles, covering the greater Dublin area from Swords to Dun Laoghaire

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Inset: Architectural drawing features the Clondalkin Tower Committee’s proposal for the developing of the area around the Round Tower

Round Tower revamp plans ‘outstanding’ THE work of a group dedicated to improving the Round Tower in Clondalkin has been praised this week, after their ambitious plans were made public.

Labour TD for Dublin Mid-West Robert Dowds commended the work, begun by the recently formed Clondalkin Tower Committee, led by Peter Ging.

Speaking to The Gazette, Peter said that the group is an umbrella community group, with each stakeholder having their own input and

 PAUL HOSFORD news@gazettegroup.com

agenda.

“The History Society obviously want to promote the history, the Tidy Towns want the physical appearance to look a lot nicer and the Chamber of Commerce are looking at the spin-off from tourism.

“All of the groups are very passionate about the

tower.

“It is very much an icon for Clondalkin.”

The group is working with the Office of Public Works (OPW) and South Dublin County Council (SDCC) and is seeking to have the area around the tower improved, to promote awareness and appreciation for the Round Tower, and to promote it as a tourist attraction.

Deputy Dowds said: “The work which the tower committee has done so far has been outstanding, and I want

to commend all those involved for their work.

“In just two months after being set up, the group has developed a plan for the site, including architectural drawings showing their ideas, got the project registered as an official county council project, and entered into negotiations with the OPW about improving the site.

“It really shows what can be done when the entire community pulls together on a project like this,” he said.

The tower commit-

tee is an umbrella group headed by architect Peter Ging, and is made up of representatives from several community groups interested in the project, including the Clondalkin Histor y Society, the Clondalkin Tidy Towns Committee, the Rally Round The Tower group, the Clondalkin Chamber Of Commerce, the Clondalkin Camera Club, the Church of Ireland, the Catholic Church and the Round Towers GAA Club.

Plans include a museum, video room and office, as well as a replica of a monastic settlement, and Deputy Dowds says that the project could prove a real boost to tourism in the area.

He said: “If done correctly, the Round Tower could be a real tourist draw in South Dublin, hundreds of thousands of tourists are passing nearby and could be interested to view an authentic Round Tower.”

24 January 2013 CLONDALKIN Gazette 3

shooting

safety: action needed ‘before an accident happens’ at derelict site

Gardai appeal for info

FF tells council to sort out ‘eyesore’ SOUTH Dublin County Council (SDCC) has been challenged to tackle a derelict site which has been described as “like something you would see in Beirut”.

Fianna Fail Councillor Trevor Gilligan called on the council to clean up the derelict site, next to Lidl on the New Nangor Road, which is in disrepair, with smashed windows and graffiti on the office end of the industrial facility.

Cllr Gilligan said that while the unit would soon see a new KFC outlet nearby, it was up to the council to tackle the issues at the site.

“Whilst KFC is soon to open beside Lidl on the New Nangor Road, on the other side of Lidl,

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‘I have seen teens smashing windows. The site is like something you would find in Beirut.’

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Cllr Trevor Gilligan, FF --------------------------

things are not so good [at the derelict site].

“The site at the corner of the New Nangor Road and Ninth Lock Road has been lying idle for some time; so much so that every window is broken, and some windows boarded up. Alarms continually sound, at any time during the day or night.

“This is not only a planning issue, but a health issue. A number of years ago, council disposed of land to Lidl for €7 million.

Surely some of this money should be used to tackle this eyesore as one comes into Clondalkin village?”

Cllr Gilligan said he would put down motions at the council to advance works.

“I have put down a motion prompting the council to take active measures before an accident happens here. I have seen teens in broad daylight smashing windows.

The site is like something you would find in Beirut.”

SDCC had not responded to a request for comment at the time of going to press.

Snap to it: Talented local collects a Harvey Norman prize for her photo WYKTORIA Stawasz of Adamstown Community College was

named Gazette Cub Photographer of the Month for November and dropped by The Gazette’s offices before Christmas to pick up her gift voucher, courtesy of Harvey Norman. Wyktoria’s picture of a squirrel perfectly captured the changing of the seasons at the time.

GARDAI are appealing for information after a shooting left a man with injuries to his leg.

The incident took place on the evening of Saturday, January 19 when, at approximately 12.15am, a 30-year-old male was discovered at Fairgreen, Saggart, with a gunshot wound to his leg.

He was taken by ambulance to Tallaght Hospital.

A man in his 30s was arrested a short time later by investigating gardai, and was being detained at Lucan Garda Station at the time of going to press.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Ronanstown Garda Station at 01 666 7700, or the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111.

4 CLONDALKIN Gazette 24 January 2013

FastNews

honours Award for local business leader

bus stop: planning rejection

Be a good neighbour this winter, says Age Action

Shelter would be a ‘death trap’

Age Action Ireland is urging communities to play their part to ensure that their older neighbours remain safe and well in their homes during the current cold spell of weather.

With this week’s snowfall not expected to be the last of the winter, Age Action spokesman Eamon Timmins said that it was vitally important that locals played their part in helping elderly neighbours.

“Cold weather can kill and does kill in Ireland, making the winter a particularly challenging period for older people in particular.

“Snow and ice make that challenge even greater as many older people may not be able to get out to buy food, fuel or medical supplies,” Mr Timmins said.

Dolan tribute show set to arrive at Civic Theatre next month My Brother Joe, a new live concert show featuring Ben Dolan, brother of the late, muchloved entertainer, Joe Dolan, comes to The Civic Theatre in Tallaght on Thursday, February 7.

For years, Dolan’s energetic and charismatic stage performances thrilled audiences throughout the world. His brother Ben shared the stage with his younger brother for 47 years and is on hand to tell the stories behind Joe’s songs, and highlight Joe’s successful singing career.

The show will begin at 8pm and tickets cost €20. To book, log on to www.civictheatre.ie

Local business supremo Luke Moriarty was honoured by his home county, Kerry

Moriarty receives Person of Year prize  paul hosford

Local businessman Luke Moriarty, owner of Supervalu Palmerstown and The Courtyard Hotel, Leixlip, has been named Kerry Person of the Year for 2013.

The enterprising Kerryman, who employs over 500 people in the capital – in three Dublin SuperValu supermarkets, as well as in Balbriggan’s Bracken Court Hotel and the Court Yard Hotel – was praised by the selection committee for his approach to business, which is based on “promoting Irish suppliers and contractors, develop-

ing staff and mentoring careers, and playing a significant hands-on role in local communities”.

Accepting the award, Luke Moriarty said he greatly appreciated being selected as Kerry Person of the Year for 2013, and considered it a great honour for his family.

“There is great satisfaction in running a family business, and the secret to success is having a fantastic team around you.

Similarly, being part of a community, it is only natural to get involved and do what we can,” he said.

“The more you put in to something, the greater the return in many ways,

not least the sense of satisfaction in seeing a project come together.”

The announcement was made at a reception in the Royal College of Physicians last week by the Cathaoirleach of the Kerry Association in Dublin, Maura Hughes.

The award, now in its 34th year, is presented to people who make a significant contribution to their locality, and whose achievements ref lect credit on the county.

A native of Killorglin and one of 11 children, Luke Moriarty served as chairman of the Kerry Association in Dublin from 1998 to 2002. He

moved to Dublin in 1976 to work with Dunnes Stores, and 35 years later runs a large family company, operating businesses in the retail and hospitality sectors.

Although based in Dublin, Moriarty has not forgotten his native county. His love of his home county and its cultural heritage has drawn his support to sporting projects and key initiatives such as the Listowel Writers Week and his acquiring and gifting to the Caherciveen Library in Kerry important historical memorabilia and documents relating to the late Daniel O’Connell.

SOUTH Dublin County Council (SDCC) has rejected planning permission for a bus shelter on Main Street in Clondalkin.

Concerns had been raised over the width of the shelter, which would have taken up some 1.4m of footpath space, out of a total of just 2.1 m.

It was felt that the s h e l t e r wo u l d h ave impacted negatively on pedestrians’ ability to use the path.

Fianna Fail Councillor Trevor Gilligan said that the shelter would have been a “death trap”.

“If we subtract the width of the proposed shelter from the path, we are left with a space of only 70cm for pedestrians, buggies and prams to pass through.

“This is on one of the busiest roads in Clondalkin. If built, this would be a death trap for pedestrians.

“I am grateful that SDCC rejected the application, and to my fellow colleagues for their support on this matter.”

Local drugs seizure hailed as ‘life-saving’  paul hosford

A LOCAL TD has said that lives have been saved after a massive drugs haul by Gardai in Palmerstow n and Celbridge.

Heroin and cocaine valued at nearly €7million was seized when officers from the National Drugs Unit stopped two vehicles in Naas, Co Kil-

dare last week, and discovered about 35kgs of heroin and cocaine with an estimated street value of between €3.5 million and €5.5 million, pending analysis.

Follow up searches in Palmerstown and Celbridge yielded a haul of more cocaine, cannabis herb and heroin, a Garda spokesman said.

Gardai said that the drugs

found in Palmerstown and Celbridge were valued at approximately €1.25 million.

Fine Gael TD Derek Keating said that the haul represented a major blow to criminal gangs in Dublin.

“This is a major blow to the criminal underworld and many lives will be saved [because of it]” said Deputy Keating, who expressed his thanks to local

Gardai.

“I once again congratulate the Garda for the dangerous work they do on behalf of the law abiding citizens.”

Two men aged in their 30s were arrested and were detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act, 1996, at Naas Garda station as part of the operation.

24 January 2013 CLONDALKIN Gazette 5

6 CLONDALKIN Gazette 24 January 2013

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David Nagle (volunteer for SDC sport participant) and Emma Kenny

Alison Mc Intyre with her children Isobel and Joe Julie O’Leary and Barbara Lawlor. Pictures: Cathy Weatherston

transformer: putting one step in front of the other

Walking your way to fitter you W

ith many people wanting to start the new year with resolutions to get fit, the recent Operation Transformation walk at Corkagh Park was a great opportunity to get out and be active. As walking is easy, affordable and one of the best health

Operation Transformation attracted a large crowd

tonics, the success of the Operation Transformation event shows that there is a huge demand for this event each year. This year’s event also attracted large numbers who braved the elements for what was a very enjoyable feel-good occasion.

Bernard Farrelly, Lorraine O’Connor and councillor Breda Bonner

Clodagh and Elbha Sherlock

24 January 2013 CLONDALKIN Gazette 7

8 CLONDALKIN Gazette 24 January 2013

employment Union tries to secure future of 83 staff at Ballymount facility

SIPTU to continue talks over Johnson workers  paul hosford news@gazettegroup.com

SIPTU will return to the Labour Relations Commission (LRC) on Monday, January 28, to discuss the fate of workers at Johnson Brothers in Ballymount – a whollyowned subsidiary of Shannon

Transport Logistics, one of the largest such companies in the country.

The union had gone to the LRC last Friday, hoping to maximise job retention at the firm, after the logistics firm decided to outsource work to DHL. The announcement that

the company was to cut 83 jobs came as a shock to workers, said Karan O’Loughlin of SIPTU. She said: “Since then, the union has had a number of meetings with our members at Johnson Brothers. We have also held discussions with management and attended an

initial LRC meeting on Friday, January 11.”

She added: “At the LRC meeting, SIPTU representatives will discuss with management how the company can maximise job retention through staff redeployment within the company and, where possible, employment by DHL,

the company to which distribution work at Johnson Brothers is being outsourced.”

Those talks are still ongoing.

SIPTU say that they will return to the table this Monday.

“It is the same as it was, except we will have another conciliation meeting this Monday,” said Scott Millar, spokes-

Get red-dy: Appeal to help hearts

FastNews Get on yer bike for Our Lady’s

WITH Valentine’s Day fast approaching, actress Caroline Morahan was joined by Gerard Smith to help promote the upcoming Irish Heart Foundation’s Valentine appeal recently.

The pair were happy to help highlight the appeal, which asks individuals and companies to help raise vital funds to support people with heart disease and stroke, with “red days” at work set to add to the fun.

For further information on the initiative, see www. irishheart.ie/redhot.

THE last chance to register for The Laurels Charity Crew Galway to Dublin Cycle 2013 is next Thursday, January 31, between 8 and 10pm.

The cycle will take place on April 20 and 21 in aid of Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital in Crumlin.

For further information, see laurelscharitycrew-es2002.eventbrite. com.

Youth seminar details revealed THE Clondalkin Youth Seminar will take place at Aras Chronain on Friday, February 1 from 9.30am to 3.15pm.

The seminar is aimed at young people aged 15 to 17, and aims to develop a youth forum for the Clondalkin area.

It will be run by the Clondalkin, Palmerstown, Lucan and Newcastle (CPLN) Area Partnership.

The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Frances Fitzgerald TD (FG), will address the seminar.

Workshops There will be various workshops on the day, such as on website development, poster design, and guidance in creating blogs and podcasts, as well as leadership workshops and film workshops.

For further information, see www.cpln.ie.

man for SIPTU. As for the numbers of jobs that could be saved, Millar said that an exact number is as yet unknown.

He said: “They are still hopeful enough that most of the workers will be transferred within the company, or to DHL.”

jobs: initiative aims to get 2,000 people off the live register

Welcome for extension of community employment plan A PLAN to extend Community Employment schemes, which aim to take 2,000 people off the Live Register, has been roundly welcomed.

The plan, announced by the Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton, last week, will make 2,000 additional places available on the Community Employment (CE) programme.

This will bring the total number of CE places for 2013 to 25,300, and forms part of the National Jobs Strategy.

Minister Burton said the roles play a “vital role

for unemployed people by developing their skills, experience and confidence”.

She added: “Community employment is also of immense benefit to the local communities.”

Local Fine Gael councillor Tony Delaney praised the decision to create the CE places.

Vital role He said: “CE plays a vital role for both jobseekers and their communities.

“It provides work experience, including appropriate training for

jobseekers, which helps them to take up work on the open labour market by developing their skills, experience and confidence. The programme benefits the whole community.”

Cllr Delaney also welcomed news that the Department of Social Protection will spend more than €1 billion on activation programmes and other supports this year to help jobseekers acquire work experience, skills and qualifications they need to return to full-time employment.

The 2,000 additional

places will target specifically the growing number of long-term unemployed, as well as other welfare claimants who are more than a year in receipt of payments. The places will be allocated on a phased basis.

Priority will be given to schemes and organisations which are involved in the delivery of community childcare services, and social and healthcare services for people with disabilities.

An allocation of 500 additional places will be reserved for childcare support and 500 places

for social and health-related services.

Priority will be given to applicants who are involved in drug rehabilitation services, and who consider participation on CE to be a further step in this process. Additional CE places will be made available to respond to new proposals.

Innovation, new approaches and models of delivery from organisations will be encouraged and supported, with up to 100 places to be reserved for such proposals.

The balance of places will be made available

to schemes which can demonstrate a clear justification on the basis of quality of service and performance.

Cllr Delaney said: “Existing CE schemes can apply for additional places in the normal way by applying to their local Department of Social Protection office. This can be done at roll-over of the scheme.

“Schemes that are in mid-term can also make a submission to their local office. Schemes can contact their local social protection office for further details.”

24 January 2013 CLONDALKIN Gazette 9

opening Windsor Motors create 10 positions

Kia dealership drives up the local jobs rate  paul hosford

phosford@gazettegroup.com

THERE was a jobs boost for the area this week when Ireland’s largest car dealer, Windsor Motors, announced the creation of 10 positions after they opened their new Kia Garage at Liffey Valley.

The firm already employ more than 300 people in their 13 dealerships around the country.

With the loss of jobs at HMV last week, as well as the ongoing high Live

Register figures, the news of the jobs will be widely welcomed.

The launch of Windsor Kia is the latest stage of the company’s continued growth, and comes at a time of widespread uncertainty and difficulty in the Irish motor industry.

The group will invest approximately €2 million into the Liffey Valley operation, which will take the place of the former Bill Cullen Renault showroom.

Gabriel Keane, chief executive of the Wind-

sor Motor Group, said that the company was “bucking the trend” in an uncertain time for the motor industry.

He said: “With so much talk of uncertainty around the motor industry in Ireland, we are delighted to be paving the way for the sector by opening a new garage, creating new jobs and offering customers a cost effective, consumerfocused proposition.

“We are excited to be working with Kia, a growing brand in Ireland, and we plan to help to greatly

Kia brand ambassador Leinster rugby player Sean O’Brien was on hand to help celebrate the opening of Windsor Motor’s new Kia garage in Liffey Valley recently

increase the company’s presence in Ireland over the coming 12 months and beyond.

“We at Windsor plan to continue the company’s recent success in the market well into the future, with more exciting plans for the coming year.”

Keane’s enthusiasm

was echoed by Kia Ireland managing director James Brooks who said: “The Kia product range and the Kia brand have grown beyond recognition in recent years and we are committed to delivering our cars to Irish consumers through a first-class dealer net-

work.

“The decision by Windsor to open this state-ofthe-art Kia showroom in Liffey Valley is undoubtedly a vote of confidence in the Kia brand, and we look forward to a long and mutually rewarding partnership with the Windsor Motor Group.”

women Volunteer course for locals THE Clondalkin Women’s Network are running a course aimed at introducing locals to working and volunteering in a community organisation.

The introductory course, My Community, started on Thursday, January 24, in The Bawnogue Enterprise Centre above the Clondalkin Wo m e n ’ s N e t w o r k office.

The course will run every Thursday from 10am to 12pm for 10 weeks, with a cost of €2 per week for attendees.

The course will help locals become familiar with their communitybased projects and services, and assist with volunteering and working in the community.

For further information, call 01 467 0748.

10 CLONDALKIN Gazette 24 January 2013

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Emma English and Bernie Cafolla

Christine Urban and Ally Morron.

Lisa Murphy, Roz Flanagan, Virginia Macari, Jo Jordan and Danielle Meagher

Ending on a high

D

andelion on Stephen’s Green hosted the official wrap party for the cast and crew of the hit TV show Dublin Wives recently.

The wives, or shall we say wannabe wives, as only one of them is married, Lisa Murphy, Virginia Macari, Jo Jordan, Roz

Flanagan and Danielle Meagher were all in attendance and looking as glam and sparkly as ever.

The group of five opinionated, ambitious and very glamorous young women had the nation fascinated with their fluffy antics around Ireland and beyond.

Pictures: Una Williams Patricia Olufemi and Joanne Kimani

Elaine O’Brien and Ciara Lambert

Jane Lundon, Deirdre Lundon and Melina Skvortsova

24 January 2013 Gazette 11

feature P13

asdfsdaf businessP27 P16

dublinlife

Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week, as well as the latest from our schools

dance ireland: honouring European dance

Putting best foot forward to mark coming of age Dance Ireland is celebrating its 21st anniversary over the next two months with a series of performances which honour a variety of European dance traditions to mark Ireland’s EU Presidency.

Made In Dublin is the first part of Dance Ireland 21; a year-long programme of dance events to celebrate the organisation’s anniversary.

Dance Ireland will

showcase the Irish dance community throughout the year with a programme including live per formances, film, photography, talks and more.

Made In Dublin is a week long introduction to this year of dance and is a season of performances to be held in the Project Arts Centre and the Abbey Theatre by international and national artists in Dance House

over the last six years.

The season kicks off on January 28 with Body and Forgetting by the Liz Roche Company, who are based in Ireland.

Others lined up are Portuguese artist, Claudia Dias performing her solo show, Vontade de Ter Vontade; a triple bill of Irish dancers Liv O’Donoghue and John Scott Dance and Italian dancer Elena Giannotti; French troupe La

Zampa, Austria’s Loose Collective and many more triple and double bills featuring dancers from Spain, Ireland and Cyprus, all located at the Project Arts Centre.

Tickets for Made In Dublin performances can be purchased at Project Arts Centre at www. projectartscentre.ie or by ringing 01 8819613/4 and the full programme of events is available at www.danceireland/21.

Dancer Liv O’Donoghue will perform. Pictures: Enrico Fuga

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12 Gazette 24 January 2013

dublinlife

Ellie Mooney (five) and Gavin DeRoste (five) launch Engineers’ Week

diary

Sparking enthusiasm for engineering This year’s Engineers’ Week, an annual campaign to promote engineering as a career, is set to take place from February 25 until March 3.

T his year ’s event, themed Bringing Dreams To Life, and organised

by Engineers Ireland, is focused on showcasing the possibilities a career in engineering can offer.

John Power, director general of Engineers Ireland, recently called on enterprise and academia for their full support: “Engineers are involved in so many exciting and

essential roles – they build cities, they design medical devices, they create entertainment products and much more besides. Without the input of engineers, many great ideas would remain fixed in the imagination and never become a reality.”

Engineers Ireland is asking businesses and colleges to open for public tours, to run engineering-related workshops or activities or to develop an initiative of their own.

Those who wish to participate are invited to visit www.engineersweek.ie.

the only game in town If you have not gone to see GAME: The Future of Play in the Science Gallery in Trinity College, you still have a few days to see this fascinating exhibition before it closes this weekend.

The free exhibition features work by worldrenowned game designers such as Eric Zimmerman and architect Nathalie Pozzi.

GAME offers you the chance to get directly involved in the future of gaming as many hitherto

unrevealed games are available for the visitor to sample. Not only that, but there is also an opportunity for avid gamers to design their own game with John Healey and Game Design Lab. Once you realise your own creation, you can then upload it onto the Science Gallery’s GAME Lab PCs for other visitors to play.

GAME runs until January 20 in the Science Gallery, Trinity College from 12 noon to 8pm on weekdays, and from 12 noon to 6pm at the weekend.

boost in toy donations The bleak economic outlook did nothing to dampen Irish people’s giving spirit over Christmas as the 2012 RTE 2fm Toy Appeal for St Vincent de Paul in association with SuperValu saw some 65,000 toys donated and distributed to families.

The number shows an increase of 9,000 on the 56,000 toys collected during last year’s appeal and the toys donated have been calculated to have a value of over €1 million.

Led by 2fm presenters, including Ryan Tubridy, Hector O hEochagain, Ruth Scott, Colm Hayes and Larry Gogan, 2fm Toy Appeal’s stated wish for 2012 was “that every child got a toy for Christmas”.

Tubridy said: “The figures this year speak volumes about the generosity of the Irish public.

“Even during times as tough as these, people have dug deep and helped to put smiles on the faces of children who might otherwise have had nothing to wake up to on Christmas morning”

24 January 2013 GAZETTE 13

FEATURE

The voice artistry of Winslow back in Ireland  ROB HEIGH

IMITATION is the sincerest form of flattery, so Michael Winslow must be the sincerest man on the planet.

The vocal gymnast who leapt to fame in the Police Academy movies in the 1980s is coming back to embark on a two-week tour of Ireland in the next few weeks, including a date with Dublin at Whelan’s on Sunday, February 2.

Currently on the east coast of the US, the Gazette asked Michael how and where he got his start in comedy: “I started by watching every old T V show I could to do with comedy, and the Saturday

morning cartoons on TV. The voice artistry and sound effects were what appealed to me – they were cool, man. I started adding my own sound effects, putting extra noises to the cartoons, and Charlie Chaplin movies.”

The youngest of six children in a US Air Force family who travelled from air base to air base as Michael grew up, the travelling lifestyle was something he was used to from an early age. “It was tough, and we travelled a lot, I had to make new friends all the time – or make up new friends, or dogs, or cats, or trucks, any thing that would keep me occupied.“

Eventually, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue his career in comedy, where there were some hard lessons to learn before he reached where he wanted to be.

On stage

“Well, to begin with, I wouldn’t recommend hitch-hiking to California, not even to Navy Seals! And I wouldn’t recommend being homeless, either, which I was for a while. But I knew what I wanted to do, and so I would try to get on stage at every comedy club there was – the Improv, the Comedy Store.

“I was starting at the bottom and working my way up. I was lucky

to get onto [classic US talent show] The Gong Show, with Chuck Barris, and from winning the show, I could afford a car to live in – so I was mobile homeless! That gave me the chance to drive to other clubs and get sets there.”

Michael’s career went from strength to strength, eventually being cast as Larvelle Jones in Police Academy. Since then, he has used his skills in classic movies like Gremlins, Back To The Future, as well as numerous TV shows.

We asked Michael what he would call his brand of comedy – “My wife calls me a voicetrumentalist, so that’s close enough.”

American actor and comedian Michael Winslow at work (above) and as Larvelle Jones in Police Academy

F i n a l l y, M i c h a e l explained what it is that he most likes about coming to Ireland, a regular slot on his

stand-up tours.

“What I like most is that Ireland in terms of comedy is so openminded, and I get the

chance to work with local musicians. For me, my job is to help everyone forget about the rent for an hour.”

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14 Gazette 24 January 2013

dublinlife

business

finance: each stage of living needs a plan

Use ‘15 seconds’ to save for your life I’VE been at my wits’ end trying to turn financialplanning theory into something a bit more practical.

What I have come up with is a series of checklists, each designed to summarise the sort of things one should be thinking about at different stages of one’s life.

Here is the 15-second version of the 15-minute guide to sorting out your finances: 1. Decide what you want to achieve, and over

what period.

2. Work out what action you need to take to achieve it.

3. Take the required action.

4. Monitor the results and change your tactics if things are not going according to plan.

A big part of this process is going to involve choosing the right financial products for your needs.

A few words of warning: think carefully before you buy any financial

The founders of PlayFit, Liz Crotty and Mark Sweeney

product because someone has told you that you should.

A good example of this is the way mortgage brokers and lenders push life cover on people without partners and/or dependants.

I mean, why worry about paying off your mortgage after you’re dead if there is no one you actually want to benefit?

There follows a series of steps to suit whatever stage of life you are in.

Young and free Young? No responsibilities? Anyone who tells you to “enjoy it while you can” is not your friend.

I mean, yes, enjoy it – but this shouldn’t preclude planning for the future. Here are the key action points you may

want to consider: • Creating an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses.

• Paying off any personal or student loans.

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

• Income protection in case you are unable to work for any reason.

• Starting a pension plan. It is never too early.

• Saving for major purchases, such as the deposit to buy a home.

Next week, I offer financial advice for your other stages in life ...  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

growth at exercise company

PlayFit expansion plan set to create 10 jobs  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

TEN jobs are set to be created by PlayFit, the children’s exercise company, across greater Dublin as they continue to expand their operations.

The employees will travel to venues including Sandyford, Swords, Dundrum, Stillorgan and Terenure to give multi-sport and activity play classes to children aged three to eight.

The majority of the new PlayFit positions are for exercise physiologists with a third-level education in exercise or teaching, along with playing and coaching experience in activities such as gymnastics, rugby, soccer, GAA, basketball and athletics.

According to a Dublin City University report, only 19% of primary school children get the 60 minutes of daily exercise that is recommended by the Department of Health and Children.

PlayFit was formed in 2012 by Liza Crotty and Mark Sweeney.

Crotty said: “Since we launched in September 2012, the demand for our classes has been phenomenal.

“While this expansion will initially cover the Dublin area, by September of this year we plan to move into other parts of the country.

“Interested candidates should visit our website – www.playfit.ie – to apply, as we are recruiting immediately for these positions.”

Candidates for the new positions need to have their own transport to get from the PlayFit venue to their

--------------------------------------

‘Since we launched, the demand for our classes has been phenomenal.

While this expansion will initially cover the Dublin area, by September of this year we plan to move into other parts of the country’ --------------------------------------

Liza Crotty, co-founder, PlayFit

--------------------------------------

required venue.

The 10 new roles are a combination of full- and part-time positions and would suit gym instructors and personal trainers.

Successful candidates will host PlayFit classes designed to aid the development of children’s fundamental movement skills (tumbling, running, hopping and leaping) and ball skills (bouncing, kicking, throwing and catching), while building self-confidence in a noncompetitive, supportive environment.

There will be two sets of classes for two age groups – juniors, which will be for ages three to five, and seniors, aged six to eight.

PlayFit is a joint venture subsidiary of ClapHandies, which provides developmental training for babies and toddlers, and Fit For Life, which is a service to keep those in nursing homes fit and healthy.

bride& groom

Gazette

24 January 2013 Gazette 15

Dublin’s complete

g u i d e t o y o u r w e dd i n g

l w eddi n g sh owc as e l

Red carpet treatment at Bracken Court Hotel Brides-to-be can experience the red carpet treatment at the Bracken Court Hotel in Balbriggan later this month, when they hold their Wedding Showcase on Sunday, February 13.

With the hotel hosting over 100 weddings in 2012, they are one of Dublin’s busiest and most experienced wedding venues.

Only one wedding a day is hosted in the Bracken Court, to ensure an exclusive wedding

experience, and complete focus on the wedding party.

The showcase intends to give newly-engaged couples a chance to view the hotel set up for a wedding, allowing them a unique insight into how the venue will look for their special day. On hand to offer advice and tips will be the hotel’s wedding co-ordinators, who will be available to speak with on the day, while providing a vast experience and knowl-

edge on the hotel and its services.

The hotel will be presenting the complete wedding experience, allowing visitors view the hotel’s two suites, which will be dressed in a variety of wedding styles.

Menu selections can be discussed, and advisors will be on hand to address all aspects of the special day, from accommodation and guest services, to the reception, meal, flowers, and entertainment.

T he hotel have a number of packages available, including the all inclusive wedding from €2,450 for 100 people, while unique touches can be designed to suit each occasion, from bespoke menus, right down to the complimentary chair covers and coordinating bows in the wedding suite.

Admission to the Bracken Court Hotel wedding showcase is free, and complimentary sparkling wine and canapés

The wedding showcase intends to give newly-engaged couples a chance to view the hotel set up for a wedding

will be served. A select number of exhibitors will also be there, including limousine companies, cake designers, and entertainers, who can

advise and help plan the special day.

For further information, or to enquire about 2013/2014 wedding package specials, contact the

Bracken Court Hotel’s dedicated team, Jean Bermingham and Helga Duffy, on 01-841 3333 or e-mail weddings@brackencourt.ie

bride& groom

Gazette

16 Gazette 24 January 2013

l glowing sk in l

Skincare tips for brides-to-be  Janette Ryan Pharmacy training manager

Skincare expert Janette Ryan, training manager for Vichy and La Roche-Posay

It’s your wedding day, all eyes are on you, and every bride wants to look their very best on their big day.

Glowing skin is key to a radiant bride and to achieve this you need to put in the work – preparation is key!

To ensure you wake up with healthy skin that’s glowing with vitality on your big day, invest in a skincare plan as soon as possible. The more effort you put in, the better the results.

Skincare expert Janette Ryan, training manager for Vichy and La Roche-

Vichy Idealia Smoothing and Illuminating Cream refines skin texture and illuminates the skin

Posay, has put together some top tips for brides: The lead up

• If you don’t already follow one now is the time to adopt a daily skincare routine. Speak to the skincare advisor in your local pharmacy to develop a regime specifically

for your skin.

• Avoid any drastic diets for your wedding, as it will show negatively on your skin. Adopt a healthy eating regime, exercise and drink lots of water for a radiant glow.

• Choose a daily moisturiser that will help with extra radiance.

• Start using a facial mask once a week; this will give skin a great boost. Choose a product that best suits your skins unique needs – hydrating, radiance or deep pore cleansing.

• Get your skin in peak condition by dry brushing your body with a natural bristle brush once a week.

Start at your feet and work upwards towards the heart in long, firm strokes. Follow with a moisturising body lotion.

• It’s important to keep your skin hydrated, especially if you work in airconditioned offices.

The week before

• Avoid deep-cleansing masks which might bring imperfections to the surface. Opt for something hydrating and soothing.

• Relax as much as possible – stress can manifest as imperfections on your skin. Have a bath, light a candle, take some time for yourself and forget any wedding anxieties.

• Include a daily gentle exfoliator to your beauty regime, which will really help give your skin a flawless look and leave you ready for all those camera lenses!

On the big day

• Sleep is the best thing you can do for your skin.

Get a really good rest the night before, you will look rested and avoid bags under the eyes.

• Choose a mattifying base product that will ensure you are shine-free all day.

• Have your chief bridesmaid keep a mini thermal spa water on hand to keep you cool and hydrated.

Relax, laugh and enjoy your special day.

24 January 2013 Gazette 17

Dublin’s complete g u i d e t o y o u r w e dd i n g

A dedicated team for the perfect day It’s that time at the turning of the year when thoughts turn to plans for special wedding days, and with that in mind, the Red Cow Moran Hotel is holding their wedding showcase on February 17, from 2 to 6pm.

The Red Cow’s wedding packages start from €40pp and include everything every wedding day requires, from drinks receptions in the contemporary style of the hotel’s four-star surroundings and four-course meal with selected wines for the all-important wedding guests, to the champagne toast, evening reception and bar extension. The welcome extended to

happy couples includes a red-carpet welcome, floral centerpieces for tables and the bridal suite for the bride and groom.

The Red Cow also offer preferable accommodation rates for wedding guests, who can enjoy the best that this renowned Dublin landmark has to offer.

The hotel’s dedicated wedding coordinators promise that they will

Search is over for good fit

always go the extra mile to make your big day truly unforgettable, and the showcase is an ideal opportunity to get a taste of what the Red Cow have to offer on wedding day.  For more information,

contact Sinead at the Red Cow Moran Hotel on 01 459 3650, via email at scallaghan@moranhotel. com, or log on to www. redcowmoranhotel.com.

Showcase: Newgrange Hotel to hold a wedding open evening navan’s Newgrange Hotel is holding a wedding open evening on Thursday, January 31 from 5 to 9pm where Karine Kavanagh, the hotel’s wedding coordinator, will be helping to showcase the hotel and its wedding facilities. For more information, contact the hotel on 046 90 74100, or log on to www.newgrangehotel.ie.

Wedding shoe designers Aruna Seth have tapped into the bride’s innate magnetism towards footwear and have made it that little bit easier for brides to get their hands on that perfect pair of shoes.

Earlier this month, the brand launched a newlook website, especially designed to simplify the bridal shoe shopping process and make the experience even more pleasant.

For Irish brides hoping to get their hands on these beauties, as well as visiting arunaseth.com, you can also stop by Aruna Seth’s newest stockist, Knightsbridge Boutique in the Powerscourt Centre.

bride& groom Honeymoons at the right price Gazette

18 Gazette 24 January 2013

l r om a n ti c a n d a ffo r da b l e o pt io ns l

BETWEEN paying for the wedding and setting up a new household, many couples find there’s not much money left in their budget for the honeymoon.

But who says you have to spend a fortune to enjoy a romantic hon-

eymoon at your dream destination? Here are some simple ideas for a more affordable, yet still romantic, honeymoon.

Gift of a honeymoon

You can spread the cost of your honeymoon, or perhaps even cover the

cost entirely, by listing it on a honeymoon gift registry. A honeymoon registry works just like a wedding registry, but instead of buying you china, your wedding guests buy you a trip to China (or the honeymoon destination of your choice).

Yes, your guests could just contribute cash toward your honeymoon, but giving a particular portion of the honeymoon (dinner at a fancy restaurant, or a carriage ride through the historic

district of a far-off city, for example) is somehow more meaningful.

Exchange homes

If you prefer to mingle with the locals rather than other tourists, look into a home exchange for your honeymoon. In a nutshell, you go stay in someone else’s house while they stay in yours.

Sound risky? Maybe, but tens of thousands of people have exchanged homes across the world since the 1950s. For an

Who says you have to spend a fortune to enjoy your honeymoon?

annual subscription, home exchange clubs will help you find someone willing to swap homes with you, as well as offering tips to make the exchange go

smoothly. According to exchangehomes.com, a home exchange can cut your travel costs by as much as half.

Travel in the off-season

It may be obvious to seasoned travellers, but those with less experience may not be aware of how affordable it can be to honeymoon in the “off-season” — basically, any time other than when most people travel to your destination.

Certain destinations’ accommodation and airfare prices may be slashed by 30% or more during the off-season, compared to the peak travel season.

Consider airline alternatives

When booking airfare online, don’t overlook the discount airlines — some are not listed on the big travel portal websites, even though they might have a lower fare to your destination.

24 January 2013 Gazette 19

bride& groom

Gazette

20 Gazette 24 January 2013

Fairytale Big Day at Trim Castle

l bloom f i el d ho u s e l

Wedding game show returns Bloomfield House Hotel in Mullinger has announced the return of Red Or Black, their wedding game show, which offers everyone who enters the opportunity to play for the wedding of their dreams, and everyone who plays the game has an equal chance of winning.

Based on the TV gameshow of the same name, the contest will take place at the hotel on Sunday, February 17.

The overall prize includes a huge range of special day prizes,

including personalised handmade wedding stationery by Janice Baker Stationery, and bridal make-up by Bloomfield Spa and bridal hair by the five-star Indulgence will complete that glamorous look for the day.

Chauffeured

The winning couple will be chauffeured in style in a vintage Bentley Rolls Royce from Rover Coaches, and on arrival, guests will enjoy treats from Mrs Maguires Sweet Shop, as well as a sparkling wine and cana-

pes reception.

All the happy memories on the day will be captured by Helena Flynn Photo Services, and the wedding cake, a treasured focal point on your special day, will be provided

by Cakes by Una. The prize also includes a Supreme Wedding Package for 100 persons at the four-star hotel.

“The wedding package itself, the hotel, rooms, food, band, dancers, DJ, cake, florist, car/driver, photographer, videographer, hairdressers, make-up people, were

The Marleys: Last year’s Red Or Black game show winners

all superb,” said Roisin Marley, the 2012 Red Or Black winner. “Now, after the big day all I can confirm is that all that warmth and willingness to make the day the happiest and best of our lives

shone through from everybody.”

With over 33 years’ experience in hosting wedding receptions, the four-star Bloomfield House Hotel is renowned for service, atmosphere

and customer care.

For the chance to win the wedding package, contact Bloomfield House Hotel on 044 9340894 for full details, or log on to www.bloomfieldhousehotel.ie

If you are dreaming of a fairytale wedding day at a historical castle, then the enchanting Trim Castle Hotel, which recently won the 2012 Best Wedding Venue in Leinster, may be the venue for you.

The hotel is holding its annual wedding fair on Sunday, February 24 from 2 to 5pm, and if you are in search of a unique wedding venue, this is a day not to be missed…

Trim Castle Hotel sits with quiet authority overlooking the mystical Trim Castle and the adjoining rolling lawns of St Patrick’s Church.

A spokesperson for the hotel commented: “Trim Castle Hotel is the perfect choice for your reception as it possesses the old world charisma of the historical AngloNorman castle, and the contemporary standards of magnificent food and stunning decor.”

The hotel also boasts a rooftop terrace from which guests can admire the impressive castle.

The floor to ceiling windows of the Great Hall banqueting suite and prefunction area allow a view of the castle and church lawns. The roof-top garden located on the third floor provides an impressive backdrop for wedding photography.

An all-inclusive package is available on key dates in 2013, 2014 for only €55pp. There are also excellent packages available for January and February 2015.

For information, contact the wedding co-ordinators at Trim Castle on 046 948 3000, or email info@trimcastlehotel. com. More is available online at www.trimcastlehotel.com

24 January 2013 Gazette 21

bride& groom

Gazette

22 Gazette 24 January 2013

Successful fair at the Bridge House The Bridge House Hotel in Tullamore, Co Offaly, last week celebrated another successful wedding fair that saw prospective brides and grooms-to-be gather at the hotel.

The hotel is located less than 90 minutes from Dublin, Galway and Limerick, and aims to provide for all their wedding needs, including venues for civil ceremonies, large weddings up to 350 people and smaller wedding receptions for up to 60 people.

The hotel’s dedicated wedding team carry over 40 years of wedding experience while the stunning Secret Garden at the hotel, designed to be a prime spot for the allimportant wedding party

pictures, is a little place of mystery where brides and grooms can hide away in a magical place on their special day.

Another key photography location at the hotel is the staircase, which was designed to exactly replicate the infamous staircase in the film Titanic.

Now with a dedicated wedding website, http:// tullamore-weddings. bridgehouse.com/, potential brides and grooms can preview exactly what the Bridge House Hotel has to offer and learn more about the hotel’s wedding team.

For further information, visit www.bridgehousehoteltullamore.ie or Locall 1850 312 312 / 057 9325600

l what to we ar l

A perfect  hiromi mooney

The shape is the key feature to look out for in wedding dresses

EVERY woman desires to have the perfect dress for their special day, to walk up the aisle to marry the man of their dreams. So getting the right dress is of utmost importance.

The shape is the key feature to look out for in wedding dresses, according to owner of bridal wear supplier DarlingWear, Miriam Dempsey.

“I know brides read it in books, but I really think they need to wear dresses in a shape that actually suits their figure.

I think it’s very important to get a neckline that suits the bust line, and I think people can get very lost in – maybe wearing

strapless dresses when they ordinarily wouldn’t wear strapless dresses.

“I always ask a bride if they’re looking at a strapless dress, would they ever wear a strapless top, and if the answer is no, they probably shouldn’t be looking at strapless bridal dresses either. There’s a reason that they probably haven’t worn them for the last 10 years,” she advises.

Miriam understands how difficult it can be to choose the right wedding dress, so at DarlingWear she offers customers oneto-one appointments at the showrooms, which are located at The Gables at Kill in Tullow, Co Carlow.

24 January 2013 CLONDALKIN gazette 23

Dublin’s complete g u i d e t o y o u r w e dd i n g

dress for a special day --------------------------

‘I think it’s very important to get a neckline that suits the bust line’ --------------------------

DarlingWear source their products worldwide

This exclusive personal time gives customers a chance to select their dress in a comfortable and private environment. DarlingWear are open on an appointment basis only, seven days a week.

“There’s a lot of flexibility on appointments,”

she says. “I have brides and bridesmaids who come for appointments at night because sometimes it’s hard to get bridesmaids and brides off from work at the same time. A lot of people work on Saturdays, so that doesn’t work, so I also do appointments on

Sundays.”

DarlingWear have sourced their products worldwide, and as well as bridal wear and the bridesmaids collection, they also stock a wide range of accessories, footwear, communion wear and evening wear.

The bridal collection includes designs from Venus Bridal, D’Zage, Romantica, Mascara and Manon Fashions.

“I’m competitive on pricing, and the big thing is the discount options

and very good value on accessories – I’ve really gone and researched and got some good accessories and veils,” says Miriam.

“I give 10% off if people are buying two or more bridesmaid dresses, and then there’s the order and collect service. There’s 20% off where [customers] come and place the order for the dress that they want, they get measured up, and then they collect them when they come in, and they get their alterations done [by] themselves locally.”

Showcase: Viewing at Thomas Priory Hall thomas prior hall, an award-winning wedding venue situated in

Ballsbridge in Dublin, is holding a wedding showcase this weekend on Saturday, January 26 and 27. This will be a great opportunity for brides- and grooms-to-be to view the venue as it would appear on their wedding day. For more details, contact wedding co-ordinator Barbara on 01 668 1111, or email thomaspriorhall@moranhotels.com.

24 CLONDALKIN Gazette 24 January 2013

Gazette

&ABOUT OUT Motors road NOISE The going is great with GT renault megane: the gazette tests an impressive line-up of cars

Toyota have announced Cars for Good winners

Toyota Ireland have announced that Irish Dogs for the Disabled and St Ultans in Cherry Orchard, Dublin were selected as the recipients of new Toyota cars as part of its 2013 Cars for Good programme. To date, Toyota have donated more than €80,000 worth of vehicles to charity since the programme’s inception in 2012.

As the awarded recipients, both St Ultans and Dogs for the Disabled, which are based in Co. Cork, will receive a donation of one vehicle each from Toyota Ireland, up to the value of €20,000.

The organisations can choose to raffle the car to raise funds or register the car for day to day needs.

n Cormac Curtis

The motor industry never tires of acronyms – ABS, EBD, ESP, CVT, EGR, TC. There is a dizzying array of abbreviations for all kinds of features and every level of spec, but the one that really resonates is GT. Coming from the Italian, Gran Tourismo, simply put means that the car can go the distance in comfort, and with some serious spring in its step.

I have recently been lucky enough to test three different models all given the GT Line spec, all of which came from the same manufacturer – Renault.

From the punchy little Megane Coupe GT Line to the muscular Megane Hatch GT Line and the daddy of the three, the Grand Megane GT Line, this is an impressive lineup of cars.

They may come from the same manufacturer, bear the same family

name and spec, but we are talking about three very different personalities here.

The first of the three I drove was the Hatch, and what a surprise it had in store.

Packing a 110bhp 1.5litre diesel engine, but boasting fuel-saving stopstart technology, this model has all the practicality of a five-door car with the thrill of something far more lunatic.

The car combines a sport chassis developed

by Renault Sport, for extra driving excitement, with exclusive interior and exterior design elements, rear diffuser, 17” alloy wheels, sport seats and aluminium pedals.

Next in line for me was the Grand Megane GT Line – the model that is begging to be taken for a spin down through France and perhaps to the north Spanish coast?

Yes, this is the kind of trip the Grand Megane was built for.

The Megane family may come from the same manufacturer, but they have three very different personalities

The 1.5-litre diesel engine, this time coupled to an automatic gearbox, was well matched to the weight of the car, giving plenty of power when needed.

This car gives the driver a wealth of features to make serious touring a pleasure.

Starting with the heated, split-leather seats, the interior oozes comfort.

The contrast stitching around the gear stick and steering wheel feels reassuring to the touch, while a host of clever compartments offer practical

storage in every corner of the cabin, even in the footwell.

Entertainment comes in the form of the Renault R- PLUG & R A DIO + , o f f e r i n g c o n n e c t i vity solutions for all your mobile devices including a jack plug in the front and built-in Bluetooth® technology for mobile phones, with voice recognition and audiostreaming. With the Plug & Music option you can connect your MP3 player to the USB or Jack socket and control the system using the central

control.

Navigation is handled by the Carminat TomTom® LIVE, which is Renault’s new onboard, connected navigation system. Its central control provides intuitive, safe access to the various functions.

So, to the last of the family, the sexy Megane Coupe GT Line.

Keeping in mind this little beauty has the same 1.5-litre diesel engine under the hood, you can imagine the kind of drive you have waiting in store.

Every bit the mad yoke you would expect, yet brimming with bags of the aforementioned GT Line spec of its siblings – this was my favourite of the three cars.

Maybe not my very first choice when I put my practical hat on, but the amount of features crammed into this little motor is nothing short of staggering, and man does she move about.

These are cars that Renault should be proud of, and are sure to tempt some new buyers in their direction.

24 January 2013 CLONDALKIN gazette 25

getaway: rooms with a view

Relax in style in Dubai’s newest beach front hotel  natalie burke

Dubai is no stranger to luxury. Whether it’s a private beach, a five-star hotel or designer shopping experiences, the Middle-Eastern destination is one that is ever-increasing in its popularity.

But for those seeking a more exclusive visit, it will come as good news that Dubai’s recently opened four-star Ocean View Hotel is not only Dubai’s newest hotel, but the only beach-front hotel to grace the shores of Dubai and the only four-star to be situated on The Walk.

Having just opened its newly carved doors to the public, as recently as December 2012, the hotel has already gained a hugely positive response. Perhaps one reason being that it is the latest venture of the prestigious JA Resorts and Hotels.

Its parent company already owns the wellknown Dubai resorts –

the Oasis Beach Tower and Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa. Overlooking the Arabian Gulf, the Ocean View Hotel celebrates its surroundings by boasting a total of 342 rooms and suites, most of which feature sea views (hence the befitting name).

With each room featuring all the mod-cons, including a flat-screen television, guests can make the most of the large selection of international satellite channels and avail of free-wifi across the premises.

Shopping

Holding a prominent and fortunate position on The Walk, a 1.7kmlong retail and beachside shopping promenade, the hotel is steps away from the public beach it presides over.

It also offers a selection of five different restaurants, meaning there is variety for every guest,

as well as a number of bars, with the inclusion of an executive lounge.

While there is plenty to see and do outside, the hotel hasn’t taken a ny c h a n c e s w h e n it comes to four-star facilities and features a temperature-controlled free-form swimming pool with its own sea views, as well as a spa and health club.

With its for tunate location just seconds from the beach, guests can access the public beach or hop onto a complimentary shuttle to the nearby five-star private beach at Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa. For a day away from the beach, the hotel also offers complimentary shuttle service to all major shopping malls.

“Ocean View Hotel appeals to a range of travellers, whether its families with young children who’ll love the kids club and pool, or couples who prefer the

Dubai is becoming ever more popular as a destination for sun, relaxation and, of course, a bit of luxury

A spacious Ocean View Hotel bedroom suite

range of different dining concepts,” explained William Harley-Fanning, the general manager of the new hotel.

Five-star service

“Ocean View Hotel has been positioned as a four-star but with fivestar service and five-star facilities. We’re located right in the heart of Dubai Marina, so it’s a fantastic base to explore all Dubai’s famous sights and landmarks.”

With fantastic offers set to launch the hotel, William says it has been

a positive start to the year.

“Until October 13, we’re offering a free upgrade from bed & breakfast basis to half board to celebrate the opening and the unique range of dining concepts within the grounds.

We’re sure that’ll be an influencing factor for a lot of our guests and we hope that they’ll then come back again the following year.”  For more informa-

tion, visit www.jaresortshotels.com.

Gazette

Travel

26 clondalkin gazette 24 January 2013

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24 January 2013 CLONDALKIN Gazette 27

soccer P28

asdfsdaf P27 gaelic games P29

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

cricket P28

FastSport Lucan club takes on Air Corps : ESKER

Ava Hutchinson, Fionnuala Britton, Lizzie Lee and Linda Byrne help launch the Great Ireland Run 2013 at the Radission Hotel last week. Picture: Geraldine Woods

athletics: world body confers silver status on phoenix park event

Britton a marquee name for 2013 Great Ireland road race EUROPEAN cross country champion Fionnuala Britton says she is anxiously looking forward to this year’s Spar Great Ireland Run, and “just loves the Phoenix Park”.

She was speaking at the launch of the annual 10km race last week as the Sunday, April 14 was confirmed as the date for this year, announced at the Radisson Hotel in Stillorgan.

Britton is one of the marquee names to compete in the race and launched the event along with fellow European senior women’s team mates Linda Byrne, Ava

Hutchinson and Lizzie Lee who all won gold in the team event.

Britton committed to lead the women’s field in the run where she finished seventh in 2011. “I just love the Phoenix Park,” she said.

“There is no place better in Europe to run and the buzz around the Spar Great Ireland Run is incredible. Each year it gets bigger and better with more and more kids in their own races; and then runners, joggers and walkers of all abilities start in a top class international race to aim for their own personal best.”

This year’s run will be all about enjoying a family running day out. It will begin with a Spar mini-run for five- to eight-year-olds over a lap of a mile and an adult can run or walk alongside each child.

After the mini-run comes the junior run for nine- to 15-year-olds over a longer distance of 2.5km.

The day is topped off by the 10km main event which covers a scenic single lap of the Phoenix Park in its springtime glory.

The International Association of

Athletics Federations has conferred its Silver Road Race label on the Spar Great Ireland Run, in recognition of the event’s high standard of organisation, elite participation and media profile.

This is the only Irish event recognised in this way by the IAAF. Last year’s event was won in a stunning course record time of 27.49 by multiple Olympic gold medallist Kenenisa Bekele of Ethiopia.

The women’s champion was Gemma Steel of Great Britain in 32.06.

The 2013 run will also act as the Irish 10k road championships.

ABC are running a boxing competition with The Irish Air Corps on Friday, January 25 at 7.30pm in Baldonnel Aerodrome.

With over 10 senior and intermediate bouts on the night, it promises to be a great match up that the two organisation are hoping to turn into an annual match.

It also serves Esker ABC in their preparations to take on a team from The New York State Athletic Club in New York on March 14.

Esker senior coach Martin O’Connell is a serving sergeant with the Defence Forces and has been instrumental in organising this event alongside Irish senior champion Tommy Sheehan.

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 CLONDALKIN Gazette 24 January 2013

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: large local contingent in international squad

Tyrrelstown school enjoy cricket explosion A NEWLY formed sponsorship arrangement between Cricket Ireland and RSA has seen a vast amount of cricket sets distributed to schools around the Leinster area.

Karl Lynch, a teacher at Tyrrelstown Educate Together NS in west Dublin, was delighted to receive the new RSA-sponsored equipment and has seen first-hand the progress cricket has made since it started within the school.

Lynch, from Ballygawley in Co Tyrone and a playing member of the well-known Aireagal Chiarain GAA club has witnessed the game’s rise within the school of late.

“Last year, through the help of Cricket Ireland and Fingal County Council, we started a cricket coaching programme with a small number of the fourth and fifth class children.

“The sessions proved a great success and from the teacher’s point of view it was most enjoyable as the children were so involved that behaviour was not a problem.

“It is a great game for both boys and girls to compete in evenly. The children learned some great skills relating to teamwork and more importantly communication’.

“Since then, they have been nagging me to start up a school team and to partake in the various competitions that run during the final school term. Give us another year and we will look to enter the Leprechaun Cup.”

Clondalkin man Glenn Whelan is among the more established names in Giovanni Trappatoni’s panel to meet Poland

Dublin duo eye Republic debut  peter carroll sport@gazettegroup.com

COOLMINE man Stephen Henderson a n d P o r t m a r n o c k ’s Conor Sammon could be in line for a Republic of Ireland debut after he was named in Giovanni Trappatoni’s extended 27-man panel to face Poland in the Three international friendly on February 6 in Aviva Stadium.

The shot-stopper was one of three goalkeepers named in the panel along with Kieron Westwood and David Forde as a number of Dublin-

ers received call-ups.

Sammon, meanwhile, gets the nod after a particularly impressive festive period with Derby County, netting four times since the start of December.

Former St Joseph’s Boys players abounded as Darren O’Dea, Paul McShane and Andy Keogh have all been included while Clondalkin man Glenn Whelan and Portmarnock’s Stephen Ward are among the more established names in the panel.

The Republic of Ireland manager was forced

to cancel his press conference in Dublin last Monday after his sister, Romilde Trapattoni, 81, passed away after a long illness in the early hours of this morning.

Speaking about the selection, though, the Tr a p a t t o n i s a i d : “ I have decided to use this friendly game as an opportunity to work with younger players to see their potential.

“As a result, I have given senior players like Robbie Keane and Stephen Kelly a break for this fixture. We saw a number of strong performances from our

younger players in the second half of last year .

“We intend to build from those strong foundations, using this friendly match to introduce more new talent like Anthony Pilkington, Jeff Hendrick, Sammon and (Richard) Keogh. I look forward to working with these players, and seeing what they have to offer.”

Elsewhere, former Joey’s player Sam Byrne has been included in Republic of Ireland U19 team manager Paul Doolin for the forthcoming friendly inter-

nationals against the Czech Republic.

The Irish will face the Czechs in Longford on Tuesday, February 5, and again in Athlone on Thursday, February 7, as they build up their preparations for the UEFA Championships elite qualifying round in June.

Doolin is pleased to have a number of players back at his disposal after injuries curtailed their involvement in the first phase in Luxembourg last October when the Irish finished joint top of their group with Germany.

24 January 2013 CLONDALKIN Gazette 29

Gazette

Fresh faces driving hope for New Year

Anthony Daly is hoping that his side can make use of this year’s Walsh Cup campaign to get 2013 off to an upbeat start after a chastening 2012 season for the Dublin hurlers DUBLIN boss Anthony Daly says the addition of Cuala duo Cian O’Callaghan and Colm Cronin along with Lucan Sarsfields’ Sean McClelland has added an extra pep to the step of the county’s senior hurling panel ahead of the new season.

All three were part of the Dublin minor side that reached the All-Ireland final last September but have been making an impact at training ahead of the side’s 2013 opener in the Walsh Cup this weekend.

To date, Daly has been working off an extended panel of 37 players as she tests his deck before trimming the squad for the national league.

Long-term injuries to Maurice O’Brien, Martin

 stephen findlater sport@gazettegroup.com

Quilty, Stephen Hiney and Ryan O’Dwyer have limited his options somewhat but those that have stepped into the breach have impressed.

Speaking at the launch of Stars of Erin’s Who Wants to be a Thousandaire? Fundraiser – which takes place on March 16 in Stillorgan Park Hotel – Daly told GazetteSport, the youngsters are making quite an impact at training.

“There’s a lot of young lads who have brought in a great old energy.

Those three off last year’s minor team, they’ll knock you good and hard and they’re still only repeating or doing their Leaving Certs!

“All the older lads have commented how the younger lads being around has given a fresh impetus. Hopefully that will rub off.”

It’s a fresh outlook that Daly hopes permeates the squad. The two steps forward of a superb 2011, winning the National League and reaching the All-Ireland semi-final, were followed by three steps back in a low key 2012 in which only a Leinster championship win over Laois interrupted their losing streak.

Last January, Daly said he did not mind too much losing in the first round of

Dublin senior hurling boss Anthony Daly at the launch of the Stars of Erin Who Wants to be a Thousandaire? fundraiser in Johnnie Fox’s last week Picture: Geraldine Woods

the Walsh Cup but, with the benefit of hindsight, he does see a value in getting back into a winning mode.

“Being relegated dented confidence so we’d be mad keen to get back and getting results flowing even though all the

one to see more of the lads in.”

From an upbeat base, he is hopeful this can permeate the rest of 2013 in spite of Tomas Brady, Ciaran Kilkenny, Eric Lowndes and Cormac Costello opting to play with the footballers.

--------------------------------------------------------

‘Those lads off the minors; they’ll knock you good and hard and they’re still only repeating or doing their Leaving Cert’ - Anthony Daly

--------------------------------------------------------

psychologists will tell you now, it’s not about results but performances.

“Looking back to last year on the Walsh Cup, Laois beat us and we saw what we could do to Laois in the championship.

“Driving home that day, I probably thought we were just as well off out of it as we can focus on the league but maybe it was the thin end of the wedge and allowed standards to slip early on.

“We certainly would be focused on trying to get out of the blocks. It does give us a chance to try out a few lads. The Walsh Cup is not the be all and end all but at the same time, we want to get a couple of good games out of it.

“If we can win the quarter-final, we are likely to have Galway in Parnell and that would be a great

To that end, he says that while he would like to have an enlarged squad, the door is only open for them to return to hurling in the right circumstances “I have great respect for my own panel and you take every case on its merits and if it will upset your own panel, maybe its not right.

“We’re happy with our squad, we have a few injuries coming right and hopefully the four longterm players out will come back about March or April.

“We’ll have a good strong squad, one that got to a league title and an All-Ireland semi-final.

If we get a few more percent onto 2011, we’ll be a match for everyone and that’s what we have to focus on.”

FastSport

Grange man McGinley the first Irish Ryder captain GRANGE golf club enjoyed a proud week as one of their own, Paul McGinley, became the first Irishman to be appointed captain of the European Ryder Cup team at Gleneagles in 2014.

Speaking about the appointment, the Rathfarnham man said: “I am a very proud Grange man to be appointed the first Irish Captain of the Ryder Cup team.

“I have been a member of Grange for 30 years, and little did I think as a young lad, practising on the new lands that I would assume this high office. I have met many Grange members on my travels around the fairways of the world and I always get a very warm feeling when I see the famous black sweater in the gallery. I look forward to the challenge and to the club’s continued support.”

At the announcement of his appointment, McGinley also paid tribute to his days at Ballyboden St Enda’s, something that engendered the team ethic that he has exhibited in the Ryder Cup in the past few years.

Famously, his 10-foot putt at the Belfry in 2002 won the Cup for Europe while he also played his part in the 2004 and 2006 teams and was an assistant captain at the past two events under Colin Montgomerie and Jose Maria Olazabal.

Speaking about the appointment, he added: “I can’t wait to get into the role of being the captain and I’m relishing the thought of taking on one of my great heroes, Tom Watson.

“He’s not only a wonderful person about a great ambassador for the game of golf. I’ve never had an opportunity to go up against him in a playing sense. To go up against him in a captaincy sense will be a real thrill for me.”

McGinley brings captaincy experience from his time as Britain and Ireland captain against Continental Europe in the Seve Trophy in 2009.

He also received high level backing with world number one Rory McIlroy saying: “He has been a great player and a great personality for the European Tour over the years. I also played under him at the Seve Trophy in 2009 and I thought he did a great job.

“From all the captains I’ve played under, I think he was the best.”

Gazette

30 CLONDALKIN gazette 24 January 2013

SPORT

FastSport

rugby: guinness early burst puts them out of reach

Peas crushed by late Thorpe strike in WNL CAROLINE Thorpe snatched a dramatic last-minute winner as Raheny United defeated Peamount United in a five-goal thriller at Greenogue.

The loss drops Peamount back down to third place in the second year of the Women’s National League as Wexford Youths took advantage of their travails to rise above the West Dublin outfit.

Stephanie Roche, pictured, nudged Peamount ahead in the third minute, but Noelle Murray cancelled that effort out nine minutes later. A Roche penalty on 24 had Peamount in front again, but Rebecca Creagh restored parity with 14 minutes left on the clock with a powerful header.

Late on a draw seemed likely, but Thorpe arrived in the right place at the right time to pounce on a goalkeeping error as Raheny eked out a critical triumph which keeps them firmly in the title race.

Earlier, Peamount had started brilliantly, a delightful pitch-length move seeing the ball worked right the way up to Aine O’Gorman who found the perfect cross for Roche to apply a headed finish.

Precious little time was wasted in finding the equaliser as Murray latched onto Monica McGuirk’s through ball and finished with aplomb.

The break-neck tempo scarcely abated and Roche was again the player to put her side back in front. She fired a warning shot with an arcing effort that Emma Merrigan did well to save but, in the 24th minutes, Solene Barbance was felled in the penalty box and Roche stepped up to convert the ensuing spot-kick.

It was a lead that initially looked a tentative one, especially when O’Gorman saw a cross slip just beyond Sara Lawlor while Thorpe thumped the crossbar just before half-time with both sides threatening at every turn.

O’Gorman and Lawlor had further chances in the second period before Raheny summoned their last-ditch effort.

Creagh’s header tied the game up with 16 minutes to go and, from there, it was anyone’s guess. But ex-Peamount player Thorpe took the big chance, swooping to finish off after a loose ball broke her way.

Clondalkin’s Ray Connor attempts to evade a Guinness tackle in their J4 tie last weekend

Clon salvo comes too late J4 section b Clondalkin Guinness  sport@gazettegroup.com

15 29

DESPITE a late rally, Clondalkin’s thirds were beaten with help as two early Guinness tries from their centres partnership set the base for a 29-15 victory.

The Clondalkin men had planned specifically to combat the attacks from the explosive Guinness 12-13 combination but acting coach Gary Donnelly claimed his side missed some crucial tackles that allowed the opposition to bag the

vital scores.

“We always knew it was going to be hard,” said Donnelly, who was using time with the thirds to recover from his own injury.

“The side had prepared for the exact thing that happened but it just didn’t come together.

“As soon as the game started Guinness pushed up their two large centres. They’ve been bagging tries like this all season, but we missed some very important tackles and that allowed them to put a good bit of distance between the two sides.

“To be honest, we were

the joys of spring Dublin fans set to avail of excellent package RECEntly named Dublin senior hurling captain Johnny McCaffrey and senior footballer Ger Brennan were on hand to launch this year’s Dublin spring series of national league games in Croke Park.

A season ticket for the entire series is available for €50 which includes entry into games on February 2 as well a March 2, 10, 16 and 23.

For more information, go to www.gaa. ie/tickets.

expecting it to be closer.

We put in the work on the training field so in that respect it was disappointing.”

With the two tries being converted and a further penalty added to their tally, Guinness reached the interval with a sizeable lead, 17-3, with Clondalkin’s only score coming from a John Murphy penalty.

It was more positive from the Clondalkin perspective in the second half and Donnelly crossed the whitewash, which was converted, before Gerry Dunne grabbed another five-

pointer.

Howe ve r, G u i n ness didn’t let up and they scored two more tries, one of which was converted in the early exchanges of the second half, with the Clondalkin rally being too late on to affect that final result, 29 to 15.

“We did focus on our own game and we managed to really start putting some great attacking moves together in the late stages of the second half.

Although we failed to contain their centres, we did get a chance to work on our own game and I think it paid off.

“Clondalkin were the better team toward the end and, had there been an extra 20 minutes, I’m sure we could’ve got two more tries that would have put us level.

“The main objective of this side is to improve every week and it hasn’t been easy with a lot of the squad from last year moving up in the ranks at the club and some of the lads being injured.

“If they continue to improve they can see themselves finish mid-table. The arrival of coach Ken McMahon is sure to help the side dramatically too.”

24 January 2013 CLONDALKIN gazette 31

Gazette

Dubs cruise into O’Byrne Cup final Club Noticeboard  sport@gazettegroup.com

DUBLIN cruised into the final of O’Byrne Cup with a 4-15 to 0-10 win over Louth in Drogheda last weekend.

Four first half goals paved the way for the win, setting up a final date with Kildare next Saturday evening at 7pm in Parnell Park.

Two of the goals came inside a 60-second spell with Bernard Brogan on the mark on both occasions in the tenth minute as Dublin got off to a flying start to lead 2-4 to 0-2 after only 20 minutes.

In the 22nd minute Emmet O’Conghaile raised Dublin’s third green flag when his point effort dipped under the cross-

bar as the Wee County’s defence found themselves under constant pressure with Denis Bastick and Declan O’Mahony on top at midfield and wing-back Jack McCaffrey breaking with telling effect from the middle sector.

In first half injury-time Paul Hudson fisted to the net to end a confident move by Dublin that

invovled Diarmuid Connolly, Paddy Quinn and Paddy Andrews as the Dubs led 4-8 to 0-7 at the interval.

Dublin used the second half to introduce a number of subs including newcomers like Shane Carthy, Paul Mannion and Cormac Costello all members of this year’s U21 panel.

hurling: lucan man hoping to make amends in 2013

lucan sarsfields MEMBERSHIP is now due and can be

We are pleased to announce that

lucansarsfields.ie or at the clubhouse

for every club member who books a

bar. There will be a strict no pay no

course in Colaiste Laichtin for July and

play policy in place this year.

August the club will receive €100.

Lucan Sarsfields are delighted to

The Feile committee of 2013 is organ-

announce their forthcoming main

ising a buy a dress fundraiser in the

event fundraiser 12th Lock Fight Night.

clubhouse on February 1, 2013. We need

This is a white collar boxing event,

you to donate your unwanted dresses

where 36 club members, including All-

for the occasion. You can donate your

Ireland winning former Dublin foot-

dress directly to the following people:

baller Paul Casey and former Green TD

Tracey Walsh 087 9735665, Audrey Cof-

Paul Gogarty, will take part in a boxing

fey 087 6538970 or Mary Reynolds 087

extravaganza.

7687376.

Each of the boxers is fighting on

The camogie nursery is at 2.15pm

behalf of a club team(s). The event is

for girls aged six and over. This is your

taking place in a circus-style Big Top

child’s chance to be coached by Dublin

tent on Saturday, March 9 in Lucan

senior hurling captain Johnny McCaf-

Sarsfields.

frey.

Standard seating tickets cost €25.

There are also a limited number of ringside seats available for €30. Tickets are available online through the Lucan

Lucan Sarsfields man Johnny McCaffrey was reappointed as Dublin captain this week

McCaffrey retains Dublin captaincy  sport@gazettegroup.com

JOHNNY McCaffrey, Lucan Sarsfields and Dublin hurler, has been reaffirmed as the captain of the Boys in Blue for 2013, carrying on from last season when he was also selected to lead the county side.

McCaffrey, who captained Anthony Daly’s men to national league division one glory in 2011, spoke earlier in the week with regard to the next championship season, the loss of Tomas Brady to Jim Gavin’s footballers and the momentum need-

ed by his team to gain championship glory.

The Sarsfields man cl a i m e d t h a t t o b e involved with the Dublin panel, hurling must be your main focus and players can’t simply come in and out depending on how the football season pans out.

“You need to be hurling,” McCaffrey said.“If you’re playing both codes, you can keep going with the football but your skill in the hurling would be lacking because you’re missing a week’s hurling training.”

He also claimed that the loss of Brady to the football programme was a surprise to him.

“It was a surprise but I was talking to him the night he made the decision and it’s something he always wanted to do and he said he’d have regrets if he didn’t do it.

“He’d be offered a few times before and said no. He said he mightn’t get a chance again and he would have regretted it if he didn’t get a chance.”

As for the cham pionship, McCaffrey underlined his belief in momentum and the

impact it has on a team when it comes to both league and championship runs.

“I know we had two big losses against Galway and Kilkenny in the league and championship and we sort of never really recovered from them.

“We always seemed to be chasing ourselves the whole time whereas the year before we had momentum and we were very confident in what we were doing. There were a couple of small little factors like that that hopefully we can put right this year.”

Kathleen_roche@eircom.net.

paid online through our website www.

The adult awards night will be held this Saturday, January 26.

Set dancing continues each Wednesday at 8.30pm.

Sarsfields website. We are looking for

The 25-card drive continues every

people to invest in corporate spon-

Friday night in the clubhouse; €5 entry,

sorship on the night; platinum, gold

and first prize is €50. All welcome.

and silver packages available. Con-

This week’s lotto numbers were 1, 3,

tact the following for more informa-

21 and 24. There was no winner. Next

tion: Donal Crowley on 087 9257411 or

week’s jackpot is €11,000. Josephine

crowlsdonal@gmail.com, Ray Barnes

Donohue’s team will be in charge next

on 086 2394616 or ray.barnes@jti.com

Sunday night when our sponsor will be

or Kathleen Roche on 0879639439 or

John Ryan Accountant.

st pat’s palmerstown THE annual club dinner dance and

Lotto: the first draw winning num-

adult presentation night is on Friday,

bers were 6, 12, 16 and 26; there was

February 8 in Louis Fitzgerald Hotel

no winner.

at 7.30pm; €35 per head. Again, tick-

The second draw winning numbers

ets are available from any committee

were 9, 10, 14 and 29; there was no

member or can be reserved on the

winner. Any three numbers wnners:

ticket hotline 086 7255586.

Madeline Slater, Aoife Mullins

The race night will take place in Palm-

The next draw is on Sunday, the first

erstown House on Friday, March 15 at

draw jackpot is €10,000; the second

8.30pm.

draw jackpot of €6,000.

garda/westmanstown PRE-SEASON training continues for

urday from 10am. Sessions are held

the intermediate and junior panels on

indoors in Crunch Fitness, Westman-

Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm and

stown, for the duration of the winter.

Saturday mornings at 9am at West-

Ask for Geraldine Cullotty. For the lat-

manstown.

est information, visit www.westman-

The ladies start pre-season this

stowngaels.ie

week with training on Monday at

Training continues for all juvenile

7.30pm at Westmanstown, the Tyr-

teams. Boys and girls from Clonsilla,

relstown gym at 7pm on Wednesdays

Lucan, Clonee and Blanchardstown

and 9am on Saturday mornings at

from eight- to 16-years-old are wel-

Westmanstown.

come to join. Contact club GPO Dec-

Please note that the ladies are fielding a second team in the forthcom-

lan Jennings for more information at 0858006101.

ing season and new players (Garda

Please note that all juvenile teams

and non-Garda) are very welcome.

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

Contact Julie Kavanagh or Mairead

Dublin GAA to wear gum shields in the

Crowley.

2013 season. The juvenile AGM takes

The Gaels Nursery runs every Sat-

place on Thursday 24 January at 8pm.

GazetteSPORT all of your clondalkin sports coverage from page 27-31

january 24, 2013

centre of attention: Clondalkin fall to Guinness Daly’s Dublin show: Senior hurling manager upas centre partnership prove too hot to handle P30 beat for 2013 campaign P29

The Bluebell United LSL Sunday Senior side has endured mixed form since the turn of the year due to a spate of injuries

Bell tolls for Bandon

The return from injury of some of Bluebell United’s key men gives them a huge boost ahead of their FAI intermediate cup date with the Cork side

 peter carroll

sport@gazettegroup.com

TREVOR Molloy, assistant manager at Bluebell United, believes his side have had the perfect preparation for their upcoming game against Cork’s Bandon in the FAI Intermediate Cup, having seen off fellow Rebels, Douglas Hall, en route to this weekend’s fourth round tie.

“We already know it’s going to be a good, closely contested game,” said Molloy. “We played Douglas Hall two weeks ago and they were a great side that played some fantastic football.

“They were tough and they didn’t let their heads drop throughout the game. It was defi-

nitely one of the toughest games we’ve played this year.”

Although Molloy believes the preparation was adequate, a run of three games that only saw them take three points to add to their Leinster Senior League Premier Division has not helped their league aspirations.

Indeed, the experienced Ieague of Ireland striker has found himself employed at times as a stand-in left-back in some trying circumstances.

“For the last four weeks we have had seven players injured going into every match and have had to play players out of position.

“I know three points out of three games doesn’t sound good but, if you knew the cir-

cumstances we were playing under, it was actually quite good.

“We were missing some key players like Shane Stritch, Peter Darcy, Mark Rooney and Ger Rafter who had to get a steel plate in his arm after breaking it on the pitch.

“We’ll have a lot of the players back in the game and I think that will be a huge bonus.

Shane Stritch, as far as I’m concerned, has everything it takes to be a top player. He’s big, strong and quick and he’s learned to use his head on the pitch and that’s helped his game come on in leaps and bounds,” said Molloy.

With the availability of players not setting up a great start to 2013 for the Bluebell men, their assistant coach believes that the character

of the group will shine through, and with the arrival of former Monaghan United and Longford Town man Tony Griffiths, he believes they can go on to great things in the business end of the season.

“It’s easy for players to smile when things are going well but the real test is how they act when the results haven’t all been going their way. I know our lads have the character to bounce back and, if our past seasons are anything to go by, we could go on a big run that could leave us in a great position by the end of the season.

“Tony is coming in as well and he should really bolster our attack. In my opinion he is the best player in the country at holding up the ball and he’ll make a big difference for us.”