Gazette BLANCH
September 22-28, 2016
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BACK TO SCHOOL: Final shots of your kids and their first day P16-17
THE YEAR OF
Pictures: Peter Hickey
DUBLIN V CORK
THE JACKIE
4PM, SUNDAY
DUB LADIES GEAR SEE UP FOR CROKER SPORT
CINEMA A return to Blair Witch scares 24
‘€7.3m social housing fund not enough to solve crisis’ Money to provide units for homeless people,
Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you
elderly and people with disabilities in Dublin West
IAN BEGLEY A €7.3m Government investment for social housing has been confirmed for Dublin West, but according to one councillor it is merely a
“drop in the ocean”. The funding will provide 33 new housing units across five projects for homeless people, older people and people with disabilities. The Dublin Simon
Community will use €2.7m to build 12 units for homeless people in Ongar, Waterville, Castlecurragh, Blanchardstown. Cllr Lorna Nolan (Ind) told The Gazette that although this funding
is welcomed she feels it is merely a “drop in the ocean given the high number of homeless, older and disabled people living in the area”. Full Story on Page 4
2 BLANCH GAZETTE 22 September 2016
Everyone is oak-kay after bus hits branch tearing part of roof
Over €900 raised for St Francis Hospice
Daniel O’Donnell tests his lung capacity with the
The top deck of a Dublin bus was damaged after
help of Physiotherapist Mark Kiernan and student
crashing into a tree branch
Physiotherapist Ally Barlow
IAN BEGLEY A DUBLIN Bus was badly damaged after it struck a tree branch in Clonsilla, tearing off a large portion of its roof. Significant damage was done to the top deck at the front of a 39A bus during the afternoon of Monday, September 19. The incident occurred at the junct i o n o f Mo u n t v i e w Road and Hartstown Road, close to the location of St Philips Pri-
mary school. Two D u b l i n F i r e Brigade trucks were called to the scene immediately, along with two ambulances as a precaution. A garda spokesperson said there were no injuries in the incident and the damaged bus has now been removed. Council workers have since cleared the debris. A spokesperson from Dublin Bus spokesperson said the company is investigating the incident.
STAFF, patients and members of the public helped the physiotherapy department of Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, celebrate World Physiotherapy Day, raising over €900 to benefit St Francis Hospice. This year’s theme was Adding Life To Years and a variety of information stands, challenges, exercise classes, inpatient Olympics, a staff pedometer challenge and a raffle for St Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown
took place on the day. The support and generosity within the hospital was clearly displayed as over €900 was raised through a raffle. Well-known singer and entertainer Daniel O’Donnell also took some time out of his busy schedule to attempt some of the challenges. The raffle and challenge prize sponsors included: FitBit, Carton House, Castleknock Hotel & Country Club, Anglers Rest, Hole in the Wall and more.
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SYLVIA POWNALL
Janet wows the X Factor judges on Sunday night
DUBLINER Janet Grogan admitted she was “a glutton for punishment” after making it through to X Factor’s Six Chairs Challenge for the second time on Sunday. The 28-year-old from Kingswood in Tallaght came through bootcamp and is one of two Irish acts to take to the stage at Wembley’s SSE Arena this weekend alongside Derry lad Niall Sexton. Janet, a lifeguard at Tallaght Leisure Centre, was axed by Simon Cowell in the dying minutes of the brutal Six Chairs round in 2014. The head judge later admitted: “I should have kept Janet, my mistake” and when she returned to audition at Croke Park earlier this year he told her he’d been praying she would come back. And the brunette belter got another boost from Si on Sunday’s show when he told her: “You’re becoming my new favourite thing.” Janet was one of 48 hopefuls to beat bootcamp out of a field of 121. If she survives the chairs challenge she’ll be mentored by Sharon Osbourne. After the show Janet took to social media and said: “What can I say? I’m a glutton for punishment! 6 chairs round 2!” She also revealed she’d watched the show “sick in bed” but hopefully resting her voice will stand her in good stead. Both she and Sexton will sing in front of a live audience this weekend and their fate lies solely in the hand of her prospective mentors – Sharon and Nicole Scherzinger. If they get to take, and keep, a seat they go on to judges’ houses. X Factor continues this Saturday on TV3.
Janet’s huge Si of relief
SECOND -TIME LUCKY AS COWELL TELLS DUB SHE’S HIS FAVOURITE
The Tallaght beauty is looking good for a spot in the next round
4 BLANCH GAZETTE 22 September 2016
Major €7.3m investment in social housing confirmed A €7.3m Government investment for social housing has been confirmed for Dublin West, but according to one councillor it is merely a “drop in the ocean”. The funding will provide 33 new housing units across five projects for homeless people, older people and people with disabilities. The Dublin Simon Community will use €2.7m to build 12 units for homeless people in Ongar, Waterville, Castlecurragh and Blanchardstown. The Housing Association for Integrated Living will spend €0.4m on three units in Ongar to relocate people with disabilities from a congregated setting. Tuath Housing Association, will use €1.4m on four units in Mulhuddart and Clonsilla for people with disabilities. The Clanmill Housing Association was allocated €0.7m to construct three units in Clonee and Tyrrelstown for homeless people. Lastly, the Circle Voluntary Housing Association, will spend
€2.1m on 11 units in Clonee, Clonsilla, Castleknock and Tyrrelstown for homeless people, people with disabilities and older people. Minister Leo Varadkar said: “This is a very significant investment in social housing in Dublin West and demonstrates the Government’s commitment to resolving the housing crisis. These five organisations provide essential services for homeless people, older people and people with a disability. I really welcome this new funding.” Cllr Lorna Nolan (Ind) told The Gazette that although this funding is welcomed she feels it is merely a “drop in the ocean given the high number of homeless, older and disabled people living in the area”. “These voluntary housing bodies do fantastic work and services they provide for individuals is brilliant,” she said. “Of course I welcome any investment for homeless, older and disabled people, but the need for more social houses in the area greatly outweighs the number of units
being proposed.” Meanwhile, Cllr Paul Donnelly (SF) has called on everyone who is currently on the housing list and who has not yet submitted their housing needs assessment form to immediately contact the council’s housing department. He said: “I raised this issue after several residents contacted me and said that they had not received any communication from the housing department and they were very worried about their current position on the housing list. I am pleased that the council will again make every effort to make contact with everyone who hasn’t yet made contact. According to the current files, about 40% of those registered have not yet returned their assessment forms. “This in reality means that they will be removed from the list and lose all the time they have accrued on the list. This could be catastrophic for some families who may have up to 10 years on the housing list.” For more information, visit www. fingalcoco.ie/housing.
Having a ball at Family Day THESE two local lads look like they were enjoying the Castleknock Hurling and Football Club’s Annual Fun/Open Day which took place in Somerton last weekend. Huge numbers attended the event which featured some great matches, a cake sale, a barbecue, face painting, a Bring and Buy stand and plenty more fun and entertainment. Picture: Niall O’Connell
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GazetteGALLERY
| GLAMOUR AND GLITZ AT COOLMINE COMMUNITY SCHOOL
It’s time to have a ball T
HERE was no shortage of fashion, glamour, glitz and style on show, when the students of Coolmine Community School gathered together for the 2016 annual Debutants Ball, held in the Red Cow Hotel. One hundred and ninety two teenagers meet on the grounds of the school, where four buses
Rachel Hanna and Mark Buckley
Carla Andrucetti and Laurentia Berzan
Denniele Vicente and Clarke Dela Cruz
Gary Austin and Anna Galvin
Mollie Stephens
sdff
awaited them to take them off to a night full of fun and excitement. Music from local band, Dakota, set a happy tone for the night. The 2016 graduation class meet, hugged, exchanged photos and gossip. Some of them had not met each other since the Leaving Certificate Examination,back in June.
Laura Reddy and Daniel Carroll
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INTERVIEW | BRAVE LEE BELIEVES BEING POSITIVE IS KEY PART OF HIS TREATMENT
‘You learn who your true friends are when you’re ill’ IAN BEGLEY A YOUNG man whose world fell to pieces when doctors discovered he had a malignant brain tumour says that keeping a positive attitude is paramount to his treatment. Lee Kelly, 26, from Whitestown in Blanchardstown, woke up several months ago screaming in pain from a headache. He immediately alerted his mother who drove him to nearby Connolly Hospital for tests. Soon after, Lee received the devastating news that he had malignant Glioblastoma multiforme, an aggressive cancer that begins within the brain. Lee recently expressed his personal story on the Humans of Blanchardstown Facebook page, which received
hundreds of comments from well-wishers. Speaking to The Gazette this week, Lee said: “It all started off with a headache, which lasted throughout the week and just wouldn’t go away. “I thought this was very strange, especially since it just came out of the blue. I never Lee Kelly. Picture: Emma Bailey even suffered from migraines an x-ray. When it was brought before. “Then, in the middle of the to the doctor he told me that he night I woke up with a banging discovered a mass on my brain. headache. It was like an elastic From then on I just went blank band around my head – I never – I was in total shock. “I went to Beaumount hospiexperienced such pain. I then had to bang on my mam’s door tal where they got a better look to wake her up and let her know at what it was. It was discovered that I had a malignant brain what was happening. “I knew something wasn’t tumour on my frontal lobes. I right so we went to the hospital have been going through this in the early hours of the morn- intense journey over the past ing for some tests, followed by few months, but only now am I
realising, I have cancer. “The hardest thing has been the mental anguish of it all, I am constantly tired, emotionally drained and struggle to take long journeys, even to the cinema, my greatest escape.” Lee added that the only thing that kept him going through his enormous battle was the love and support of his friends and family, along with the staff at Beaumount Hospital. Angel “I would be lost without my mother, she is an angel, my rock. “The one positive thing about this awful disease, is the way it has brought my family even closer together. “You really learn who your true friends are, when you become ill. I think a lot of people feel awkward about
what I’m going through, afraid to ask me about the illness, or have just dispersed back into the woodwork, but I’m still the same Lee I was, before all of this happened. I am not my cancer. I want people to know that I am strong and that I am ok.” Surgeons have removed 98% of Lee’s tumour and now have to treat the rest with radiation treatment. He added: “I’m finished radiation treatment thankfully for now and now I get a month’s break. I have a checkup appointment coming up to see what the next stage is, but I have a positive outlook. “My one piece of advice to people out there, is to embrace the power of a compliment — a smile can change someone’s day.”
FASTNews
Company to create 40 jobs FORTY new research and development jobs will be created at Mallinckrodt pharmaceutical plant in Blanchardstown following a €10m investment. The R&D facility will bring the overall total of new jobs at the plant to 120 by 2017. Minister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar, who was a keynote speaker at last week’s official announcement, said then: “The Government has worked hard to create the right conditions for cutting edge pharma and biopharma companies to locate in Ireland and the provision of high quality jobs in this new research and development facility is very welcome.”
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DUBLINGazetteGALLERY | BEST SELLING AUTHOR ROSANNA DAVISON
Ellen Weber and Grace O’Sullivan
Rosanna Davison with parents Chris De Burgh and Diane Davison. Pictures: Brian McEvoy
It’s a family affair I
T was a family affair as Rosanna Davison launched her new book with mother Diane Davison and father Chris de Burgh in attendance. The book, Eat Yourself Fit, features over
Erica Bracken
Grace O’Reilly
100 powerful recipes that complement and enhance your fitness routine, a sample diet, exercise plans and tricks to keep you motivated. The event took place in the Rustic Stone in Dublin.
22 September 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 11
LAUNCHES NEW BOOK, EAT YOURSELF FIT, WHICH FEATURES OVER 1000
Rosanna with husband Wesley
Stephanie Morley, Sarah Morley and Hoise O’Huiginn
Emma McEvoy and Edward Smith
Gavin Drummond and Pamela Drummond
Julie Ledwidge and Jennie Coll
Paul Byrom and Dominique Byrom
GAZETTE
12 GAZETTE 22 September 2016
DUBLINBUSINESS
REACH YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE IN DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE TO ADVERTISE IN YOUR LOCAL AREA CALL THE GAZETTE PH.60 10 240
CONFERENCE: MOTIVATIONAL INSIGHTS ON THE WAY
Bedding down for top entrepreneurial tips IAN BEGLEY
BORD Gais Energy will host its second national business conference Courage to Succeed with Joe Schmidt, George Hook and renowned Irish SME owner, Mattress Mick, as speakers at the event. The conference will take place at the Mansion House from 8.30am to 1.30pm on Wednesday, October 5, and will offer a range of stimulating key note addresses, presentations and interactive question and answer sessions. It will open with a motivational presentation from world-class coach, Dave Alred, who will discuss how pressure can be utilised as a tool for success. George Hook will participate in an entrepreneurial panel discussion alongside the chief executive of Tweak.com, Jerry Kennelly, and the chief executive of UrbanVolt, Kevin Maughan. The panellists will draw on their own business experiences to share
Cosying up ahead of the Courage to Success conference – broadcaster George Hook and retailer Mattress Mick, who are speakers at the event. Picture: Paul Nicholls
insights into the courage and risks required on the road to success. Irish SME owner “Mattress Mick” will deliver a 15-minute marketing workshop, which will be followed by an interview with Irish Rugby head coach, Joe Schmidt. Other speakers include lecturer in entrepreneurship at the UCD Quinn School of Business, Dr Orla Byrne, and digital account manager at NewSlang, Caroline Kelly. The managing director of Bord Gais Energy, Dave Kirwan, said: “With
the economy showing signs of improving, businesses are growing. “This growth stimulates competitiveness and means that now, more than ever, businesses need to take risks to succeed. “Risk-taking in business requires great courage, and it is for this reason that we have chosen Courage to Succeed as the theme for this year’s national conference.” Tickets are priced at €150 per person including breakfast, mid-morning refreshments and lunch. See www.bgebusinesshub.ie.
Switching on to power study at ESB GRADUATES from across Dublin have commenced a three-year Graduate Development Programme at ESB. They form part of a cohort of 76 graduates from third-level institutions, spanning fields of engineering, IT, HR, marketing, trading and finance. The Graduate Development Programme is a tailored three-year programme which will see these graduates develop both professionally and personally. It forms part of an ambitious drive by ESB to recruit the brightest talent from third-level institutions. This year’s graduates will be placed across five business units – ESB International, ESB Networks, Generation and Wholesale Markets, Business Ser-
vices Centre and Electric Ireland – in the coming years. Announcing the programme, ESB chief executive Pat O’Doherty said: “As Ireland’s foremost energy company, ESB is committed to offering a rewarding and dynamic career path for exceptional people interested in meeting the challenges of the coming decades. “Our 76 new colleagues will play an important part in building this brighter, more sustainable future. “Working across diverse business units in hands-on roles, I have no doubt that they will enhance our culture of collaboration and teamwork, as ESB seeks to remain at the forefront of energy innovation.”
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ASDFSDAF P27 FOOD P23
STYLE P18-19
DUBLINLIFE Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week
GAZETTE
THE COMMITMENTS P14
PLAYFUL SPENCER WILL STEAL YOUR HEART
Lord Mayor of Dublin, Brendan Carr, and Failte Ireland Head of Dublin, Keelin Fagan, joined a group of children behind the walls of a North Great Georges Street gothic pile to summon the supernatural and launch the programme for Bram Stoker Festival 2016. Photo: Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland
BANK HOLIDAY: BRAM STOKER FESTIVAL FEATURES MANY UNUSUAL EVENTS
Dark adventures in the city
IAN BEGLEY
THIS October Bank Holiday weekend Dublin is set to summon the supernatural as the Bram Stoker Festival presents four days of living stories and four nights of deadly adventures in venues across the city. From October 28 to 31, thrillerseekers will be invited to Glasnevin’s Botanic Gardens for an after-dark experience like no other this year. Step inside the world of Nightmare Plants (Oct 28 and 29, tickets €10), an immersive performance in the Victorian glass house. Join a centuries-old plant-hunter and mysterious purveyor of new and unusual species as he opens his glasshouse for the first time to see the deadliest of Mother Nature’s creations. Game-lovers and fans of some freak-
ish fun can take part in Werewolf (Oct 28 to 31), a high stakes parlour game which tests improv and observational skills. Master-storytellers and creators of unforgettable interactive experiences, Macnas, return to Bram Stoker Festival (Oct 31, Henry St, 6pm, free) to summon spirits and awaken the ghosts with a new parade like no other seen in Dublin. Under cloak of twilight, magic will be released in a stunning crescendo of street art, parade and thundering music on Moore St and Henry St. Other ghoulish adventures taking place over the weekend include Prohibition: the Beautiful and the Damned at IMMA with Film Fatale (Oct 29, Tickets €34 plus booking fee), a night of gothic glamour, strange curiosities, the bewitching and the bizarre at Ireland’s most elegantly decadent Hal-
loween celebration; while Horror Expo in the stunning surroundings of Freemasons Grand Lodge (Oct 30, 2pm-2am, tickets €39.50) will deliver a one-of-a-kind event which promises to please the most ardent of horror fans. The festival extends to Bram Stoker’s homestead of Clontarf where, in St Anne’s Park, Behind The Dark by Loosysmokes (Oct 28 and 29, various times, Tickets €15), a dark and frenetic aerial acrobatics show in the park’s centuries old trees which has previously wowed audiences in Kilkenny and at Dublin Fringe Festival 2015. Families are encouraged to venture out in fancy dress and visit Stokerland (Oct 29 and 30, 11am-4.30pm, free). See St Patrick’s Park like never before as it is transformed into a popup gothic theme park featuring the macabre talents of world-class street
performers, with rides and attractions to ensure a fangtastic time. Previously announced events include Bleedin’ Deadly (Oct 28 to 31, 9pm, Tickets €20) a raucous celebration of a time when the Freak Show dominated in all its shocking glory, in the atmospheric Pillar Room of the Rotunda Hospital, and specially created for Bram Stoker Festival, Dracula Live at the National Concert Hall (Oct 29, 8pm, Tickets €27/€22) sees leading Irish musicians Matthew Nolan and Sean MacErlaine create a deathly new score for Todd Browning’s 1931 classic movie Dracula performed live on the night. Dubliners and visitors to the city are invited to follow the fun using #BiteMeDublin at www.facebook.com/ BramStokerDublin and @bramstokerdub on Twitter and Instagram.
OUR Dog of the Week looking for their #SpecialSomeone* is Spencer, a three-yearold, playful male Pit Bull cross. He adores spending time with his carers in Dogs Trust, but he really wants to find a loving family. Spencer loves being the centre of attention, so he would love to be the only dog in the home. He adores toys, and is very happy to occupy himself playing with them. If you’re looking for an active boy who excels in agility, then Spencer could be your perfect companion! If you think you could be Spencer’s #SpecialSomeone, then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off Exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website, www.dogstrust. ie. You can also find them on Facebook, at www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline, or on Twitter @ DogsTrust_IE.
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DUBLINLIFE
FEATURE
Act now to nominate the city’s best carers PEOPLE across Dublin are being invited to vote for the county’s carers and young carers for the tenth annual Carers of the Year awards. Hosted by Family Carers Ireland, the awards ceremony takes place on November 16 in the Westin Hotel, with RTE broadcasters and patrons Mary Kennedy and Marty Whelan. Catherine Cox, head of communications, Family Carers Ireland, said: “Hosting our tenth Carers of the Year Awards is a special milestone. We want to celebrate family carers and young carers across Dublin and Ireland with these awards.
Catherine Cox (second left), Family Carers Ireland with Sam Norris; Des Coffey and his daughter, Danielle; and Jennifer Carroll and her two children,
Author Roddy Doyle (blue shirt) with the theatre cast of The Commmitments
Alex and Ava. Picture: Mark Stedman
THE COMMITMENTS: QUINTESSENTIALLY DUBLIN TALE IS HEADING HOME FOR 25TH ANNIVERSARY
“We are calling on people across Dublin to nominate these dedicated carers for this year’s awards.” Nomination forms are available from Family Carers Ireland Resource Centres nationwide, or
call the Freephone Careline at 1800 240 724. Nomination forms and further information can also be found at www. familycarers.ie. The closing date for entries is Friday, September 30.
Reliving 1991... the year of the Rabbitte EMMA NOLAN
“IT’S our responsibility to bring it home”. This was the collective outlook of the cast of The Commitment stage ensemble, who chatted to The Gazette on the 25th anniversary of the iconic movie as the production comes home to Dublin after two years on the West End. Some 30 years since The Commitments first burst from the pages of Roddy Doyle’s bestselling novel, the world’s hardest working soul band will be going on a seven-month UK tour. “We really want to take care of the characters,” said Andrew Linne, who plays the part of Jimmy Rabbitte. When asked if they felt added pressure bringing the story home to Dublin, each cast member agreed emphatically with Andrew, who said: “We have a responsibility to the Dublin audience.” He added: “This is the
audience that really cares about the characters, so we have to be truthful to them while also being conscious of first-time viewers.” The cast told The Gazette that they feel their performance of the story “reflects real life”. Amy Penston, who plays Natalie, said: “We’re a group of people coming together for a common cause: to make music and entertain – just like The Commitments.” Amy’s sister, Leah, is playing Imelda, and Christina Tedders, as Bernie, completes the backing trio. Christina said: “I have
loved The Commitments since I was a little girl – my nightly renditions of Mustang Sally were both the joy and bane of my parents’ evenings!” Leah said: “I’m so thrilled to be joining the cast of The Commitments, playing the role of Imelda Quirke, which was originally portrayed in the film by Angeline Ball. I have some pretty big shoes to fill!” Also appearing on the tour, having appeared in the West End production, are Peter Mooney (Derek), Padraig Dooney (Dean), Sam Fordham (Mickah) and John Currivan (Billy).
They will be joined by Rhys Whitfield (James), Alex McMorran (Joey), and Christian James (Outspan) and Kevin Kennedy, of Coronation Street fame. Speaking about his story coming to life on both stage and screen, author Roddy Doyle said: “I wrote the novel – invented the characters – in 1986, and it thrills me to think that they will be entertaining audiences throughout the UK and Ireland in 2016.” The Commitments will run in the Bord Gais Energy Theatre from October 12 to 29, and tickets are on sale now.
The theatre cast raising the roof during their show. Picture: Johan Persson
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GAZETTE
DIARY
Step up and help Crumlin hospital CMRF Crumlin, the principle fundraising body of Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital Crumlin and the National Children’s Research Centre, are inviting everyone to put their best foot forward for Savills’s third annual Dublin’s Got Talent. The talent show fundraiser is expected to attract more than a thousand people to the Ballsbridge Hotel on October 27, with a month of practise time expected to reveal some of the city’s best dancers, all in the hopes of impressing a celebrity judging panel. TV3 Xpose presenter, and CMRF Crumlin ambassador, Karen Koster, is calling on the hospital’s supporters,
would-be dancers, and the people of Dublin to support the event in aid of the children’s hospital. For further information or to register, see www. savills.ie.
RDS CRAFT SHOW IS WOOLLY UNMISSABLE CALLING all craf t enthusiasts – the Knitting & Stitching Show is coming back to the RDS this October. T h e s h ow, w h i c h attracted more than 15,000 people last year, has been running in Ireland for 23 years and is the country’s only textile and craft fair. Over the course of the event, guests will get the opportunity to choose from hundreds of work-
shops, demonstrations and master classes, all led by industry experts, and with more than 200 exhibitors set to take part. Taking place from October 20 to 23, a standard day ticket costs €14.50. Find out more at theknittingandstitchingshow.com/Dublin.
THE BEST OF JAZZ AT THE COBBLESTONE JAZZ singer Violetta Curry is playing for one night only in Dublin this month. A native of Philadelphia, and now living in Barcelona, Violetta’s father, Paul Curry – a much sought-after musical arranger and pianist – shared the same stage with many stellar artists,
including Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan. Violetta will be performing as part of her Honouring My Roots tour in The Cobblestone pub in Smithfield on Thursday, September 29. Appearing with Violetta will be Catalan jazz pianist and arranger Jaume Vilaseca, Dick Thom on bass, and drummer Kevin Brady. The gig starts at 8:30pm, and admission on the door is €10.
EXPLORING THE 1916 RISING’S LEGACY ANU and CoisCeim Dance Theatre are continuing the year’s Rising centenary commemorations with These Rooms. Their show explores the 1916 events through
Meaghan Dunne and Kyle Moloney with TV3 Xpose presenter and CMRF Crumlin ambassador Karen Koster. Picture: Mark Stedman
the eyes of civilians at the moment when the Rising invaded their homes in North King Street. It combines eye witness testimonies from 38
female voices with newly released findings of the Government inquir y which followed. The world premiere takes place at Numbers
85/86, Upper Dorset Street, from September 29 until October 16. For further information, see www.dublintheatrefestival.com.
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DUBLINLIFE
es ahir lik Kalim T n ETNS w o t ls Tyrre uch THIS m
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... They’re Lucan good ne Byr ma Em d an tie Ka Buckley are ready for da Gaelscoil Eiscir Ria
Kian and Ashleigh Kearney are reddy to hea d to Scoil Talbot SN S, Bawno gue Amelia Glenno n brought a frien d to St Mary’s, Blakestown
BACK TO
and Marcus Francis Victor Tuazon very smart k Emmanuel Tuazon loo an Convent nic mi Do to d as they hea ghaire Lao n Primary School, Du
Cody McLoughlin was looking forward to St Vincent’s, Glasnevin
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Christia n Mulliga n is in a playful m ood at Ed ucate Together, Swords
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Thanks to everyone for entering! WE HAD a terrific response to our Back to School photo competition, with lots (and lots) of our
super shots of children going to school.
To see if YOU (or rather, your child) won, check
readers only too happy to share some precious
our Facebook page (Facebook.com/Dublin-
memories of their children, grandchildren, nieces
GazetteNewspapers) today, where you’ll find all of
and nephews on their very first day at school, or
the winners.
their first day back at school after summer. They’re all winners, in our eyes – sadly, we can’t
The prizes include a €150 gift card for Life Style Sports, €50 vouchers for M&S, Penneys and Dealz,
give prizes to everyone, but we’re delighted to
a hamper from Flying Tiger, every kid’s favourite
share some of the many wonderful photos you
variety store, AND a €100 voucher for the Base
sent in, which really made us smile!
– Ireland’s Number 1 entertainment centre. And
We’ve chosen our winners, and we’ll very soon be in touch with the grown-ups who sent in their
don’t forget Life Style sports for your year-round school essentials!
IN ASSOCIATION WITH:
Super sisters Tina an d Emma Zhang settle in to St Catherine’s, Cabra
The Kildee-Doolans troop out ... Siofra, Loreto College, Crumlin Road; Paddy, Central Model Senior School, and Ciaran and Fiach, bot h Central Model Inf ants’ School
lish Lucan girl Holly Eng il is ready for fun at Sco NS e uir Mh
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DUBLINLIFE
The Lash Lounge wins best salon EMMA NOLAN
R AT H FA R N H A M salon, The Lash Lounge, has won best salon 2016 at the Irish Hair and Beauty Awards. The awards, held in the Crowne Plaza on September 4, saw proprietor Alana Miley and her team pick up the awards for Regional Best Salon 2016 and Overall Winner Best Salon 2016. Speaking on the win, Alana said: “To say we are delighted is an understatement – we couldn’t be more chuffed, and have a huge thank-you to say to our loyal clients and friends.” Alana has been in the beauty industry for more than ten years and is a qualified beauty therapist, master lash technician, and one also one of Ireland’s elite trainers for HDBrows.
Try Forever’s new lip pencil EMMA NOLAN
COOL TRENDS RIVER ISLAND
Faux fur lined €201
AT
Shearling collar jacket €113
EMMA NOLAN
Style Editor
DUBLIN makeup brand, Make Up F o r e ve r, on Clarendon Street, have launched their new High Precision Lip Pencil. At €12,99, the range offers 12 natural shades developed by professional make-up artists to contour the lips with high precision.
RIVER ISLAND’S latest collection of coats includes some choice outerwear pieces for men. Focusing on silhouettes and varying textures, the line boasts both slick tailoring and casual luxe. The palette consists of plush shades of plum, burnt orange and deep russet, complimented with earthy tones of stone, olive and sage greens. Statement collars are a reoccurring motif of this collection, with faux fur making a larger than life appearance on parkas, and shearling polonecks and lapels give a Nordic air to the cold-weather essentials. Technical hardware, such as functional patch pockets and chunky metal zips, imbue a note of authenticity while country elegance is touched on with hints of tweed. This all creates a solid, yet somewhat out-there offering for the high street brand men’s customers this coming season.
Shearling neck jacket €95
Smart overcoat €127
Faux fur hooded bomber €100
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A
Dublin does Littlewoods THE streets of Smock Alley provided a colourful backdrop for the launch of Littlewoods Ireland’s autumn/ winter collection, with the bold lines of the collection complemented by the vibrant features and dynamic culture found in the area. Pictures: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland
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STYLE C
A) January wears military Jacket €42; Suedette fringed top €45; Pleated midi skirt €45; Victoria strappy peep-toe boot €52. Thalia wears patchwork blush gillet €81; ruffle sleeve jumper €38; pencil skirt €42, Round toe glitter shoes €35 B) Thalia wears leopard print faux fur coat €100; high neck ruffle front dress €52; Holloway caged heeled sandals
€38. January wears Floral jacquard bomber jacket €57; Metallic pleated skirt €45; Saffron mesh strappy tie sandal €38. C) January wears Longline check shirt €35; leather fringe skirt €150; Victoria strappy peeptoe boot €52. Thalia wears Zig-zag sequin bodycon knitted dress €42; Canvas parka coat €70; Holloway caged heeled sandals €38.
GAZETTE
20 GAZETTE 22 September 2016
TRAVEL TRAVEL DUBLINLIFE Gourmet festival to set the town sizzling KINSALE: TOWN READY TO TRANSFORM INTO PARTY MOOD
Christmas in China can add an extra magical view to many of her already fascinating sights
Head East for Christmas DISCOVER China’s most fascinating historic and cultural sites at Christmas on this exceptional holiday, where you can choose between 4-star from €1,999pp, or a 4-star and 5-star Occasions holiday from €2,199pp – both for 12 nights with a December 22 departure. In Beijing, spend Christmas Eve exploring Tiananmen Square and the Palace Museum, also known as the Forbidden City. Tiananmen Square is one of the largest squares in the world, and has been the site of many historic rallies and protests. It is also home to numerous important buildings and monuments and is separated from the Forbidden City by Tiananmen Gate. Visit Qianmen Street, which is one of the oldest pedestrian streets in China – this ornate
shopping street has a mix of Chinese and Western shops and eateries, the most famous of which is Quanjude Chinese Restaurant, selling more than two million of its trademark Peking Roast Duck meals every year. Enjoy a full day excursion to see the Summer Palace, Beijing Zoo and the Olympic Village, or take a trip to the Lama or Yonghe Temple, which is a monastery of Tibetan Buddhism, and take time for shopping at the Sanlitun Village shopping centre, which is a huge complex of shops and restaurants. Both holiday options include flights, 12 nights’ hotel accommodation, transfers, excursions and taxes and charges, with flights departing December 22. For more information and to book, see www. traveldepartment.ie.
IAN BEGLEY
THE Kinsale Gourmet Festival running from October 7 to 9 marks the 40th anniversary of this ever-popular event, and will be celebrated in high style. The festival is hosted by Kinsale’s ten Good Food Circle restaurants, and promises a weekend of fine food and wine in a fun atmosphere. Each restaurant works flat-out to show off the talent of their chefs, whose beautifully presented food – featuring largely local ingredients sourced from the sea and land – is accompanied by carefully selected wines. The festival starts in style with a Laurent Perrier champagne reception at 6.30pm on Friday, October 7, followed by a celebratory five-course Taste of West Cork blacktie dinner at Acton’s Hotel. The menu will feature locally sourced produce, including seafood
The event promises a weekend of fine food and wine in a fun atmosphere
and shellfish caught off the coast of West Cork; locally reared beef from Kinsale’s craft butchers, and farmhouse cheese from West Cork, accompanied by wines from Christy’s Wines and C&C Gleesons. Saturday’s Musgrave MarketPlace Mad Hat-
ter’s Taste of Kinsale, is an escorted “foodie walking tour”, in a fun atmosphere, as people show off their colourful headgear and fancy dress costumes. The town is transformed into party mood, as brightly dressed participants in amazingly
imaginative hats parade along the streets following Alice, the Mad Hatter, the March Hare and the Dormouse to four venues for a dazzling lunchtime spread of the finest food from Kinsale’s Good Food Circle restaurants. The festival concludes
on Sunday with the fourcourse Fruits de Mer Spectacular – an elegant luncheon with platters of lobster, crab prawns and other delights from the sea. For further information on the festival’s events, see visit www. kinsale.ie.
Holidays with pets gives paws for thought ALMOST a third of holiday-makers base their holiday around how suitable a destination is for their pet, according to a recent study by Visit Scotland. The new report from the national tourism organisation highlights ways businesses can improve their animal instincts, potentially providing a multimillion euro boost to Scotland’s visitor economy. The survey also showed that 72% of dog owners say they would take more holidays in their own country if there were a better attitude towards their canine companions. Further research showed that holidays with pets had an average extra spend of
€148, compared to those without pets. A third of people also said they leave voicemails so their dog doesn’t feel too upset while they’re away. The lucrative pet market has continued to grow in recent years and is now worth more than £4bn in the UK. With an estimated 12 million households owning a pet – including 8.5 million dogs – the economic benefits of expanding pet offerings to domestic visitors could be hugely significant. Working in partnership with recruitment agency Denholm Associates, the national tourism organisation is looking
for a four-legged friend to follow in his or her owner’s footsteps, taking in everything Scotland has to offer – all to be documented on social media. Malcolm Roughead, chief executive of VisitScotland, said: “Scotland is the perfect destination for pet owners, with our beautiful, spacious parks and award-winning beaches providing an excellent environment for furry friends. “Pet tourism has the possibility to be worth millions to Scotland’s visitor economy and this latest paper offers some great tips for businesses on how to ... unlock the potential of this lucrative market.”
22 September 2016 GAZETTE 21
GAZETTE
22 BLANCH GAZETTE 22 September 2016
DUBLINLIFE
FEATURE
EDUCATION: CHOOSING THE RIGHT PATH CAN BE STRESSFUL FOR BOTH PARENTS AND STUDENTS
From 6th year to a career CILIAN MURPHY WITH secondary schools around the capital having reopened this month, tens of thousands of students are slowly but surely getting back into the rhythm of school life. This is often a difficult transition for most following a summer of freedom. For sixth year students in par ticular, knuckling down to regular study is taxing enough without the added burden of worrying about what path they’re going to choose once they leave second level education. This decision can be hugely stressful for students and is quite often
made worse by the good intentions of parents. Naturally, parents want what’s ‘best’ for their children. They want to see them pursue a career which will give them the most amount of security. The hope is that this security will enable their children to save money, buy a car, a nice house, get married and have children. These are the pretty standard hopes and dreams that any parent might have for their child. So, as a result, many parents steer their children towards certain careers in search of this ‘security’. If a student shows a promising aptitude towards accounting in school, they’re often encouraged to choose a
number of accounting courses for their CAO form, for example. Choosing university courses based on academic aptitude in a particular area seems to be the most popular method for students who are deciding what career to pursue once they leave school. The difficulty with focussing solely on academic aptitude is that it ignores the student’s personality and suitability for a particular career role. For example, just because you show an aptitude with accounting does not necessarily mean that you are suited to working as an accountant. According to a 2013
study conducted by Eurostat, the EU’s statistical office, under 30% of Irish workers have a high level of satisfaction with their jobs. So somewhere along the line, the process of choosing a career is not working out for over 70% of workers in this country. Parents can play a key role in a number of ways to ensure that their child has the best possible chance of success when choosing a career path. Firstly, students should be encouraged to speak with as many people as possible who have experience working in a particular area of interest. If a student thinks they might like to be a teacher, it is vital that they speak
Parents and students share the educational journey. However, while parents naturally may wish to ‘steer’ the student towards certain sectors, it’s important they work together for what is truly best for the student.
to a number of teachers to get a flavour for what it’s like to work in that sector. It can also be hugely beneficial for a student to spend a day or more obser ving someone working in their area of interest, if it can be organised.
There are also a number of diagnostic career questionnaires online which take into account the student’s personality when suggesting what careers might be suitable for them to pursue. Cilian Murphy is a
Career and Life Coach
specialising in career guidance and career change. For more information visit www.timetoshine.ie or phone 0874626072.
Next week:
Savvy college student saving tips.
GAZETTE
22 September 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 23
FOOD&DRINK DUBLINLIFE Indulge without the guilt
Beetroot and Orange Salad Fed up with boring salads? Try this idea to add a little colour with your main meal, Beetroot and Orange Salad with Avonmore Sour Cream and onions.
Abra Chicken Club Burger
Ingredients l 170ml (6fl. Oz) Avonmore Sour Cream l 250g packet of pre-cooked beetroot with no added vinegar l Segments taken from two oranges l Greens of two scallions, sliced finely l 1 small or ½ large red onion, sliced finely l 1 small or ½ large white onion, sliced finely Preparation Method Arrange all ingredients on a salad plate, drizzle with Avonmore Sour Cream and enjoy.
Abra sweet potato fries
IRISH fit-fam members can now indulge in a late night Abrakebabra without the guilt. Sweet Potato Fries are the latest addition to a growing menu of great new dishes from Abrakebabra, which includes the tasty new Abra Chicken Club Burger.
T he Loaded Fries range continues to recruit new Abra followers. Diners can choose from the Katsu Fries and Aussie Fries or the CBG Fries, Pulled Pork Fries, or Original Taco Fries. The new menu is even getting a lot of attention among celebrity din-
ers. Naomi Campbell and Colin Farrell both recently talked about their love for Abrakebabra. While other long-time fans include Jimmy Carr and Cheryl Fernandez-Versini. In fact, Cheryl cites the Abrakebabra Doner Kebab as the tastiest she has ever eaten.
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24 BLANCH GAZETTE 22 September 2016
DUBLINLIFE
CINEMA
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Lane (Wes Robinson) and Talia (Valorie Curry) take an ill-advised trip into the woods in search of the truth behind the infamous Blair Witch
BLAIR WITCH: AN ADRENALINE SHOT IN THE ARM OF FOUND-FOOTAGE FILMS
Horror sequel branches out and gets you jumping GIVEN the talent behind Blair Witch (Cert 16, 89 mins), it occasionally feels like somewhat of a missed opportunity. There’s a solid horror film here; unfortunately, it alltoo-often tends to favour jump scares over genuine tension. Despite this, Adam Wingard’s direct sequel to the horror classic that launched an army of imitators is a much-needed adrenaline shot in the arm of the dying foundfootage genre. Set 22 years after the original, Blair Witch is told from the perspectives of four college students, led by Lisa (Callie Hernandez), a film student, and James (James Allan McCune), whose sister, Heather, went missing during the events of The Blair Witch Project. They journey into the Black Hills of Maryland
MARTIN MACNAMARA
to investigate her disappearance; Lisa captures everything via an arsenal of video-recording equipment. Naturally, strange and supernatural occurrences abound as the group ventures deeper into the woods ... Director Wingard has offered up two fantastic pieces of genre cinema in the past few years. 2011’s You’re Next, and 2014’s The Guest established him as a force to be reckoned with in modern horror. Written by frequent collaborator Simon Barrett, Blair Witch exhibits much of Wingard’s com-
mended flair for thrilling, distressing and expertlypaced genre filmmaking. Indeed, the film’s first act does a great job of building tension. Some early exposition expands the haunting back story of the Blair Witch legend, and the anticipation felt as the group first enters the woods is disturbingly effective. We know exactly what to expect as the first night falls, yet the thrill is no less chilling – a familiar trope worn threadbare by the Paranormal Activity series is given a new lease of life here. Unfortunately, when supernatural forces lead to a darkness that doesn’t seem to end, the night gets tiresome. Much of the excitement of the original lay in the day/night cycle, where the chilling events of the previous night would be discovered and
picked apart the following morning. Without day, there is less potential for tensionbuilding; the night is somewhat stripped of its power to scare. Each character here is equipped with their own earpiece-camera. This is a nice touch and allows Wingard to get around a problem that has plagued every found footage horror – the characters now have an excuse to keep the cameras rolling. However, the multiple perspectives deny complete absorption in the found footage experience. An inexplicably empty tent in the light of morning is scarier than a nearindecipherable point-ofview shot of someone being dragged through the woods in the dark of night. The original film’s low
budget meant that much was left to the imagination – this certainly isn’t the case here, and unfortunately this works to the film’s detriment. It’s hard not to compare Blair Witch’s flaws to the triumphs of the original. On its own, this is a solid, often genuinely scary horror film, particularly so in the taut beginnings of its first act and the nail-biting tensions of its final sequence. Unfortunately, Blair Witch is let down by some middle-act missteps, and a reliance on a relentless stream of jumpscares, almost to the point of parody. Regardless, Wingard knows how to make a horror movie, and there’s plenty here that will leave you feeling uneasy after the credits roll.
Verdict: 7/10
22 September 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 25
26 BLANCH GAZETTE 22 September 2016
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GAZETTE
28 BLANCH GAZETTE 22 September 2016
SPORT
FastSport MORRIS FORCED TO RETIRE AT 28: FORMER Blackrock College man Niall Morris has been forced to retire from Leinster rugby due to injury. The 28-year-old had played in two of the Bank of Ireland Pre-Season friendlies but didn’t feature in the third game against Bath nor in the first two rounds of the Guinness PRO12. Commenting on the announcement Morris said, “Unfortunately my ankle, which I fractured and dislocated in an incident against Bath in May 2015 and have rehabbed for 15 months, wasn’t right after the Gloucester game, so I decided to seek further opinion and in the end I’ve been left with no choice but to retire. “I’m disappointed that my rugby career has come to an end, having completed a degree at UCD and recently passed FCA Level 1, I feel I am well positioned to make what is a difficult transition and I am excited about what lies ahead.”
RUGBY: KEOGH KICKS REIGNING CHAMPIONS TO VICTORY IN SEASON OPENER
Clontarf Bowl over Students ULSTER BANK LEAGUE 1A sport@dublingazette.com
FULL-back Rob Keogh came to reigning champions Clontarf’s rescue as his late penalty saw them edge past UCD 22-20 at the Belfield Bowl on the opening day of the Ulster Bank League Division 1A. This was a repeat of last season’s 1A semifinal and a league debut for new UCD head coach Andy Skehan, who gave starts to Ireland Sevens international Harry McNulty and Ireland Under-20 captain James Ryan, newly signed from Lansdowne. Clontarf wasted little time in hitting the front. Winger Rob McGrath turned a loose ball at half-
way into a superbly-taken opportunist try, and five points soon followed from Keogh’s reliable right boot. However, UCD found their rhythm entering the second quarter, winger Cillian Burke slotting a penalty and then converting Stephen Murphy’s try which saw the centre open up a gap with a clever dummy. That made it 10-all for half-time, and it was titfor-tat in the early part of the second half. A scrum penalty saw Keogh add to his tally before a break from McNulty teed up a response from Burke. The momentum was with the students after Ireland U-20 flanker Greg Jones finished off a wellexecuted lineout maul,
with Burke continuing his excellent form with the boot for 20-13. But Tarf showed their winning mentality in a nail-biting conclusion. Two more penalties from Keogh, either side of a yellow card for UCD prop Liam Hyland, made it a one-point game with 10 minutes remaining. Both Burke and Keogh were off target in windy conditions before the latter made no mistake with a final place-kick to land the points Elsewhere, Old Belvedere squeezed past Young Munster at the end of an enthralling contest at Greenfields, with former Cookies starWillie Staunton kicking 16 points in this 36-35 triumph. Staunton’s handsome
Clontarf set a move in motion. Picture: Deryck Vincent
kicking contribution – two conversions, two penalties and two drop goals – proved vital for Belvedere as they leaked a last ditch try to Young Munster’s new flanker Dan Walsh. The touchline conversion was missed and the Dubliners hung won. Two quick-fire tries from talismanic full-back Daniel Riordan – one of them a lung-busting intercept effort – had Belvo leading 15-13 at the interval. Recent Ireland Under20 cap Walsh grabbed an early debut try for the
Cookies, but Riordan sparked his side into life with scores after 9 and 11 minutes. Munsters were unable to convert their lion’s share of possession into points, although full-back Paul Downes’ late penalty cancelled out Staunton’s 38th-minute kick to keep the two-point deficit. It was drama all the way in a rip-roaring second half, with the Cookies, including Munster back rower Robin Copeland, clearly determined to succeed in new head coach Gearoid Prendergast’s first league game in
charge. Twice the Limerick men breathlessly snatched the lead from ‘Belvo’s grasp thanks to tries from blindsideDarren Ryan and scrum half Rob Guerin. Downes converted both and also nudged over a penalty for a 30-26 turnaround. Staunton’s boot negated the damage for ‘Belvo and with time almost up, winger Shane McDonaldclinically cut through to complete his second half brace. Walsh’s lastgasp effort ensured that both sides finished with try-scoring bonus points.
Lawrie and Luttrellstown a perfect golfing pairing sport@dublingazette.com
Peter Lawrie is the new Lutterllstown Director of Golf.
LUTTRELLSTOWN Castle have appointed Peter Lawrie as their new Director of Golf following his retirement from professional golf. Lawrie stepped from the pro game which he has been part of since 1997. He was on the PGA European Tour since 2003 and has played in over 400 events but is now starting a new chapter in his career at Luttrellstown Castle Resort following his passion for golf and the golf industry. Lawrie will continue to play
on the Tour until the end of the year and remain on the Player’s Committee. Speaking about the move, he said: “I have enjoyed my years on the tour and have made many great friends and contacts. I hope to build on my relationships to promote Luttrellstown Castle Resort as the top class venue it is in Ireland. “I am very excited by this new role. I know the course well and look forward very much to working with the team.” Born in Dublin and educated at Terenure College, he had a
series of career highlights including winning the Spanish Open in 2008 while he had three runnersup spots to his name – runner-up by way of a playoff at the 2003 Spanish Open, the KLM Open in 2010 and the Czech Masters in 2012. Indeed, he was awarded Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the year on the European Tour in 2003; the only man in Ireland to date to win this prestigious award. He comes with a flowing endorsement from Ryder Cup winning captain Paul McGinley who said of Lawrie: “Peter brings
great energy, enthusiasm and professionalism with him and is always a great ambassador for golf in Ireland and internationally.” Colm Hannon, Chief Executive of Adare Manor and Luttrellstown Castle Resort, meanwhile, added: “Peter has also worked closely with the European Tour on a range of initiatives, including coaching programmes and developing relationships with new promoters for the sport. Peter was also elected onto the Player’s Committee, which is responsible for creating and updating rules.”
22 September 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 29
GAZETTE
Returning Olympians add to hockey line-up
FASTSport
Mitch Darling and Shane O’Donoghue have rejoined their hometown clubs ahead of the second edition of the EYHL as the sport looks to capitalise on appearance on biggest stage EY HOCKEY LEAGUE sport@dublingazette.com
FOLLOWING a first Olympic summer for hockey in over a century, Dublin’s hockey clubs are hoping the return of a number of Rio stars to domestic competition will help give the sport a further boost. To this end, the EY Hockey League returns with a bang, a doubleweekend of action for both the men and the women’s national competitions returning for a second edition on an AllIreland basis. Mitch Darling and Shane O’Donoghue add to the attractions, returning from Rotterdam and Antwerp, respectively, to play for their hometown clubs Three Rock Rovers and Glenanne – two of six clubs from the capital in the men’s division.
For both Dublin clubs, they will hope the new arrivals can provide the impetus to push them toward the playoffs. For Rovers, they were in the top four for the majority of the last campaign in a season when many anticipated they would struggle following some high profile departures. With a young panel, they struggled in front of goal but will hope that Darling’s arrival along with Clontarf’s Kevin Mullins – who became the first player in the north Dublin club’s history to score over 30 times in a season – will add to their firepower along with Shane Madeley. They start off with a pair of games on the road, travelling to Banbridge on Saturday before facing UCD on Sunday. For Glenanne, O’Donoghue can pro-
vide a similar boon. The Tallaght side will miss the scoring prowess of South African Shannon Boucher but the returnee is a more than adequate replacement having scored at over a goal every two games on the international stage including three goals at the Olympics. They will hope Leo Micklem can step into the goalkeeping pads vacated by Polish star Lukasz Domachowski who has returned home after a couple of seasons in St Mark’s. The arrival of Richard Couse is another boost from Avoca. The Glens were fifth in the league last season but will hope to move up a rank this term. They start with key games against Dublin rivals Railway Union on Saturday before meeting Ban-
Mitch Darling is one of a number of returning Olympians. Picture: Adrian Boehm
bridge on Sunday. Railway, for their part, have added 10 players to their wider squad with Peter Catchpole from Cork and Australian Kieran Springett the key new players while James Dick has moved back to Tasmania. Promoted UCD have a tough ask on their hands to avoid the relegation
rugby with UCD. As such, they will have a battle on their hands to return to the top four with only Maurice Elliott coming in on the plus side. On the women’s side, the Hermes-Monkstown amalgamation is the clear favourite for the title. In the Hermes guise, the Booterstown swept all
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‘Olympians Mitch Darling and Shane O’Donoghue add to the star attractions to play for their hometown clubs’
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places but have retained the services of James Duncan and added YMCA duo Aaron Bailey and Ben Campbell. Monkstown and Pembroke – playoff finishers last season – have both seen a number of departures during the summer. For the former, second place in the regular season, Olympian Peter Caruth has taken up a coaching role with Annadale in Ulster while Jonny Bruton moves to Corinthian in the Leinster league. They have, however, drawn players in from Pembroke with brothers Karl and Jason Lynch moving down the N11 to Rathdow n. Pembroke have also suffered the retirement of Adam Pritchard, Scott Sullivan’s move to the US while Nick Burns has changed codes, playing
before them to win the inaugural EYHL title. A couple of internationals have moved on like Naomi Carroll to Cork Harlequins but the triangle of Anna O’Flanagan, Chloe Watkins and Nikki Evans remain in effect. They can give promoted Belfast Harlequins and last year’s strugglers Ards tough baptisms to the new season. Loreto, the other promoted side, have strengthened by hoovering up a number of young players from nearby clubs to add to a panel with a quartet of senior internationals but have lost Lena Tice to UCD who they meet on Sunday on what could be a key game despite this early stage of the season. The Beaufort outfit begin with an opening tie against Cork Harlequins on Saturday.
St Pat’s in the game to retain EA Sports title ST PATRICK’S Athletic retained the EA SPORTS Cup in an exciting final against First Division side Limerick at Markets Field, winning out 4-1. The Shannonsiders went into the half-time break ahead through Lee Lynch but secondhalf goals from Christy Fagan, Conon Byrne, Jamie McGrath and Graham Kelly sealed the win for Pat’s. The home side dominated much of the first 45 minutes but should have gone behind but for the heroics of Freddy Hall. Byrne found space 25 yards out and his fierce effort was tipped over the bar before Hall somehow denied Fagan’s flicked header from the resulting corner in the 14th minute. Four minutes later, Markets Field erupted as Lynch blasted home from the edge of the area to leave Conor O’Malley with no chance to cue wild scenes from the huge home support. Billy Dennehy hit the post with a header five minutes later as Pats pushed their Premier Division advantage home in the second-half. Dennehy was involved when he crossed for Fagan to tap home at the back post to level the tie and the away side were soon ahead. Man of the Match Byrne found the net with six minutes remaining and the EA SPORTS Cup was won three minutes from time as Jamie McGrath lifted the ball over Hall to seal the win. With Limerick pressed forward, Kelly ran the length of the pitch to put the ball into an open net as Pats lift the trophy for consecutive seasons. St Patrick’s Athletic manager Liam Buckley said: “It was a fantastic final and a great occasion. We’re delighted to come out on top of course, it was a difficult game. “In the first-half, they really pressed us back and I think we were taken by surprise. However, after the break, the players performed brilliantly and got the goals our play deserved. “It’s great that Limerick will be back in the Premier Division next season as it’s a great facility down here and we’ve really been looked after since we came down.”
GAZETTE
30 BLANCH GAZETTE 22 September 2016
SPORT
FASTSport
PARALYMPICS: NAC DUO MAKE WAVES IN BRAZILIAN SWIMMING POOL
Corduff Under-14 side’s composed Baldoyle win CORDUFF’S NDSL Under-14 A2 produced a much improved performance to beat Baldoyle Utd 2-0. They took the lead with only a couple of minutes gone when Luke Leonard converted a cross from Fortune Igibor from close range. A second followed before half time when Jake Brennan scored at the back post from another dangerous cross from the left. The second half continued as the first with more Corduff attacks although Baldoyle created a few chances of their own their would be no change to the score. Managers Mark Byrne and John Leonard said they where pleased with their teams performance, saying “the hard woork they do in training always pays off come match days”. The side are proudly sponsored by Gulios in Mulhuddart.
Mochta’s ease past Ballyfermot ST MOCHTA’S eased into the second round of the FAI Intermediate cup with a 3-0 win over Ballyfermot United last Sunday. David Somers opened the scoring on the half hour mark pouncing to slot home after the Ballyfermot
goalkeeper made a good save. Marc Hughes made it 2-0 on 42 minutes with a brilliant strike into the corner of the net from the edge of the penalty area. Luke Kelly scored his first goal for the Saints with a powerful volley on 86 minutes. Lee Dixon’s dangerous cross was cleared to Kelly who fired home the third.
James Scully, left, and Ailbhe Kelly, right, produced a series of fine performances in Rio. Pictures: Diarmuid Greene/Sportsfile
Scully hails best moment sport@dublingazette.com
JAMES Scully smashed his personal best times in three different events as he reached two finals in a successful Paralympics in Rio. T h e 2 3 - y e a r- o l d , who swims out of the National Aquatic Centre in Blanchardstown, finished seventh in the S5 100m freestyle final as he shaved almost a second of his heat time to come home in 1.20.18. It came on the back of a personal best time of 37.38s in his 50m freestyle heat to finish sixth, and another sixth place finish in the S5
200m freestyle final in 2.52.45. He spent most of the latter race tussling for the positions of fifth to eight, as local hero Daniel Dias stormed home to deliver the win the crowd craved. Scully had set a season’s best time in a third placed finish in his heat to reach the final and shaved a further two and a half seconds off that. Turning at the halfway mark of the final in seventh position, he produced a strong finish. However, it was the time he was chasing and setting another new personal best left
him delighted. “It’s just amazing [to set] a personal best. To finish with a lifetime performance is just brilliant.
Embraced “I have won medals at Europeans and I really embraced those moments but, to get here, get a personal best and get a top eight in the world is the best. This is the best moment in my career so far.” Scully also praised the deafening noise coming from the 10,000 s t r o n g c r owd , a n d thanked all his supporters back home. “This atmosphere has
never happened before in my categor y and to have a race that’s so fast, I’m absolutely thrilled. “All the people back home, every single person who has supported me along the way thank you so much and I’m here representing the whole island of Ireland and having those millions of people behind me that’s what drives me. “This is a moment I’m going to remember for the rest of my life, it’s so brilliant to be here and have the opportunity to be here. I’m over the moon.” Scully also competed
in the 50m freestyle where he also set a personal best of 37.38s to finished sixth in his heat and 10th overall, while he will be back in action on Saturday in his heat of the 100m freestyle. Scully’s teammate and Castleknock native Ailbhe Kelly had a sixth place finish in her heat of the S8 100m backstroke and 15th overall in the S8 100m freestyle. However, experience was always the name of the game for Kelly at her first Paralympic Games and ever stronger performances are anticipated in the future.
22 September 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 31
GAZETTE
LADIES FOOTBALL: BRIGID’S STAR WITH SENIOR TARGET
CLUB NOTICEBOARD ST BRIGID’S BEST of luck to our senior hurlers in
week’s draw. Our next draw is on Sep-
the championship this week. St Brig-
tember 22 in The Roselawn Inn. Many
id’s play St Jude’s in Parnell Park on
thanks to everyone who supports our
Wednesday evening.
club lotto and to our great lotto com-
Best of luck to captain Noelle Healy,
The St Brigid’s nursery runs every
Barrett, Sorcha Furlong and the Dub-
Saturday in Russell Park from 9.30am
lin ladies football team in the All-Ire-
to 11am. We welcome all four- to sev-
land final this Sunday. Tickets are still
en-year-olds in the Castleknock and
available to buy online.
Blanchardstown area and new mem-
Well done to Paddy Andrews on a
bers and families are always welcome.
great performance in the All-Ireland
For further information and queries,
final. Ticket information for the replay
contact David on 085 8340169.
will be posted on the club website in the coming days. St Brigid’s Deirdre Murphy in action against Westmeath in the Leinster final. Picture: Peter Hickey/GAApics.com
Murphy’s sweet sixteen ambition
ALL-IRELAND FINAL
JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com
AHEAD of the ladies’AllIreland final next Sunday, full back Deirdre Murphy’s motivation will be firing, but it’s long been burning away. As captain of the Dublin under-16 side that took home their All-Ireland title in 2010, Murphy paraded the trophy around the Croke Park pitch with her team before watching the senior side win their first – and so far only – AllIreland title. “I remember watching Denise Masterson lift the trophy and thinking ‘that’s going to be my one day’” Murphy said. Four years later, the St Brigid’s was to reach the seniors, starting on the bench as Cork overturned a ten-point Dublin lead in a heart-breaking final for the Dubs in 2014. The following year, with Dublin pipped again, she returned from her J1 in Chicago just in time for the “surreal” experience of watching
another loss from the stands. This year, she has established herself at the heart of the side and is raring to go. “Training is tough,” she admits. “But there are several players from that Under-16 side still around me. I don’t think I’d have made it to where I am today if I didn’t have friends from St Brigid’s and from the age-group teams around me. “Leah Caffrey, Siobhan Woods and Ciara Trant have moved up with me to the senior squad. When you’re out there pushing through the harder moments of training you need your friends. It makes all the difference. “I’ve been around Dublin development squads since the Under11s,” she adds. “I think they’re really important as they give lots of players a chance. It can be hard to be seen, and it also gives the players a feel for what’s there for them, the professionalism really is there. “The senior managers always showed an inter-
est in the development squads. It’s very much Team Dublin. It needs to be that kind of stepping stone.” Murphy is optimistic that it will come together this year after the Dublin panel’s defeats to the same Cork side they play on Sunday over the last three years with the game looking tighter and more difficult to call than ever before. “This year, we’re mentally tougher,” she says. “We’ve had our backs against the wall throughout the championship. The last two rounds against Mayo and Donegal have come down to the tiniest of margins, and we’ve come through.
I think we’ve shown great character. “T here’s so much pride pulling on that jersey. Going to Croke Park is like going to the Colosseum. It’s electric. It feels like people are really starting to notice how good the women’s game is. They’re starting to tune in a little bit earlier in the season, and to understand that we put in the same commitment as the men.” Should Dublin overcome their nemesis, Murphy’s progressive cycle from under-16 to senior star will be complete. Like 2010, it would involve ending five year’s of rebel county domination.
mittee.
Ciara Trant, Deirdre Murphy, Colleen
St Brigids / Spleodar Irish Club for teenagers runs every Thursday in the
Our lotto jackpot remains at €15,000
Club Hall from 7pm – 9pm. Open to all
with the reserve now also at €15,000.
but Irish must be spoken at all times.
There was no jackpot winner in last
Cost: €3 per week.
CASTLEKNOCK FANTASTIC family fun day in Somerton
final. Don’t forget to “decorate for the
Park on Saturday which attracted
Dubs” so get you flags and bunting out
huge crowds from the wide local com-
to show support for our Ciaran and
munity.
the Dubs for the replay. Great wins
Great and enjoyable day was had
for our Division 5 and Division 9 foot-
by all and sincere thanks to all who
ballers on Saturday in Somerton. Well
attended and special thanks to all who
done to all.
worked so hard to make the day the great success it was. Many thanks also to all who participated in and supported the Joe Coyle Memorial Walk (sponsored by Complete Office Equipment). Well done to Ciaran and the Dubs on being part of a thrilling All-Ireland
NAOMH PEREGRINE
Our nursery, in association with Tiger Childcare, for four to sevenyear-olds is back in full swing and new members are very welcome. Just come down to Tir na nOg, beside Castleknock Community College, this Saturday at 10am, say hello to one of our friendly coaches.
THE club will be running a bus to the
Well done to the AFL8 footballers
ladies All-Ireland finals (Dublin v Cork)
who had a narrow win away to Na Gaeil
on Sunday, September 25; the bus is €5
Oga. Hard luck to the AFL3 who lost
return.
away to Naomh Fionnbarra. Hard luck
Match tickets are €25 for adults and
to the minor hurlers who were beaten
€5 for kids; contact Aileen Boyd or Jan-
in their championship match away to
ice Enright to book the bus or a match
Rialto Gaels.
ticket.
Congratulations to the senior
Dublin men’s senior footballers
camogie team on reaching the shield
drew against Mayo in the All Ireland
final after beating St Vincent’s. The
Final on Sunday. The replay takes
U-15 girls had a good win away to
place on Saturday, October 1 at 5pm;
Lucan Sarsfields in the camogie cham-
details will follow regarding the clubs
pionship. Well done to the U-13 girls
ticket allocation.
who had a big camogie win.
ERIN GO BRAGH OUR golf classic is this Friday, September 30. Call Finbarr for more on 086 3837411.
Deirdre Murphy celebrating success in 2010. Picture: Peter Hickey/GAAPics.com
their championship game v O’Toole’s. Hard luck to our minor ladies football team in their championship game
Well done to all our underage teams
v Cuala. Our adult camogie team is
in action over the weekend. Well done
looking for coaches; contact Jason on
to our U-12 footballers. Hard luck to
086 3541146. Adult camogie continues
our U-13 hurlers.
every Monday and Wednesday.
Well done to Ciara Maher who was
Hard luck to our footballers in their
part of the Dublin U-12 football team
league game against St Brigid’s. Our
who took part in a blitz. Well done to
hurlers play Thomas Davis on Sunday
our U-14 ladies football team who won
in the league.
GAZETTESPORT ALL OF YOUR BLANCH SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31
SEPTEMBER 22-28, 2016
BULLS ON PARADE: SWEET SIXTEEN: Six years since leading Dublin to RUGBY’S The new Ulster Bank League Under-16 glory, Murphy eyeing senior success P31 season returns with a bang P28
McGee joins elite of Irish Challengers KARL GRAHAM
sport@dublingazette.com
CASTLEKNOCK tennis star James McGee won his first ATP World Tour Challenger title after winning eight matches in a row in Cary, USA. The 29-year-old beat Ernesto Escobedo 1-6, 6-1, 6-4 in last Sunday’s final to put himself back into the top 200 in the world rankings with one of the most impressive runs of his career. McGee was initially due to compete at the Challenger tournament in Nanchang but when his visa was denied by the Chinese government due to the G20 sum-
mit in nearby Hangzhou, he chose to take part in Cary instead. He was required to go through the qualifying stages for the tournament, which involved playing eight games in just eight days. After making it through qualifying with three wins, a first round win booked him a date with Darian King in the second round. He dispatched King easily in what where hot and humid conditions 6-1, 6-3. The quarter-finals awaited in the form of Canadian Brayden Schnur but another two set win by 6-2, 6-4 for McGee was enough to see him through. Game number seven for the
Dubliner was a semi-final showdown with American Dennis Novikov and after losing the first set 3-6, he recovered to take the next two 6-3, 6-3 to reach the final. Speaking to ATPWorldTour. com after his victory, McGee spoke about his delight at landing his maiden Challenger title. “It’s a dream for me to finally get a Challenger title. Last year, I was in the final in two events, in San Luis Potosi and Savannah, and it didn’t quite happen there. In the middle of the year I had surgery on my knee and it was a blow to my confidence. I wasn’t feeling as good as I knew I could be but
in the last few months I’ve been feeling better and playing better. “Coming into this event, I thought I was playing well but I never thought I’d win the whole thing. To win eight matches in a row is amazing.” McGee joins Conor Niland and Louk Sorensen as the only Irish men to have won an ATP Challenger Trophy and, following a 63 place move thanks to his win, now sits at number 194 in the world. “It’s nice to be part of the club (with Niland and Sorensen), to now have said that I won a title. It’s not my biggest goal in tennis, but it’s a step in the right direction.”
Castleknock Tennis Club’s James McGee with his winners’ trophy