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Treasure trove’s sale to create lots of delight

Late gentlemanly collector’s diverse house contents face auction on Saturday

 EMMA NOLAN THE contents of the home of well-know n Dun Laoghaire man John Morrissey are to be auctioned off this weekend.

A passionate collector

of antiques and curios, the late Mr Morrissey lived at 15 Royal Terrace until he passed away in September 2014.

His old home is a treasure trove of all kinds of items – and a place which

three generations of his family have happy memories of.

Auctioneer Damien Matthews told The Gazette that the family are sad to see the house and its contents go, but hope it will be as happy

a home for the new owners as it was for the Morrisseys.

Mr Morrissey was ‘a magpie collector’ with a truly diverse taste in items, and the house contains approximately 1,200 lots in total.

Full Story on Page 8

2 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 20 July 2017

SAFETY | SWIMMERS WARNED AS DANGEROUS JELLYFISH RETURN

FASTNews

 EMMA NOLAN

Wimbledon heckler takes a swing at serving funds

Alarm as Lion’s Mane spotted in our waters SWIMMERS using Dublin beaches and bathing areas have been urged to be cautious as the dangerous Lion’s Mane jellyfish has been spotted.

Warning signs have been erected at lifeguard-patrolled areas as the jellyfish have been spotted there and further into Dublin Bay. The jellyfish has been reported along the Dublin coastline and from Cork up to Donegal, which has resulted in the public being warned to steer clear of several coastal locations.

Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council confirmed that Sandycove beach was checked on Monday, and there were no signs of jellyfish washed up on the beach – however, visitors to all beaches are asked to be vigilant as the jellyfish may still be

The pretty but potentially very dangerous Lion’s Mane jellyfish, now lurking off our shores

out in the bay.

The lifeguards will be on duty from noon until 6pm and will advise all visitors on swimming conditions.

The Lion’s Mane is one of the world’s largest species of jelly-

fish and can grow to be more than two metres wide, with tentacles up to 60 metres in length.

Its sting can produce blisters, irritation, muscular cramp and may even affect respiratory and heart function. Some people

can also suffer from anaphylactic shock after being stung.

Cllr Cormac Devlin (FF) said: “Lion’s Mane jellyfish have particularly long hair-like tentacles which can cause a severe sting to bathers. I would urge swimmers to be cautious while swimming in Seapoint or around the coast.

“As an added precaution, lifeguard warning flags are on red and will remain there until further notice. The lifeguards and council officials are actively keeping a vigilant eye on the coastline, water and bathers.”

Lion’s Mane jellyfish are usually more commonly found along the east coast, but have been known to migrate throughout Irish waters.

In 2014, 17 of the venomous jellyfish were washed up at Sandycove and removed by the council.

WIMBLEDON’S most famous heckler (and crowd pleaser, and viral internet sensation) of recent times, Chris Quinn – AKA president of Greystones Lawn Tennis Club – is making the most of his moment in the global spotlight to auction the skirt he slipped into in aid of The Gavin Glynn Foundation.

Chris’s unexpected starring role on the court in front of millions of viewers – courtesy of Kim Clijsters’s white skirt, which he briefly wore in the ladies’ invitation doubles after being picked out from the stand to take a serve after shouting helpful advice – saw images of him flash around the world.

Now, he’s auctioning off the infamous skirt to help the Greystones charity, which supports sick children travelling abroad for treatment. To make a bid, see thegavinglynnfoundation.ie/auction.

Quest to find a Sandyford soldier’s modern relations A GRAVESIDE promise made beside World War One war graves in France has led one man to reach out from Britain to try to find the family of a soldier from Sandyford.t After hard work to track down his grandfather’s grave, Dominic Mullan noticed that a soldier from Sandyford – G. Mason, #3615 of the Sixth Battalion, Royal Irish Regiment – had died on the same day as his grandfather (August 10, 1916) and is buried beside him. Mr Mason was the son of Lawrence and Ellen Mason, and husband to Elizabeth, then of 57 The Cottages, Sandyford.

Dominic would love to let Mr Mason’s modern relatives, if any are still living in Dun LaoghaireRathdown, know where he is buried. He can be contacted at dominicmullan2000@yahoo.co.uk.

Deadline looming for new Chamber business awards

DUN Laoghaire-Rathdown Chamber has confirmed the sponsors of its first County Business Awards for DLR as a county area within Dublin.

Thanking the council, Pat Neill, DLR Chamber president, said: “We are delighted that we have had such success in attracting sponsorship for event.

We are encouraging all businesses in the county to enter.” Businesses are urged to enter for the awards at www.dlrchamber.ie before the closing deadline of this Friday, July 21.

Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Second Floor, Heritage House, Dundrum Office Park, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers

20 July 2017 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 3

HAPPY DAYS

BULMERS LIVE AT LEOPARDSTOWN | WIN WIN WIN BRING THREE PALS TO SEE HAPPY MONDAYS ON US

Shaun and Bez will reel back the years at

Leopardstown next month

HAPPY MONDAYS’ seminal ‘Pills ’n’ Thrills and Bellyaches’ was produced by Paul Oakenfold and Steve Osborne and went platinum in the UK, selling over 350,000 copies.

To WIN, just answer this easy question:

Name the Happy Mondays’ lead singer?

Email your answer along with your contact details to competitions@dublingazette.com, or see our #GazetteGiveaway post on The Gazette’s Facebook page Best of luck!

WE’VE got three sets of four tickets – including a special top prize “Summer Bundle” for four – to see the legendary Happy Mondays, the headline act at this summer’s Bulmers Live at Leopardstown.

You and three pals could be heading to the famous south Dublin track on August 17 for an evening of racing, food, drink, and of course, free entry to see one of the 1990s’ most influential bands.

Not only that, you and your party will each receive a €5 Tote Betting Voucher from the good folk at Leopardstown!

If you don’t win the Summer Bundle top prize, don’t worry – we have two further sets of four tickets so you and three pals can head along to see lead singer Shaun Ryder and co reel back the years – and enjoy an evening’s racing at one of Ireland’s best racetracks.

Previous visitors to Bulmers Live at Leopardstown in 2013, Happy Mondays frontman Shaun says: “I am really looking forward to our shows leading up to Christmas. We’re performing better than ever and I love getting together with the band, blasting out all our great tunes we’ve made together over the decades. It’s gonna be great.”

Each of the four Summer Bundle tickets include:  Admission  Race Programme  Bottle of Bulmers or soft drink  Summer feast meal option  Live concert and racing For more concert info visit www.leopardstown.com

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KILLINEY | GORSE HILL SAGA ENDS AS PROPERTY GOES TO A PRIVATE BUYER

Country’s most famous ‘bog-standard home’ sold – for €9.5M  EMMA NOLAN

GORSE Hill, the lavish Killiney home of solicitor Brian O’Donnell which has been the subject of numerous court hearings and appeals, has been sold for almost €10m.

The O’Donnell family had fought against having the house repossessed in 2015 af ter amassing debts of €71m to Bank of Ireland.

The six-bed house, which is located across the road from Bono’s home, was placed on the market in March with an asking price of €8.5 million through joint selling agents Sherry FitzGerald

and Knight Frank.

Despite speculation that Conor McGregor was interested in the property, it is understood that he did not view the house.

Neighbours of the Vico Road property also include The Edge and Van Morrison.

The O’Donnell family brought a number of court cases and appeals in their attempts to retain ownership of the property, which they bought for IR£1m in 1997.

T he family were backed in their efforts to avoid eviction by the New Irish Land League, whose chairman, Jerry

Beades, told the Tonight With Vincent Browne show that the home was a “bog-standard” house.

As part of a report on the incident, Browne and a cameraman famously climbed over the perimeter of the property.

I n 2 015 , B r i a n O’Donnell stormed into the Bank of Ireland AGM and threw the keys of the house, with a keyring marked ‘The bloody keys’, at Bank of Ireland chief executive Richie Boucher.

In December last year, the family lost their final appeal to prevent the sale of the multi-million home.

For househunters with a bit of spare change knocking about, property site Daft had an extended look around the lavishly refurbished house. Pictures: Daft.ie

FASTNews

Aldi set to open a new store at Frascati centre BLACKROCK is getting a new Aldi as the supermarket giant has announced that it plans to open a new store as part of the expanded Frascati Shopping Centre.

This store will be the newest anchor tenant in the refurbished Frascati Centre, which will almost double in size from 100,000sq ft to 170,000sq ft upon completion, with an additional 23 retail units and space set aside for dining with views of Dublin Bay. Aldi confirmed the new outlet would be one of its new concept stores which feature its latest layout and design.

Aldi group managing director Giles Hurley said: “We are excited to be expanding our Dublin presence at such a fantastic location. We are confident that our presence in the new and improved Frascati Shopping Centre will make Blackrock an even more attractive destination for shoppers.”

Top award for DLR youth group

A well-red group A TEMPORARY seating arrangement drew some long-lasting praise as it was revealed beside the library in the heart of Dun Laoghaire town.

The DLR Red Jetty – a temporary seat that will offer a place for all ages to meet as well as rest – was created with echoes of Dun Laoghaire Pier in mind.

The unique bench is set to be located in a number of parks and

public spaces across Dun LaoghaireRathdown over the summer months.

The geometry of the bench starts as a line and then spirals in on itself to make a forum at its centre, with its design allowing it to be easily disassembled and relocated, as well as set into various configurations to suit its setting each time.

The council’s Architects’ Department

relaxing beside the library designed the bench in collaboration with A2 Architects and Alan Meredith Studio.

Supported by the Parks Department, the seating proved a perfect and popular spot to soak up some rays beside the DLR LexIcon library.

Pictured are Andree Dargan, County Architect, Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC); Andrew Collins, construction; Georgy Daly, A2

Architects; Cllr Cormac Devlin (FF); Peter Carroll, A2 Architects; Alan Meredith, Alan Meredith Studio and Joanne Maher, Architects Department, DLRCC. The DLR Red Jetty will be temporarily moored at a number of landlocked locations around the county over the coming months, so keep an eye out for its distinctive hue in public places.

Picture: Peter Cavanagh

A DUN LaoghaireRathdown youth group has been awarded a top prize at the Irish Cancer Society (ICS) X-HALE Youth Awards 2017.

Members of Dun Laoghaire Community Training Centre scooped an award for Best Impact of Tobacco Message at the ICS awards, with judges singling out the energy and passion in their project, Smokey’s Story.

More than 40 youth and community groups came together to showcase their anti-tobacco films and projects at the awards, which they created to contribute towards establishing Ireland’s first smokefree generation.

20 July 2017 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 5

6 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 20 July 2017

Out and About

Librarian Mairead Owens, Prof Eoin O’Brien, Councillor Tom Murphy and Marian Keyes, senior executive

Tribute to a special stretch of water librarian, Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council

Councillor Tom Murphy, Cathaoirleach of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, launched the exhibition. Pictures: Peter Cavanagh

H

ISTORY buffs headed to dlr LexIcon last week for the launch of the Seapoint, Sea, Sky and Spires exhibition curated by Professor Eoin O’Brien.

“From photos of the past to the many recreational pursuits at Seapoint and not forgetting the majestic Martello Tower, this exhibition captures the unique elements that make Seapoint an idyll without equal,” says Prof O’Brien. The exhibition runs until September 17.

Tina O’Brien, Joanne and Rosemary Byrne

Professor Eoin O’Brien

Paul Moloney and Niall Quinn

Carrie Crowley and Philip Lough

20 July 2017 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 7

Out and About

Stephen and Christine Walsh with Battie White

MJ O’Brien and Geraldine O’Brien

Regular swimmers at Seapoint, Rena Harford, Leo Cullen, Yvonne Jacobson and Rebecca White

Evelyn Healy and Lauri Mahony

Professor O’Brien with Frank Kerins

8 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 20 July 2017

PEOPLE | LATE GENTLEMAN COLLECTOR’S DIVERSE COLLECTION TO BE AUCTIONED

Treasure trove to go on the block this weekend

 NAME NAME

THE contents of the home of late Dun Laoghaire man John Morrissey (right) are to be auctioned off this weekend.

A passionate collector and well-known in the community, Mr Morrissey lived at No 15, Royal Terrace West until he passed away in September 2014.

The house itself has just been sold, but the contents will be auctioned by Matthews Auctioneers in the home on Saturday, July 22, and Sunday, July 23.

Mr Morrissey was ‘a magpie collector’ with a truly diverse taste in items, and the house contains approximately 1,200 lots in total.

John and Breda Morrissey moved into the house with their young family from a smaller home nearby in 1973. Three generations since have happy memories of the family home.

An enthusiastic gardener, Mr Morrissey planted a vine in the rear room of the house in the spring that they moved in and with great care cultivated it into what is has become today – an abundant

source of fruit for the family, and all their neighbours on the terrace.

He was known as a quiet but sociable man who, in his retirement, often left the back garden gate into the rear lane open, in anticipation of neighbours calling by for a chat, or to sample the grapes as they ripened for the annual harvest, in what was known a neighbourhood event.

Auctioneer Damien Matthews told The Gazette that the family are sad to see the house and its contents go, but hope it will be as happy a home for its new owners, and that bidders at this weekend’s auction get as much enjoyment from it as Mr Morrissey did from his collecting.

A catalogue of the contents can be viewed on matthewsauctionrooms.com. Highlights include antique furniture, rare art, sculptures, clocks, silver and even an antique Nordic cast-iron shield (right).

Looking for your next antique cast-iron Nordic shield (est €100150)? Need six solid silver butter knives (est €40-70)? Admiring James Cahill’s signed The Red Jumper (est €1,000-1,500)? These and approximately 1,200 other lots will be auctioned on Saturday.

Time to look happy (sad or angry, too) at a successful world record attempt THERE were happy faces all round with the news that people young and old from across Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown helped to set a new Guinness World Record recently, with the largest gathering of people dressed up as emoji

faces at simultaneous venues around the world. Those dressed up at Dundrum Town Centre as everyone’s favourite emojis – including Happy, Sad and Angry – were joining in the fun at Dubai, Moscow, London and San Paulo,

as thousands dressed up.

The successful attempt was held ahead of the upcoming release of The Emoji Movie, an animated film about the titular characters ahead of its global release on August 4. Picture: Leon Farrell

Headline’s director John Saunders presents Kieva McLaughlin with her journalism award

HEALTH

A Foxrock student had all the write stuff for award A FOXROCK native has won a top mental health award for student journalism. Kieva McLaughlin, a DIT student, won the Headline award for student journalism relating to mental health or suicide prevention.

Kieva won for her radio documentary, Mouthful, which was described by judge Carl O’Brien, education editor for The Irish Times, as: “An in-depth radio documentary which explores the impact of eating disorders and helps demystify many aspects of the illness.”

Student awards judge Carl O’Brien added: “It also blends powerful human interest stories with insights from experts.

‘Powerful’ “Importantly, the documentary highlights pathways to recovery and presents a realistic picture of this journey, with all its ups and downs. A powerful and insightful piece of journalism.”

Headline r uns the award in an effort to raise awareness among media students of the issues involved when reporting on mental health and suicide, and to recognise the good work being produced by students across the country.

As Ireland’s national media monitoring programme, Headline works to promote responsible and accurate coverage of mental health and suiciderelated issues within the Irish media.

20 July 2017 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9

10 GAZETTE 20 July 2017

Out and About 98FM presenter Dara Quilty pictured taking the first slide as Mary MacSweeney, Deputy Head of Economic Development, DCC, looks on.

Pictures: Andres Poveda

Just put your feet up and relax they said ... It will be fun they said ... And it was!

Kassi Cheirogeorgou pictured at the 98FM Big Slide Festival

Idie O’Faolain is having some serious fun

20 July 2017 GAZETTE 11

Next! Ciara Dixon from Dublin and Alice Tector from Greystones

SPLISH

SPLaSH INTO SUMMER T he 98FM Big Slide Festival made a big splash in Dublin over the weekend.

The one-of-kind, inflatable, 260ft slide was a huge draw for revellers of all ages and this year’s festival included more sliding, music, entertainment and food than ever before.

98FM presenter Dara Quilty and Mary MacSweeney, Deputy Head of Economic Development, DCC (top left) were the first brave souls to take on the slide. Kids of all ages quickly followed and got completely drenched in the process.

For those who prefer dry land, there was a free fun zone at the festival open to the public all weekend.

The free family event was brought to Dublin by 98FM together with Dublin City Council.

Lorna Duffy shows no fear as she makes her way down the monster slide Paul Bonass is armed but not very dangerous ...

GAZETTE

12 GAZETTE 20 July 2017

DUBLINBUSINESS

Guinness has a €16M expansion plan in store THE multi-award winning Guinness Storehouse announced details of a €16 million expansion plan which will see the iconic Gravity Bar double in size.

With its spectacular panoramic views over the city, Dublin’s highest bar has proven to be a highlight for the 16.5 million people who have visited since it opened in 2000.

Subject to planning permission, it is hoped that construction will commence in 2018 and will welcome visitors by 2019.

Speaking at the announcement, Paul Carty, managing director, Guinness Storehouse said: “The Guinness Storehouse has become part of Dublin. It is the number one visitor attraction, and is a must-see and must-do experience;

celebrated by the staff, by tourism in Ireland and by the people of Ireland.

“We are now excited to reveal the next chapter of the Guinness Storehouse, the expansion of the Gravity Bar.” The innovative plans announced involve the creation of a new 360 degree space, which will directly link to the original Gravity Bar forming a unique, spectacular, panoramic space, which can hold up to 500 people at any one time, doubling the current capacity.

The good news for visitors is that the Guinness Storehouse and existing Gravity Bar will remain open as normal during the construction period.

In addition to the expanded Gravity Bar, the Guinness Storehouse Hub, a new facilities build-

Tech firm to create 300 jobs GREAT news as it has been announced that customer services support tech company Zendesk is to hire 300 new members of staff as it moves to huge new offices at 55 Charlemont Place.

The company, which currently employs about 200 people in Ireland, also confirmed it has agreed a lease to expand into 55 Charlemont Place next year, taking over 58,000 sq ft of grade A office space in Dublin for its Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) headquarters, which is currently located nearby at One Grand Parade.

Roles available will be across engineering, DevOps, infrastructure, product management, Android/iOS development roles, sales, customer advocacy, finance and legal.

However you make your presentation, remember to have prepared, be organised, and have a clear goal

Stay focused, and your presentation could clinch the job

The iconic Gravity Bar will double in size

ing, directly adjacent to the Guinness Storehouse building is also included in the plans.

This three storey building will provide additional space for the Guinness

Archives one of the world’s most remarkable archives, chronicling the history of Guinness over a long 257 years, along with retail storage and employee hub.

Since first opening its doors to the public in 2000, the Guinness Storehouse has made a significant contribution to Ireland’s tourism sector and economy.

The Digital Hub welcomes ten new companies to its enterprise cluster THE Digital Hub has welcomed ten new creative and tech businesses to its enterprise cluster in 2017.

These latest scaling businesses comprise a mix of international and indigenous based companies.

Included among the new companies are businesses providing services covering animation, film and production, business training, public relations, interactive entertainment and film industry events.

Commenting, Fiach Mac Conghail, chief executive officer at The Digital Hub said: “2017 has been a busy year for The Digital Hub so far, and we are delighted to welcome ten new companies to our campus. Our enterprise community continues to grow and we are particularly thrilled to have a wider mix of creative companies established at the hub that can

support and complement each other. The introduction of ten new companies now brings the current number of companies located at The Digital Hub to ninety-five and employing over 700 people.”

Some of the new companies announcing their move to The Digital Hub include: Gingerbread Animation, a brand new independent and creator-driven animation house specializing in high quality trad-digital 2D animation content for kids.

Planet Korda Pictures, a small but dedicated Irish film and television production company.

The company was established in 2005, focusing primarily on feature-length, creative documentary films with an international appeal.

Kubicle, founded in 2014 with the goal of improving Excel train-

ing in the workplace. Kubicle initially focused its efforts on contextualized, high quality content delivered through an easy-to-use platform.

Wachsman PR, is an international PR agency founded in December 2015 and headquartered in NewYork. Wachsman PR specializes in financial technology with over 40 clients around the globe.

Giraffe Games, is an interactive entertainment company based in Dublin primarily known for establishing very successful sports games for mobile, phones and tablets.

Audi Dublin International Film Festival, is Ireland’s premier film event taking place in February each year. The company has built a formidable reputation for delivering to audiences the very best in Irish and international film talent.

PRESENTATIONS generally come in the second or third round of interviews, depending on the type of job you may be going for.

They are a good way to ascertain whether you are suitable for the role or not.

The good news: if you are asked to make a presentation, you are being seriously considered for the role.

You get a chance to show that you have the energy, knowledge and skills required to do the job.

Make sure to invest some time in preparing your presentation and you will improve your chances of landing your dream job.

Here are some tips that will help you deliver a job-winning opportunity ....

• Identify questions that will be asked about your presentation and have answers ready for them.

• Ensure your presentation is easy for the audience to follow. A good format is to introduce your topic, develop We are available at RecruitmentPlus to discuss your presentation and how you can use the opportunity to make a first-class impression. For further i n fo r m a t i o n , c o n t a c t RecruitmentPlus at 01 2788 610, or also see www.recruitmentplus.ie.

your ideas and end with a summary and conclusions.

• If you are using an application like PowerPoint, don’t get caught up in the elaborate features.

Focus on the content.

• If you are using PowerPoint, you should also bring hard copies of the presentation in case there’s a problem with the projector or some other hitch.

• Resist the temptation to cover everything.

You may be best served by focusing on a few significant facts than many trivial ones. This is a judgement call, but know your audience. While it is important to show that you have broad knowledge in the particular area, stay focused.

• Using process maps can help people visualise your suggestions and may make it easier for them to follow and understand your suggestions. Provide solutions.

• The audience (probably) knows more than you do about the subject matter, so be careful not to lecture.

• Prepare well and enjoy the opportunity!

20 July 2017 GAZETTE 13

TRAVEL P20

DUBLINLIFE Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week

ROXY’S READY TO GIVE YOU SLOBBERY KISSES AND TONNES OF LOVE OUR Dog of the Week looking for their #SpecialSomeone* is Roxy, a stunning, two year old Staffordshire Bull Terrier crossbreed.

Like most Staffies, Roxy just loves people and being around them! She is a very bouncy lady so would be best suited to a home with children aged 16 years of age or older.

Roxy loves treats and is very clever so training classes would be a great way for her to get to know her new family.

If you are an active family with the time and commitment to invest in Roxy, you will be repaid in slobbery kisses and tonnes of love!

If you can be Roxy’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, atfacebook. com/dogstrust irelandonline, or on Twitter @ DogsTrust_IE.

CINEMA P24

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GAZETTE

DIARY P15

CONSERVATION CAMPAIGN CPR saves fish, according to Inland Fisheries Ireland at the launch of a new campaign to highlight angling and the importance of conservation. The hashtag #CPRsavesfish has been placed on a couple of high profile bridges in Dublin to engage Dubliners around the pursuit of conservation focused angling.

“CPR” stands for “Catch, Photo, Release” and refers to a method of angling where a fish is caught and subsequently returned unharmed back into the water. This angling technique is proven to contribute to the maintenance of healthy fish stocks and ensures future generations can continue to enjoy the recreational and economic benefits of the fisheries resource.

Pictured at the launch are Katie McGregor and Matthew Roe with Suzanne Campion, Head of Business Development at Inland Fisheries Ireland.

14 GAZETTE 20 July 2017

GAZETTE

DIARY DUBLINLIFE FEATURE The Spitting Image of success THE STRYPES: NEW ALBUM STRIPS AWAY PAROCHIAL LIFE WITH PUNCHY, POWERFUL TRACKS

 NICK FITZGERALD CAVAN band The Strypes proved they’re ready to tear ‘strypes’ off the competition with their new album Spitting Image, which launched recently at Thomas House in the Liberties.

It’s now been almost two years since Ross Farrelly (lead vocals/harmonica), Josh McClorey (lead guitar/vocals), Pete O’Hanlon (bass guitar/ harmonica) and Evan Walsh (drums) created Little Victories back in 2015.

Producer Ethan Johns has perfectly captured the band’s rawness, honing their talents and showcasing it to the full in Spitting Image, surely the

band’s greatest feat, to date Their highly-anticipated third studio album hooks listeners from the beginning, thanks to its short snappy songs with dark, melancholic and atmospheric narratives The 13-track album opens with Behind Closed Doors, where a riveting drum beat and guitar rift meets the airwaves. The catchy tune emphasises Ross’s powerful and clear vocals that sound well beyond his years.

(I Need A Break From) Holidays speeds up almost instantly and is reminiscent of a classic rock song. It’s punchy with short and repetitive lyrics that hook you in – the tracks are just two highlights of Spitting

Image’s great combination of short, snappy songs with a darker side.

Evan told The Gazette: “It’s a funny thing – the level of notoriety we’ve achieved luckily isn’t enough that people recognise us, or know who we are, but at the same time they do.

“It’s interesting. It’s been great, rising up the ladder of gigs, playing bigger gigs as you go along and crowds getting more into the band and knowing the songs – that’s all fantastic.

“Our home lives haven’t changed at all. We all still live in

Cavan. We all want to get back as much as we can. Basically, whenever we’re not travelling or touring, that’s where we are.”

On the background to Spitting Image, Pete piped up: “It’s very parochial – the thematic content of the lyrics. It’s very much ... because we’ve spent so much time at home, it’s rooted in a home-life sort of thing.

“It’s very simple stuff; it’s stuff that’s partial [to us], but also [stuff] everyone’s gone through in their life – it’s not anything that’s particularly personal to us.

“We like the idea of songs having a story: a beginning, middle and end, like act one, act two, act three, much like bands like Squeeze that

would have a narrative in a story, quite like a third-person observer. There’s a lot of that in it as well.”

On Spitting Image’s sheer energy, Josh said: “I suppose another massive difference this time around was Ethan Johns, who produced the record, being involved. He just brought a very new attitude to recording for all of us.

“He was the first person to really capture the sound of the band live, and that energy, just the way he was able to filter through all of the songs and get the best out of all the songs.

“It was a very different experience than the first two records, and it has definitely benefited this record.”

20 July 2017 GAZETTE 15

WHAT ARE YOUR MOST MEMORABLE GAA MOMENTS? EirGrid, the state-owned company that manages and operates Ireland’s national grid launched the “EirGrid Moments in Time” campaign as part of its timing partnership with the GAA. The campaign will culminate with a club in each province winning a digital clock and scoreboard.

To launch the initiative EirGrid has conducted research amongst 300 GAA supporters to establish some of their best and most memorable GAA moments.

92% of GAA fans said that their first time in Croke Park stood out as a childhood memory, with 57% stating it was their father who brought them.

Dads remain top of the pops when it comes to attending GAA matches as a quarter (25%) of people surveyed said their favourite person to go to a match with was their Dad.

GAA fans who want to take part in the EirGrid Moments in Time competition can enter by posting a picture highlighting a special GAA moment from the championship on their Twitter or Instagram using #EirGridGAA & tagging the specific provincial board. We want to see them all.

For further information please see: www.EirGridgroup.com.

TACKLING MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES WITH CHARITY FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT IRELAND’S top musicians and footballers are joining forces to raise funds for young people’s mental health.

The Coronas and Picture This will compete in a star-studded football tournament that includes a team of Irish celebrities, a team of former League of Ireland players, Ireland’s Homeless Street League team and a team of Boh legends.

Former Celtic star Paul Byrne along with Richie and Dessie Baker will be showing they still have it when they take on TV presenter Brian Ormond and FM104’s Keith Ward with more names to be announced.

The eight-team tournament takes place at the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght on Sunday, August 27 with kick-off at 10am.

Tickets are just €5 with all money raised going to JIGSAW. Tickets can be bought online at www.facebook. com/charity.vinny or on the door.”

SURVIVORS GUIDE COMEDY SHOW FOR VISITORS TO DUBLIN IRELAND A Survivor’s Guide, the fantastic comedy sketch show for visitors to Dublin returns to the International Bar until August 31, Tues to Fri at 1pm.

This 5-star Trip Advisorrated comedy show is bril-

liant lunchtime entertainment.

Their sketches are fast physical and weird.

There’s audience interaction, music and some crazy props. The show is constantly changing and evolving so even if you’ve been once, come back a second time to see what’s new.

Booking at www.irelandasurvivorsguide.com.

ela AveiroOjeda and more.

The event is be free and accessible for all, including trans, neurodivergent, and disabled people.

Organisers, the Trans Live Art Salon are a collective whose aim is to carve a

space for trans and gender nonconforming people to feel safe, work together as a community, and learn from each other.

Tickets for the event are free, find out more at fringefest.com.

TRANS LIVE ART SALON IS CREATING AN INFLATABLE OASIS IN DUBLIN A FULLYAutomated Luxury Gender Oasis is coming to Dublin as part of this year’s Fringe Festival.

The Trans Live Art Salon is curating an inclusive art space in the Temple Bar Gallery and Studios with performances, exhibitions, and queer skill-sharing workshops from September 15 to 19.

What is the Fully Automated Luxury Gender Oasis you ask? Well it’s a “magical, inflatable oasis”

MAGIGAAL moments Tyrone footballer Sean Cavanagh with his daughters Eva, left, age 6, and Clara, age 4, pictured at the launch the ‘EirGrid Moments in Time’ campaign.

with a curated programme of workshops, games, art, talks, and performance by queer, trans and gender non-conforming artists.

Artists include Elll, Squinky, Aitch Giles, Tammy Duplantis, Gabri-

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The Fully Automated Luxury Gender Oasis will feature a curated programme of workshops, games, art, and talks

20 July 2017 GAZETTE 17

DUBLINLIFE

MUSIC

N O S ’ T A H W

 JAMES HENDICOTT

E D I U G S T N E EV with JAMES HENDICOTT

Dublin Maker Festival 2017

A festival aimed at anyone who’s into making things, be it in the form of coding, DIY or arts and crafts. The Merrion Square event will explore a wide range of different creative topics on July 22, with a day long exploration for ‘makers.

The Irish Music Record Fair

Bulk up your record collection with some rare gems, as Filmbase hosts its regular record fair, with a focus on hard-to-find Irish records. The Temple Bar venue opens its doors on July 22.

Bray Air Display

BRAY AIR DISPLAY

Get ready for two days of packed beaches, fairground rides and busy skies as Bray’s big annual event returns for 2017, with parachuting, a Spitfire performance, the Black Knights and the Jordanian air force all in attendance. Arrive early on either July 22, 23- queues can be huge.

Brian Wilson - Pet Sounds

The Beach Boys frontman drops in on Dublin to perform the surf-loving summer act’s best loved album, Pet Sounds. Marking the 50th anniversary of the 1967 release, Wilson’s shows this tour will be the album’s last ‘in full’ outing. July 25.

Vodafone Comedy Festival

The annual comedy meetup returns to Iveagh Gardens over the course of four days, featuring Tommy Tiernan, PJ Gallagher, Al Porter, Joanne McNally, Jason Byrne and Foil, Arms and Hog. July 27, 30.

Dinner with Darwin

Organised by the Stop Climate Chaos campaign and Happenings, Chris Darwin (great grandson of Charles) will be in attendance at a climate event featuring a climate change panel alongside yoga and a screening of Wall-E. The Happy Pear provide the food. July 22.

Grease on the Beach

See the classic summer love story on a huge screen on Bray sea front. The late night movies will be a regular feature throughout the summer, with a free event taking place at the harbour wall every fortnight. This one screens on July 27.

U2 in Croke Park

Ireland’s biggest venue hosts Ireland’s biggest band. Bono and co have long since sold out their return to GAA HQ, with the Joshua Tree anniversary tour featuring support from Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, and (doubtlessly) a long stream of hits. July 22.

New album of the week

Grizzly Bear - Painted Ruins. Gorgeous under-the-radar New York indie band return with their first record in five years, ahead of the opening of their first tour in just as long this October... in Dublin.

A band worth taking the time to explore.

Tony Wright and Dean Stevens AKA The Tragedy of Dr Hannigan

BELFAST musician Tony Wright is a real enigma of the Irish music scene.

Once at the absolute heart of breathtaking instrumental act And So I Watch You From Afar – a swirling tornado of rock so successful they toured arenas alongside Dave Grohl’s Foo Fighters – he quit, picked up his acoustic guitar instead, and currently lives the life of a troubadour, hopping homelessly between friend’s couches, and strumming for a living.

Not that he has any regrets at all: what Tony’s become sits better with him. It’s closer to who he is now, and allows him to step away from the commercial side of music and explore at his own place.

“For all the And So I Watch You From Afar albums, we really had a deadline from the labels to produce the record,” he recalls.

“It was very much a product; a commercial process. That didn’t sit well with me. Now I’m making music when I want to make music. It feels so much more natural.”

What Wright sounds like now is hard to define. He hops between gloriously emotional guitar-pop songs - performed under the moniker VerseChorusVerse (a nod to Nirvana, though largely a sarcastic one) - and fiery collaborations where he seems to absorb a part of the soul of his musical partners.

He spits out delicate and heartwrenching interpretations that wildly differ in style depending on who he’s working with.

Naturally, doing this homeless – and with mental health difficulties he pointedly speaks about publicly in an attempt to end stigma – is not the easiest.

“I’m lucky enough to have a lot of friends who’ll put me up, so I’m not literally on the street,” he says of his situation.

“It’s partly circumstance and partly Tory government that have me here.

But mentally I’m doing well now.

Some days it’s like walking a tightrope, and you have to keep your eyes on the horizon to be sure you don’t fall off, but I’m doing okay, I’m allowing myself space.

“There’s too much bullshit in life and music, and people don’t like to talk about the real stuff,” he adds.

“I’ve been doing this since I was 15, essentially as a professional. That’s how old I was the first time a label approached a band I was in, and you do start to see it. What I do now is a better path for me.

“One of the biggest pop stars in the world is small, ginger and carries just an acoustic guitar,” he adds jokingly.

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16 GAZETTE 20 July 2017

The Wright stuff Tony Wright with collaborator and fellow Belfast musician Dean Stevens

JAMES HENDICOTT TALKS TO BELFAST MUSICIAN TONY WRIGHT - A TRUE ENIGMA OF THE IRISH MUSIC SCENE “Admittedly, that’s probably where my similarities to Ed Sheeran end.”

Wright’s latest project is entitled The Tragedy of Dr Hannigan, a collaboration with another Belfast native called Dean Stevens, with the first single Hey Little Worried One emerging last week.

It’s a charming, scatty folk ditty, a style that’s become something of a theme for latter-day Wright material.

Wright describes the collaboration as “from a place of deep connection”.

He’s known Stevens for over a decade, and describes him as “not prepared to let ‘the scene’ dictate what he is or what he does. He’s really true to himself, and doesn’t fit neatly into any musical niche. It’s great, a lot of my music is about being able to express yourself in any way at all.

“I’m not really singing as me,” Wright explains, defining the style as “twistedly optimistic pop”.

“I go into character. The character is the man who stands behind you

when you look in the mirror, staring over your shoulder and forcing you to doubt yourself. He’s the man who stops you making an important phone call because you don’t know what to say.

“I guess it’s me purging myself, looking at my doubts and saying the stuff I wouldn’t say in everyday conversation.”

There’s another VerseChorusVerse album on the way, too, Wright’s third, and as expected it’s profoundly inventive.

“It’s the best thing I’ve done,” Wright explains, before stopping to apologise for blowing his own trumpet.

“I’m just really happy with it, but I’m also writing a book about my travels across America as a book to release with it. Ideally, I’ll put them out together. It’s kind of memoir ish, but about a very specific time.

“A lot of what I do is very much about my life. I guess I’m a kind of nomad character in my own head,”

Wright explains. “A lot of my songs are stories.”

The book – about a journey involving a record label and a storied journey between several big American cities – is a story for another day, and given his track record, one we’ve little doubt that Wright will produce.

Wright’s music, though, is for right now: he’s a man who gave up a lot to follow his heart, scraping by, but more himself in the process. His heart is in his melody.

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DUBLINLIFE

GLOW UP GET a glowing complexion this summer with the help of good moisturisers, SPFs and of course bronzers and highlighters.

Ditch the foundation and avoid your make-up melting off by making the most of this season’s beauty trends.

Think soft dewy highlighters and gentle bronze tones ...

H& stri M Can slee pe bow dy ve t op € 30

NYX High-def Blush €8

New Look Denim 0 embroidered dress €4

Summer

Catrice Duo highlighter €5.50

fashions fit for a fair city  EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

NYX West Coast lipstick €8

Catrice Golden lip boster €4.50

Zara Sm ock dress €30

NYX Butter gloss lipstick €6.50

Payout Anti-aging face cream SPF30 €20

OKAY – so we’ve reached late July, but we still have more than a month of summer left, and that’s not including a possible Indian summer (please, please, please).

Dublin has that weather where most days at this time of year, it isn’t cold, but it’s certainly not hot.

This can often be a struggle when figuring out what to wear when you get up in the morning.

Whether it’s for the office or a day

off, it seems like that the sdsfdgdhsdgs sensible jumper we brought with us at 8am is just weighing us down at 5pm.

Then there’s the mental anguish of either feeling too naked in your shorts because it was sunny when you left the house, and vice versa, feeling like an idiot in your long-sleeve top when the sun starts to split the trees.

And, of course, there’s the inevitable warm-when-you-left-the-house--butabsolutely-freezing-when-the-sungoes-in situation! Here a few Dublin staples that can be thrown on without too much worry about the weather ...

Zara C jumps ulotte uit €5 0

20 July 2017 GAZETTE 19

Little w Irelan oods d Stripe r shirt € uffle 25

py Strap €40 M & p H dot to a lk o p

ck Miss Selfridge Bla 5 €4 floral lace jumpsuit

New Look Flora l tea dress €40

Zara dress Dark flor al €40

Zara Dusty rose culottes €50

Littlewoods Ireland PETITE rs tapered trouse €28

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DUBLINLIFE

FOOD

Prudence proves he’s the big cheese of edible art ATTENTION cheese lovers - International food sculpture artist Prudence Staite has created the iconic Greek ‘Discobolus’ statue from 100 kilos of Kilmeaden Cheddar Cheese.

When it comes to our favourite Irish dish, bacon, cabbage and mash is the clear winner (31%), followed closely by the full Irish (30%) according to a new survey from Kilmeaden Cheese.

Cheese, meanwhile, is our number one key ingredient for any winning dish (75%), followed by butter (22%).

The survey was conducted by Kilmeaden to unveil the ‘fillet’ of Irish talent across sport, radio, television and, of course, the Irish culinary scene.

To tie in with the brands promise of “We take away the rest and give you the best”, Kilmeaden Cheese commissioned international food sculpture artist Prudence Staite to create a stunning life size replica of the historical Greek mythical Discobolus statue.

Using 100 Kilos of Kilmeaden Cheese, Prudence took great time and care to produce the iconic masterpiece, echoing the time and quality that goes into each and every block of Kilmeaden!

Prudence, who has created all types of edible art, says: “I was very excited when I was asked by

Kilmeaden Cheese to work with them to create a special sculpture. The cheese was great to work with. It tasted amazing too so it was really hard not to nibble as I worked!”

Introducing the ‘croffle’

LISTEN up pastry lovers! An authentic French bakery pop up is currently open on Camden Street serving the highly anticipated “Croffle”.

The Croffle, which has been hailed as the hero product of the cafe menu, is a marriage of the classic rich, buttery French croissant, with the unique texture of a modern waffle.

Created in collaboration with renowned pastry chef Louise Lennox, the most hotly anticipated variation is the Avocado and sun blushed tomato Croffle, with a feta drizzle, gremolata crumb and chopped toasted hazelnuts.

La Petite Boulangerie, located at No 9, Camden Street is open until July 22 so get there quick for a taste of the Croffle. Picture: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland

To infinity pool, and beyond ...

SPAS HAVE EVOLVED – AND A RANGE OF SPECIAL OFFERS CAN WHISK YOU AWAY ON A DREAM WELLNESS JOURNEY  SYLVIA POWNALL Travel Editor

IN TODAY’S ever-evolving wellness scene, it’s simply not enough to be mainstream; spas must constantly be one step ahead to cater for discerning millennials who demand treatments that give them an experience like no other.

Try Moxibustion Chinese Therapy in Italy: Lefay Spa Indulge in the Eastmeets-West wellness philosophy of this luxury spa retreat overlooking Lake Garda, where you can encounter Moxibustion – a Chinese therapeutic technique meaning ‘burning herb’.

This therapy involves the burning of mugwort – a small, spongey medicinal herb – on various acupuncture points and energy pathways around the body.

This treatment strengthens the blood, stimulates energy levels and boosts the results of other therapies. Once you’ve had your pyroma-

Call off the search, as Health and Fitness Travel – the leading experts in tailor-made wellness holidays worldwide – has trawled the globe to discover the most unusual spa therapies on offer.

From colour vibration therapy in Malaysia to pepper lipolysis in Greece, these unconventional therapies will raise the eyebrows of even the quirkiest spa aficionado ...

nia fix, unwind in Lefay’s salt water lake.

Five nights from €2,495 per person.

Try Red & Black Pepper Lipolysis in Greece: Porto Elounda Detox Offering stunning views across Mirabello Bay in the north-eastern corner of Crete, Porto Elounda is home to the awardwinning Six Senses Spa, where you can experience a detoxifying treatment like no other.

Using the medicinal properties of red and black pepper to stimulate the breakdown of fatty tissue, this dinner table staple delivers a deeply moisturising and refresh-

ing treatment.

A combination of warm and cool techniques is used to tone the skin, followed by a firming massage to increase blood and lymph circulation, which stimulates detoxification, to further enhance the treatment’s slimming properties.

Finish off with a spirulina wrap and a dip in the thalassotherapy pool to feel thoroughly cleansed, toned and well-seasoned.

Seven nights f rom €1,740 per person.

Try Himalayan Heart Stone Massage in Vietnam: Fusion Maia Discover a tropical spa paradise on Vietnam’s east coast, where you’ll

20 July 2017 GAZETTE 21

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TRAVEL

Splashing in luxury by the shores of Lake Garda Main: The infinity pool

Relaxing with a classic treatment

at the Porto Elounda; above: part of the calming pool at the Fusion Maia

Soothing away stress with a herbal back treatment

experience a true sense of tranquillity with Fusion Maia and its range of healing therapies.

For a massage with a heartfelt difference, try the Himalayan Heart Stone Massage – a gentle, alkalising therapy using warm heart-shaped salt stones and pomelo oil to promote inner peace.

The warmth from the stones will ease tense muscles and soothe aches and pains, while the stones’ positive ions are believed to rid your body of harmful vibrations and clear the air around you.

Combine spa treatments with yoga and

meditation for a complete mind, body and soul experience at this tropical hideaway.

Seven nights f rom €2,595 per person.

Try Green Coffee Sculpting in Oman: Zighy Bay Sense of De-stress Discover a whole new world on the Arabian Peninsula of Oman, in a secluded bay surrounded by mountains where the world-class Six Senses Spa awaits with a plethora of top-notch spa offerings.

Wake up and smell the green coffee with an ener-

The Hot stone treatment room at The Banjaran

gising body treatment focusing on the thighs, waist, tummy and derriere, aimed at breaking down fat cells, stimulating circulation and boosting metabolism.

The treatment begins with dry skin brushing, before being massaged with the thermogenic, salon-strength chilli and coffee oil for a caffeine hit to rival your morning java.

Put your new-found energy to use as you take part in a variety of outdoor activities available nearby, including mountain biking, diving and paragliding.

Seven nights at Zighy Bay from €2,975 per person.

Try Colour Therapy in Malaysia: The Banjaran Rejuvenation Set amongst tropical jungle and limestone hills, the Banjaran is an acclaimed 5-star hideaway, famed for its extensive wellness offerings.

Here you can experience Chromotherapy – a

technique using colours to adjust body vibrations to frequencies that encourage greater health and harmony.

By cultivating the frequencies of individual colours to balance and re-shape the energy in our bodies, a greater level of physical and spiritual healing can be achieved.

A blue light can promote relaxation and calm whilst aiding the recurrence of headaches and nervous tension, whilst pink eliminates impurities in the blood.

Once you’ve discovered your favourite colour, head for the green, with luscious jungle, Japanese gardens and a world-class golf course all nearby.

Seven nights f rom €4,500 per person.

Try Chavutti Thirumal Massage in St Lucia: BodyHoliday De-Stress Find your bliss at this leading St Lucian wellness retreat designed to maximise well-being and improve health.

Whilst having someone walk all over you may not seem like therapy, this ancient Indian massage technique releases muscular tension, stretches the body and improves circulation and energy flow, and is perfect for those who enjoy deep tissue massage.

Also known as Indian rope massage, the therapist holds onto a rope above their head for balance and to adjust pressure, while using their feet to deliver a stronger, deeper massage.

Take a step in the right direction to finding calm, with a range of holistic therapies and activities, including Reiki, craniosacral therapy and sunset meditation.

Seven nights f rom €3,775 per person.

Try Anja Light Therapy in Thailand: Phuket Cleanse For a life-changing wellness holiday, look no further than Phuket Cleanse on the tropical island of Phuket, where

Arabian wellness awaits under the sun at Oman

you’ll find a range of therapies to detox the body and relax the mind.

Anja Light Therapy uses dynamic neural stimulating brainwave technology to induce deep meditative states; a state usually only obtained by meditative experts such as Buddhist monks and shamans.

As you explore the depths of your perception, develop clarity and direction, reduce stress and anxiety, and cultivate

a more profound connection with a broader reality.

You might even be lucky enough to experience out-of-body and astral projections.

Once you’ve come back to earth, hit the ground running with a series of fitness activities, including kickboxing, beach boot camps and TRX training.

Seven nights at Phuket Cleanse from €2,540 per person.

For advice, guidance and booking, call 0203 397 8891 or see www.healthandfitnesstravel.com.

All packages are tailored to the individual and prices quoted include flights departing from Dublin, transfers, accommodation and spa treatments.

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DUBLINLIFE

In the Fast Lane Motorists driven by brand loyalty, insurance costs & 5 year upgrades ONE in two people in Ireland change their car every five years according to a new report from car-buying website Carzone.

The bi-annual index which examines trends in the Irish motoring market, has highlighted the continued rise in used car sales as people upgrade their car more regularly.

When changing their car, 47% tend to stick with the same marque, so brand loyalty remains high among

New Golf delivers on enviable petrol power Petrol power is making a return as MICHAEL MORONEY discovers with the new Golf, which delivers on a promise of new levels of economy along with a very smooth driving experience

Irish drivers.

The survey found that insurance was named as the main financial concern for motorists once again, with 88% saying they noticed a rise in their insurance premium in the last year.

Fuel was the second biggest concern, followed by road tax.

On average half (51%) spend between €120 and €150 running their car each month while 13% say it can cost anywhere from €151 to €200 per month.

The report finds that city dwellers are more likely to drive a petrol car than their rural counterparts.

Just half (51%) of those based in an urban area have a diesel car, compared to 81% of those who live rurally.

Women are also more likely to drive a petrol car than men (48% vs. 17%).

The general findings are as follows: · 1 in 2 people change their car every five years and 47% tend stick to the same brand · Rising insurance premiums are a key concern for Irish motorists · 69% say car technology plays an important role in their purchasing decision · Two thirds (65%) believe that in-car technology has made them a better driver · 70% say technology makes driving more enjoyable · 85% of Irish car retailers are investing in technology in their dealerships · VW Golf remains Carzone’s the most searched car · It takes a dealership on average one week to sell a car, from initial enquiry to closing the sale (43%).

Tyres main reason for NCT fails ALLIANZ insurance company has reported that it provided breakdown assistance to 7,042 cars in 2016 97% of which needed to complete an NCT. More than one in ten (832) broken down cars receiving assistance from Allianz last year had expired NCT certificates and 5% (325) had no certificate at all.

They also found that 14% of broken down cars assisted by Allianz in 2016 were Fords, 10% were Toyotas and 10% were Volkswagens. This is explained by the higher numbers of these brand cars on the roads.

These car brands all held a strong NCT testing and pass rate in 2016 according to NCT annual results.

Toyotas were the most tested cars with 228,651 vehicles and a 53% pass rate, Volkswagens were next in line with 182,727 vehicles and a 47% pass rate and finally, Ford was the third most tested brand with 169,493 cars tested and a 46% pass rate.

The Allianz report found that 51.6% of vehicles failed the NCT in 2016 with car tyres being the primary cause of failure.

PETROL power is creeping its way back to driver consciousness once again and with good reason as petrol engines have become more efficient and cleaner.

Diesel power made such a bounce into the market more than 10 years ago, that for many of us, we now consider diesel power to be something we take for granted.

That was not the case 25 years ago and we now seem set to revert to a more even petrol/diesel market balance.

Volkswagen has been in the eye of the diesel issue storm and that’s probably why their new ranges of petrol engines are attracting attention.

For many car buyers, Golf and diesel power were synonymous – now that could be about to change.

Volkswagen has developed some very impressive petrol engines under the TFSi range that strongly evoke a fuelchoice re-think.

A f ter some days behind the wheel of the new Golf, this time powered by a 999cc, threecylinder petrol engine, I’ve quickly become a petrol convert.

It’s impressive in its own right and the new turbo-petrol engine is the icing on the cake in terms of performance and smooth driving.

It’s so easy to forget that the car is powered by a three-cylinder engine, because its 115bhp power output is smooth and effortless.

delivery also started to grow on me. The car’s sixspeed manual gearbox SPECIFICATIONS was easy and effortless Engine 1.0 litre and for many car buyers that’s their clear desire.

Engine power 110hp The six-speed gear0 – 100km/hr 9.9 seconds box option allows the Economy 21m/litre car to cruise at 120km/

(4.8/100km or 59mpg) hr on the motorway at Fuel Tank Capacity 50 litres 2500rpm on the engine.

CO2 emissions 112g/km That level of performance always assures Road Tax Band A3 €190 economy and at times I Main Service 15,000km/12 months was achieving an econoEuro NCAP Rating 5 star (2012) my figure of 5.1l/100km Warranty 3 years /100,000km (20km/litre), which is Entry Price €23,670 traditionally what we consider to be diesel-engine T his is a car that some lengthy runs mixed economy territory.

Other than the impresbecomes a challenge for with city driving and the diesel options, initial- found that the 50 litre sive petrol engine perly for reasons economy, capacity tank gave me a formance, the new Golf and when you drive it range of almost 850km. design is mildly changed you’ll find other reasons That’s impressive and from the past with new to remember the value of not far off the rated econ- bumpers, radiator grille, omy figure of 21m/litre full-LED tail lights and petrol power.

The new level of econ- (4.8/100km or 59mpg). hidden exhaust pipes. omy is the key to the That becomes the early There are new glass growing acceptance and reason why I got to like headlight covers that success of petrol power. the new Golf power. The extend further up the I took the Golf over smoothness of the power wing of the car to give a

Volkswagen Golf 1.0 TFSi

sportier look.

The big changes, however, are to the inside with improved controls and more use of electronics to give an impressive set of dials and easier overall control of much of the car’s non-driving creature comforts.

This car is probably the most impressive Golf that I’ve driven for some years.

I had almost forgotten how much a smooth and quieter petrol engine can enhance the overall driving experience of what is a very good mid-range new Volkswagen Golf.

Entry prices start at €23,670 for the five-door 110bhp version, while a lower priced 85bhp version is also available at €22,670.

This is a Volkswagen Golf that you need to drive to re-live a petrol experience that will convert you.

20 July 2017 GAZETTE 23

Don’t skip the basic safety checks before Eur summer road trip AS summer holiday season gets into full swing, it seems that many Irish motorists are “failing to prepare”.

According to a survey by Enterprise Rent-ACar, a large proportion of Irish holidaymakers who are planning to drive their own car abroad this summer will not undertake even the most basic safety checks before setting off.

Equally, of those Irish people who plan to rent or drive another car abroad this summer, many will hop in and drive away from the airport not even knowing where all the controls are.

For Irish motorists who will be driving on holiday this year, the average distance they will cover is 612km. Of those holidaymakers, 65% will be renting a vehicle abroad while 21% are planning to drive their own car.

When asked about their experience of operating a vehicle they have never used before, a full 42% admitted they have driven away without knowing how to operate at least one of the controls on the car.

More than one-third (39%) do not check how to operate the lights, the petrol indicator (38%) or the rear-view mirror (34%).

GAZETTE

MOTORING

Skoda unveils keen pricing for Citigo SKODA’S upgraded Citigo small car has been launched in Ireland with claims of comprehensive upgrades to the exterior design along with a number of interior revisions.

This is Skoda’s entry model car and comes with a starting price from €10,995 for the threedoor version.

Exterior changes for the new range include the distinctive Skoda power dome.

The Citigo also features a fresh front radiator grille design as well as reveamped front and rear bumper designs to create a young look.

Despite its small appearance, Skoda boasts that the new Citigo has grown marginally in length.

The extra space is noticeable in the 251 litres of boot capacity, which increases to 951 litres when the rear seats are folded down.

Two modern, three-cylinder petrol engines are available. The front-transverse-mounted engines with a 1.0 litre capacity drive the front wheels.

The entry-level engine is the 1.0 MPI with 60bhp and 95 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm.

From a standing start, it accelerates the Skoda Citigo to 100 km/h in 14.4 seconds and consumes 4.4 litres per 100km (23km/litre) on average. The second 1.0 MPI petrol engine produces 75bhp and offers a maximum torque

The Citigo is claimed to be packed full of practical features, with entry prices from €10,995.

of 95 Nm at 3,000 rpm. It accelerates to 100 km/h in 13.5 seconds and consumes 4.4 litres per 100km (23km/litre) on average.

The Citigo is available in Active and Ambition trim levels.

There is also a special edition available from launch, the Skoda Citigo Monte Carlo.

The Citigo new-generation Blues radio on Active models offer many connectivity options such as an aux-in socket, CD player and MP3

E-class revamp is top off the range

THE arrival of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet in September sees Mercedes-Benz carry out the complete renewal of their entire E-Class model range – all within the space of a year.

The fifth and youngest member of the E-Class family brings opentop motoring and latest tech to the mid-range executive market.

This new E-Class Cabriolet has a striking front section with a lowpositioned diamond patterned radiator grille with centrally located star. Compared to its predecessor, it has grown in length, width and wheelbase, and has a height of 1428 mm.

The car comes with LED high performance headlamps, a drawn-out bonnet with power domes and fully retractable side windows. This new model gets a lower suspension set 15 mm beneath that of the saloon, while 18-inch alloy wheels are standard.

Its multilayered, fully automatic, fabric soft-top comes in colours dark brown, dark blue, dark red, and black with acoustic that claim to reduce wind and driving noise.

The soft-top can be fully opened and closed in 20 seconds when travelling at a speed of up to 50 km/h.

Boot capacity of 385 litres reduces to 310 litres when the roof is open.

Onboard tech features include the latest multimedia, touchpad, finger swipe and voice control items, along with comfort-adding draught-stop and neck-level heating systems similar to those fitted in other Mercedes-Benz open-top models.

The E-Class Cabrio will be available with a choice of petrol and diesel engines.

compatibility. From Ambition, the Swing radio includes a colour screen and a USB slot while the Move & Fun mobile phone mount and app offers information and entertainment assistance for the driver and passengers.

The app runs on the iOS and Android smart phone operating systems and provides navigation, driving data displays, hands-free phone calls and economical driving information as well as playing music and the radio.

Fiat launches new special edition Fiat 500 Mirror BESIDES marking the sixtieth anniversary of the Fiat 500, this year also sees the arrival of the special edition Fiat 500 Mirror.

This car comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring that its driver–and passengers – are always connected and provided with quality content.

The introduction of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto means that users can access the main applications of their smart phones directly on the 7-inch screen of the UconnectTM system. Apple CarPlay enables iPhone users to access Apple Maps, Apple Music, messages, phone and more with Siri or the UconnectTM touch screen, while Android Auto integration also allows drivers to manage the compatible content and features on their device directly from the integrated touch screen or by using the system’s vocal commands.

The Mirror is available in a choice of five exterior colours, including Electronica Blue.

Standard equipment is extended to include speed limiter, integrated controls on the leather steering wheel and UconnectTM 7-inch HD LIVE touch screen with Bluetooth, USB-AUX IN ports and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Mirror is available as both a hatchback and a convertible, with the 1.2-litre 69hp petrol engine. The 1.2litre petrol emits just 110g/km CO2 or when combined with the Dualogic gearbox, the CO2 drops to 105g/km.

GAZETTE

24 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 20 July 2017

DUBLINLIFE

CINEMA

WAR FOR THE PLANET OF THE APES: TERRIFIC TRILOGY ENDS SPECTACULARLY

ReelReviews

Furry good franchise reaches an epic ending WAR for the Planet of the Apes (Cert 12A, 140 mins) closes off what has been perhaps the most consistent franchise in recent memory, following the surprise success of 2011’s Rise, and the dystopian adventure of its 2014 sequel.

Dawn may have come and gone, but War, again directed by Matt Reeves, finds the series at its darkest point.

A brief introductory summary skips lengthy exposition and drops us straight into the action; for the uninitiated, apes around the world have started to evolve

Maurice (Karin Konoval) and Nova (Amiah Miller)

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

intellectually and stand erect – some turned against humans while others simply want to live separately in peace.

The greatest threat to man, however, is the apeborne virus that has wiped out the vast majority of humankind in the span of 15 years.

Following the events of Dawn, what’s left of the US military h a s

been sent in to neutralise the ape threat.

Lead chimp Caesar’s (Andy Serkis) army are showing rapidly increased signs of intelligence but just want the war with the humans to end.

When “The Colonel” (Woody Harrelson) leads the human army into the apes’ outpost, resulting in tragedy, Caesar sets out on a quest for revenge.

War comes in at a neat two-hours and 40 minutes, packing every second of its run time with expertly scripted moral storytelling.

This is a tale of revenge that takes on board influences from classic WWII escape movies like The Great Escape and Bridge on the River Kwai, while surpassing most contemporary war narratives with its delicate handling of themes such as man’s inhumanity to man and the ultimate futility of conflict.

SPIDERMAN

Meet a Homecoming king SPIDEY gets a fun reboot with Homecoming (Cert 12A, 133mins), which ditches all the legacy lore which everyone already knows (Uncle Ben’s murder, spider bite, blah blah) and just pretty much dumps Peter Parker into the action as he excitedly learns how to be a superhero, meets some legends, and otherwise does his thing without all the dour, tedious gloom and angst that’s weighed down too many superhero films.

OKJA

Hammily enjoyable fare

Cometh the hour, cometh the ape ... Caesar (a career-best turn by Andy Serkis) takes the reins in the conclusion of the Apes trilogy. Once again, he’s the reluctant but noble leader drifting inexorably towards destroying the human race.

With yet another incredible motion-capture performance from Serkis, War often feels like a religious parable (a “holy war”, according to The Colonel) and while it often feels melancholy, occasionally downright grim, it never grates or burdens us with melodrama.

Indeed, for all the actor has done for the medium, it’s a travesty that Serkis hasn’t yet received any proper awards season recognition – even a nod is in order at this stage.

Most admirably, for all the masterful effects work in War, the film gives far more time to narrative, drama, tension and emotion than it does to big action set-pieces or messy

displays of CGI a-la this month’s Transformers: The Last Night.

The creature work is deceptively real here, never more so than in the face of the aging orangutan, Maurice (Karin Konoval), who is quite often indistinguishable from any real life counterpart.

Harrelson’s villain is the perfect foil to Caesar’s cool-headed leader: a menacing, unhinged maniac on his own quest for revenge, waging a war in which few lives are considered sacred.

Any questioning of his command is quickly, summarily cut down. However, as with any believable villain, the reasons for his maniacal actions are

somewhat understandable. War does a great job of instilling empathy on all sides.

War rounds out the prequel trilogy in style. It may drag at times around the middle act, but all ends are tied up nicely, leading toward the unfortunately dystopian world that fans of the original know is coming.

There’s some oddly misjudged comic relief from Steve Zahn, at odds with the darker tone of the film, but this epic, sweeping adventure is an extremely satisfying end to a series that has delivered consistently with each instalment – a rarity in this age of sequels and reboots.

Verdict: 8/10

THERE’S been a lot of praise for Netflix’s terrific Okja (Cert 15A, 120mins), with its simultaneous cinema and, well, Netflix release sparking some extra interest. Despite its flaws (a truly terrible Jake Gyllenhaal), an otherwise great cast, peerless effects and engaging tale – plucky Korean kid goes to rescue her genetically-modified porcine pal before it becomes lunch – make it a true highlight of the year.

THE BOOK OF HENRY It’s best left unread

THIS is definitely our last nod at the bafflingly bad The Book of Henry (Cert 12A, 105mins) as it begins to make its apologies and slink away from cinemas.

Charming boy genius Henry dies halfway through the film, but not before leaving how-to instructions for his single mum to murder their nasty next-door neighbour.

Not only one of the worst films of 2017, but one of the strangest films this decade.

20 July 2017 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

TECH

NET NEUTRALITY: ONLINE INTERESTS ARE TIED TO OUTCOME OF AMERICAN BATTLE Internet activists are keenly following how Congress are dealing with ‘net neutrality’, with lawmakers there set to rule after summer on a data matter with potentially global implications

Gamers also pay tribute to late Romero THE late, great George Romero – the film director best known for his revolutionary zombie films – drew warm praise from across the movie world this week, with critics and colleagues praising him for his unique contribution to cinema.

Even if horror and zombies aren’t your thing – and, like fresh, juicy, tasty braaaaaains, they’re something of an acquired taste – there’s no denying that Romero single-handedly created the modern zombie genre as we all know it.

Relevant He took the stuff of B-movie status and elevated it into an entire wing of horror, having an impact on cinema (and leaving a lesson on how to make a hit with a low budget) that’s still felt and relevant today.

What does that have to do with gaming, you ask? The games industry has also paid warm tribute to the man, as many of Romero’s influences crept into gaming down the decades.

Just as cinema and TV can point at literally dozens of products influenced by the late horror master, so too gamers, games directors, companies and visionaries have a long, long list of games that bear his direct influence.

For a man whose greatest mark was working with the undead, it’s perhaps ironic that his work and legacy will live on long after him.

The internet war you don’t know you’re in WHILE many cinemagoers are sitting down to a very entertaining War for the Planet of the Apes (see film review, opposite page) on the big screen, a very different online war is quietly raging – one which could soon ensnare you and me in its skirmishes on our small screens, be they our PCs, laptops, phones or tablets.

Right now, Americans are embroiled in an IT battle – no, not dodging the daily barrage of President Trump’s utterly ridiculous Tweets – as ordinary citizens have lined up alongside many of the country’s and the world’s biggest IT firms in a battle for what’s called ‘net neutrality’.

It’s a slightly complex topic, but the outcome is very simple: in short, a ‘two-tier’ or two-speed internet could emerge in America, largely controlled by major internet providers – and if so, that’s a move that’s likely to fundamentally change the nature of how the internet works around the world.

A two-speed internet model there is one which would almost

 SHANE DILLON sdillon@dublingazette.com

certainly become the norm, giving a green-light to other internet providers elsewhere to follow suit, and similarly affect how we all access a variety of data online.

Right now, the internet as we know it is an open-access system; while countries and governments apply their own rules and structures to how people access it, it largely operates the same at source for everyone.

Despite the localised blocks and data restrictions, the river of information flows more or less at the same speed for everyone, with internet providers being like the taps and pipes to channel that data into your home, and your hand.

While we all know that some providers are better than others, at the same time the core data

flows much the same, with their delivery systems being where problems can arise.

But what if the internet providers could deliberately slow down that data, giving preference to bigger companies paying for greater data speeds?

What if some data (typically, specific websites), particularly any with financial clout, was given preference, thus having the knock-on consequence of other data (or websites) being slowed down because of purely commercial reasons?

That, in essence, is the battle for net neutrality that’s already in full flow as I type – a battle to prevent internet providers from creating any restrictions or brakes that would favour some data more than any other, with opponents demanding that all data be treated the same.

Whether it’s a streaming episode of a hit TV show, an email from your sister, or a bill from your dentist – whatever it is, one of the core fundamental points of the internet is that all data is equal.

However, the US government

is currently weighing up revoking a number of net neutrality protections, under pressure from internet providers to give them more control over data.

Their arguments to scrap such protections are varied – from saying that the controls are restrictive and affect their investments and returns to how any government controls stifle freedom of choice.

In essence, they argue that creating restrictions, and creating data streams with different speeds, would actually benefit consumers, giving them greater choice and driving market innovation – if you or I don’t like our internet provider, we’ll just pay for a different one we prefer instead, right?

Unfortunately, this ignores the reality that many consumers only have one internet provider in their area.

Indeed, whether in the depths of Ireland or Iowa, many people have a pitiful choice of internet provider, so the thoughts of a two-tier system where bigger companies demand preferential treatment and data control

– thus creating a de-facto twospeed internet – is an alarming concept, and one that strikes against the heart of what the internet is.

America’s Congress is set to vote on the matter later this summer, with lobbyists there applying pressure to scrap net neutrality (whilst saying that Congress can still apply some controls).

The looming battle has already seen a spirited rebellion in America – last week, some 200 companies and groups, ranging from giants such as Facebook, Google, Netflix, Apple, Spotify and Amazon to smaller companies held a day of action, highlighting for users the issue and urging them to contact Congress to oppose it by this Monday, July 17.

Irish consumers will be affected too by this battle across the pond – whatever the outcome there from the decisions to be made later this summer, the way we use the internet here is tied to that outcome.

That’s a more pressing matter for us all to care about than apes rising up to destroy humanity ...

26 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 20 July 2017

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28 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 20 July 2017

SPORT

Proud sponsors of the DLGFA adult championships

LADIES FOOTBALL: NEW IRELAND ASSURANCE DLGFA CHAMPIONSHIPS

MONTHLYStars Top class Have your say in July’s top Dublin club player!

THE New Ireland Assurance Player of the Month award returns for a second year, honouring the best performers from across the adult Dublin ladies football championships as the business end of the competitions comes into view.

In 2016, Ballyboden St Enda’s Emily Flanagan, Naomh Barrog’s Laura McGinley and O’Dwyer’s Shannon Richardson were among the winners for their exploits in club colours.

It’s shaping up to be another cracking summer of action with the group stages coming to a head this week in many instances.

GazetteSport will be following the action every step of the way as the race to become the 2017 Dublin champions builds month on month.

As with last year, we are seeking your help to nominate the stars from around the club game and encompasses senior, inter and all junior grades, those that make a huge impact Send in your nominations to sport@dublingazette.com by Monday, July 31, including the player’s name, club and a couple of lines about why you feel they should be up for the honour.

For July’s award winner, the nomination period will refer to the group stages to date of the New Ireland Assurance competitions.

We will announce the winner in our edition that comes out on August 3, 2017.

Dublin SFC coming to the boil  JAMES HENDICOTT

sport@dublingazette.com

THE 2017 New Ireland Assurance Dublin Ladies Gaelic football championship is reaching the sharp end with the main players coming to the fore across a busy week of action.

Senior Group A is proving hyper-competitive, meanwhile, with a strong Kilmacud Crokes team holding a slim advantage after their first three games to assure their passage into the playoff places as they added a comfortable win over Na Fianna; their third of the group.

Fingallians are their closest challengers in terms of points – the Swords’ side have stepped up hugely this year, and lost by only a single point when they visited Stillorgan in Group A’s second

round back in May. Having then drawn with Na Fianna, the new challengers have smashed no less than ten goals in their last two fixtures.

They hit four against bottom side Clanna Gael Fontenoy in a 13 point win, before smashing local rivals and their main threat for a knockout place, St Sylvester’s, hitting six goals in a 6-15 to 4-7 win last week that seems to paint them as the side with the momentum.

But they will need Kilmacud Crokes to do them a favour if they’re to qualify, though, as the top club face St Sylvester’s in the last round of group matches, with Sylvester’s needing a win to progress.

Should Crokes grab the win they need to copper-fasten top spot, a

Foxrock Cabinteely moved a step closer to retaining their title. Picture: GAAPics.com

free-flowing Fingallians side will travel to holders Foxrock Cabinteely come semi-final time, with a tasty contest between Ballyboden St Enda’s and local rivals Kilmacud Crokes the likely outcome on the other side of the draw.

Progression Fox Cab and Ballyboden both advanced to the knock-out stages of the competition, doing so with a game to spare each courtesy of the outcome of Monday’s sched-

ule of fixtures.

A struggling Parnells side were forced to concede their game against Ballyboden St Enda’s on Monday night, a default that effectively condemns St Brigid’s, and puts Ballyboden level at the top of their Senior Group B table with an unstoppable-looking Foxrock Cabinteely.

Ballyboden will argue they would very likely have won anyway, however.

Parnells are looking firm favourites to fin-

ish last, having previously been hit for 9-17 by Thomas Davis, who in turn were comfortably beaten by a scoreline of 2-12 to 0-2 by holders Foxrock Cabinteely on Monday night.

Having lost to both Ballyboden and Foxrock Cabinteely in critical games earlier in the season St Brigid’s – who missed out by the mere width of a dying-seconds shot onto the crossbar to the Foxes in last year’s Dublin final – are on the outside this time around.

20 July 2017 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

FASTSport

Coolock’s Boylan stars in Ireland box lacrosse team  BERNARD DUFF

COOLOCK’S Ciaran Boylan played a starring role in the Ireland lacrosse team that competed in Finland last week at the European Box Lacrosse Championships.

He learned the game with UCD lacrosse club and now plays for Dublin and was competing in his second tournament where Ireland finished a creditable sixth out of 14 nations in the city of Turku.

“Facilities in Finland are great. The competition has a great vibe. Ice hockey nations like Finland and Czech Republic are very strong at Box Lacrosse,” Boylan said of the experience. “For me, I feel like a more experience player since my first tournament in Syracuse in 2015 and as I get more floor time I can connect the dots now.”

Boylan contributed with 7 goals over the weeklong tournament including two hat tricks.

Bridging the gap between two continents is the challenge of Ireland Lacrosse. With a ruling that no more that 49% of players may be heritage players, it means that Irish based players and predominantly North American players make up a diverse national side.

A series of planned trials and team sessions was the prelude to the Ireland team competing in Finland last week. Box Lacrosse an indoor variant of field lacrosse played on ice hockey arena, albeit sans ice over 60 minutes.

In the group games Ireland beat Serbia 11-5 with Luke Coppinger scoring four. They thrashed Turkey 29-2 with Boylan being Man of the Match.

Ireland lost 7-18 to eventual champions Israel in the last group game, an opponent who have an extensive heritage setup.

Germany beat Ireland in the quarters and Ireland eventually met old rivals England in the 5th/6th Placement match losing a creditable 17-12.

Ireland coach Jeff Dowling said: “For the 2019 World Cup, I want at least one of our coaching team to get over to Ireland every summer and work with the Irish players. We do need to a better turnout to the trials!”

He praised Boylan, saying “he has stepped up this year in offence”.

McElligott transformed and up for everything Former St Patrick’s Athletic and Ballymun United man talks about how he got his life back on track following the loss of his leg and how he is looking forward to every new challenge  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

STARRING in RTE TV show Operation Transformation, Christy McElligott’s life has been thoroughly transformed.

McElligott played soccer for St Patrick’s Athletic and the Ireland junior side, and was turning out for Ballymun United when he was involved in a horrific car accident on his way to a match in 2001.

McElligott’s vehicle was struck by a truck on a narrow country road in Wexford, and the footballer lost his right leg almost immediately, and

was forced to crawl from his vehicle as it caught fire at the scene.

Unsur prisingly, he gained weight in the aftermath. By the time McElligott appeared on Operation Transformation as a team leader in 2017, he felt extremely unhealthy.

He lost four stone within the eight week show, citing the RTE cameras as a major motivating factor in forcing him through the process.

“The experience was life changing,” McElligott recalls. “If I’m honest I loved having people do so much for me after the accident. You’re saying to yourself ‘this is brilliant’,

but you don’t think of the consequences. Operation Transformation gave me all the tools I needed to move forward. It was a battle afterwards to keep going, but you have to do it for yourself.”

A year later, McElligott is very much back into sport, having recently made his debut for the Ireland amputee soccer team, whom he’ll also be representing in the first ever amputee European Championships in Istanbul, Turkey, later this year. Ahead of that, he’s focused on cycling.

“The Sport Ireland Tour Of Meath reached out to me and asked me if I’d like

Christy McElligott with Mr Tayto and his new hand-cycle at the launch of the Sport Ireland Tour of Meath. Register at meathsports.ie/cycle-tour for full information.

to take part,” McElligott explains. “They’ve been really great, setting me up with a bike and talking to me about the event.

“I’ll be riding a hand cycle, which is different.

It’s a lot of strain on my chest and arms, but I’m getting better at it. I’m up to 20km in training.

“I’ll be doing the 11km family race on the Saturday, which can be signed up for on the morning of the event, and I’m thinking I the organisers are keen for me to go for the 50km on the Sunday, too.

“It’s further than I’ve ever gone by a long way, but I think it’s worth a try. It’s tough, because when most people cycle they’re using their two biggest muscles.

Obviously I’m not.

“I used to be the person who would say no to things like this. I’m really open to suggestion on them now. I’d like to do an event for charity, for example, because I’ve received so much help.

Maybe next time around I’ll do that.”

As well as the 11km and 50km, the Tour Of Meath will also offer races at 100km and 160kms, aimed at exploring what McElligott describes as “really beautiful countryside” around the Royal county. The races take place on July 29th and 30th, with the bigger distances on the 30th.

Cyclists age six and up are welcome, providing they don’t need stabilisers, with age limits varying depending on

the distance of the event entered. Cheaper sign up is available in advance via the website.

McElligott’s progress in the soccer is equally impressive. “I played a tournament at UL, where we played against Everton, Manchester City and Partick Thistle,” he recalls of his return to the competitive amputee soccer game about eight weeks ago, having previously managed an Irish side at the World Cup. “I scored two goals against Manchester City, which I was very pleased with. There’s a great community about amputee soccer events, and it’s really great to be back involved as a player.

“Through all this experience, the one thing that never changed after my accident was my love of football, and that’s a common theme amongst the players. It’s a friendly, supportive community off the pitch, but once you get into the game people take it just as seriously as any other game.”

As for the future? “I’m really open to suggestion on what I do next,” McElligott concludes. “I’m not going to disregard anything now, like I did before. It doesn’t mean I’ll do everything that’s put in front of me, of course.

“There’s only one of me. But I won’t be disregarding any idea at all before it’s even come into my head.” Life, clearly, has changed very much for the better.

GAZETTE

30 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 20 July 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: JOE DOYLE EARNS PLACE IN UNIS SQUAD TO TRAVEL TO TAIPEI

Blackrock’s Farrell makes his mark on motoring scene BLACKROCK youngster Conor Farrell is being tipped for big things after he was this week named Motorsport Ireland’s Young Racing Driver of the Month for May. The 21-year-old has been rewarded for his performance during the month that saw him earn podium finishes in the Global Lights races at Bishopscourt and Pembrey in South Wales.

He picked up a win and two second-place finishes in Bishopscourt before following up with two wins and two third-place finishes in Pembrey two weeks later.

Farrell, who is in the third year of an apprenticeship as an Air Technician in the Irish Air Corps, started racing in 2013, aged 17, driving in the Ford Fiesta Zetac series at Mondello Park in Dublin.

He took some time out of the sport before returning in 2016 and picked up a number of podium placings, including his career debut win at Anglesey.

He currently ranks as one of the top pacesetters in the Global Lights series and currently shares first position in the points table, having finished in the top three in every race so far this year.

With races still to take place at Anglesey and Oulton Park, Farrell is one of the strongest contenders to win the Golden Lights series outright.

Should he do so, Farrell will be in a strong position to take home the Motorsport Ireland Young Racing Driver of the Year award and the prestigious Walter Sexton Memorial Trophy.

The Sexton Trophy is presented annually and is supported by Sport Ireland and Motorsport Ireland.

Cabinteely’s Joe Doyle, left, and Marty Waters, right, have formed a fine strike partnership this season. Picture: Paul Lundy

Cabo star’s Ireland call  DAVE DONNELLY sport@dublingazette.com

CABINTEELY FC striker Joe Doyle has been selected in the 20-player men’s panel to represent Ireland Colleges and Universities at the University Games in Taipei next month.

19-year-old Doyle is a student at DIT and is a member of Gavin Fleming’s CUFL Premier North side, who finished fourth in the six-team division last season.

He was called up to Greg Yelverton’s Colleges and Universities side that travelled to Edinburgh and beat their Scottish counterparts 6-1 in April.

However, he didn’t

expect to be called up for the finals after missing out on the most recent squad, which narrowly lost to France in Epinal in June.

“I was delighted to get the chance to go,” the Stillorgan native tells GazetteSport.

“I wasn’t expecting it because I’ve only made one appearance so far, but when are you going to turn down an offer to go and represent your country in a tournament like that?”

Ireland will send a men’s and a women’s team to the biannual multisports event, which is officially entitled the Summer Universiade.

Fourteen of the squad

TRIPLE THREAT DSDAC add three more medals to juvenile haul DSDAC ended their juvenile season last weekend in Tullamore at the Irish Life National Track and Field Championships with three more gold medals.

James Maguire took the Under-18 1,500m title in a time of 4.03.25; Laura Gallagher won the Under-15 250m hurdles in 36.38 seconds while James Holden landed the Under-19 200m title in 22.35. Maguire, pictured, had, arguably, the hardest task as 34 athletes turned up for his race but he battled through both a semi-final and final on the same afternoon.

are with SSE Airtricity League clubs, including Limerick striker Garbhan Coughlan, former Manchester United keeper Joe Coll and Cork City duo Sean O’Mahony and Sean McLoughlin.

The squad will travel to the island off China on August 11 and spend a week in training before their opening encounter with France on Friday, August 18 in New Taipei City’s Xinzhuang Stadium.

Next up is a meeting with Mexico at the same venue on Monday, August 21 before Ireland conclude their group schedule against the hosts at Fu Jen Catholic University on Wednesday 23.

Depending on group positioning, Ireland will then advance to the quarter-finals or a series of classification matches beginning on Friday, August 25 and ending on Tuesday, August 29.

“It is a very strong side.

I know a lot of the players through the League of Ireland and from underage football as well. We’re going to go over there and do as well as we can.

“It’ll be difficult conditions – very hot and very humid. We’ll prepare well for that and hope for the best.”

Doyle is a member of the Cabinteely senior men’s team, who currently sit sixth in the League of

Ireland First Division.

Doyle, a former Dundalk under-19, joined the club ahead of the 2016 season and made history by scoring the club’s first-ever hat-trick when he bagged four in a game against Athlone Town.

Doyle scored a total of seven goals in 24 appearances during the 2016 season and already has six this year as he’s struck up a prolific strike partnership with Loughlinstown’s Marty Waters.

Cabo face two tough Dublin derbies with Shelbourne and UCD, as well as welcoming league leaders Waterford, before Doyle departs for Taiwan early next month.

20 July 2017 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

CLUB NOTICEBOARD

TRIATHLON BENEFITS Cullen helps launch GLS’s new four-year link-up

CUALA

ALL-IRELAND football winning captain Bryan Cullen

was on hand to launch parcel service provider GLS’s four-year sponsorship deal with Triathlon Ireland at Luttrellstown Golf Club this week.

Cullen intends to compete in the Dublin City Triathlon in the Phoenix Park at the end of August and said of the sport: “The diversity of swimming, cycling, and running makes triathlon the ultimate personal challenge, and offers a tremendous health, fitness and social aspect too.” Picture: Barry Cronin

WELL done to Con O’Callaghan, Michael

As play Naomh Fionbarra in Shankill on

Fitzsimons, Mark Schutte and Conor

Sunday. Support welcome at all match-

Mullally on winning the Leinster Cham-

es.

pionship with the Dublin senior footballCongratulations in particular to Con O’Callaghan on his Man of the Match

LADIES FOOTBALL: SHEEHAN’S DOUBLE NOT QUITE ENOUGH

Our adult footballers had mixed league results at the weekend our firsts

ers.

and thirds lost, our seconds won and our fourths had a bye.

Award after scoring 12 points in the final.

Hard luck to our five club players on

Congratulations also to Cuala’s Mark

the Dublin U-16 and minor ladies football

Tracey and Peadar O’Cofaigh Byrne on

teams who both fell to Galway last week

beating Louth with the Dublin minor

at the All-Ireland semi-final stage.

footballers to win the Leinster cham-

A date for your diary – Cuala All Ire-

pionship. The future of Cuala Football is

land Hurling Champions 2017 Golf Clas-

looking bright!

sic, will take place on Friday, August

Our inters are away to St Vincent’s next Saturday in AHL4 and the Junior

25th at Powerscourt Golf Club. Further details to follow.

SHANKILL OUR academy, sponsored by O’ Donnell’s

Well done Dublin and also Shankill

mer holidays and will be back in action on

where our summer camp coaches

Saturday, August 19 at 10am in Shanga-

Steve Davis. James Ennis, Molly Lamb,

nagh Castle.

Amy Connolly, Emma McDonagh, Sarah

Our older teams may have some

McCaffrey, Grainne O Driscoll and the

friendly matches or blitz games over the

man himself Con O Callaghan were sim-

summer your manager will be in contact.

ply the best. Roll on next year. New club

At the club summer camp, sponsored

players are always welcome; contact

by O’Donnell’s Pharmacy, last week one

Cuala’s Eimear Loughlin makes a move forward for Ireland . Picture: GAAPics.com

Dubs bow out after minor semi thriller ALL-IRELAND MINOR S/F

Galway 3-14 Dublin 4-5  sport@dublingazette.com

DESPITE the best efforts of Cuala duo Eimear Loughlin and Jennifer Dunne, they could not prevent Dublin from bowing out of the minor football championship with a semi-final defeat to Connacht champions Galway on Saturday.

On a windy and humid day at St Loman’s in Mullingar, Dublin fell just short in their effort to reach successive minor finals while Gal-

way looked to reach their third final in four seasons.

The Sky Blues led by a point at the break but Galway pulled away in the second half.

T h e Tr i b e s wo m e n landed a goal and six unanswered points before Dublin scored a late consolation goal to leave the final score 3-14 (23) to 4-5 (17).

A low-scoring first half saw the girls in blue head into the dressing rooms with a slender 1-4 to 0-6 lead.

Ballinteer’s full forward Niamh Sheehan

having found the net with a free kick a minute before the break.

Galway dominated the start of the second half and they managed 2-2 without reply as Leanne Coen twice found the net for the resurgent challengers in the opening nine minutes.

Dublin responded strongly, however, with Sheehan adding her second goal of the game and Dianne Lawless a point to bring it back to a threepoint game.

Then O’Connor found herself on the end of a well-worked move to

hit the net and level the scores with 13 minutes of the second half remaining.

Dublin couldn’t maintain their momentum, however, and were held scoreless for another 18 minutes of playing time as Galway stretched the gap out to nine points with a display of clinical finishing.

Naomh Olaf’s Clara O’Sullivan did manage to net a consolation goal side five minutes into injury time but it’s Galway who advance to face Cork in the decider on August 7.

week.

Pharmacy, is taking a break for the sum-

Kevin on 086 8449902.

of our coaches was none other than

For more information on the club con-

super Dub Con O’Callaghan, scorer of 12

tact, secretary.shankill.dublingaa.ie or

points against Kildare and also Man of

call 086 4010438. Follow us on Facebook

the Match in that game.

and Twitter.

Con made many new friends in Shankill

Join Shankill GAA Club, your commu-

and what memories our young players

nity, your GAA club where everybody

will have of being coached by him for the

knows your name.

KILMACUD CROKES

CONGRATULATIONS to the Dublin senior

Well done to the Crokes players

footballers who beat Kildare 2-23 to 1-17

Anthony Quinn, Niall Comerford, Conor

to win their seventh Leinster title in a

Kinsella, Fionn O’Ceallaigh and Paraic

row. Well done to Paul Mannion and Cian

Purcell.

Congratulations to the senior ladies

O’Sullivan.

Well done also to Liam Flatman and the

team who had a strong 3-15 to 3-5 vic-

Dublin minor footballers who beat Louth

tory during the week over Na Fianna in

2-19 to 0-12 in their Leinster champion-

the championship.

ship final. Congratulations to the junior D

Well done to the AFL1 team who beat St

footballers who beat Naomh Olaf in their

Oliver Plunkett’s 2-10 to 0-12. Hard luck

championship game, 2-12 to 0-6.

to the AFL3 and AFL4 teams who lost out

Well done to the Dublin U-17 team who

to Round Towers Lusk (2-13 to 1-19) and

had a great 2-16 to 1-10 victory over

Castleknock (3-10 to 4-8) respectively.

Westmeath and have progressed to the

Well done to the AFL8 team who beat

Leinster semi-finals where they will face

Portobello 1-9 to 0-10. Reminder of the

Laois.

Club AGM on Thursday, July 27 at 8.30pm.



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GAZETTESPORT

ALL OF YOUR DUN LAOGHAIRE SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

IRELAND’S CALL: Cabinteely’s Joe Doyle gets the nod for World Universities Games tournament in Taipei P30

JULY 20 - 26, 2017

HIGH DRAMA ASSURED: Dublin Ladies Gaelic season reaches business end P28

Con O’Callaghan - pictured in 2016 with the man of the match award in the Leinster Under-21 final - continued his meteoric rise last weekend . Picture: Paul Mohan/Sportsfile

Con in seventh heaven Cuala man adds seventh major title to his haul in just 12 months, taking up his chance brilliantly in Dublin senior forward line after Rock black card

 DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

CON O’Callaghan announced himself on the national stage with a sensational individual display in Dublin’s Leinster Championship final win over Kildare.

The Cuala dual-code star added a seventh winner’s medal of a spectacular 12 months as he top-scored for the Boys in Blue during Sunday’s 2-23 to 1-17 win over the Lilywhites.

Seven was the magic number for the reigning All-Ireland champions, too, as they added a record-breaking seventh successive provincial title to their already packed trophy cabinet.

O’Callaghan has now won provincial foot-

ball titles at under-21 and senior level and senior hurling medals in Dublin, Leinster and Ireland for Cuala since September 2016.

The 21-year-old was named the broadcaster’s man of the match is now a shoo-in to be named 2017’s Young Footballer of the Year as the personal honours continue to roll in.

With Diarmuid Connolly suspended and Dean Rock black-carded, O’Callaghan took over free-taking duties and duly delivered a stunning 12-point haul, six of them from play.

The Cuala man was unerring with his six frees and missed just one of his seven efforts from play in what was a virtuoso performance from the current under-21s captain.

His manager, Jim Gavin, was restrained in his praise of O’Callaghan’s performance at

full time, aware that adding to the hype could hang unwanted pressure on the player.

“First thing I would say is he’s part of a team and he played his part today,” said Round Towers man Gavin. “He comes from a really solid background.”

Gavin cited the influence of Cuala, whom O’Callaghan helped to become the first Dublin club ever to win an All-Ireland final, on his rapid maturation as a player.

He also indirectly paid respect to O’Callaghan’s father, Maurice, who came on as a sub for Dublin in the 1984 All-Ireland football final defeat to Kerry.

“His club Cuala have done tremendous work in that part of the county for Gaelic games in the last number of years and Con

has been fortunate to be surrounded by some great coaches and great family as well.

“Within Dublin GAA he’s been developed by the development squads and by under-18 and under-21 coaches and managers, so that’s been a big influence on him.

“He played his part. That’s probably what we see in training as well.”

With Rock withdrawn 11 minutes before the break, having scored the game’s opening goal, O’Callaghan was given an opportunity to play behind substitute Bernard Brogan.

While some have speculated the two – Brogan is 12 years O’Callaghan’s senior – are too similar to play together, they dovetailed nicely against a Kildare outfit that impressed in patches.