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May 14 - 20, 2015
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INSIDE: Acclaimed writer Dermot Bolger talks exclusively to The Gazette about his new book P22
travel: The open road calls on visitors to discover the beauty of New Zealand P20-21
Booking the trend: A new chapter for young authors Soccer:
Broadford take on title rivals St Joseph’s Boys Page 30
Hurling:
Ballyboden earn place in league final Page 31
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ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES....................... 8 DUBLIN LIFE....................11 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................28
Hannah Kennedy from Sancta Maria College in Rathfarnham and Oyanne Gaham from St Raphaela’s in Stillorgan were recently named the overall winners of the Eason Creates competition. The national campaign provided the opportunity for budding young authors to show their creative spark, with the winners awarded the special prize of having their work published as an e-book by Kobo, and being made available on Easons.com. The talented young witers certainly had all the write stuff to impress judges.
Anger as Marlay Park BMX track scrapped Staff shortages at council cited for €58,000 grant for plan to lapse
Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
THE BMX track promised for Marlay Park will not be going ahead due to staff shortages in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdow n
County Council. Councillors at a recent Dundrum Area Committee meeting were “furious” to learn that a grant of €58,000 for the track had lapsed as staff shortages in the coun-
cil meant the project design could not be processed within the allowed time. The grant had been allocated by the Department of Tourism and Sport in December 2013.
Cllr Lettie McCarthy (Lab) said she was “really cross” that the BMX track had been stalled as young people in the Ballinteer area would be disappointed. Full Story on Page 4
2 DUNDRUM Gazette 14 May 2015
water Figures show area takes 12th place out of 20 in Dublin
Lead levels in Balally Drive seven times over EU limit Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@dublingazette.com
In Balally Drive the lead levels in drinking water are seven times over the EU limit
Lead levels in drinking water are seven times over the EU limit in Balally Drive, it has been revealed this week. A local politician is now calling on Irish Water to meet local councillors representing the Balally
Drive area, following revelations in a Freedom of Information document. The latest figures show that lead in the water coming out of taps in Balally Drive in Dundrum is now at 72mg per litre, whereas the legal EU limit is set at 10 mg per litre. Balally Drive came in 12th on a list of the 20
Dublin areas with the highest water lead content. Lead content in other areas was much higher with Watermill Drive in Raheny coming out tops with 825mg of lead per litre of water. Indeed, Raheny fared worst on the list, appearing 14 times in total. Cllr Barry Saul (FG) said: “I am calling for Irish Water to urgently meet local councillors and local council staff to give a full report on the high ratios of lead contamination in Ballally Drive. It is vital that Irish Water bring forward a plan to deal with
the high levels and to offer assistance to local homeowners to solve this public health issue. “While I understand lead pipes are quite common in houses built up to the 1970s, the information which has been released is a cause for worry amongst local residents. I am also seeking clarification from Irish Water to see if they communicated their findings to the residents of Ballally Drive and also to the local authority.” When consumed, lead harms the kidneys and can affect brain development in babies in the womb and
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young children, according to the HSE and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In response to Cllr Saul’s calls for Irish Water to meet local councillors about the Balally Drive findings, a spokesperson for the utility said: “Lead is not present in treated drinking water. Lead appears as a contaminant in drinking water supplies at the point of consumption as a result of the water travelling through old lead pipes on the public side (water main) or private side (internal plumbing) of the distribution network. The issue of lead arising in drinking water due to lead pipes is a national public health issue with many stakeholders.” The spokesperson went on to say that since the establishment of Irish Water in 2014, it has set out to address the issue by expanding its water sampling programme and developing a coherent response to the lead issue. This includes preparing a national lead strategy to be reviewed by the HSE, the EPA, the Department of Environment and the Commission for Energy Regulation. T he spokesperson went on: “In 12 months, we have developed a full programme of measures to develop a correct response. We now need full regulatory and stakeholder sign-off and we are in the process of achieving that.” Although drinking water in Dublin does not contain lead on leaving treatment plants, and no lead is contained in water mains, there are several service connections dating back to the 1970s and earlier which still use lead pipes from the mains into houses.
14 May 2015 DUNDRUM Gazette 3
schools
rathdown: community invited to inaugural event at schools
Efforts earn Neat awards
Fun day to support Special Olympics Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
R ATHDOWN Junior School is holding a special fair and fun day at the school in aid of Special Olympics Ireland. This will be the first Rathdown Junior School Fair and Fun Day, and organisers are expecting it to be a great community event with the goal of linking Rathdown junior and senior schools with the local community. All funds raised at the event will be donated to support Special Olympics Ireland. One of Rathdow n school’s teachers, Kim McCrave, will be travelling to this summer’s Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles as
a badminton coach for the Irish Team. According to Rathdown Junior School: “It takes a lot of time and dedication by all involved to raise the €5,000 for each athlete to travel to the games, and as a school we have taken on board a local athlete, Amy Quinn, and aim to support her on her journey to LA with Kim.” The Rathdown School Fair and Fun Day – Supporting Special Olympics Ireland will be held on Saturday, May 16 from 11am to 2pm at Rathdown Junior School, at Upper Glenageary Road. Local families are encouraged to go along on the day to support a great cause and enjoy
themselves. Highlights of the fair day will include a variety of stalls, great food and live music. Clothes, jewellery, plants, books, toys, and computer games will be on sale, and there will also be a bouncy castle. There will also be a barbecue with delicious food, as well as plenty of tea, coffee and cakes. Children will get a special treat by having the opportunity to take part in an event called Soak The Teacher. R a t h d ow n J u n i o r School is looking for volunteers to help run the event. If you are interested in lending a hand on the day, contact kmccrave@ rathdownschool.ie.
Dressed to impress: Model helps show why BT2 scooped a top retailer award RASMA Dzene looked stunning in Needle & Thread attire as she helped support the recent Retailer of the Year awards, which were hosted by Dundrum Town Centre management and the Dundrum Tenants Association Committee. Taking place in Siam Candlelight Bar, this year’s guest speaker was hotelier John Brennan, from the popular RTE TV series, At Your Service. He announced BT2 as the winner of the prestigious Retail of the Year award, with BT2 Dundum providing fashionistas with a range of exclusive brands, including Alexander Wang, DVF, Needle & Thread, Self Portrait and Victoria, Victoria Beckham.
Catch Da and Emma at The Mill Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
THIS month and next, two community drama groups stage two very different but equally entertaining plays at The Mill Theatre in Dundrum. From May 26 to 30, Rathfarnham Theatre Group presents Hugh Leonard’s Da, to be followed on June 11 by Taney Dramatic Society, who will stage Jane Austen’s Emma until June 16. The first play, Da, as rendered by Rathfarnham Theatre Group, is a bitter-sweet comedy set in Dalkey in the 1960s. Taney Dramatic Society’s Emma depicts Emma Woodhouse, one of Jane Austen’s most endearing heroines. Both performances start at 8pm and tickets are available from the box office at www.milltheatre.ie, priced €15, or €12 for concessions.
TWO schools in the Dundrum and Rathfarnham areas have been given Neat Streets Awards by An Taisce for their work to reduce student littering and waste and increase recycling levels over the academic year. St Columba’s College in Rathfarnham and St Raphaela’s Secondary School in Stillorgan were among 22 secondary schools presented with awards recently. The programme supported students and teachers in organising Green action days, setting up recycling initiatives and creating links with their wider communities. Anthony Purcell of An Taisce said: “The students have put a lot of effort in to make their schools and communities better places.”
4 DUNDRUM Gazette 14 May 2015
marlay park Staff shortages cited for €58,000 withdrawal
‘Fury’ as funding for BMX track plan lapses Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
LOCAL councillors are “furious” that a much sought-after BMX track for Marlay Park will not proceed due to staff shortages in Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council, which resulted in the loss of a €58,000 grant. Politicians reacted to the news that the promised BMX track will not be going ahead at a Dundrum Area Committee meeting. An allocation of more than €58,000, which was made to the council in December 2013 to build the track under the Department of Sport’s grant system, has been recalled.
On the fund, a council report said: “There was a grant applied for in respect of this project but due to staff shortages in parks [department] and the volume of other work commitments within the department, the works required to design and tender the project could not be achieved within the timeframe required. “An extension was applied for and turned down, and consequently the grant was withdrawn. Currently, there is no funding for this project.” The proposed Marlay Park track was intended to be of modest size so that it could meet the needs of local youngsters until a larger, state-of-the-
art one is built in Jamestown Park in the future. The BMX track application had been put together by a group from BMX Ireland and technical staff from the council’s parks department. However, in the report responding to Cllr Lettie McCarthy’s (Lab) enquiries on the status of the track, the council said these designs had come to nothing due to staff shortages. Cllr McCarthy said: “I am really, really cross, and know many youngsters, especially in the Ballinteer area, will be just as disappointed” She added that the fact that grant funding had to be returned over staff
shortages “needs to be addressed immediately”. Cllr Neale Richmond (FG) said: “We are angry about it. The lapsing of this funding is a massive disappointment and raises serious questions. I am hopeful that a new application can be put in for this project.” Cllr Catherine Martin (GP) said the news is a “huge disappointment” for local young people who had been looking forward to the promised facility. She said: “It is highly regrettable and frustrating that the grant was lost due to the restriction of staff shortages when it came to designing and tendering the project.
The BMX track for Marlay Park will not proceed, due to council staff shortages
“Unfortunately, this was not taken into consideration when the council’s application for an extension of time to deliver this BMX track was turned down.” A spokesperson for the council said: “Plans for the BMX track in Marlay Park have been temporarily put on hold and will be considered as part of the review of the existing
master plan for the park.” A spokesperson for BMX Ireland told The Gazette: “T he BMX Commission of Cycling Ireland has been seeking the re-instatement of the Marlay Park BMX track since 2009; thus far, very good progress has been made on the design, planning and funding of the BMX track.” The spokesperson said
they had complete faith in the council staff and a top-class facility could be achieved for the people of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown. “In the meantime, we will continue to base our activities around Lucan BMX track (Fingal) and Ratoath BMX (Meath) tracks to serve the Greater Dublin area,” said the spokesperson.
14 May 2015 DUNDRUM Gazette 5
housing Councillor criticises scope of targeted contract campaign in county
New rental targets ‘optimistic’ – Halpin Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
A TOTAL of 75 Rental Accommodation Scheme (R AS) contracts set as a target for the county this year, according to the latest Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council manager’s report, has been described as “optimistic” by Cllr Melisa Halpin (PBP). The council, which is engaging in an advertising campaign with its three sister local authorities to encourage landlords to engage with the RAS scheme, has already secured 10 such contracts with landlords. The council will seek
a further 77 RAS contracts during 2016-17. Under RAS, landlords enter into a three-part contract with the council and the tenant. The council then pays the landlord rent and the tenant pays a differential rate of rent to the council, depending on earnings. R AS was set up to assist those who cannot afford private rent when there is no social house available to them. According to Cllr H alpin, m ost landlords involved in the R AS scheme in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown are minor landlords. Cllr Halpin questioned how realistic the
target of 75 new RAS units was, saying: “I know what it’s like out there trying to rent in Dun Laoghaire, compared to the other councils.” She also asked if in the event of the RAS contracts not materialising, could something be done with the money earmarked for them, such as putting it back into the capital programme so there would be a bit more money for social house building. In response, the council’s director of housing Tom McHugh said: “The RAS target of 75 [contracts] was set by us, so it is what we expect to achieve.
“But the regional advertising campaign is an effort to try and provoke more interest from landlords in both RAS and long-term leasing. “These are the two schemes we hope to proceed and, hopefully, it [the advertising campaign] will help us reach our target.” Cllr Lettie McCarthy (Lab) told The Gazette: “We need to do something about RAS in the county. “Just yesterday, I got a call from a person who couldn’t pay their rent as the landlord had raised it. “It’s very unsettling for families on that scheme because they have their
The council is part of an advertising campaign along with the other three Dublin local authorities to encourage landlords to engage with the Rental Accommodation Scheme, to help support social housing in the county
children in school and they’re settled. “In our area, it’s impossible to find affordable rent. It’s a very difficult situation and people are afraid they are going to be put out on the side of the road.
“That worry affects the children and everyone in the family. “So if we can get landlords on board, that would be great, because a lot of landlords aren’t accepting the R AS scheme,” she said.
The R AS contracts are part of 681 social housing units targeted for the county from 2015 to 2017 through the Department of Environment funding of €61,030,770 that was announced recently.
6 DUNDRUM Gazette 14 May 2015
tribute Colleagues wish councillor well
Call for a Luas stop at Samuel Beckett Centre
don’sdublin The many incarnations of Rory O’More Bridge One of the most attractive Liffey bridges, the single span Rory O’More bridge (above) that connects Ellis Street from the north quays to Watling Street on the south quays, has had an interesting history. A wooden bridge was erected on site in 1670 to the great displeasure of certain vested interests. They wanted people to continue using the ferries that crossed the river, thus maintaining their influence and income. After an attack by hired thugs in 1671, a fight on the bridge with soldiers led to four fatalities and the bridge was soon known as Bloody Bridge. A new four-arch stone bridge replaced the old bridge around 1700 and this became known as Barrack Bridge, as it was the main route for soldiers travelling from Dublin Castle to the new barracks on the northside of the Liffey (now Collins Barracks). Construction of the current bridge began in 1858 and, after many delays, the work was completed under the guidance of John Killen in 1861 at a cost of £11,000 – much more expensive than originally estimated. After Queen Victoria and Prince Albert arrived in Dublin, they made their way along the quays and crossed the new bridge on August 30, 1861. From then on the bridge was called The Victoria and Albert Bridge. As part of the 100th anniversary of Catholic Emancipation in 1929 when benediction was celebrated on the bridge, it then became known as Emancipation Bridge. Finally, in 1939, the bridge was renamed Rory O’More Bridge in honour of the leader of the failed rebellion in 1641. He and his men had planned to seize Dublin Castle on October 23, but a traitor revealed the plan to the authorities. O’More managed to escape capture and made his way up north to continue the fight. However, when Oliver Cromwell and his 10,000 troops arrived in 1649, the final traces of revolt were brutally swept away.
Don Cameron
www.donsdublin.wordpress.com
sandyford: better access
Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
Richard Humphreys: “The time commitment involved in council work has significantly increased.”
politics: stillorgan labour figure retires
Humphreys ‘missed for wit, eloquence’ Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@dublingazette.com
Tributes have been pouring in for Stillorgan’s Cllr Richard Humphreys, who announced he is to step down from the council. Last week, the Labour Party politician released a statement on his intention to retire after six years as a sitting member of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council. The barrister said the decision was due to time constraints and to concentrate on his legal career. “The time commitment involved in council work has significantly increased due to the rollout of the Local Government Reform Act 2014.” He added that the increase in councillor numbers in the local authority, from 28 to 40, had increased the workload.
“I am very grateful to all those who voted for and supported me over two elections. I wish all my council colleagues, of whatever party or none, and the chief executive and her officials, every success in their work. “I have enjoyed my time as a candidate and councillor and can look back positively about the work I have been able to do in that capacity, but it is simply time for a change,” he said. Party colleague and Minister for Communications Alex White paid homage to Cllr Humphreys, saying he applauded his “outstanding contribution” as a councillor. Cllr Lettie McCarthy (Lab) was surprised by the sudden announcement of his departure and wished him well. Though from different parties, Cllr Neale Richmond (FG) said he and
Cllr Humphreys “agreed on a lot and worked very well together”. Cllr Hugh Lewis (PBP) wished Cllr Humphreys success in his endeavours though they disagreed on fundamental political issues. Cllr Patricia Stewart (FG) said Cllr Humphreys would be missed for his wit and eloquence. Deputy Eamon Gilmore (Lab) said: “He is a person of great personal and political courage who has never been afraid to take a principled stand on important issues. “Richard will be a great loss to the people of Stillorgan and to Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, but I fully respect the decision he has made.” The seat left vacant by Cllr Humphreys is now available for co-option by another Labour politician. Who this will be is
yet to be decided by the Labour party. Cllr Ossian Smyth (GP) also spoke of Cllr Humphreys’ courage to speak on controversial issues. “He is broadly respected across the council and I regret that he is retiring,” he said. Other council colleagues such as Cllr Seamas O’Neill (Ind) said: “We will miss him most for his points of order and the council will not be the same without his interjections. I wish him health in his retirement.” While Cllr Barry Saul (FG) called him a “hard worker” both at council and on the ground in the Stillorgan area. Cllr Victor Boyhan (Ind) said Richard Humphreys was: “A very competent orator and debater [and] I enjoyed many political debates with him over his six-year tenure with the council.”
A local politician is calling for a Luas stop to be put at the Samuel Beckett Centre in Sandyford. The motion from Cllr Chris Curran (SF) to be put forward next month states: “A new Luas stop would greatly enhance access to the civic centre, provide more appropriate and direct access to the school as well as alleviating the concerns of residents at Ballyogan Wood.” Cllr Curran told The Gazette: “Given the current and expected level of investment, the addition of the civic centre and Gealscoile Shliabh Rua in the area, it makes sense for the facilities to be as accessible as possible.” He added that residents of Ballyogan had been looking for traffic calming measures for years. This was due to an absence of direct public transport access to the centre. If a Luas stop is installed, he said, residents would see increased traffic-flow on Ballyogan Avenue. He added that the inclusion of a new stop would benefit all Luas green line users and improve the financial viability of the new sports facilities and swimming pool. A spokesperson for the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) said: “We haven’t received anything yet on this, so we wouldn’t make a comment until we are contacted.”
14 May 2015 DUNDRUM Gazette 7
council Disabled access dwelling gets 31:5 vote
Special house on play site gets go-ahead Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
A motion to build a four-bedroom house on a green site where young children play in Blackthorn Green in Sandyford was passed at a recent Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council meeting, with a vote of 31 for and five against. The proposed new house will be a speciallydesigned dwelling to house a family with two seriously disabled children. However, local resi-
dents in the Moreen Avenue estate have voiced concerns that the site has been an “unofficial green space” used by very young local children, according to correspondence received by Cllr Hugh Lewis (PBP). At the council meeting, senior architect at the council Pamela O’Connor delivered a report on the proposed two-storey house which would feature a large ground floor to facilitate wheelchair access and other measures for the two disabled
family members. Cllr Chris Curran (SF) said: “It’s a wonderful building, but residents have concerns and believe it’s in the wrong location.” He added the site is in a pivotal point in the estate, and will potentially add more traffic to the road. He also submitted a motion, which was defeated, to bring the report on the proposed development back to the Dundrum area committee meeting for more discussion among councillors. However, director of
According to correspondence received by Cllr Hugh Lewis (PBP), residents voiced concerns that the site has been an “unofficial green space” used by young children
housing and community at the council Tom McHugh said: “This is a site owned by the council and zoned for housing and, in our opinion, is suitable for this proposed development.” He added that the traffic section of the council had looked at the proposed design and location and concluded it “will not adversely impact on sight
lines”, and said the “potential impact of this dwelling on the existing residential area is not considered to be significant”. Although many other councillors, including Cllr Shay Brennan (FF), Cllr Lettie McCarthy (Lab) and others agreed with Cllr Curran’s assertion that small children have used the site for years, some other councillors,
such as Cllr Victor Boyhan (Ind) and Cllr Maria Bailey (FG), said providing social housing was more of a priority. Cllr Bailey said: “We have to provide housing.” While Cllr Boyhan said: “There are 5,500 [people] on the social housing list – we are now given an opportunity to do something about it with this very special case”.
referendum
Family Matters meeting A local politician is hosting a public meeting entitled Family Matters on May 27, to discuss implications arising from the outcome of the marriage equality referendum. Cllr Josepha Madigan (FG) will host the meeting upstairs in the Goat pub, Goatstown on Wednesday, May 27 at 7.30pm. Experts lined up to speak at the event include solicitor Dr Geoffrey Shannon, founder patron of the Children’s Rights Alliance, who will discuss what impact the outcome of the referendum will have on children. Also due to speak at the meeting is barrister Nuala Jackson, who will speak on the effect of the referendum’s results on the courts system.
8 DUNDRUM Gazette 14 May 2015
gazetteGALLERIES
Charlie Meegan and Liam Reidy. Pictures: Brian McEvoy
premiere: audience welcomes a ‘madding crowd’ tale to dundrum
T
HERE was a great atmosphere at Movies@Dundrum for the recent premiere screening of Far from the Madding Crowd, as cinephiles from across the area gathered for a first look at the latest adaptation of the classic Thomas Hardy story. The handsome production of the romantic tale of three very different suitors seeking to win a headstrong and independent woman was very well-received by the Dundrum cinemagoers, echoing the novel’s enduring popularity down the years since it was first published in 1874.
These Star Wars experts were happy to show off their lightsaber skills. Pictures: Ed Scannell
star wars: marking franchise’s global ‘holiday’
Fiona Carberry and Coilin Hegarty
Heather Wall and Claire Finley
May the Fourth be with you all ...
A
S PART of the annual holiday celebrated worldwide by Star Wars fans, “May The Fourth” (a play on a key phrase from the enduring franchise) was marked in style at Hamleys toy store in Dundrum Town Centre. Members of Emerald Garrison – an Ireland, Earth-based group of Star Wars aficionados – were on hand in appropriate costume, while LudoSport Ireland: Lightsaber Combat Academy members also gave free lightsaber lessons for any would-be Jedis in need of help to fight the Empire. For more Earth-bound concerns, Hamleys were offering 25% off selected Star Wars lines, while face-painting was a hit with younger Star Wars fans.
Olive O’Brien
Valerie Lynch
Sean Power and his sister, Keelin
Stewart Curry and his son, James
14 May 2015 DUNDRUM Gazette 9
Sean and Cormac Furlong with their father, Carl
Forget Star Wars – Hannah Murray likes cats
Dayrl Kearns meeting a Stormtrooper and a Shadow Scout
Emma McDonnell and her special starry nails
“Aren’t you a little short for a Stormtrooper?” Princess Leia meets Henry Nisbet
10 gazette 14 May 2015
gazetteGALLERY
Avril Donnelly and Martina Hilliard
Niamh Daly, Ciara McGuone and Ciara McCormack. Pictures: Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland
Peninsula services: soiree at East point covers all bases
Business and cocktails at state-of-the-art HQ
P
eninsula Business Services held a business soiree in its brand new Ireland HQ situated in Block W, East Point Business Park, Dublin 3 recently. The evening also marked 18 years helping Irish employers protect their business and the creation of a number of
jobs which will be announced in the coming weeks. The evening began with a cocktail reception followed by award-winning cuisine, music from Gypsy Reel Rabble and entertainment from illusionist Colm Dawson. Alan Price, managing director of Peninsula Ireland, said:
“In line with our growth strategy, Peninsula continues to thrive and expand in Ireland and Northern Ireland. We are very excited about future developments and would like to thank all our clients and partners for joining us at our soiree and making the evening so enjoyable�
Joseph Rzepkowska and Magdalena Rzepkowski
Alan Price, managing director of Peninsula Ireland; Peter Done, managing director of Peninsula Business Services, and Geoff Ford, Lyndsey Smyth, Lynn Carson and Lynsey Carson
group sales director
Anthony Bagshaw, Natalie Day and Peter Done
14 May 2015 Gazette 11
feature P14
business P16
asdfsdaf P27
dublinlife Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week
Gazette
escape P13
what’son showcasing a thousand years of irish love
UK singer Marcus Collins: “After a long day I like to unwind at home with my partner. I’m watching Revenge at the moment, Game of Thrones and RuPauls Drag Race.”
a day in the life: singer limbers up for his role in big stage show
West is best for Marcus ian begley
Best known for his appearance in the X-Factor finale in 2011, UK pop singer Marcus Collins is working around the clock in preparation for his role in the stage show West End Men. This week The Gazette caught up with the 26-year-old singer to find what a day in his life is like. “I normally wake up at about 10.30am but I’m not a morning person by any means. It seems that the more interesting my breakfasts are the better the day is. When I’m in training and really want to be healthy I’d have something like granola with fruit or salmon on brown bread. Often though, when I’m feeling fat I’d just
opt for the full English breakfast. “I’m not training as much as I should be, but every day I do miniworkouts that take about 30 minutes to complete – 20 minutes jogging and 10 minutes working on my abs.” Collins, who lives between London and Liverpool, adds that he owns several properties and spends a lot of his time dealing with his tenants and taking care of other business obligations. “I don’t work normal office hours, but there’s never a time when my phone isn’t off from business. “I’m always travelling between London and Liverpool, but whenever I get the chance I love to spend time with my friends and family. “I’m forever cooking for my partner,
who is a professional dancer, and we always try our best to eat together. I also love cooking for other people and prepare all sorts of food for my guests at home regularly.” Collins said that a lot of preparation has gone into West End Men and is finding the rehearsal process intense but very exciting. “The West End Men is a collection of music from the best hits that have come out of the West End. We mix all those songs in with some contemporary numbers and rework them using our own unique vocal abilities. The dynamics are great and there is something for everyone. “After a long day I like to unwind at home with my partner. I’m watch-
ing Revenge at the moment, Game of Thrones and RuPaul’s Drag Race, which I’m obsessed with. “I’m also reading The Catcher in the Rye which is part of my New Year’s resolution to read more and get through the top 100 books ever written. “I’m a big night owl and don’t get to bed until after midnight, which has been a habit of mine for years.” Marcus Collins is in the one-night show The West End Men, coming to the Bord Gais Energy Theatre on June 7. It is a celebration of the leading men of musical theatre as well as some of the most iconic songs in musical theatre history.
ONE thousand years of Irish love will be showcased in a unique production from May 11 to 16 at the New Theatre in Temple Bar. Teanga an Ghra – 1,000 Years of Irish Love is the latest offering from Guthanna Binne Siorai, the theatre company that won acclaim in recent years for its bilingual shows featuring the work of Nobel Laureates Seamus Heaney, WB Yeats and Samuel Beckett. Directed by Tristan Rosenstock, the new show combines Irish poetry, sean-nos singing and instrumental performances, and features some of the best-known exponents of traditional Irish culture. Cathal Quinn, artistic director of Guthanna Binne Siorai, said: “For this show, we have dipped into the treasure trove of Irish declarations of love down through the centuries. This production dramatically brings to life the raw emotions at the core of these works. It places ancient songs in a modern context.” For further information, see www. thenewtheatre.com, or email: everlastingvoicesperformance@gmail. com.
Gazette
12 Gazette 14 May 2015
dublinlife
diary
letter to the editor
Vote Yes to extend real equality to all families
THE Irish people who are voting No in the marriage equality referendum need to consider the global impact of this, and the vivid impression of Ireland that this will give all around the world. It will tell married gay people from other parts of Europe and America, for example, that Ireland does not recognise their status equally. This is the first time in history where Ireland has the opportunity to spread light around the world by showing their support for Irish lesbian and gay citizens. The No side claims to be supportive of Irish lesbian and gay people, but outlines that it is for the children they are promoting a No vote. Firstly, although it is completely unrelated to the question being posed to the Irish electorate, based on clinical experience across a range of medical disciplines and a review of the academic literature, there is clear evidence that children raised by same-sex couples are at no disadvantage when compared to children raised by heterosexual couples. The four largest Irish children’s’ charities (Barnardos, the Irish
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, Foroige and the Children’s Rights Alliance), the Irish College of General Practitioners, the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation and the Irish Law Society all advocate a Yes vote. Secondly, many children are currently being raised by lesbian and gay couples in Ireland. A No vote is a discrimination to these families, telling them that their family is not equal under the eyes of the law. As an Irish person presently living in England – if a No result in the referendum occurs, this will not just be an insult to the lesbian and gay citizens of Ireland, but an undoubtedly complete and utter embarrassment for Ireland – and for everyone Irish abroad. As one of my British colleagues recently asked me: “Is gay marriage not legal in Ireland yet?” I 100% will be ashamed to be Irish if a No result occurs. Telling a small portion of Irish citizens: “You are equal but we will actually just give you separate laws” is not equality. By voting No, it is telling all the Irish lesbian and gay people to get back in the closet and if they want the opportunity to get mar-
ried, they will have to emigrate to a country that will accept them for who they are, and thus give them equal rights. Alternatively, they will have to pretend to be heterosexual when they know deep down this is a lie, and this will cause pain and regret in their later years. This referendum result will affect real people, and real peoples’ lives. This is a once-in-a-generation chance for Ireland to show that it values inclusiveness and diversity. Listen to the experts – the Irish children’s charities and the doctors, nurses and lawyers. Listen to the minority of Ireland who have laid their personal lives bare on radio, TV and social media over the past few weeks in an attempt to get Ireland to identify with what it is like to be gay in Ireland, and to not have equal rights. Show some human compassion and understanding for diversity and inclusiveness. Vote Yes on May 22.
Aidan O’Callaghan, B Pharm O’Callaghan studied at Trinity College Dublin and is a hospital pharmacist working in the UK. He will be coming home to vote on May 22.
Every year, colourful characters help add to the upbeat mood at the annual Citywest Fun Walk in aid of Barretstown’s work with seriously ill children
Step up to help Barretstown The annual Citywest Fun Walk in aid of Barretstown takes place on Friday, May 15 at 1pm at Spar, Citywest. The route is about 5km long and should take no longer that 40 minutes to complete. The route will begin and finish at Spar in Citywest. This year, Barretstown hopes to have over 600 people, working in the Citywest area and beyond, walking, running or jogging the route to raise vital funds for the charity and camp for children with serious illness. Dee Ahearn, chief executive of Barretstown, said: “We’re hoping to make this year the biggest fun walk to date and I encourage all staff working in the Citywest area and beyond to join us on May 15.” Registration costs only €15 and all proceeds go directly to Barretstown. To register or for more information, see www.citywestfunwalk. org or contact Caroline Dunne at Caroline. Dunne@Barretstown.org or on 045 864 115.
new group calls for a no vote
THE StandUp4Marriage group launched its no campaign at the Alexander Hotel, Fenian Street on Thursday, May 7. The event was attended by Senator Jim Walsh (Ind), who spoke in support of the campaign. He said he was worried that a Yes vote would result in marriage not being taken seriously enough, and that young people might not recognise the importance of it. According to StandUp4Marriage chairman Barry Jones, the campaign centres on what marriage is, what marriage is not, and the consequences expected from each. It argues that marriage itself is immutable and cannot be changed. He said: “Same-sex marriage can never be marriage; civil partnerships provide a reasonable solution that best serves the common good, and the Constitution should be left alone and kept free of pretence.”
He said the theme of the campaign is that it’s okay to vote No, and people should not feel guilty about doing so.
all is fair and square at fun family event A FAMILY fair hosted by CreActive Breakfast and Aris Fairs for children and their parents is taking place in Market Square, Dublin 8, later this month. Admission is €3 and for each workshop the fee is from €3 to €7. The fair starts at 11am and goes on until the afternoon. Activities lined up include workshops in family dance, fashion and recycling. There will also be a catwalk dance show featuring the work done in the workshops. A host of stalls will be set up with maternity, baby and children’s goods on sale. The CreActive Breakfast Family Fair will be held on Sunday, May 24, at The Dublin Food Cooperative, 12 Newmarket, Dublin 8.
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FEATURE escape the mayhem: Darragh O’ToolE
Between a Red Rock and a hard place in hit show
DAirne Black
CURRENTLY starring in TV3’s hottest property, Red Rock, rising star Darragh O’Toole is busy portraying Conor Tyrell, a young man hooked on heroin. Having broken his leg while on the lethal substance, Conor is still trying to get his fix, unbeknownst to his mother and Garda sergeant Angela, and local taxi driver Tommy. This week, The Gazette spoke to Darragh about how he escapes the mayhem of playing such a heavy-going role and juggling a filming schedule. Originally from Tullamore in Offaly, Darragh moved up to Dublin when Red Rock started, but goes home most weekends to catch up with family and friends. Unlike his Red Rock alter ego, O’Toole is a fit-
ness fan, regularly working out at his local gym here in Dublin. O’Toole revealed he’d happily like to play a friendly game of soccer against members from the Carrigstown-based soap, Fair City. If acting hadn’t worked out, it seems O’Toole could have given Rory McIlroy some competition, speaking about his keen interest in golf. He said: “I was junior captain in Tullamore in 2010 and play a five off handicap.” Still getting used to life in the capital, he enjoys taking a wander around the city and seeing what’s on. With a wide circle of friends both in Dublin and at a home, he enjoys heading out and about. An avid Manchester United supporter, O’Toole tries to catch the games when he can, as well as fitting in a bit of FIFA to really chill out.
Despite being busy with Red Rock, he has also found time for some other projects, and it is clear that acting is something that he enjoys, and doesn’t consider work. “I’m doing a short film with Sean Doyle and Amelia Stewart; it’s written by Emmet Kirwan and directed by Nicky Gogan at Still Films. “Then I’m going to be in a feature film directed by Ger Walsh. It’s his second feature film, called South, and it’ll be shot in Dublin, Cork and Sligo.” With previous roles including Moone Boy, Toy Soldiers and a Sinead O’Connor video, and a busy summer ahead, O’Toole will no doubt be hitting the golf course or perhaps the soccer pitch to truly escape the mayhem. Red Rock airs every Wednesday and Thursday at 8.30pm on TV3.
Red Rock actor Darragh O’Toole divides his time between Dublin and Tullamore
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features
Scotland says thank you for help in Buckley inquiry ian begley
The senior investigating officer in charge of the investigation into Karen Buckley’s murder has written an open letter thanking the Irish people for their help during the investigation. Over the past couple of weeks, Police Scotland have stated that they received a high number of letters and emails from members of the public in both countries, expressing their appreciation for
the work carried out in the Karen Buckley investigation. Detective Superintendent Jim Kerr of Police Scotland thanked people for their support as he and his team investigate the murder of the 24-year-old Cork woman, who was buried recently. T he letter reads: “Throughout our investigation into the death of Karen Buckley in Glasgow in April 2015 we received and continue
to receive messages of appreciation from people in Ireland. “I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank everyone for taking the time to contact us and for their thanks and continued support. “It is very much appreciated by myself and the dedicated team of officers who are involved in the investigation.” A 21-year-old man has since been charged with Ms Buckley’s murder.
Helping to launch the upcoming ninth annual Bloom festival. Picture: Robbie Reynolds Photography
Ninth year: gardening and food again to the fore
Blooming great idea certainly catches on Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
LAST week Bord Bia launched its ninth Bloom festival – the gardening and food family event – due to take place in the Phoenix Park from May 28 to June 1. This year’s special themes see a mixture of Peter Pan, stiletto heels, WB Yeats and home brewing all coming together to inspire this year’s Bloom show gardens. Bloom 2015 will once again be a five-day event packed full of gardening inspiration, gastronomic delights and family entertainment. Now in its ninth year, the Bord Bia festival in the Phoenix Park attracts great crowds each year, with more than 106,000 people attending last year. Bord Bia Bloom show manager Gary Graham
told The Gazette: “We’re flying with the preparations. As long as the rain holds off, we’ll be fine. The big gardens have started and then the 13 medium gardens will be started next. “It’s really busy here on site with all the contractors working. It’s great to see it all coming together; after a whole year of organising and working, the fruits of that labour are happening. “There will be a presidential opening as President Higgins is our patron. I’d encourage everyone to come along, no matter what the weather, as we’ve around five acres under cover, with the biggest marquee in Ireland where there are lots of restaurants,” he said. This year, the 25 Bloom show garden designers have teamed up with organisations such as Pieta House, The Ronald
McDonald House, Goal, The Atlantic Youth Trust, ITB Blanchardstown and Fingal County Council to create gardens with powerful messages on social and cultural issues. Also included this year is a garden entitled, Yeats’s Secret Garden in Sligo. This unique garden is part of the 2015 celebration of the 150th anniversary of the birth of WB Yeats, and is based on his wellknown poem, The Lake Isle of Innisfree. A new feature at this year’s festival will be Bloom in Transition (BIT), through which transition year students get to showcase their creativity with projects and installations around themes such as agriculture, food science, horticulture, environment and more. The festival also offers something cerebral with a marquee entitled, The
Banter at Bloom. Here, discussions and talks will be held on issues such as food and sustainability. For visitors who prefer to sample the fruits of the land, the Quality Kitchen stage offers a number of cooker y demonstrations throughout each day with Ireland’s top chefs, including Neven Maguire, Catherine Fulvio, Rory O’Connell, The Lazy Chef Simon Lamont, David and Stephen Flynn (The Happy Pear) and Fiona Uyema, to name but a few. There will also be daily competitions in the Quality Kitchen, with visitors encouraged to drop by from 10.30am every day for the first demonstration, and to be in with a chance to win some tasty prizes. For further information on the Bord Bia Bloom Show, see www. bloominthepark.com.
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dublinlife
Workshop at DCU on family business DUBLIN City University’s Centre for Family Business is inviting family business members to attend its Dublin workshop on May 19 at the William Fry offices from 8am to 11am. These interactive workshops, entitled “Professionalisation of the Family Business – What it is and why it matters?”, will be facilitated by leading family business academic and founding director of the Australian Centre for Family Business, Professor Ken Moores. A veteran family business chairman and nonexecutive director of a fourth-generation family business, Professor
Moores will speak about structuring the family business and the importance of professionalisation. Local Dublin businessman, Ray Reihill of the Tedcastles Group, will also give a talk on his experience of professionalising and succession. All workshops will encourage attendees’ involvement and groups will work together to find solutions for common business challenges. For further information, or to register for the event, see www.dcu.ie/ centre-for-family-business/news-and-events/ events/family_business_ roadshow.shtml.
business business
R&D: hot water a key factor to ‘Exyrgen Drive’
Dublin firm awarded €2.48m to develop new engine type DUBLIN SME Exergyn Ltd has been awarded €2.48m by Horizon 2020 – the EU’s research and innovation funding programme – to help develop an engine that runs on hot water. The funding will go towards further developing its technology (called Exyrgen Drive) and bringing it to full commercial production. The company will also be using the grant to conduct industrial trials, to become manufacturingready, and to prepare the company and the market for full commercialisation
of the Exergyn Drive in 2017. Alan Healy, Exergyn chief executive, said: “Exergyn is delighted and honoured to have been selected for the SME Instrument [funding]. “This funding is crucial to our ability to move our technology forward and commercialise it, so the whole world can begin to make use of the vast amounts of low-grade waste heat produced each year. “I would recommend other SMEs – if they have confirmed that their business/project is the kind that fits the Horizon 2020 mould – to apply. “Ireland has an active start-up/early-stage company community and the EU funding is well known to people in this community. “We have developed an engine that runs on hot water. It will enable, for the first time, electricity to be generated from waste hot water, less than 100C, in a commercially viable manner, ie inexpensively. “If fully deployed worldwide, our first product could reduce world carbon emissions by about 2%. Industrial customers form our target market,” he said. He went on to say that the use of hot water for energy could increase industrial efficiency as hot water is a waste product in many industries, citing industrial power plants which are currently dumping huge volumes of hot water as a necessary by-product of their process. Healy said: “They are therefore making no use of the waste heat, and in many cases, expending power to cool the hot
Alan Healy, Exergyn chief executive: “We have developed an engine that runs on hot water. It will enable electricity to be generated from waste hot water.”
water before dumping it.” EU Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation, Carlos Moe-
das said Horizon 2020 was helping many highpotential SMEs to develop their ground-breaking innovative ideas for prod-
ucts, services or processes and to grow and expand their activities into other countries, in Europe and beyond.
14 May 2015 Gazette 17
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asdfsdaf P27 cinema P24
OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week
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Pets Playful collie cross needs a loving home
Music fans are sure to come running to Temple Bar for the upcoming Down With Jazz festival, where the Dublin City Jazz Orchestra (above) are just one of many great acts
back to the 1930s: the down with Jazz festival in the heart of temple bar
Pssst … Time for an illicit hooley keith bellew
An illicit hooley will take place in the heart of Temple Bar on May 30 – 31, with a line-up of shameless jazzy grooves and lascivious foreign rhythms, defying the morals of 1930s Ireland. The Down With Jazz festival is an annual city-centre celebration of musical rebellion, with jazz, experimental and world music acts over two nights in Meeting House Square. The festival is a tongue-in-cheek nod to 1930s Ireland when jazz and “foreign” music were seen by many as a force of corruption, and a repressive “anti-jazz” campaign pushed to ban jazz from the dance halls and airwaves of Ireland.
Speaking to The Gazette, festival director Kenneth Killeen said Down With Jazz is really a testament to how far Ireland has come musically, socially and culturally. He said they were trying to showcase the music of the day and juxtapose it against a backdrop of the moralistic standards of 1930s Ireland, which were insular to the point of xenophobic. “There was very much a fear, particularly from nationalists at the time, that this foreign music was corrupting the morals of young Irish men and women. We’re presenting music that’s happening today against that backdrop,” he said. The festival will see 10 home-grown jazz and world music bands perform-
ing over two days with five shows per night. Killeen said that the line-up is broadly reflective of what’s happening in the scene in Ireland today and is a domestic showcase of some really high quality music. “We have Louis Stewart playing with a really good quintet. Louis would be one of the first exports from the country in terms of jazz music. Then we have Isotope, which is a band that has been running in various different guises since the late 70s, they’re representing the old school approach to the idiom. We will close on Sunday night with the Dublin City Jazz Orchestra which is a big band. It is a very contemporary twist on the big band sound,” he said.
He said that there are lots of other different things mixed in with the standard jazz including various dynamic fusions. “You have a band like Tongue Bundle who are a Frank Zappa meets Miles Davis type of band. Then we have Mixtapes From the Underground who are going to headline on Saturday night. That’s a project led by the drummer Dennis Cassidy who has studied jazz for a number of years, but he has a real hip-hop / funk background,” he said. There is something for everybody at the festival, says Killeen, with a mix of the progressive music of today and the more traditional style. For more information on Down With Jazz, see www.downwithjazz.ie.
The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week this week is Dani, a oneyear-old Collie cross. Dani is only a young girl but she is very worried by handling. Due to this, she would need an experienced dog-owning home who understand she will need time to settle in and help teach her that the world is not so scary. Dani is super clever and will enjoy training games with her new family. An adult only home is needed for this girl. If you think you could give this playful lady a loving home, 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 www.facebook. com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE.
Hat €3 3
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Lidl
Swim suit
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45
op € led t s s a nd T
sla
Hipanema
Necklace €17
rI Rive
Warehouse Fringed gypsy dress €46
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Karen Millen Perforated pochette €50
Warehou se Feather prin bikini top € 21; bottom t €18
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STYLE The Body Shop Big & Curvy Waterproof Mascara €17
al Penneys Flor
triangle bikini
set €7
BRUSHING UP ON YOUR
MASCARA
Panache Navy and white bikini top €47; bottom €25
NOTHING changes your look more dramatically than a sweep of mascara. Even if you don’t wear another thing on your face, your eyes look brighter and pop more with a lick of mascara! Here, we pick six of our favourites.
Benefit Roller lash €26
t €70 Hipanema Bracele Elizabeth Arden Colour lash enhancing mascara €26
Oasis Fluoro st ripe top €20; bottom bikini €17
Belle d
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Teint €4 3
Max Factor Masterpieve Glamour Extensions €13.99
Mac InExtreme Dimension €24.50
House of Fra bikini top € ser Floral 32; bottom €20
Chanel Sublime de Chanel €31.50
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OUT&ABOUT
Portable and delicious nutritious nuts and fruit
Tips to help make your long-haul comfortable SUZANNE SHEEHY
I OFTEN hear the expression, “It’s a small world!” – but not when you have a long-haul flight, spending up to 12 hours or more in the air. Getting to your dream destination isn’t always fun. Following on from my trip to New Zealand, I have refined my survival techniques – so here they are. My essential onboard toiletry kit would be a toothbrush, baby wipes, moisturiser and hand sanitiser, deodorant (travel size) and spare clothing. Freshen up every few hours; you’ll be amazed how you’ll feel after.
Carry-on food Airplane food has little nutritional value, so in my carry-on bag I had some dried fruit and nuts as they are both portable and delicious. To keep hydrated during the flight, I always travel with a refillable water bottle, and drink herbal tea such as camomile. I bought Melissa Dream tea, which helps to calm your mind and body. Lastly, choosing a seat is a matter of personal choice. For greater comfort, I booked my seat at the time of booking my tickets. I chose a window seat with the wall to rest my weary head on. Happy travels!
Already world-famous for spectacular scenery, New Zealand is now also celebrated as the playground of Hobbits, given the country’s vital role in the Lord of the Rings films. However, away from its stunning landscape, its cities – such as Auckland, right – offer modern, cosmopolitan hubs.
NEW ZEALAND: STUNNING SCENERY RIDES ALONG ON A CYCLING JOURNEY
On the road to adventure SUZANNE SHEEHY
ITWAS the biggest adventure of my life – just over a fortnight in New Zealand, where the people dubbed the Kiwis are friendly and down-to-earth. It was the perfect place for a solo traveller – there’s nothing like the freedom of exploring a new place on your own terms. Going alone meant I had to make more effort to meet new people and trust my instincts. My itinerary was flexible – last-minute changes were possible. And I can only say if there’s ever a country you want to see but have no one to go with, just go solo. You’ll learn so much about yourself and others and return with
fond memories and new friendships. So, however you travel, you can choose to see New Zealand’s North or South Islands. Most travellers flock to the latter, famous for its glaciers and spectacular Southern Alps. But don’t underestimate the North Island – it too is magnificent. I chose a unique way to experience this stunning terrain – by bike. A favourite quote from author Ernest Hemingway sums up my trip: “It is by riding a bicycle that you learn the contours of a country best, since you have to sweat up the hills and coast down them. “Thus you remember them as they actually are, while in a motor car only a high hill impresses you, and you have no such
accurate remembrance of country you have driven through as you gain by riding a bicycle.” I was one of 80 competitors who flew into New Zealand to join 220 Kiwi riders at the starting line on April 11 for
Island to Wellington. The event was about celebrating the country’s great rides, encouraging cyclists to give it a go, and promoting NewZealand’s biking opportunities. Competitive but social, the tour was spread
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‘I flew into New Zealand to join 220 Kiwi riders at the starting line for the Tour Of New Zealand cycle’
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the North Island stage of the Tour Of New Zealand cycle. I was offered two direction options – from the top of the North Island to Wellington, or from the bottom of the South
over seven days, covering 700kms of gruelling climbs and fascinating road trails. The first three days we spent travelling through Northland, famous for its native forests, as we
stopped at Tane Mahuta – a giant 2,300-year-old kauri tree, probably the largest tree I’ll ever lay eyes on. The route, through the centre of the North Island, comprised one amazing day after another including a stop at the iconic Chateau Hotel with Mt Ruapheu towering behind it. Some rides started flat and neutral but later turned into rollercoasters. Every day was different and while I struggled on some, finding it hard to latch onto passing peletons, I had a great big grin on my face crossing the finish line each day. The views en route were awesome. The faster team members were always there to cheer me and fellow riders in on the final laps.
The camaraderie among cyclists made it easier each morning to leap bike-wards and feel fully charged up. As days passed, my strength rose. But undoubtedly the trip’s highlight was the people I shared it with, from the bike mechanic to the crew and riders. One day, I cycled more than four hours with a 72-year-old. He refused to allow his age to stop him from being physically active and achieving his goals. The Tour Of New Zealand shows that by bringing together people around a shared interest, age and background dissolve into a very enjoyable event with great spirit. Tour Of New Zealand also had a charitable focus, with many riders
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GAZETTE
TRAVEL
Geronimooo ... Suzanne Sheehy takes a leap of faith with a bungee jump 134m above the Nevis River Whether cycling or otherwise journeying across New Zealand, the Suzanne Sheehy (centre) with fellow cyclists along the route
scenery can often feel like Ireland
Once-in-a-lifetime experiences await NEW Zealand is a fantastic place to visit, whether with a group or on your own. Getting around, you can fly by Jetstar (a lowcost airline) between Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown and Wellington. I flew from Wellington to Queenstown (price NZ$199/€131). It is here where adventure awaits you. My chosen adrenalinerush activity was the Nevis Bungee Jump, from 134m above the Nevis River. Costing €181, it was a once-in-alifetime experience.
Chateau Tongariro in Tongariro National Park
Head up, up and away by gondola to the top of the peak overlooking Queenstown, and a great look at the rolling landscape around the historic town
TheEssentials Suzanne Sheehy (centre) with fellow cyclists, including Tour Of New Zealand director Peter Yarrell (far right)
working to raise a total of $250,000 for chosen charities, including The Heart Foundation, St John, Tear Fund, Akina Trust (bikes in schools), and Unicorn Foundation (a trust set up by John Keys cardiologist Malcolm Legget for cancer research). This third tour was made possible by the commitment, organisation and dedication of
event director Peter Yarrell and secretary Coral MacDonald and his teams of volunteers.
Plans for 2017 Plans for 2017 are aready under way – mark April 22-29, 2017 in your diary for this truly amazing event. For further information on this exciting event, see www.tourofnewzealand.co.nz.
Believe me, New Zealand is not that far away. Some careful planning, a few sacrifices and a lot of saving can make the trip possible. You don’t have to wait till you’ve retired! But take it from me, don’t forget the padded shorts – I could not have made it without their unstinting support! And remember, wherever you go, go with all your heart.
Traveling to New Zealand Flights to New Zealand from Ireland depart from major cities. The duration of the flight to New Zealand is about 25, hours and common stopovers include Dubai, Kuala Lampur, Melbourne, Sydney or San Francisco. I booked flights with Trailfinders, and found it helpful in planning a flight itinerary. My return flight cost about €1,000, but this varies according to season and demand. For further information, see www. trailfinders.ie. Food and drink You will not lack places to eat. I spent a few days in Auckland at the end of my trip and was surprised at the variety of food and drink options, from authentic Thai to Japanese cuisine. Take in Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, where restaurants and trendy bars dot the waterfront. Accommodation New Zealand has good accommodation which can suit most pockets. Visit TripAdvisor for up-to-date news and reviews by fellow travellers. Also see www.newzealand. com, which is useful for accommodation and things to do.
Next up was the white water rafting (above) on the Grade 3-5 Shotover River. Undertaken with a very organised crew, the views were spectacular (and not forgetting the bus trip along a cliff edge to get there – yikes!) This cost NZ$209 (€138), but if you book several activities agents occasionally give you extra value on your booking. For a rest day, I took a trip out to Milford Sounds, in the Fiordland National Park, widely acknowledged as one of the world’s most scenic areas.
Although there was heavy rain and poor visibility, (above) it was definitely worth the trip. The rain meant spectacular waterfalls along most of the route; a highlight was seeing the fur seals. My Real Journeys tour included stops to take pictures. I chose the coach/cruise/fly package; however, due to bad weather, I returned by coach, and a full refund was given for the fly section of this package. I would suggest visiting Milford Sound, come rain or shine. Queenstown is also well known for its tracks and trails which suit all fitness abilities and time frames. I recommend taking the gondola to the peak summit above the city (NZ$32), or hiking up, which took me 45 minutes, to take in breathtaking views. Accommodation is plentiful, ranging from backpackers’ hostels to apartments, B&Bs and hotels. I used TripAdvisor as my source of reviews and referrals. Make Queenstown an essential part of your New Zealand itinerary; although costly, it will not disappoint.
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OUT&ABOUT
Theatre Love/Hate’s Peter Coonan, who stars in Before Monsters Were Made at the Project
Seeing how monsters can rise in idle rumours Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
IF YOU missed the first few performances of Before Monsters Were Made, a play by Ross Dungan and featuring Love/ Hate’s Peter Coonan, you are still in with a chance to see it as it continues its run at Project Arts Centre until May 16. So far, the new thriller has been going down a storm with audiences. It tells the tale of David, a man struggling to hold his marriage together in a small town that has been rocked by the untimely death of a local girl.
Rumours As details are uncovered, rumours and talk take hold of the town, and it starts to force David to revisit old memories. The play is set in 1960s rural Ireland, and focuses on how suspicion and old stories can spread like a virus, causing untold damage. Tickets for Before Monsters Were Made can be booked at Project Arts Centre by contacting www.projectartscentre.ie, or by calling 01 8816 913.
ARTS
interview: dermot bolger at his best
Nothing like getting tangled up in novels Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
When The Gazette spoke to writer Dermot Bolger last week, he was getting ready to go back to his old school in Finglas to talk to students about his teen novel, New Town Soul, currently on this year’s Leaving Certificate. Bolger is famous for his mercurial talent in many literary genres from teen literature to poetry, drama and novels. He told The Gazette of the challenges involved in some of these genres. “They all have different challenges but firstly, I’m just a storyteller and love to tell stories. It’s a huge privilege when people hear your stories. You write in the medium which presents itself to you…The most challenging [literary genre] is actually the novel. When you start a novel, you’ve no idea if you will finish it and you’re trying to create a narrative, as I tried to do with Tanglewood and know it’s going to be two, three or four years before it’s finished.”
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‘I’m just a storyteller and love to tell stories. It’s a huge privilege when people hear your stories. You write in the medium which presents itself to you …’
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Dermot Bolger, writer --------------------------
Bolger met a ver y tricky problem with his latest novel Tanglewood as he began writing it 10 years ago during the height of the Celtic Tiger but by the time he was finishing it, the property bubble had burst. “One of the huge problems for me was that the world in which it was written, disappeared overnight. For years I couldn’t finish the book because I said people wouldn’t build
that house now because property has collapsed. “It was like writing a novel in the summer of 1913, which was an absolutely gorgeous summer and people were going about their lives with no cognisance of the fact that the whole world around them was going to be totally changed by the war in a year’s time.” To navigate around this problem, Bolger decided to finish the book as intended by leaving it set in 2007. He said: “The book is really about marriage and relationships and I don’t need to go into the whole collapse of the economy. The reader, once they see that date, will know what the character doesn’t know, the reader will know what’s going to happen. So I don’t need to tell that story; that’s implicit.” Bolger said the Celtic Tiger and its fall-out damaged several generations including the present crop of young emigres “who grew up thinking that they were the culmination of 700
Writer Dermot Bolger whose works span literary genres from teen literature to poetry, drama and novels
years of history and were the chosen generation who would simply walk into jobs in their own country. Now I’ve nephews and nieces who’ve emigrated and I don’t know where my own sons will wind up.” Old school
Bolger frequently goes back to his old school Beneavin De La Salle College, and last week was due to speak to Leaving Certificate exam students about New Town Soul. “It’s important to go out to schools because when I was in school I didn’t think I could possibly make a living by doing this. “I became the world’s worst library assistant and worked in factories. I had no notion I could make a living from my dreams. “So, I think it’s impor-
Tanglewood explores the lives of a cohort of suburban Dubliners
tant to go into schools, prisons and various places and say you need to cherish your dream and see where it brings you.”
Dermot Bolger’s latest novel, Tanglewood, is available at the end of May for €13.99 and is published by New Island Books.
14 May 2015 Gazette 23
Gazette
FOOD&DRINK RECIPECORNER
Versatile lamb always goes great with a good salad
Make the most of lamb with a terrific salad YO! Sushi
Japanese restaurant
Clarendon Street, D2 A popular eatery away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Grafton Street, YO! Sushi has been delighting
diners with its top
Japanese fare for a long time, and has a new menu to further please its foodie fans. Pictures: Paul Sherwood
The Picky Eater
SET close to Grafton St, YO! Sushi has been a perennial on the restaurant scene in Dublin, and it’s a great place to pop in for a quick bite. I used to be a massive sushi fan – in my late 20s I made it my business to dine out on the stuff at least once a week. But it sort of lost its appeal; I think I overdid it once or twice and haven’t really craved sushi in a long time. So, when I heard YO! Sushi was launching a new menu recently, I thought this is the perfect opportunity to see if I can rekindle my love for the Japanese dish. The new menu includes old favourites such as chicken yakitori, as well as new additions including popcorn shrimp tempura, beef tsukune, salmon and yuzu salsa tataki, chocolate dorayaki and banana and chocolate harumaki.
Devised by group executive chef Mike Lewis, the new YO! Sushi menu brings together f lavours of amazing street food in Tokyo, along with lots of great regional dishes. For those of you who don’t know the brief with YO! Sushi, there is a conveyor belt with lots of small plates containing everything from norimaki to sashimi to wasabi peas.
Remembering It’s a bit like The Generation Game, but instead of remembering everything you see, you eat everything you see! Sit in the booths or on high stools and pick your dinner up as it passes. I brought my twoyear-old along and he almost hyperventilated with the excitement. Granted, he didn’t go in much for the sushi, but he did like the fruit plates, the miso soup
and the rice, as well as all the chocolate treats they have on there too. For those of you who find this a bit too harebrained, you can order hot dishes from the menu, too, but that just takes away from the experience, in my opinion; although we did mix it up a little and selected from both. This is a great place to bring kids as they get to eat with their eyes as well as their mouths, and small plates make it easy to eat fast and run. We did so, as our darling son, who had behaved impeccably up to this point, decided the conveyor belt would be a great place to send his toy cars and trucks for a little ride. Now that’s something the other diners certainly didn’t expect to pick up in a sushi bar. For further information, see go to www. yosushi.com.
THIS week, we have a delicious recipe for marinated lamb, courtesy of Bauknecht ovens. To accompany the lamb, we recommend serving fresh quinoa, tomato and cucumber salad with ciabatta croutons.
Lamb and marinade ingredients 2kg butterflied leg of lamb Juice of 4 oranges Large pinch of saffron 3 x star aniseeds 1 x dessert spoon of honey ½ vanilla pod (split) 1 tbsp. of coriander seeds Preparation • To marinade, squeeze the juice of 4 oranges into a small pot, then add in all remaining ingredients, bring to boil and then leave to cool. • For the lamb, butterfly cut the leg of lamb (or ask your butcher to do it). • Massage the marinade into the lamb and leave for at least three hours (or overnight for best results). • Turn your Bauknecht oven to turbo grill – medium setting 4. • Cook for 25 mins for medium-rare, or for 35 minsplus for medium to well-done. • Leave to rest for two mins in a warm place, then carve and serve. Quinoa, tomato and cucumber salad with ciabatta croutons ingredients 250g of cherry tomatoes 1 x cucumber 100g of quinoa Juice of 2 lemons ½ clove of garlic 4 tbsp. of extra virgin olive oil 1 loaf of ciabatta
A feast for the eyes as much as the stomach, Yo! Sushi’s colourful conveyor belt of food will satisfy both senses
Conclusion
MUCH like its visually pleasing conveyor belt of food, you should give YO! Sushi a whirl (at Clarendon Street, Dublin 2; tel 01 672 8950). Its well-thought out menu features a wide range of Japanese staples, as well as more accessible selections, too.
Preparation • For the ciabatta croutons, cut ciabatta into cubes and mix with 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil. • Place on oven tray in warm oven at 125°C Forced Air Cooking, and cook for 30 mins (until crispy). • For the quinoa salad, bring a large pot of water to the boil, then add quinoa and boil for 15-20 mins. • Drain and refresh in cold water, then quarter the cherry tomatoes. • Half, peel and deseed the cucumber, then chop finely. • For the vinaigrette, finely chop half clove of garlic, then add to lemon juice and 2 tbsp. of extra virgin olive oil. Finally, mix, season and serve to taste.
Gazette
24 Gazette 14 May 2015
OUT&ABOUT
CINEMA
ReelReviews
AVENGERS: ultron Not totally Marvel-ous
MARVEL builds on its smash-hit Avengers franchise for the biggest film yet, with Age of Ultron (Cert 12A, 142 mins) rounding up the gang (Captain America, Hulk, Thor – you all know who by now) and adding new characters to the mix, all in the name of battling Ultron. But their battle against this latest nemesis and his legions of robot goons add little that is new to the mix.
child 44
A chilling Soviet tale THERE’S something extrarotten afoot in Soviet-era Russia in Child 44 (Cert 16, 110 mins), with a series of child murders pointing at a cover-up at the highest levels. Investigator Tom Hardy follows the ever murkier trail, but the threat of danger grows stronger, the closer he gets to the truth ... It’s a decent role for Hardy, with Gary Oldman delivering reliable support.
fast & furious 7 Still vroom to improve
YES, technically, Fast & Furious 7 (Cert 12A, 140 mins) does come with a plot – something to do with terrorism, vengeance, family life – but in reality it’s just the latest in the highly-popular, incredibly dumb franchise. Expensive cars get driven very fast and furiously indeed, as ludicrous sequences ramp up the excitement and highamp silliness. Park your brains at home for this one.
The discovery of unsettling old footage from many years ago plunges Dublin film archivist David (Rupert Evans) into an unsettling and increasingly disturbing reality
the canal: despite some flaws, this is a solid and interesting film
Irish horror makes a splash A GOOD horror movie is a rare thing – for every Babadook, there’s a host of terrible films. Just glance through the IMDB scores of what the genre has offered in the past few years and you’ll see the most constant element is a mediocre rating. Audiences flock to the cinema in the hopes of titillating a primal rush of fear, but too often leave disappointed. The power of that fundamental captivation we have with the supernatural is highlighted in the opening scene of The Canal, which sees film archivist David (Rupert Evans) addressing the camera, which pivots to reveal a cinema audience of unruly school kids, evidently on a class trip.
Dave phillips
A shout of “W ho wants to see some ghosts?” quells the c l a m o u r, a s D av i d continues to explain that all the people in the archive footage the group are about to watch are long dead – cue groans of frustration from the kids. It’s a strong, self-aware and promising start to a particularly nightmarish journey. Shot in Dublin, Irish director and writer Ivan Kavanagh’s disturbing ghost story focuses around the central
character of David. Things are looking rosy for him and his pregnant wife Alice (Hannah Hoekstra) as we see them settle into their Georgian house by the canal. F a s t f o r w a r d f i ve years, and we see some obvious changes – their son Billy is well established in their home, and more importantly some cracks are beginning to show in their relationship. David seems to be quite familiar with a female colleague, and at the same time is jealous of the attention that Alice gets at work. Accompanying her on a work night out, he surveys her body language when speaking with clients and suspects that she is having an affair.
Things take a significant turn for the worse when, in the course of work, David watches some archive crime scene footage and finds out that a century earlier a violent murder took place on Black Street, in the very house where David and his family are now living. After watching the footage, something shifts in David’s world – he starts to see movement in the shadows, have strange dreams, and become increasingly hostile and suspicious of his wife. It is the otherworldly sequences that really set The Canal apar t from its peers. Lulled into familiar territory of marital disturbances, it is a shock for the viewer to enter the twisted
dreamscape of David, where he is haunted by the figure from the video. There are some golden moments here that are reminiscent of Don Cascarelli’s Phantasm series, where the mundane and the supernatural worlds meet in a feverish, murky, and electrifying meld. The bulk of the film oscillates between these peaks of intense, engaging, and effective horror and the banalities of David’s life as he tries to understand what is happening to him – it’s the latter where the film at points falls a little flat, with some heavy-handed dialogue and an overreliance on jump-cut editing dispelling some of the tension built up in the creepier
scenes. Like a smorgasbord of horror, The Canal seems to have a little bit of ever ything. In the wonderfully inventive dream sequences, there is a throwback to a distinctly 80s-kind of ethereal horror. We’ve an abundant helping of gore and jump-scares, but also a touch of psychological depth as the story can be read – albeit with a little effort – as an exposition of fear around birth. T he problem with incorporating such a variety of styles is that it never feels like it masters one, but overall The Canal is a solid helping of creative and effective home-grown horror.
Verdict: 6/10
14 May 2015 gazette 25
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Gazette
28 Gazette 14 May 2015
SPORT Top swim award for Dub stars
FastSport
top athlete: portmarnock club member wins big at annual event
o’donoghue and good win Belgan title:
TEmpleogue native Shane O’Donoghue and Shankill’s Kyle Good helped Antwerp-based Dragons to the Belgian Hockey League title last weekend in stunning fashion. One of Europe’s top three leagues, the Irish pair were both on the score sheet in an incredible final victory over Royal Leopold, running up a 10-0 aggregate victory in the two-legged final. Both scored in Saturday’s 4-0 win before Good finished off the rout on Sunday with his side’s sixth goal. It completed a memorable season for the pair following their summer switch from UCD and Monkstown, respectively. They finished the regular season in fourth place but managed to get the better of tabletoppers KHC Leuven in the semi-finals. O’Donoghue linked up with the Irish national team a day after the league win in Germany to play in a series of challenge matches.
sport@dublingazette.com
FIONA Doyle was last night named High Performance Athlete of the Year at the Swim Ireland Annual Awards in the Citywest Hotel, Saggart.
Doyle, a previous Gazette Sports Star of the Month and Portmarnock club member, had an outstanding year in 2014 and won the award based on her performances, in particular her 50m breast-
Bert O’Brien with Sarah Keane
stroke final at the European Championships in Berlin. Doyle has already shown her desire to secure a place at the Rio 2016 Olympics in 2015 with a number of new Irish records and will target qualification for Rio 2016 at the World University Games and World Championships this summer. A total of 12 awards, which celebrate and honour the fantastic work and outstanding accomplishments of Swim Ireland’s athletes, coaches and volunteers, were handed out on the night. Among them was Bert O’Brien, from Sandycove SWPC, who was awarded the Water Polo
Rachel Lee, left, is presented with the Open Water Swimmer award by Sarah Keane
Outstanding Achievement Award for his involvement with the sport which spans over 40 years. Malahide’s Rachael Lee was winner of the Open Water Swimmer of the Year award. She won the 2014 Liffey Swim as well as the 10K National Open Water Swim at Lough Dan. T here was a huge cheer as Brian Sweeney collected the Club C o a c h o f t h e Ye a r Award; a huge number of members of his Templeogue Club attended to celebrate the occasion. Club swimmer of the year went to Tallaght’s Antoinette Neamt for her outstanding perf o r m a n c e s i n 2 014
which included a number of Irish junior records. Ten junior international athletes were also honoured on the night, they represented Ireland at European junior championships in swimming and diving and at the World Youth Olympics. Over 20 volunteers were honoured with awards for their services and involvement in the aquatics over the past 20 years. The final part of the evening saw two inductions into the Swim Ireland Hall of Fame. Anne Cummins presented the first in a touching tribute to her sister Marian Fenton and the second was presented by past
president Wally Clarke to Norman Green who had huge involvement in swimming in the 1970s and 1980s. Speaking after the event, Swim Ireland’s chief executive Sarah Keane said: “We are delighted each year to be able to celebrate the great accomplishments of our athletes and coaches and to recognise our volunteers for the hard work that they do, that sometimes goes unnoticed. “The awards night gives us the opportunity to celebrate and remember the hard work that ever yone puts into our sports; swimming, water polo, open water, diving and masters swimming.”
Aughney lays out 2015 Dublin marathon route sport@dublingazette.com
Maria McCambridge on her way to finishing second in the women’s 2014 SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon
DUBLIN marathon race director Jim Aughney confirmed the route for this year’s race this week at the Mansion House with the event set for Monday, October 26. Over 19,000 people took part in the SSE Airtricity Dublin Race Series last year, and over 14,600 runners, joggers and walkers entered the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon. The 2015 marathon route will follow the same course as the previous marathon in 2014 where changes had to be made
due to the Luas works in Dublin City Centre. The route will start on Fitzwilliam Square and end at Merrion Square as per recent years, but it will run along St. Stephen’s Green towards Meath Street, Lord Edward Street and Parliament Street, taking in City Hall and Dublin Castle – two well-known Dublin landmarks – before entering the quays and moving towards the Phoenix Park. Last year’s race finish from Mount Street Lower towards Merrion Square proved a success
with the runners and spectators so it remains the same for 2015. Last year, Kenyan Eluid Too was a surprise winner of the overall title with a time of 2.14.47 while defending champion Maria McCambridge lost out by four seconds to EstherWanjiru Macharia of Kenya who crossed the line in a great time of 2.34.15. “As the leading marathon in Ireland, we are continuing to improve the standard of marathon running in this country while also increasing participation rates. “This year, the SSE Airtricity
Dublin Marathon is one of two major events announced as part of the new initiative to attract members of the diaspora to participate, with numerous networking events being organised in the lead up to our races,” said Aughney. The SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon was also announced as the winner of the best international event at the Running Awards in London last month where they were up against tough competition from the Boston Marathon and the TCS New York City Marathon.
14 May 2015 Gazette 29
Gazette
Christie’s mission to Box and Burn in LA Lucan BC’s Kerrie Christie is aiming to become one of the world’s top female boxing coaches; she tells JAMES HENDICOTT of her move to the US to hone her skills BOXING coach Kerrie Christie has gone in search of her slice of the American dream, moving to Los Angeles to hook up with notable pro gym Box N Burn. The move is the Lucan native’s latest in her ambitious mission to become “boxing’s premier female coach”. Christie already has an impressive sporting background, coming to boxing after injuries forced her from soccer and immediately taking to the sport. She quickly won an invite to train at Paschal Collins’s Dublin pro gym the Celtic Warrior Boxing Club, where she’s been for the past four years. There, she worked with the likes of prospects Luke Keeler and Jono Carroll who are making big strides in
the professional game as well as world title hopeful Stephen Ormond. Recently, Christie became the first Irish woman ever to gain a formal coaching qualification, picking up her BUI licence earlier this year. It’s a success for which she’s particularly grateful to Collins. The move to LA, of course, brings with it a host of new challenges. “I’ve become a very small person in a big city,” the Dubliner says of her Californian relocation. “I have to establish myself as a hard worker and a reputable trainer. It’ll take time, but as the years go by I’ll be looking for that world champion.” It sounds ambitious, but Christie’s going in at a top location, and is well-placed to make seri-
ous strides. B ox N B u r n h a s recently developed into a small chain, and has seen some high-profile athletes pass through over the years. These have included world champion boxer Chris Van Heerden and UFC champion Chris Weidman. “The gyms are owned by Tony Jeffries and Kevan Watson”, Christie told the Dublin Gazette. “Tony is an Olympic medal winner and an undefeated pro boxer, and Kevan is one of the world’s leading fitness trainers. Ireland’s own Wayne ‘Pocket Rocket’ McCullough is also part of the team.” To get her foot in the door, Christie took the direct approach, presenting the owners with her impressive CV on her sec-
Kerrie Christie, centre, with Tony Jeffries and Kevan Watson
ond trip to LA They were evidently impressed. “The two guys sponsored my visa”, she explains. “They gave me so much support along the way. They’ve made the dream a reality.” The faith shown comes in part from a lifelong knack Christie has for
“Blue skies, amazing weather, lovely beaches and people who want to stay fit and healthy; it’s an amazing place”, she tell us. “As [gym owner] Tony always says, ‘it’s like living on holiday’.” Not that the holiday feel is slowing Christie down. “I loved the
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‘My mission is to become boxing’s premier female coach - Kerrie Christie’
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connecting when coaching. “I’ve been told I have great patience and can adapt to how different people learn, and being very passionate helps, too. When it comes to boxing, it can be a very mental game. “The biggest challenges you’ll face are trying to get inside your fighter’s head and understand how they think and how they work before and during a fight. It’s a tough sport to be in, and sometimes, if your head’s not right, you can lose a fight before it even starts. “Packie Collins at Celtic Warrior has a great understanding of the psychological side having studied sports psychology.” It’s not taken long for Christie to take to her new environment, but then again, why would it.
gym from the moment I stepped into it,” she says. “It’s packed on a daily basis, from pro athletes to members of the public who want to learn to box. “The atmosphere’s electric. I want to do the best job I can with these guys,” says the driven athlete, who cites Katie Taylor as a major inspiration. “Katie made the path for women a lot easier, which has really helped me. “There’s never been a female world champion with a female trainer. It’s a wild dream, and it’ll take years to get to that level, but it’s achievable. “I can’t wait to spend my next five years here and help the Box N Burn name keep growing throughout LA.” With Christie’s record and determination, you’d be a fool to bet against her.
FastSport
Wild Rovers and Declan’s land Dublin Masters titles THE third Dublin masters tournament saw men’s Over-40s and Over-50s along with the women’s Over-40s teams from home and abroad battle it out for the title at a series of games across Dublin. This year’s line up of teams was arguably the strongest yet and the standard seen at all levels is a testament to the quality of players participating. Following the group games, the men’s Over40s saw Aberdeen and St Declan’s meet in one semi-final and St Vincent’s versus Trailblazers in the other. In two enthralling encounters, St Declan’s clawed back a 10-point deficit to win by four points, while Trailblazers just about overcame St Vincent’s by two points. In the Over-40s women, 2014 winners Wild Rovers had to work very hard to beat a very good Edinburgh team and Oblate Dynamos held off the Dublin All Stars. It set up a series of top notch finals in the Oblate Hall on Sunday. The Over-50s final proved a classic between Rathmines and London Eagles. London Eagles built a six-point lead and held it for most of the game. In the last 20 seconds, though Sean Wynne hit four free throws to tie the game and bring it to overtime. By this stage, London had lost three key players to foul trouble and Rathmines went on to lift The Mick Brew Memorial Trophy. Following the game, Rathmines Paul Gallen was inducted into the Irish Masters Basketball Hall of Fame in recognition of his dedication and service to Masters Basketball in Ireland. In the women’s final, Oblates were missing a key players due to injury for their title battle with the Wild Rovers who contained current Irish international Suzanne Maguire and former internationals such as Catriona White. They ran out comfortable winners and retained the Joe Kavanagh Cup. The eagerly awaited men’s Over-40s cup final saw St Declan’s team pay tribute to John McDonagh who sadly passed away in February. His former team mates were not going to let him down as they powered to an early lead which they never surrendered.
Gazette
30 DUNDRUM gazette 14 May 2015
SPORT
FastSport
Wesley land Leinster rugby club of the year OLD Wesley won the Leinster senior club of the Year Award with president Dave Bursey picking up the tophy at the Leinster Annual Awards Ball last Saturday. The award was fully justified after a highly successful season for Old Wesley at all playing levels. The senior team won Division 2A of the All Ireland League, earning promotion to Division 1B for next season. At junior level, the club’s seconds and fourths topped their respective leagues and gained promotion for next season while the thirds and fifths reached the final of their respective cup competitions. With Under-20s finishing a highly credible second in their league, it made for a spectacular season all round. Bursey is pictured receiving the award from Sean Cavanagh from trophy sponsors Canterbury at the Doubletree Hilton. RTE’s Darragh Maloney was the MC for the evening with Leinster head coach Matt O’Connor, captain Jamie Heaslip and the rest of the province’s players also in attendance to celebrate, among other things, the careers of Leinster Rugby stalwarts Gordon D’Arcy and Shane Jennings. Former St Mary’s, Leinster, Ireland and Lions back Johnny Moloney was inducted into the Leinster Rugby Guinness Hall of Fame and former Leinster and Ireland prop Fiona Coghlan receiving the Life Style Sports Special Merit Award. Nine departing Leinster players were also awarded their caps in recognition of their achievements on the pitch. Two of those departees included Jennings and D’Arcy who were interviewed on stage by former team mates Leo Cullen and Brian O’Driscoll. Two tribute videos brought the house down as both received a standing ovation from the appreciative crowd.
soccer: tough loss for Rovers leaves them on the chase
Broadford Rovers in action against St Joseph’s Boys
Joey’s set Broadford target ddsl u-17 major 2 St Joseph’s Boys Broadford Rovers sport@dublingazette.com
3 2
BROADFORD Rovers age group sides had a tricky weekend, with the Under-17 side in particular suffering a defeat that could prove key in their title chase, going down to St Joseph’s Boys 3-2. Tom Keane scored two impressive goals in the losing cause, giving Rovers what seemed a comfortable margin early in their table topping clash. St Joseph’s hit back hard, however, with a Niall Foley goal before
half time giving hope. Foley struck again early in the second half, before substitute Sean Horgan installed the Dun Laoghaire side as firm favourites to take the league title. The Pearse Park, Sallynoggin match endured an intense final 10 minutes, during which Broadford went all out for the equaliser, a goal that would have given them a strong chance of taking the title outright. The result ends an astonishing run of victories for the Under-17 side, since their last defeat to the same St Joseph’s side back in late January.
father and son Annual Castle event open for 2015 entries castle GC launched the 2015 Father and
Son Foursomes competition which will be held at the Rathfarnham club in July. Entries can be made through the website, www.castlegc.ie, from May 19, or by calling 01 4904207. Pictured at the launch were Paul Carroll, from sponsors CPL Resources; Karl Devenney, committee chairman; and Derry Byrne, Castle captain.
Picture: Pat Cashman
Their previous seven outings saw the outfit net 27 times in seven consecutive league wins, powering up the DDSL Under-17 Major 2 table. St Joseph’s currently occupy top spot, nine points clear of Broadford having played three games more. Joseph’s season is over, and they’ll be champions should Broadford slip up in any of those outstanding matches. Should Broadford pull level, the title would come down to a play off between the two, as the league doesn’t take goal difference into account. Given the plethora of
goals Broadford have put away this season and their two losses against St Joseph’s, perhaps the Ballinteer side would have preferred the more traditional differentiator. Broadford will play their remaining games in front of Joseph’s manager Jonathon Byrne, who’ll be watching on and hoping for a slip, whilst simultaneously sussing out the Broadford side’s tactical approach should a play off come to be. Elsewhere, the Broadf o r d Un d e r-11 s i d e picked up two wins this week. Their 3-2 home win against Castleknock
on Thursday, May 7 saw Kevin Adams score a brace and Jamie McElwee net the third in an impressive per formance. T hey followed up with another goal-heavy thriller, taking down league leaders Drogheda United 4-3. The two results lift the DDSL Division D side to a title challenging position at third in the table, three points off top with two games remaining this season. The Under-12 and Under-10 sides both lost, going down to St John Bosco and Trinity Donaghmeade respectively.
14 May 2015 DUNDRUM gazette 31
Gazette
Ballinteer, Boden and Crokes all through sport@dublingazette.com
LUKE Naughton was the supersub for Ballinteer St John’s as his late goal helped his side to a 2-10 to 0-12 victory over Cuala in Saturday’s Dublin senior football championship first round at O’Toole Park. Shane McCann’s first half goal helped
St John’s to a 1-5 to 0-7 advantage. Luke Keating’s free three minutes into the second half brought the sides level and the sides were level on five occasions during the second period. The contest looked to be heading for extratime before sub Naughton popped up for the vital match-winning
goal for the Ballinteer men. In Silver Park Kilmacud Crokes had it more difficult than many probably imagined against Division 3 outfit, Whitehall Colmcille, as the Stillorgan men prevailed 0-13 to 0-5. Brian Kavanagh (0-3), Dara Mullin (0-3), and Barr y O’Rorke (0-3,
0-1f ) were the chief scorers for Crokes who got late scores from subs David Campbell and Mark Vaughan to steer them to victory. Also in Parnell Park first half goals form Andrew Kerin and Sam Molony saw Ballyboden St Enda’s overcome St Maur’s by nine points, 2-10 to 0-7.
Club Noticeboard ballinteer st john’s THERE was no winner of the May 7
come for a great night’s entertain-
lotto draw for €4,400. The jackpot will
ment.
be €4,600 next week.
ior B footballers in the championship
Thursday; it is open to lotto players
against Cuala and Na Gaeil Oga. The
present in the clubhouse on the night.
junior As drew with St Monica’s.
Tickets are available online at www.
The third annual golf classic takes
ballinteerstjohns.com or from the
place in the K Club on July 31. See ball-
usual outlets.
inteerstjohns.com/golf or email golf-
Bingo every Monday night in the clubhouse starts at 8pm and all wel-
Hurling: st enda’s through to minor final
Great wins for the senior and jun-
Our Joker Wild draw continues this
classic@ballinteerstjohns.com for more info.
ballyboden st enda’s THERE was no winner of this week’s
of luck to all involved.
lotto. Numbers drawn were 1, 2, 15 and
Congratulations to our minor A
21. Michael Glynn from Grange Road
hurlers who overcame St Vincent’s
matched three numbers.
GAA club in a high scoring game of 5-19
Congratulations to U-16 footballers,
to 2-16
winners of the Division 1 championship
Our senior footballers had a great
semi-final where they overcame Na
win over St Maur’s in the first round of
Fianna with a scoreline of 1-12 to 1-5.
the championship with a scoreline of
Our U-13s travelled to Ballygunner
2-10 to 0-7 points.
in Co Waterford to compete in the Wil-
The countdown is on for Bally-
lie Phelan Cup. Willie was a Boden stal-
boden St Enda’s annual golf classic
wart who hailed from Ballygunner.
in Edmondstown Golf Club on May 22.
Ballyboden St Enda’s are hosting the Feile na Peile nOg next weekend - best
For more information log onto www. bodengaa.ie.
naomh olaf The Ballyboden St Enda’s minor hurling team before their semi-final last Sunday
Boland and Boden go on minor goal rush MaHc semi-final Ballyboden St Enda’s 5-19 St Vincent’s 2-16 sport@dublingazette.com
EARLY goals proved crucial as Ballyboden St Enda’s ran up a hugely entertaining 12-point win over St Vincent’s in front of a big Sancta Maria crowd. Played on the astroturf due to incessant rain had forced relocation from the grass, Michael Boland found the net early off quick delivery from a free. Vin’s replied quickly with two neat points from Conor Burke, easily their
best performer. But Boden’s next move set the tone for the hour, a sequence involving five passes covering the entire width of the pitch and ending with the elusive Aiden Mellett. He was upended and sharpshooter Cillian Byrne split the posts. For the next quarter Boden dominated. Ciaran Ryan was quick to spot Boland in space, 2-1 to 0-2 in precious little time. Next up Mellett was quickest to react to a breaker and he pointed neatly. The following 10 minutes had Sean McDonnell hitting the post from
close in, Mellett doing well off passes into space and Byrne showing fine workrate. After 20 minutes the score stood at 3-7 to 0-7, Boland having netted his third goal off Ciaran Ryan’s pass. St Vincent’s, realising that they would have to face the wind in the second 30, woke up and through Burke, William Malone and John Walsh clawed their way back, making it 3-7 to 0-14 at half-time. The wind got stronger for the second half and opened up more opportunities for Boden. Byrne
got into the groove and, between his free taking and guile in the exchanges, he pressed home the advantage. He was ably assisted by Jack Mahon, Neil Hester and Luke Corcoran, all dominant in their defensive roles. The only interruption came when Vincent’s frontman, Oisin Lanigan, banged home a great goal and followed up with a neat pass to Walsh and the point. Both sides had one more goal each in them, but with Byrne on a “90 plus” off placed balls, Boden ran out easy winners.
THIS week was a very special one in
win over Naomh Fionnbarra pm Sun-
the club with wins all around across
day leaving them second in the league
a range of teams. Pride of place goes
table.
to the U-14 Feile Na Gael hurling team,
Busy week this week for the ladies
winning the Division 4 Feile, and the
footballers. The senior ladies team
U-16 football team who are now in the
drew with Fingal Ravens at home on
A championship final.
Wednesday night and the U-17 team
Wins all around this weekend with
had their first defeat of the season
the minor hurlers to the fore on Sun-
against a strong Clanna Gael side on
day with a win over St Peregrine’s.
Monday night.
The senior football championship
The U-13 ladies footballers had two
match against St Vincent’s, scheduled
very good away performances this
for last Friday night, was postponed
week with wins over Na Fianna B and
as pitch was unplayable.
drawing with Maurs.
The U-15 camogie team beat Round
Best of luck to Clara O’Sullivan cap-
Tower in a thrilling away league match
tain and the Dublin Ladies football-
this weekend, final score 2-11 to 2-4.
ers in the Leinster Final next Sunday
The U-13 Camogie team had a last gasp
against Meath.
wanderers THERE was no lotto winner; num-
on 086 8333587.
bers drawn were 20, 22 and 30, €25 to
Juvenile football and hurling con-
Sandra Howard, Sandra Nolan, Pat
tinues for boys and girls aged seven to
Heavey and Louise Smyth. The jackpot
12 with midweek training and match-
next week is €2,200.
es on Saturday morning and nursery
Adult men’s football training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays
training for boys and girls aged four to seven on Saturdays at 11am.
at 7.30pm. All new players welcome.
Girls football training for ages nine
Contact Stephen on 086 0489379.
to 13 will take place each Saturday
Check the website and Facebook/
at Rockbrook Park School on the all
Twitter for fixture updates.
weather pitch at 12noon.
Ladies footballers training at
All levels welcome. For further
7.30pm in Frank Kelly Park. All newbies
information, call Fergal on 087
welcome. Contact Louise O’Loughlin
6213142.
32 dundrum gazette 14 May 2015