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SPORT The Ice Man talks to The Gazette 29

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Tributes pour in for much loved school headmaster  EMMA NOLAN TRIBUTES have been pouring in for much-loved principal and “wonderful leader” Padraic Carney, left, who was tragically killed while cycling near his Dublin home last week.

Full Story on Page 9

2 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 June 2017

Leaving on a high

FASTNews

Brendan Hall with his wife Lisa.

Picture: Colm Mahady/Fennell Photography

Lucky Lucan man to put prize towards new home Happy Leaving Certificate students on their final day of exams: Cliona Woods, Julie Kelly, Lauren Kennedy (Head Girl), Chloe Cheng and Gold Achugbu. See full Galley on Pages 6-7

LITTER | COUNCIL IDENTIFIES LITTER BLACKSPOTS IN THE AREA

Call made for CCTV to tackle illegal dumping  MARK O’BRIEN THERE are calls for additional CCTV to be used to tackle illegal dumping in Lucan after a number of litter blackspots were identified in the area.

The Gazette recently reported that there were issues with fly-tipping on the Old Lucan Road near the Tubber Lane

junction.

Pictures emerged over the weekend of more illegal dumping at the Eurospar Ballyowen bottle bank.

Cllr Liona O’Toole tabled a motion at this week’s Lucan Area Committee meeting of South Dublin County Council, asking the council to confirm the litter blackspots in Lucan.

The council identified three areas of concern; the Ballyowen bottle bank, Lynches Lane and Tandy’s Lane.

The council repor t added that patrols are carried out by litter wardens an average of three times a week.

T he repor t added: “Any incidents of illegal dumping in this (and any other) area is inves-

A LUCAN man who picked up a €10,000 prize says he plans to put the money towards buying a new home. Brendan Hall was May 2017 winner of Topaz’s PLAY or PARK game.

PLAY or PARK is the loyalty game, which allows customers to collect points every time they refuel or make a purchase at participating Topaz stores.

Brendan and his wife Lisa, who have been saving for a house for the last few years, say that winning this prize will help them to achieve their dream sooner than planned.

Commenting on the win, Brendan said: “I couldn’t believe it when I won. At first I was in shock and thought it was a joke, but when I realised that it was genuine, I was delighted.

“We are saving to buy a house at the moment so €10,000 is a huge help towards realising this goal.

“I had been playing my points throughout the year and I’m very happy I decided to play them again on this particular occasion.”

Triona takes home highly regarded writing award

tigated /examined to determine if there is any incriminating evidence, and thereafter reported to our public realm crew for removal.

“Where sufficient evidence can be found, enforcement action is taken.”

The report also states that the council continuously look at options to assist them in reducing illegal dumping, including CCTV. Cllr O’Toole told The Gazette that she felt that additional CCTV was the best option to combat the problem.

“I will be requesting that we look at the feasibility of CCTV, either fixed or covert, at the litter black spots reported

by the council,” she said.

“I have also asked the council to consider using mobile CCT V which has been effective elsewhere.

“We need additional CCTV installations for our litter black spots, as well as at locations where we have regular antisocial behaviour.

“Through the Joint Policing Committee and other means, I have been pushing for CCT V at locations where we have public amenities, such as in parks and other public spaces.

“As well as protecting public amenities from vandalism, CCTV will make the area safer for users of the amenities and public spaces.”

A LUCAN writer has picked up a prestigious national writing award in Waterford. Triona Walsh from Beech Grove won the Molly Keane Creative Writing Award 2017 with her story titled “Perhaps the Flames”.

Triona is a writer and poet who has enjoyed success with her short stories having won the Jonathan Swift short story competition and has been a runner-up in the Penguin Ireland/RTE Guide Short Story Competition.

Her poetry has also been shortlisted in a number of competitions and she has been published in Boyne Berries issue 14 and The Poetry Bus 1 & 3.

She was shortlisted in 2016 for The John McGahern Award for a body of work from an emerging writer.

She is also a member of the performance poetry collective The Poetry Divas.

Her novel, The Dead Ringer, is scheduled for release with Liberties Press later in 2017.

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

29 June 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 3

away from anything.”

Jemma Flynn, aka Zola, said: “The film for me felt like years of FLY-ON-THE-WALL docu- my life. She travelled around with mentary about women’s roll- us, was there for all the barneys. er derby in Ireland is already She probably knew better than causing quite a stir ahead of its anyone what was going on. release this weekend.

“The only thing I was worried In ‘Revolutions’ Laura McGann about was coming across as a bit follows fledgling teams in Dublin of an idiot. I’m a bit of a show-off and Cork for four years as they on track.” commit to the challenges of a gruYou don’t have to be an extrovert elling full-contact sport. to play, but it helps, and most of The film starts with Dublin Roll- the women skate under alter egos er Girls’ player Zola Blood, from - Jessica Rammit, Pippy StrongGTallaght, dgfkjsgfds dfs fd kljghdfgkljdhlflg fdsfkj hgdsf.

Picture: Xxxxx Zzzzzz admitting: “I’ve alwayshlglfhgds stocking, Jane Crow. been confident, even as a child.

Jemma, below, whose skate name I’ve never been someone to shy is based on her athletics track hero

 SYLVIA POWNALL

A

Zola Budd, said: “My friend Lisa got me into it when she saw a video online.

“I liked to skate and I’d done kickboxing so I said ‘I’m totally doing this’. Because it was all women it was very empowering. I loved it from the very first session.

“It’s very physical. When people come in who haven’t played a contact sport before they’re not sure.

Then they feel great when they are able to get up after being put down.

“I broke one of my best friends’ ribs in training once, that was horrible. But I haven’t been too bad with injuries apart from tearing my

Photos: Amanda Wagner, Wicked Shamrock Photography

Roll up for the revolution NEW DOCUMENTARY SHEDS LIGHT ON WOMEN’S ROLLER DERBY IN IRELAND

shoulder muscle at the World Cup. Some people have had double breaks in their legs.”

Roller Derby is sweeping the globe since its revival in Texas over a decade ago. The fast-paced sport is played by two teams of five skating in the same direction around a track.

Each team designates a ‘jammer’ up front who scores points by lapping members of the opposition – while the ‘blockers’ try to assist and stop the competition.

It can get rough. At one point in ‘Revolutions’ DRG team coach ‘Violent Joe’ tells his players: “Don’t just nudge them, get in

there and hit them.”

Mum-of-one Jemma, who was voted Most Valuable Player for Ireland at the Toronto World Cup, said: “You get hooked. It’s a great community of people and you feel a great sense of loyalty.

“I’d love to see it at the Olympics.

If volleyball in bikinis can make it, I don’t see why roller derby can’t.

It’s very exciting to watch.”  Revolutions goes on general release tomorrow, Friday. Tickets for the Irish Film Institute’s opening night screening of Revolutions on June 30 can be booked at http://ifi.ie/revolutions/.

4 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 June 2017

Out and About

Appar and Mete

Joshua

Tots of Fun take part in a Toddle Waddle Emily and Adrina. Pictures: JOAO PERUSSI

Szymar

T

OTS of Fun pre-school in Lucan held a Toddle Waddle for Barnardos last week. The event was a fun sponsored walk around the local estate where children themselves have the opportunity to help create positive change for disadvantaged children in Ireland.

Kids finishing the tour

Jude

Teacher Lowaire leads the kids for the tour

Teacher Clare walking with the kids

Faith holds hands with Macy

29 June 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 5

GRIFFEEN VALLEY PARK | ANTI-SOCIAL ACTIVITY FEARS

Concerns that small fence at playground could lead to vandalism

 MARK O’BRIEN CLLR William Lavelle has criticised South Dublin County Council (SDCC) over their decision to build a smaller fence around the new playground in Griffeen Valley Park.

Cllr Lavelle said he believes that the smaller fence could lead to an increase in anti-social behaviour and potential damage to the new playground.

In a statement to residents, Cllr Lavelle said that he has been in contact with SDCC management over the past number of weeks but he has found their response to be disappointing.

“I have already had an intensive back and forth with SDCC managers on this matter over the past two weeks,” he said.

Cllr Lavelle added that, while a taller fence would not act as a complete deterrent, it was preferable to the smaller fence being planned. “ My v i e w, a s r e p e a t e d l y expressed, is that while a taller fence may not stop access by some of these most intent of wilful damage, I am nonetheless convinced that a lower fence will result in more teenagers being present in the playground at night, resulting in definite, persistent anti-social activity and damage,” he said.

Cllr Lavelle told The Gazette that he believed that there was a wider issue of councillors being overruled by council officials on matters affecting local residents.

He said: “This goes to the heart of what I believe, whereby local councillors are being overruled

by unelected officials.”

Cllr Lavelle added that he intended to raise the issue with the new Minister of State for Local Government and Electoral Reform John Paul Phelan.

In response to Cllr Lavelle’s concerns a council official said that they did not believe the installation of taller fencing acted as a sufficient deterrent to vandalism.

The official also said that they felt that the cost involved in purchasing higher fencing and then spending money repairing it was a poor use of resources.

The official added that while there may be instances of vandalism when the playground initially opens, the council intends to be vigilant and work with local gardai to combat any issues of antisocial behaviour that arise.

New 2.5km cycle track opens THE new Willsbrook cycle track was officially opened earlier this month.

This is Phase 3B of the scheme and forms part of the overall Willsbrook Road Cycle Improvement Scheme which runs from the

Fonthill Road to Griffeen Road – a total length of 2.5km.

Phase 3B involved the upgrade of pedestrian and cycle facilities through Willsbrook Park to enhance connectivity between the South and North Lucan across

the N4. Work has now begun on Phase 3A, which will deliver an the upgrade of pedestrian and cycle facilities between the junctions of Willsbrook Road and Saint Andrews, and the Mount Bellew/ Willsbrook Roundabout.

A self-made man

BALLYFERMOT College graduating student Stephan Doyle from Lucan shows off his self-portrait at the Ideate Graduate Design Exhibition held at The Cowshed, Farmleigh, Phoenix Park. The event was an exhibition of graduate work from Fibre Art, Graphic Design and Illustration HND students.

6 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 June 2017

Out and About

The students get ready to take their exams

Aimee Mahon and Sarah Fagan

Luke Farrell and Charlie Cotter

Charles Thomas and Alex Leonard

Clodagh Denny and Orla Keegan

29 June 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 7

Anthony Grehan, Eoin Cleary, Cian Lynch and Marc Wiley

Emma Kennedy and Ciara Nolan. Pictures: Stephen Fleming

Leaving Certs stay focused on exams

T

HESE students from Colaiste Phadraig, and St Joseph’s College, looked calm and relaxed as they faced their Leaving Cert exams

Emma Magee and Kelsey Fahy

recently, with the boys and girls concentrating on preparing for their next set of exams. The Gazette salutes their can-do attitude and determination to

James Finnegan, Sachumon Sunny and Matas Strumile

do their best, and wishes these dedicated young citizens – and their peers at schools all across the area – the very best of luck as they await their results.

Luke Farrell

Cian Brophy, Omar Meflam, Joe Bankole and Alex Leonard

8 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 June 2017

Lucan Foroige at Citizenship Awards

LUCAN Foroige recently attended the Aldi Foroige National Citizenship Awards for the first time.

The group were in attendance at the ceremony last month for their project supporting a Dublin-based charity that helps the city’s homeless.

Both the Lucan Juniors and Seniors became involved with the Christmas Shoebox appeal last Christmas.

Foroige is one of the leading youth organisations in Ireland, working with over 50,000 young people aged 10 to 18 each year, giving young people a place to meet and socialise and encouraging them to get involved in community projects.

They currently operate three groups in Lucan and plan to start a fourth group in the area this summer.

Anyone who is interested in joining the Lucan Foroige groups is asked to contact Claire Hutchinson on 085 1666945 or visit www.foroige.ie.

THE IRISH CANCER SOCIETY | HERMITAGE CLINIC

Volunteers sought for advice centre

 MARK O’BRIEN THE Irish Cancer Society are appealing for Lucan residents to volunteer at their advice centre in the Hermitage Clinic.

The Daffodil Centre is a source of information and advice for anyone affected by or worried about cancer.

“Our Daffodil Centres provide cancer information, support and advice in hospitals to anyone affected by or concerned about cancer,” said Daffodil centre manager Aileen McHale.

“The centres are staffed by specialist nurses and Daffodil Centre volunteers are essential to the running of the service.

“Without their help we would not be able to provide the service, which in 2016 supported and advised almost 40,000 people across the country.”

Daffodil Centres are run by the Irish Cancer Society’s own specialist cancer nurses and highly trained volunteers.

The centre in Lucan is one of thirteen of its kind set up by the Irish Cancer Society in hospitals around the country.

T he first Daffodil Centre opened in 2009, with the centre in the Hermitage opening in 2013.

Daffodil Centre volunteers are asked to commit to four hours once a week in the morning or afternoon.

The centres are generally open 9am-5pm, Monday - Friday.

Daffodil Centre volunteers help make visitors to the centre feel welcome and show them the range of information and resources available.

They will arrange for visitors to meet with the nurse as well as bringing patients to hospital

appointments or accompanying enquirers to the appropriate department within the hospital.

Each of the volunteers will be trained and given the appropriate supports to ensure they feel confident in their role.

For more information or to apply to become a trained Daffodil Centre volunteer, please contact Deirdre Murphy, Irish Cancer Society 01 2310564 or email dmurphy@irishcancer.ie.

The closing date for applications is July 7, 2017.

For anyone who cannot commit to those hours, there are lots of other ways to support the Irish Cancer Society like volunteering with their Volunteer Driver Service, at one of our shops or helping out on Daffodil Day. Further information can be found on w w w.cancer.ie/getinvolved

29 June 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 9

Runners TRAGEDY | PADRAIC CARNEY WAS KILLED FOLLOWING COLLISION WITH A CAR wanted for marathon EVER wanted to run a Marathon? Make-AWish is looking for fitness enthusiasts around the country to take part in the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon and put themselves through the ultimate challenge to support brave children who are battling life-threatening medical conditions such as cancer, cystic fibrosis and Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

The event takes place on October 29. Over the past three years the support of Dublin Marathon participants has resulted in an incredible €71,000 being raised.

To join the race, email: mary@makeawish.ie or call: 01 205 2012. You will receive your very own Make-A-Wish charity fundraising race pack. For further information on Make-A-Wish, visit www. makeawish.ie

Tributes paid to ‘much loved’ school principal

 EMMA NOLAN and MARK O’BRIEN

TRIBUTES have been pouring in for much-loved principal and “wonderful leader” Padraic Carneywho was tragically killed while cycling last week.

Principal of St Louis Senior Primary School in Rathmines, Mr Carney, (53) was “a true gentleman” who was “widely loved and respected”.

He received serious injuries when his bike collided with a vehicle near his home in Rathfarnham and was taken to Tallaght Hospital before being transferred to Beaumont Hospital, where he was

Padraic Carney

pronounced dead last Tuesday.

Chairperson of the school’s board of management Jake Byrne said: “This is a terrible tragedy for Padraic’s immediate and extended family, his wide circle of friends and the school community in Rathmines.

“We are all deeply saddened by his sudden and untimely death.

“Padraic was a wonderful leader in the school.

His infectious enthusiasm for the job of teaching children and his warm and charming personality made him most popular with pupils, parents, staff and all who came to know him in his job.

“Offers of suppor t have been pouring into the school which has expressed its appreciation…

“We have been in contact with his family, who have requested that their need for privacy at this sad and difficult time be

respected. Our sympathy and thoughts are with Padraic’s family and friends.”

Mr Carney had previously served as principal of Scoil Aine Naofa in Lucan from 2010 until 2014.

In a statement, Scoil Aine Naofa Parents’ Association offered their condolences to Mr Carney’s family, including his wife and three daughters.

“We at the parents’ association offer our deepest condolences to the Carney family at this terribly difficult time,” read the statement on social media.

“We will remember Padraic as a wonderful, friendly, enthusiastic and dedicated principal. May

he rest in peace.”

Locals also paid tribute to Mr Carney.

“The world has lost one of it’s true gentlemen. RIP Padraic you leave a huge hole in the world,” wrote Mary Dwyer.

Valerie Greaney said: “Great principal for Scoil Aine Naofa, lovely man.

May he rest in peace and thinking of his family.”

Mr Carney also worked for Frontline Security on matchdays in the premium level of Croke Park.

Cllr William Lavelle said: “I was shocked and saddened to learn of the sad passing of Mr Padraic Carney, former acting principal of Scoil Aine

Naofa, Esker,” said Cllr Lavelle “In recent times, Padraic served as principal of St Louis SNS in Rathmines.

“Even after he left Lucan I would regularly meet Padraic in Croke Park.

“I wish to express my condolences to Padraic’s family, friends and colleagues.”

Investigating gardai are appealing for witnesses of the collision.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Rathfarnham Garda Station on 01 666 6500, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any garda station.

10 GAZETTE 29 June 2017

Out and About

A charitable journey IKEA co-workers set out from IKEA Dublin for a charity cycle, to Mullingar and back. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

IN LINE with IKEA’s vision of creating a better everyday life for everyone, 26 IKEA co-workers set out from IKEA Dublin on the morning of Saturday, June 24 on a 203km charity cycle, to Mullingar and back. Money raised will go directly to UNICEF and the ISPCC.

29 June 2017 GAZETTE 11

GAZETTE

12 GAZETTE 29 June 2017

DUBLINBUSINESS

Increased employee ownership ‘vital’ IRELAND’s first ever Employee Share Ownership Day has been told that increased employee financial involvement in Irish companies is vital to maintain our competitiveness.

More than 150 delegates attended ESOD17 at Dublin’s Google HQ this week, where they heard Ireland lagged its competitors when it comes to incentivising employee ownership, and that the Government needs to improve their approach by increasing the variety of Revenue-approved employee share schemes, particularly for the SME sector.

RDS is the venue for Web Summit’s MoneyConf 2018 ORGANISERS behind We b S u m m i t t o d ay announced that MoneyConf, Europe’s leading fintech event, will take place at the RDS in Dublin from June 11-13, 2018.

MoneyConf has been hosted in Madrid for two years and has become the leading place for fintech CEOs, investors and startups to meet. It will be hosted at the RDS, the venue where Web Summit grew to become the world’s largest technology event.

Over 2,500 attendees have already registered for 2018 MoneyConf. Attendees will be joined by hundreds of top names in the industry, from CEOs of global financial institutions to the founders of the world’s most disruptive startups.

Some speakers already confirmed include: Yoni Assia, Co-Founder & CEO of eToro; Jaidev Janardana, CEO of Zopa; John Sun, Co-Founder of Avant; and Ismail Ahmed, Founder & CEO of WorldRemit Amid legendary networking opportunities, attendees have access to 2 days of talks, including keynotes, fireside chats, workshops and panel discussions.

Web Summit CEO Paddy Cosgrave said: “We are moving MoneyConf to our hometown of Dublin in 2018. Brexit has the potential to transform Dublin as a financial centre. Major banks, credit card companies and fintech startups have all signed leases in recent months. It’s an incredible moment for Dublin and it’s great to be part of it. The RDS is the perfect venue to grow an event like MoneyConf. After all, our partnership with the RDS put Web Summit on the road to where it is today.”

No such thing as a typical day or client for any recruiter THIS a r t i c l e w a s going to be entitled ‘A Day in the Life of a Recruiter’, but really there is no typical day as a recruitment consultant.

No two days are alike because you are dealing with a resource that is made out of people.

Your clients and candidates are all people with different needs – it’s your job to match the right candidate to the right client.

A recruiter’s job is part human resources, part sales, part marketing and part negotiation. The most important par t of the job though is the ability to understand the sector you’re working with.

Anyone can learn sales techniques, but it takes time to learn the ins and outs of a specific sector.

Have you considered a career in recruitment? Recruitment Plus currently has a vacancy for our hospitality desk. If you have hospitality experience and are interested in recruitment, contact RecruitmentPlus at 01 2788 610, or also see www.recruitmentplus.ie.

Having previous experience in that sector will make you stand out as a top recruiter.

For example, if you’ve wo r ke d i n a h o t e l before, you will have a unique insight into what a hospitality client needs and what a candidate is looking for.

One of the top reasons for job satisfaction in recruitment is the knowledge that you’ve made a difference in a candidate’s life.

There are few things better than knowing someone in in a better paid or more suitable job and you helped to get them there.

Recruiters also love their jobs because they get the opportunity to grow their professional networks and the ability to increase their take home pay each month with commission.

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

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GAZETTE

29 June 2017 GAZETTE 13

CITY SPECTACULAR: THE NATION’S FAVOURITE TURKEY CAN’T WAIT FOR THE LAYA HEALTHCARE BASH

Dustin: This year’s City Spectacular will be bigger.. & madder.. than Eurovision!  NICK FITZGERALD DUSTIN the Turkey is the Ambassador of this year’s City Spectacular and he says this year’s bash will be bigger than Eurovision.

More than 250,000 people are expected to flock to Laya Healthcare’s free annual street festival, which runs from July 7-9 in Merrion Square.

The family-friendly festival showcases the best in international street performance, interactive family activities, delicious artisan producers and street food from around the world as well as a pet wellness area with DSPCA. And parents are being warned that the kids will be ruling the roost at the three -day event.

John Morrison, aka Dustin The Turkey told The Gazette: “It’s my biggest achievement since the Eurovision and it’s going to go slightly better than the Eurovision.

“Basically, I’ll be doing my thing that I used to do on the Den and I’ll also be doing a quiz where the adults are going

to take on their children.

“Of course, I know what will happen, the kids are going to win every time and the adults are just going to be brutal.”

“It will be a bit like Donald Trump. See I’m the boss, I’m the ambassador, I can do what I want.

“The parents will be getting custard pies and they’ll be getting ice buckets. The Happy Pear’s Dave and Steve Flynn with Dustin “Bring your doggie, your doggie can They’ll be getting all sorts of things and the kids will be get- get a make-over and they can get a ting prizes. But look, I can’t officially photo. And you can bring your cats and say that if you know what I mean, wink there’ll be a free bed there if there’s any wink, but of course that’s what’s going problems. That would be my favourite to happen. It’s going to be brilliant. And part of it, the DSPCA.” it’s all going to be free, that’s the beauty Family health, fitness and wellbeing of it. will be central to Laya Healthcare’s “It’s for all the family and that’s Greatest Place on Earth area this year. including the four legged members.

Events will include Dustin the Turkey

in this family filled area at the Dublin festival for the Birdbrain quiz where kids can challenge their parents to a battle of knowledge.

R T E ’s F r a n c i e Boylan will co-host and attempt to not let Dustin gobble off too much.

Imaginosity, Dublin’s Children Museum, allows kids to build and create stories and will also be providing a storymaking workshop at an exclusive Imagination Playground.

Just Eat Street - the international street food village - is a feast of food, fun & entertainment running the entire length of Merrion Sq South where visitors can try out over 25 different cuisines from around the world and enjoy music from international musical acts.

Asked how City Spectacular com-

pares to the Eurovision, Dustin said: “It’s a similar sort of madness. You’re going to get every walk of life, it’s going to be brilliant craic. “ I love the Eurovision, the only problem is I didn’t win it. In the Eurovision they made up countries to try and make me not win. This is true, like Azerbaijan, they started inventing places.

“When Johnny Logan won the Eurovision there was Luxembourg, Ireland and The Netherlands, there was three countries and now there’s something like 452.

“I know Europe doesn’t have that many countries. They just wanted to stop me from winning it.

“City Spectacular will have a similar sort of madness. The festival will have stilt walkers, there’s going to be the Happy Pear guys.”

Festival Director Shell Holden added: “We would love everyone - families, friends, couples and pet pooches - to come join in the celebrations and enjoy our FREE festival this July.”

GAZETTE

14 GAZETTE 29 June 2017

DUBLINLIFE

DIARY

THINKPINK! BRING FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS TO A FUN FAMILY PARK EVENT FINGAL County Council brings the fun and excitement of Pets in the Park to Millennium Park, Blanchardstown, on Sunday July 2.

Suppor ted by the DSPCA, King of Paws and 98Fm, the event will transform Millennium Park into a pet paradise for the day.

The free, family-fun event is a guaranteed great day out for all animal lovers throughout Dublin, involving a range of activities, stalls and entertainment right through the event.

DSPCA King of Paws training team will host dog agility and dog obedience classes, where members of the public are invited to bring their four-legged friends.

A small animal farm will give visitors the opportunity to interact with, and learn about, all kinds of animals, while children’s talks and entertainment will also be featured on the day.

Pet lovers can look forward to a variety of stalls offering fantastic deals on all types of animal accessories, grooming products, novelty items and toys, while the DSPCA will offer micro-

chipping and pet health advice.

For further information, see www.petsinthepark.ie.

STEP LIVELY OVER TO DANCE AT THE NATIONAL GALLERY AS PART of the hugely anticipated programme of events marking the re-opening of the Dargan and Milltown wings of the National Gallery this summer, the acclaimed Liz Roche Company presents the world premiere of Totems, in the exquisite surrounds of the Shaw Room and The Grand Gallery.

THIS DYNAMIC DOGGY DUO ARE LOOKING TO SHARE A HOME: YOURS!

RUGBY star Shane Byrne joined breast cancer survivor Teresa Costello, broadcaster Elaine Crowley, breast cancer survivor Olivia Carpenter and blogger Rosie Connolly at the launch of the Great Pink Run, which takes place on Saturday, Septem-

A group of six dancers will come together with live musicians to respond to these historic gallery spaces with five intimate performances taking place from Thursday, July 6 to Sunday, July 9.

Totems strips Roche’s subtle and poetic choreography back to its purest essence, and will combine intricate movement patterns with live music, creating a thrilling, evocative experience.

Totems will place the living, breathing work of one of Ireland’s most innovative and inspiring choreographers into the

historic gallery space as it re-emerges to the public and arts and culture lovers.

For the full times and listings for the 55-minute show (priced €15/€13 conc), see the National Gallery of Ireland site at www.nationalgallery.ie.

HELP CELEBRATE THE VERY BEST OF THE LIBERTIES SPIRIT T H E 47 t h L i b e r t i e s Festival takes over the heart of Dublin from July 17 to 22 with more than 30 diverse events in 20 venues including parks, pubs, churches and heritage buildings in celebration of the area’s

ber 9 in the Phoenix Park. Thousands are expected at the Dublin run, which will help fundraise for and raise awareness of Breast Cancer Ireland’s pioneering research and awareness programmes around the country. Picture: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland

vibrant character.

This year’s mostly free programme of events is the most expansive yet, even offering an opportunity to interact with the working horses of the Liberties, and many other free, familyfriendly events.

Guaranteed to be highlights of the summer arts calendar are Night at the Opera, featuring Opera in the Open against the stunning backdrop of St Audoen’s Church on Friday, July 21; Cirque de Comedie in the Guinness Storehouse, featuring drag duo Queens of Pop; comedic songstress Tere-

sa Livingston; Azaria Starfire; and aerial contortionist Spinal Gap on Saturday, July 22.

Tickets for Night at the Opera and Cirque de Comedie are on sale now via libertiesfestival. ie.

Tr a d i t i o n a l c o m munity favourites such as the Garda Vs Street Traders football match returns for its 27th year; the Blue Rinse Ball, and the Older Bowls competition also return in a packed programme that showcases the spirit of the area.

For the full festival programme, see www. libertiesfestival.ie.

OUR Dogs of the Week looking for their #SpecialSomeone* are the amazing Tess and Leela, which need to find a home as a pair. Tess and Leela are inseparable, and are looking for a home together. Tess is a six-year-old female crossbreed, and Leela is a five-year-old Boxer.

Tess is very active and would enjoy living with an active family to bring her on lovely long walks and, if you’re a runner, she will run beautifully beside you. Tess has a fabulous coat and loves to be brushed.

Leela has a little heart murmur, which slows her down a bit, but she is still quite active. (Don’t worry – we will help you take care of her medical needs; we just need you to spoil her and give her all the attention she deserves.) They are both great with children, but we’d suggest sturdy children over five years of age as they can be a little over-excitable at times!

If you think you can offer this amazing pair, 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 at www.dogstrust. ie. You can also find them on Facebook, at www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline, or on Twitter @DogsTrust_IE.

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

29 June 2017 GAZETTE 15

SHELBOURNE PARK LAUNCHES LIVE RACING FOUR NIGHTS PER WEEK SHELBOURNE PARK, Ireland’s premier greyhound racing stadium has moved to four nights racing per week, making it an ideal venue for a thrilling night out. The stadium will host racing every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday night to meet the growing Dublin market.

Getting to the stadium has never been easier with a complimentary return shuttle bus by Dublin Coach that leaves Burgh Quay at 7PM every Friday and Saturday night which will prove popular with after work punters and tourists.

Patrick Flynn, General Manager at Shelbourne Park added “I look forward to welcoming our patrons to Shelbourne Park as we will now be offering live racing four nights a week. The shuttle bus would not be possible were it not for our successful partnership with Dublin Coach which we will seek to build on into the future.”

MAKING A NIGHT OF IT If you are looking to make a night of it, the smart punter will pre-book online to take advantage of the great value offers of admission and fine dining combined. Mid-week restaurant bookings start at €19.50 pp while group packages can include admission, finger food and Tote vouchers.

A restaurant booking brings the extra offering of Tote wagering at your table as you watch the racing from the fantastic views of the Grandstand restaurant. The Tote offers simple wagering

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‘I look forward to welcoming our patrons to Shelbourne Park as we will now be offering live racing four nights a week. The shuttle bus would not be possible were it not for our successful partnership with Dublin Coach which we will seek to build on into the future’

�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������

Patrick Flynn, General Manager

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options from as little as €1 with jackpots of up to €1,000.

Shelbourne Park will be available throughout the summer for private events in the outdoor covered BBQ area with a private bar. Events such as

family celebrations can also be held in the 400 seater grandstand restaurant or in the seven corporate suites that offer panoramic views of the track.

In recent years, charities and sports clubs have held successful fundraising nights which can gen-

erate thousands through tickets sales, restaurant packages and sponsorship for worthy causes.

Shelbourne Park will be host to some of the best known classics over the coming months including: the BoylesSports Irish Champion Stakes starting on 29 July, the Dublin Coach Puppy Derby starting 22 September and the BoylesSports Irish Greyhound Derby starting on 17 August, with the final on September 23.

Judging by the numbers attending each week, the extended racing at Shelbourne Park will become a firm favourite in the capital city.

Great value restaurant bookings can be made online at www.gogreyhoundracing.ie or by phoning 1890 269 969.

29 June 2017 GAZETTE 17

DUBLINLIFE

N O S ’ T A H W

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

Trinity Summer Gig Series

A new series of concerts comes to life at Trinity College, with Gregory Porter opening on July 6. He’ll be followed by appearances from Pixies, Two Door Cinema Club, Alt-J, Bell X1 and James Vincent McMorrow in the illustrious city-centre surrounds..

Late blooming Flowers MUSIC

ONE OF DUBLIN’S BEST LOVED BANDS ON FAMILY, MALI AND GOING VIRAL BEFORE THE

INTERNET EXISTED

MCM Comic Com

The RDS hosts the latest round of the annual, costume-laden event for comic fans. Hosted over the weekend of July 1 and 2, the event is run by MCM, the company currently bringing the Comic Con concept to life around the UK and Ireland, with some events topping 100,000 visitors.

MCM’S COMIC CON HITS THE

RDS

United Against Racism Solidarity Picnic

A family-friendly event with a BBQ in Phoenix Park aims to discuss issues around racism and the direct provision system.

United Against Racism will reveal specific details via their website ahead of the midday meeting on July 3.

The Coronas

Having just released their number one album ‘Trust The Wire’, Danny O’Reilly and co return to the stage at Kilmainham Hospital for their biggest ever headline show. In our recent interview, they promised on-stage fireworks.

The Sad and Beautiful World of Sparklehorse

Whelan’s dedicates a Sunday night in the main venue to this heart-wrenching documentary about the tragic indie band, together with an hour long cover performance of their greatest hits. One for an emotive Sunday night.

Macy Gray

The distinctive vocals of the American R&B legend are best known for how they’re delivered on the stunning hit single ‘I Try’, but Gray’s genre-spanning music has won her broad acclaim outside of the pop world, too. She appears at the National Concert Hall, July 2.

Chapelizod Community Festival

The summer party gets underway down near Phoenix Park, with a week of entertainment ranging from local musicians and comedy to kids and sporting events. The festival runs from July 2 to July 9, and aims to bring the area together.

Stars and Stripes Forever

The American national day gets a bold celebration in St Patrick’s Cathedral, where all things American-music themed are celebrated in a free one-off organ concert, expected to touch on film sounds from Indiana Jones to Star Wars. July 4, naturally.

New album of the week

TLC - TLC. Forever associated amongst those of us of a certain vintage with ‘Pure Shores’ and it’s perfect soundtracking of ‘The Beach’, TLC remain on the comeback trail with the release of their first album since 2013, bought out via their new ‘852 Muziq’ label.

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16 GAZETTE 29 June 2017

 JAMES HENDICOTT TO THE UNINITIATED, it seems like Hothouse Flowers have been on the wind-down for quite sometime.

Despite regular shows, there hasn’t been an album released formally in well over a decade.

The band that emerged from Colaiste Eoin in Booterstown so powerfully that they never had to get real jobs after school might appear to have gone a little quiet. Not for long.

“What’s going on with us is a bit like those people who starting tiling a bathroom in 2002 and still haven’t finished,” Fiachna O’Braonain explains.

“There hasn’t been an album in ten years, yet it feels like we haven’t stopped gigging. We all have very different lives outside the band. I have three children under five. It’s hard to get out of the house.”

“I’ve been doing different projects with different people,” Liam O’Maonlai adds. “I think it was about three years ago we got invited to play in Windmill Lane for Culture Night. In payment for that we got eight days studio time. We didn’t actually avail of it until a year ago. Those eight days really facilitated us.

“Often you can get these gigs where you have to put a lot of money in to set things up, but they wanted us to make a record there.

“And we did, we made a record. We narrowed it down to eleven pieces of music. Maybe towards the end of the summer, maybe earlier, it’ll be here. There’s just a couple of little things to address.”

“There is already an album called ‘Let’s Do This Thing’. It’s on the website but nowhere else. I had a listen to it and decided it didn’t sound quite as good as the rough mixes, so we’ll be putting it out again.

“Everyone who already bought it will get it a sec-

ond time for free, but they’ll be getting anotherversion, another part of the project.”

To many, it must have felt like that album would never arrive.

“Pete [O’Toole]’s return to the band was the missing link in terms of making a record,” O’Maonlai explains of the bassist’s return to the band in 2015 after an eleven year absence. “He’s a musical tour de force.”

Hothouse Flowers date back to shared, musicobsessed 70s school days in south Dublin, a time in which O’Maonlai played in a band alongside My Bloody Valentine’s Kevin Shields, having pushed through his first forays into music slightly against the will of his parents.

“We went viral before the internet,” he recalls. “We were having a ball coming in every day and busking in Dublin. People were getting obsessed with record deals back then, with U2 doing so well. You could tell

people’s heads were getting turned.”

“I only recently heard that Chris Blackwell [the key Island Records man who worked with U2 and The Cranberries] said in interview that his only regret is not signing us. That would have been a great deal. But we were cocksure of ourselves back then. We were bringing houses down, we’d been playing live since we were nine or ten years old in different bands. If you’d try to invent it, you couldn’t have.”

More recently, Hothouse Flowers have been very much about the live outings, but their sound has also been adapted by some impressively outthere experiences exploring other aspects of music.

While O’Braonain has leaned more on family life, O’Maonlai has been seriously exotic in his outlook.

“Africa’s one of the seedbeds of rock and roll,” O’Maonlai says of his exploration of music in Mali.

“The 6/8 rhythm is all over Irish music as well as rock

and roll. It’s such a rich tapestry. It’s tough seeing these countries almost being censored from the world when there’s so much richness in them.”

“In Mali, you meet somebody and they’ll teach you something. I met a guitarist nearTimbuktu, and you’d literally sit next to him and he’d teach you these mad Malian riffs. It was amazing, there’s always that formula between people. The one with something to give and the one with something to receive.”

O’Braonain, who was living in France a few years ago, worked with Belinda Carlisle on her pronunciation for an entire French language album, and ended up dueting with the singer “kind of by accident. I was a placeholder for other singers, but she ended up using my vocal,” he explains.

The band also got involved in the Apollo House movement, after Glen Hansard got in touch.

“He told us to keep our ears to the ground; he called

together mates to be the musical face of the thing. Eyes were on it because there’s a relationship to music, and music’s an in-between territory that doesn’t label anyone. Music is not capitalist, or black, or white,” O’Maonlai says. “Musicians can be involved in very important things just by being present sometimes. It’s a very elemental force.

As for the future? “I think we’d stop if we weren’t enjoying it.” O’Braonain says.

“We still have that love for finding the heart of a room. It doesn’t really matter which room.

“A tough room can bring out great music. When we went out to play, we never did not knowwhat we were going to do. Our career has hinged on that, on those days. We’ll keep going as long as it’s still there.”

Hothouse Flowers bring their powerful live show to Live at Leopardstown on July 13.

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DUBLINLIFE

Mules Rule!

H&M flat slider mules €39.99

 EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

ONE shoe trend is dominating this season and that’s the mule.

This oft forgotten style represents a certain aloofness that can’t be got from other summer sandals.

While it takes a certain type of person to pull off high heeled mules, their lower heeled and flat counter parts are the ideal summer shoe.

Effortlessly elegant, there’s something incredibly feminine about ‘clip-clopping’ around in a pair of mules and the high street has every shape, size, colour and fabric available.

Dune London Meera €125

littlewoodsireland V by Very Floral tapestry mule €41

Topshop NOVEL square toe mules €77

A new home for Bow & Pearl  EMMA NOLAN, Style Editor

DUBLIN boutique Bow & Pearl has moved to Rathmines.

Now taking up residence in the Swan Centre, the brand is going in an “edgier direction” after seven successful years in business.

“We’ll be offering customers unique, high end yet affordable items and we hope they enjoy the selection,” owner Bronagh

O’Sullivan said.

The brand caters for the fashion conscious customer, with Bronagh focusing on buying high-end, unique styles available at a realistic price-tag.

“The store itself has turned out beautifully, we worked with creative director and retail expert Lara

Bronagh O’Sullivan

Curry on the aesthetic of the space and we can’t wait for customers to come in and enjoy the shopping experience,” Bronagh added.

The newly located Bow & Pearl can be found in unit 33 in the Swan Centre, Rathmines, Dublin 6. Their latest collection is also available on www.bowandpearl.com

29 June 2017 GAZETTE 19

New Look pastel blue floral brocade mules €29.99

Ne w lea Loo the r h k ros e e €3 eled m gold 9.9 9 ules

H&M tan ruffle mules €19.99

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DUBLINLIFE

FOOD&DRINK

CITY CENTRE: THE GAZETTE DROPS IN TO CHECK OUT 98FM’S ‘BEST BAR’ WINNER

We confess – this bar is pretty great!  NICK FITZGERALD

THE Confession Box at No 88, Marlborough Street has scooped the title of Dublin’s Best Bar for the second year running, coming out tops in 98FM’s Best of Dublin search.

Proud owners Pauline and Monica Keenan will have owned the bar for seven years by the end of July. The award-winning sisters know Dublin city very well, having worked here for 30 years.

Hailing from The Liberties, the Keenans have now claimed four awards from 98FM – in 2014 and 2015, they also snapped up Dublin’s Best Pint awards.

On winning for the fourth time running, Monica said: “The reason we’ve won is because of our customers, the loyalty we have with them and

the craic we have together!

“It’s like a home from home. It’s real friendly here, with great pint of Guinness.”

One of the smallest pubs across Dublin, The Confession Box sits in the shadow of the Pro-Cathedral – a place which had a big impact on the bar.

Original name During the 1919-1921 War of Independence, the public house was known to locals as The Maid of Erin. At the time, rebel Volunteers, under the leadership of Michael Collins, would often occupy the pub and use it as a refuge.

Sympathetic priests from the Pro-Cathedral established a holding in The Confession Box to listen to the rebels’ confessions, and also provide communion.

Their actions, along

with the size of the pub and its closeness to the Pro-Cathedral, led to The Maid of Erin being nicknamed The Confession Box, as we now know it.

Today, the rebels are long gone, replaced by the sight of three awards placed proudly against the glass of the bar’s frontfacing window. As you step in, you immediately encounter a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Monica told T he Gazette: “Half of them [the customers] wouldn’t know each other, but that’s what it’s like here – once one starts talking, they all start talking! It’s always like that.”

She added: “There’s great enter tainment.

There’s live music all the time and everyone gets on with each other. You could have an 80-year-old sitting with an 18-year-old and they’d still have things

There’s a lot of history inside The Confession Box – not to mention one of the best pints in Dublin

in common; everyone has something in common.”

Locals come from all over the world to visit – yes, locals, usually calling in a few times per year.

People come back from Florida, various parts of America, and Sweden, to name but a few places, actively staying in touch with Pauline and Monica by sending them postcards and emails, even sending presents.

Pauline modestly said: “It’s a typical Irish pub

with friendly banter, it’s what Dublin’s really about – people mixing and chatting and talking, telling their stories; listening, laughing and joking, being there for each other at some stage.

Rallies together “There’s always someone down there that’s less fortunate than yourself, so when that happens everyone rallies together.”

Monica said: “One particular time, a customer of

ours passed away and his daughter hadn’t got the money [for his funeral]. “ Eve r y o n e r a l l i e d around like a community, got the money to bury him, got the money to lay him to rest because everyone gets on and it’s like a big community.”

Micheal O’Nuallain, brother of famous Irish writer Flann O’Brien, frequently graced The Confession Box with his presence. The jack-of-alltrades had one unusual

request: that the staff would heat up his pint of Guinness to room temperature.

Today, punters can enjoy live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, including on Bank Holiday Mondays.

The Confession Box is open from MondayThursday from 11am to 11:30pm; Friday and Saturday from 11am to 1:30am, and on Sunday from 11am to 11:30pm; telephone 01 874 7339.

Neven Maguire cooks up a storm with Dunnes Stores ONE of Ireland’s best loved chefs and Brand

The Simply Better collection is one of the

said: “Through our Simply Better Collection,

Ambassador for Dunnes Stores’ Simply Bet-

most successful food brands in Ireland, with

we want people to have the best ingredients

ter Collection, Neven Maguire, launched a new

over 250 food awards since it was established

to cook restaurant quality food at home. The

magazine COOK with Neven Maguire, devel-

in 2013. At present there are 350 products

Summer edition of COOK with Neven Maguire

oped to nurture people’s passion for cooking

in the collection with plans to introduce 100

will make this even easier, with a magazine

at home with easy to follow recipes devised

new and exciting products this year. All of the

packed full of mouthwatering dishes that

exclusively by Neven for Simply Better.

products are chosen for their provenance,

even the most culinary challenged could

many from small producers, and all with a

master!”

As well as an abundance of delicious Pictured at the launch is Dermot Murphy, Simply Better

recipes, the magazine will feature the Simply

nod to the past, where food was made “in the

brand manager, Neven Maguire and Daragh Lawles,

Better ‘Food Heroes’ - stories of some of the

right way”.

Simply Better marketing and design brand manager.

food producers involved in bringing the best

Picture Andres Poveda

quality food to homes across Ireland.

Speaking about COOK with Neven, Diarmuid Murphy, Simply Better brand manager

The magazine which will be available in Dunnes Stores nationwide and online, was launched in Dunnes Stores, Swan Shopping Centre, Rathmines.

DUBLINLIFE

TRAVEL

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29 June 2017 GAZETTE 21

STAYCATIONS: WHY JET OUT WHEN YOU CAN LIVE THE HIGH LIFE RIGHT HERE IN IRELAND

HaveaRadtimebythebanksof theShannoninancientAthlone PACK up the family for a fun-filled summer break at the newly refurbished Radisson Blu Hotel,Athlone.

Enjoy a family break for two adults and two kids including breakfast on both mornings, a delicious dinner on the evening of your choice in Element’s Bistro and a choice of either a family visit to Glendeer Pet Farm or a family pass to Athlone Castle so you can make the most of the summer sun.

The kids will be kept more than

happy with plenty of activities in the hotel’s Kids Camp while mum and dad can explore the maritime town of Athlone, fit in some exercise in Synergy Health & Leisure Club or simply enjoy a drink in the Quayside Bar & Lounge or out on the terrace overlooking Athlone Marina.

The summer family break packages are available from €255 so trade in the daily grind for some leisure time at Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone. Call 090 644 2600 to book.

EIRE GO BREAK Luxury on Ice

WHATEVER your perfect Wild Atlantic Way break is, the sumptuous Ice House in north Mayo is the perfect base.

Overlooking the River Moy and the woodlands beyond, the Ice House is in the perfect location to wrap yourself in the wilderness of the West Coast of Ireland, all the while enjoying the fantastic food, soothing spa, bubbling hot tubs and

DON’T fancy queuing at check-in desks and waiting for bags for hours on end? Well there’s no need, with beautiful scenery and wonderful accommodation on offer right here at home. Treat yourself, your better half, or the entire family to a staycation in the most wonderful place on earth – our own little island of Ireland.

super service that this award winning boutique hotel offers.

With a two night break starting from €284 per person sharing including dinner on one evening, the Ice House can also book their guests in with Rachel’s Irish Adventures (www. rachelsirishadventures. com)for hiking, tours, watersports and other adventures.

Faithlegg House Hotel has it all MAKE a change this summer and embrace the great outdoors from the picturesque haven of Faithlegg House Hotel and Golf Resort in Co Waterford.

The hotel’s central location makes it the ideal base to discover the coastal county’s hidden gems. Explore the ancient east through the Waterford Greenway, a spectacular 46km off-road cycling trail along an old railway line between Waterford and Dungarvan.

And after a long day exploring, head back to Faithlegg, slip down to the Estuary Spa for a treatment, a dip in the jacuzzi or retreat to a cosy armchair in the Aylward Lounge.

That evening savour a delicious meal in the award winning Roseville Rooms Restaurant prepared by head chef Jenny Flynn using the finest ingredients from local producers you may have passed on your cycle!

The Get and Go Greenway package at Faithlegg House Hotel is available from €179 per person sharing and includes a two-night stay in luxurious accommodation, breakfast on both mornings and dinner on the night of your choice in the Roseville Rooms Restaurant. To book, call 051 382000 orvisit www.faithlegg.com.

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22 GAZETTE 29 June 2017

DUBLINLIFE

FASTNews

Taking the crew to

Van drivers have extra choices with the crew cab offers that allow for comfort and safety for all passengers along with a decent carrying load area, as MICHAEL MORONEY discovered when he loaded up the Renault Trafic crew cab for a lengthy test run.

The new larger Polo claims to bring the future to the compact car class with more space and more technology as standard

Volkswagen’s Sixth generation bigger Polo is on the way VOLKSWAGEN has a new sixth generation car on the way, following the model success which has clocked up more than 14 million units sold. One of the world’s best selling compact cars is undergoing an entirely new exterior design change.

The new model will have a longer wheelbase for more comfort, and more interior space as well as a bigger and 25% bigger boot. The interior will be more spacious and comes with a new cockpit layout structured for the digital world. The car will be offered with front assist, blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control and LED headlights like in the Golf class.

There will be a choice of efficient TSI (petrol), TGI (natural gas) and TDI (diesel) engines in the new Polo.

The car will be offered with an array of assistance systems which previously was only familiar in larger Volkswagen cars.

Most drivers under-prepared after passing driving test NEW research by Liberty Insurance shows that 61%

RENAULT offers van drivers a wide choice in the mid-range sector vans based around its popular Trafic van. For those van drivers who need the flexibility to combine load space with people carrying capacity, the crew cab van ensures that all passengers are safe and secure.

When it comes to describing the new generation of Renault Trafic crew cab, you can also add passenger comfort and space.

From a driver’s point of view crew cab vans like the Renault Trafic crew cab, no longer present a daunting driving prospect because there is scope to add fittings that help with manoeuvrability and ease of driving.

That was my experience when I recently took the long wheelbase version of the Renault Trafic crew cab for a

thankfully, those days are gone for van drivers.

The high seating posiSPECIFICATIONS tion in the Renault Trafic Enginesize (litre) 1.6

crew cab gives the driver Engine power (hp) 145 and passengers great road visibility. Entry to the van Engine Torque(Nm) 340 could be helped with some 0 – 100km/hr (seconds) 10.2 grab handles, which were Economy (km/litre) 16 an obvious omission, as

(6.3/100km or 45mpg) the entry height requires Fuel Tank Capacity (litres) 80 a significant lift compared AdBlue Capacity (litres) 20 with a car or SUV. Setting up for comfort CO2 emissions(g/km) 164 after that was easy, with Road Tax Band Commercial €333 great seat adjustment Main Service 30,000km/24 months and the added comfort of Towing rating(kg) 2,000 driver armrests. The rear Warranty 5 years (200,000km) passengers were not forPayload (kg) 1,040 gotten and they too were provided with armrest, Entry Price €29,495 full seatbelts and for those lengthy 1,160km test run. pay their way. Noise lev- with family transport Once behind the wheel els are better controlled needs, there are two ISOthe comfortable seating than in the past, so that fix couplings for reliable position in modern vans with a crew on board, child seat fitting. you can actually hold a became obvious.

The van is a working Modern vans like the conversation. That might area for many users – it Renault Trafic crew cab seem a strange remark, combines the transport are built for comfort, for but vans of old were more role with that of a worklengthy days behind the functional than comfort- shop and mobile office. wheel, as vans have to able or sound proof and, There needs to be lot of

Renault Trafic dCi 145 Crew Cab

small item storage as well as the flexibility to convert for larger items. Here the Renault Trafic crew cab excels with deep side door storage, under-seat storage was well as lots of room to deter drivers from filling the windscreen area.

Out on the road the Renault Trafic crew cab drives with confidence as its twin-turbo diesel 1.6litre engine pumps out 145bhp of power. That was more than adequate for me with a partial load and some passengers.

That engine size may look small, while it delivers 340Nm of torque enough to allow it to tow a two tonne load, as well.

This modern design van engine comes with Stop & Start technology and the new regenerative braking system, called Energy Smart Management. Renault claims that this helps the Trafic to

of drivers feel under-prepared for the road even after passing their practical test. The research has also shown that half of all drivers under 30 do not feel confident when driving in certain places or performing particular manoeuvres, like reverse parallel parking and using major roundabouts with multiple exits. Only two-in-five of all drivers claim to be ‘very confident’ in these areas.

In addition to a lack of confidence in their own ability, seven-in-10 drivers think that Irish roads are more hazardous than they were a decade ago. This opinion is higher among females (81%), older drivers aged 55-64 (76%) and residents of Connacht/Ulster (79%).

Deirdre Ashe, director of Personal Lines at Liberty Insurance, said: “In many ways, this isn’t entirely surprising. Our roads are busier than ever before, with more distractions for drivers, like smart phones. Adding to the danger is the huge number of uninsured private vehicles on Irish roads, estimated by the Motor Insurance Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) to be over 151,000.

“In light of these findings, we all as drivers have a duty in taking greater personal responsibility for our actions on the road,” she said. “In short, our findings demonstrate the importance of the ongoing collaboration between government and industry in the promotion of safer driving, particularly among younger drivers and in regional areas with less developed infrastructure.”

Colour campaign for Jeep 172 offers JEEP is now offering the option of any colour shade in a new complimentary colour offer available on the range of SUV’s from Jeep Renegade to the Grand Cherokee for 172 registrations. In addition, they are offering three years’ free servicing, competitive financing and upgrade offers designed to appeal to anyone looking for a new 172 model.

Jeep’s most compact model, the Renegade, is available from €22,950 and with PCP or HP finance offers.

The Jeep brand is always distinctive, and the wide stance 4x4’s come with exceptional glass-to- wheel proportions. The Jeep range is immediately recognisable as a Jeep thanks to characteristic traditional design cues, such as the seven-slot grille and Jeep has included a host of colour options for new 172 Jeep orders and the new Jeep Compass is on the way for later this year the trapezoidal wheel arches.

29 June 2017 GAZETTE 23

GAZETTE

MOTORING

the Trafic in comfort and style

The Renault Trafic crew cab van has an impressive specification that blends practical load space with driver and passenger comfort for the full crew or family. Entry prices start at €29,495.

achieve fuel economy of up to 16 (6.3/100km or 45mpg).

During my test drive I

was typically about 30% off that rated figure, while the overall performance still gave me an impres-

sive range of 945km on a full diesel tank. That to me is economical driving performance for a big van

with passenger and load capacity.

Renault drivers have the option of using the

Eco system by pressing a dash mounted button for enhanced economy. I noted the economy difference when put to the test.

I found it a useful feature that will save fuel on longer runs, while it was difficult to be exact on the level of fuel saving.

The Renault Trafic crew cab uses the AdBlue fuel system to give lower CO2 and NOx levels, essentially a cleaner exhaust.

Entry prices for the shorter Renault Trafic crew cab van start at €29,495 and that’s about €6,000 more than the standard van. The advantages of the extra seats to allow six to travel in comfort and safety are obvious when you have to carry people as well as gear.

The dash design on the Renault Trafic crew cab is modern and car-like with easy access controls and a steering wheel that’s comfortable to use and not too big and (below) the side doors slide open wide on the long wheelbase to give great second row seat access

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24 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 June 2017

DUBLINLIFE ReelReviews

BABY DRIVER

Fast-paced thrills galore ANSEL Elgort makes a great impression in Baby Driver (Cert 15A, 113 mins) – not easy to do, when the rest of the film is such a blast. He’s great as the titular getaway driver caught in an increasingly murky job, but the film itself is pretty captivating, with some top-notch visuals and its excellent soundtrack making it one of most engaging films of the summer. Worth racing over to catch.

WONDER WOMAN

A welcome introduction

Hopefully, the last one There’s no denying that the film can look pretty spectacular, with some top-notch special effects and often great cinematography. However, its eye-popping visuals aside, there’s little to recommend or even like here, with its turgid plot, awkward sexism and generally dire script likely to bore and annoy in equal measure.

 SHANE DILLON WHAT can you say about this latest Transformers film (Transformers: The Last Knight; Cert 12A, 150 mins) which hasn’t already been said about all of its predecessors?

When you get into the nuts and bolts of it, T5 – the fifth in the interminable series – shifts things around a bit, but in essence it’s just a variation on the Transformers theme.

Were it not for the addition of Anthony Hopkins delivering key exposition dumps (slumming it big-time after his charismatic turn in TV’s superb Westworld) and an almost Monty Pythonian sledgehammering of King Arthur into the franchise’s lore, you’d be hardpressed to spot the difference between this and director Michael Bay’s previous Transformer films.

This time round, Bay throws the Trans-

former multiverse wide open, lobbing in a plot McGuffin to send the film careening along from spectacle to spectacle.

Turns out that the Transformers have been fighting their interminable war for a very long time, with Merry Olde Englande – courtesy of King Arfurr and pals – also playing a key role in their age-old battle of the planets.

That McGuffin I just mentioned?

Some ancient Transformer high-tech gadgetry (in effect, a magic staff) which could change the fate of the Transformer civil war in our time – but which proved very handy back then when given to Arthur, and his bumbling Merlin, to get their act together and forge their legend.

Flash forward to today, and we return to Cade Yeager (a scruffy and often confused-looking Mark Wahlberg) as the regular joe (and awesome all-American-hero) mechanic-inventor

once again at the centre of everything.

After decimating Chicago, the Transformers are hiding out at Yeager’s junkyard, as they’re now regarded as dangerous and illegal aliens by the powers that be. Still, they’re continuing to fight against the evil Decepticon robots, and keep trying to protect Earth.

Out of nowhere, said high-tech but hidden staff is now the key to winning the Transformers war (because, y’know, plot McGuffin), and so the race is on to find it, with twists and scraps a-plenty along the way.

There’s more to the plot than that, of course – much, much more, with the film’s bum-numbing run time dragging things on and on and on – but if you’re looking for an engrossing plot in a Transformers tale, brother, this ain’t the film for you.

Instead, director Bay has just followed his usual shtick, creating anoth-

er film that couldn’t be anything but a Transformers tale, with everything from admittedly terrific special effects to casual sexism, product placements and endless slo-mo shots and explosions to get through.

As such, as a two hour-plus FX reel, Transformers rocks! But as an actual film with a compelling plot, a strong narrative, likeable characters, sharp dialogue or cohesive editing, however ... not so much.

Ultimately it’s almost impossible to score a Transformers tale like this – people know they’re truly terrible films, but will still go to see it in their droves.

So, I’ll give it one mark for Tony Hopkins, one for some terrific special effects, one for its mildly entertaining King Arthur stuff, and one for the merciful arrival of the end credits. That gives us .. 4/10

WONDER Woman (Cert 12A, 141 mins) is still wowing on the big screen in her first big-budget blockbuster. The film gets a few things wrong, with some stodgy pacing making the first act drag on, but Gal Gadot is pretty great as the titular Amazonian princess, bringing some understated wit, empathy and the requisite physical prowess to the role. Look out for a Wonder-ful sequel!

CARDBOARD GANGSTERS Unfolding Dublin drama

CARDBOARD Gangsters (Cert 18, 92 mins) definitely impresses with a slice of Irish life you won’t see in any glossy tourism ads.

The gritty film could have been set in half a dozen deprived Dublin places, not just Darndale. Lead John Connors impresses, as a group of young thugs try to move up the criminal ladder. It’s fairly grim stuff, but it’s well made, and a decent modern Irish film.

29 June 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

CINEMA

Sophie Glligan, Amelia Devlin, Loriane Keane and Romy Devlin

Ryan O’Dwyer Dublin GAA hurler is pictured with family Oisin, Lucy and wife Cliona. Pictures: Andres Poveda Baz Ashmawy with daughters Mahy and

Felix, Arlo and Casper Quick from

Hanna

Ringsend

Three times the Despicable charm T

HE Universal Pictures Irish premiere screening of Despicable Me 3 was held at the Savoy Cinema at the weekend, much to the delight of Minion fans, young and old. Steve Carell brings Gru back to life for the third epic delight full of super villians, lots of bubble gum, a priceless diamond and maybe even a long lost twin brother...?

Twins Leo and Lucy Olivia Ruberton, Lucy and Abbie Donnelly from Finglas

Mellon from Sandyford

Twins Ben and Nahan Coyle from Rathfarnham

Conor Stynes from Lucan

26 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 June 2017

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GAZETTE

28 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 June 2017

SPORT

FastSport GYMNASTICS SUMMER CAMPS: OLYMPIAN Gymnastics’ recreational summer camps will get underway next week for the first of seven weeks which give gymnasts a chance to progress their gymnastics in a fun and encouraging environment over a one week period.

The camps will take place at Templeogue College St. Colmcille’s Community School, Knocklyon and Alexandra College, Milltown, running from 9.30am to 2.30pm daily.

The cost of the camps are €100 for a five-day Camp while there is a €10 sibling/ additional camp discount.

Week one of the camps runs from Monday, July 3 to Friday, July 7 with further camps beginning on July 10, 17, 24, 31 and August 7 and 14.

To register your child for Summer Camps, log on to www.olympiangymnastics.com with online registration open now.

For further queries or information. contact info@olympiangymnastics.com or 086 082 5737.

BOXING: BALLYFERMOT MAN BEATS CRUISE TO CLAIM MIDDLEWEIGHT BELT

Cool Hand Keeler takes Irish title by narrowest margin

 KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

LUKE Keeler shrugged off a broken hand to become the new Irish middleweight champion at the National Boxing Stadium in Dublin on Saturday night after securing a narrow one point win over Darren Cruise.

The 30-year-old from Ballyfermot and Roscommon’s Cruise were competing in the headline fight of Red Corner’s ‘For Honour and Pride’ card as both looked to leave the ring with the previously vacant title wrapped around their waist.

The fight got off to a cagey start but both fighters managed to land a big shot during the opening exchanges. Keeler was looking busier in the ring but Cruise was picking his punches well.

Round two saw Keeler take a front step in the fight but Cruise hit back at the Dubliner during the third.

“Cool Hand” Keeler dominated the fourth round with some good work to his opponent’s body but the Roscrea man hit back in the next round as he pushed the Ballyfermot

Luke Keeler piles on the punishment on Darren Cruise. Picture: Laszlo Geczo

man onto the ropes.

The damage to Keeler’s right hand became noticeable during the sixth as he held back on launching hooks in favour of more jab work. Cruise took advantage to make a good start but Keeler eventually got back into the swing of things and finished the round stronger.

Cruise started the seventh

with a big right followed by a hook to the body in an attempt to slow down Keeler. The Celtic Warrior man was then reprimanded by the referee for a low shot that seemed to have little negative effect on Cruise.

Accuracy In round eight, Cruise once again started well to land some accurate jabs that Keeler sim-

ply had no answer for, and took the round easily.

Keeler was knocked back during the ninth as the trend of Cruise dominating the opening exchanges of the round continued. However, Keeler got his jab back into the mix and finished well to take the round.

The fight was tight as the final round got underway and

it was evident that both fighters knew they still had every chance of seeing their hand lifted into the air upon completion.

Shots were exchanged but it was Keeler who seemed to have the cleaner of them. The mid-section of the round saw a lull as both tired but Cruise was determined to have the last say and landed with a big straight.

Neither fighter deserved to lose the bout but Keeler managed to pip it with a final score of 96-95 to take his first title and give his European ranking a boost. Talks of a rematch are beginning to circulate but Keeler is likely to turn his attentions towards earning a shot at a European title.

There was no such luck for Castleknock’s Stephen Collins as he came unstuck against Mullingar’s Paddy McDonagh in the battle for the vacant light heavyweight title on the same card.

Collins was dropped in the first round and eventually went on to lose 97-94 on referee David Irvine’s scorecard, recording the first defeat of his professional career.

Net gains for Republic of Ireland side at Quad series  BERNARD DUFF sport@dublingazette.com

The Republic of Ireland netball team ahead of their game with Barbados in Lisburn last weekend. Picture: Michael Lowther

THE Republic of Ireland netball team season came to a close last weekend in Lisburn. Six fixtures in seven days was a grueling workload for an amateur organisation but the Irish ladies could look back on their efforts with immense appreciation.

It was certainly a summer that could be divided into two phases for a side based predominantly in south Dublin. Ireland dominated the European Championships second tier competition in Aber-

deen in May. In that tournament, they put together four back-toback victories as they dominated.

In truth though, the 24th world ranked ladies were really looking forward to the challenge at last week’s Summer Quad Series in Lisburn, competing with Northern Ireland (ranked 12), Barbados (11th) and Singapore (19th).

For Republic of Ireland, the standard meant their panel of 12 was tested to the limit. Wins against Barbados and Northern Ireland were not expected and the team lost by some margin in both games; 55-21 and 68-20

respectively.

But Irish Goal Defense Gen Slater explained: “Against each team there was a specific goal.

For three of the four quarters against Barbados, we met our goals of losing by a quarter by five or less. We rarely played as well as we did against Barbados.

“The really poor quarter was the next day in the last quarter.

By then, against Northern Ireland, we were gassed”.

Slater was among Ireland’s best performers across the week: “I have the experience of playing the hard games where it’s

just go all the time but a lot of the younger girls are only getting that experience by playing here in these games.”

Playing with a swollen knee, goal keeper Kate Bermingham had the least enviable job of marking a superstar Goal Shooter for each nation. Barbados’ Shonica Wharton (39 goals from 41 shots), Northern Ireland’s Lisa Bowman (45 from 47) and the player of the tournament Singapore’s Charmaine Soh (72 from 77 combined in the group game and third/fourth place game) showed no mercy.

29 June 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

FASTSport

Ice man Turner turns up heat for Channel record North Dublin man joins up with Infinity team to be part of the first group to swim from the Isle of Man to Ireland, fighting through sea sickness and fog to reach Ardglass

Top tier Para-Badminton comes to Blanchardstown

 JAMES HENDICOTT

 BERNARD DUFF

sport@dublingazette.com

THE FZ Forza Irish Para-Badminton International 2017 took place in the National Sports Campus in Blanchardstown last weekend with Paralympic motivation very much on the mind.

Now in its third year, the large space of the new venue proved to be favourable with competitors having been moved from the smaller Antrim Forum.

With para-badminton recently included for its maiden outing at the 2020 Toyko Summer Olympics, it meant that some of the 132 athletes participating from 28 countries had a real chance of gaining a dream ticket to Tokyo.

Para-badminton has six different categories and the eight strong Irish playing team were represented in five. Over the four days of the tournament, an incredible 21 different competitions took place.

In Wheelchair 1 & 2 (WH1-WH2) Ireland were represented by Michael Curry and Chris Stewart in the men’s and in the women’s Laura Lee Jenkins teamed up with Scotland’s Fiona Christie in doubles.

It was the Jenkins/Christie pairing who gained a bronze medal. They won two of three matches in their group before losing in the semi-final to Swiss pair Mathez/Suther-Erath (21-13, 21-14).

The wheelchair categories are played on a wooden floor rather than the familiar matting and the court is half as wide as a standard court.

In Standing Lower (SL4), which is played on a full court, Stephen Halpin and Wayne Brerenton didn’t qualify out of their group. Likewise, in Standing Upper (SU4), Owen Casey found the going tough.

In the final category, Short Stature 6 (SS6), Ireland had the most success, winning two bronze medals bringing the weekend’s tally to three bronze medals.

In the men’s singles, Niall McVeigh lost in the semi-final to eventual champion England’s Krysten Coombs (19-21, 10-21). After winning two and losing two, Emma Farnham did enough to also claim a coveted bronze medal.

Ireland manager Eugene McVeigh said: “This is really eight years work to get where we are. The national badminton centre in Lisburn is our base and Ulster Badminton has been really supportive.

Next stop now is the World Champs in Korea in November”.

ICE swimmer Conor Turner took on a new challenge earlier this month, as part of the first team ever to swim from the Isle of the Man to Ireland, a step away from his usual challenges in terms of distance, environment and practical difficulties.

Turner came to the fore in the rarefied world of ice swimming this winter, when he came second in the world championship in Germany, and very much focuses his swimming career on the winter event these days.

Having been invited to participate in the international team crossing the distance of just under 70km in the Irish Sea, Turner arrived somewhat

blind.

“Every other member of the team has been involved in an [English] channel crossing,” Turner told the Gazette. “I got the invite from Infinity Channel Swimming, whose baby it is, and pretty much just turned up and swam. They did the research, organisation, worked out the detail and all that.”

Turner’s team are the first ever to complete the distance, taking 18 hours, eight minutes and 32 seconds. the six members rotated on hourlong stints and Turner set off from the Isle of Man end. The finishing time enabled the Dubliner to personally complete the swim in Ardglass, County Down. His team consisted of Turner himself, Carole Laport

Conor Turner on the swim between the Isle of Man and Ardglass .

(France), Anna Carin Nordin (Sweden), Rory Fitzgerald (GB/Ireland), and Elina Makïnen (Finland).

“We swam alongside a rig,” Turner explained.

“People gave us instructions and direction, and we swam for an hour each time. It was daylight for all but three or four hours but the first parts were very rough.

“I tried to treat my section of the swim like a 5km, which takes about an hour, and is a distance I’d be quite used to. I swam at about 85% to account for it being an hour of effort. Then you change over which means one swimmer dropping back and the next getting in the water and swimming past them.”

The toughest stages

for Turner were actually in the boat, however, though he admitted the best bit of each hour was “getting back out”.

“I got quite seasick, which isn’t something I’ve had to worry about before,” he said. “The second shift, I was getting into the water between 1 and 2am, and because I’d been sick, I

though I probably will.

You learn from this, and I prefer to learn my own lessons, as something that works for someone else might not work for me, and vice versa.

“There’s definitely big adaptions necessary in the preparation: how to eat, how to rest, that kind of thing if I’m going to do something like this

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

‘I don’t find the temperature difficult; 12 or 13 degrees is tropical compared to ice swimming.’ - Conor Turner

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

was running on fumes.

That was pretty difficult.

“There was plenty of wildlife, lots of jellyfish stings. But I didn’t find the temperature particularly difficult, at 12-13 degrees. That’s tropical compared to the ice swimming.”

The swim ended with some modest drama, as fog descended and the team struggled with navigation into the planned finish in Ardglass harbour. “We ended up a kilometre or so off course,” Turner recalled.

“But we just went in to the shore, stood up on the rocks and marked the finish. Then got back in the boat to go to the harbour. You couldn’t see 20 metres in front of you face; the fog just came in from nowhere in the last hour and a half.

“I’m not sure I’d do something like this again,

again. It’s a different kind of thing to the swimming I’ve done before and I’m not sure I understand the motivation behind it, if I’m honest.

“It’s very tough and not always that enjoyable.

“But it was some feeling standing at the end knowing that your team is the first to ever do that swim.”

Turner’s main goals this season remain with the ice swimming championship, with his training ramping up in Autumn for next year’s event in Estonia, though he is a little concerned by the reduced distance – 450 metres instead of 1,000.

In the meantime, he’ll be competing in a range of sea swims, ramping up to five and 10km towards the end of the summer.

“For fun,” as you do.

GAZETTE

30 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 June 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: PEAMOUNT AND LUCAN UNDERPIN SERIES OF SUCCESSES

ILG’s Vonnie Noonan. with Kate Lanigan and Ciara Casey (Hermitage) and Siobhan O’Donnell Murphy (Lady Captain, Mullingar Golf Club). Picture: Pat Cashman

Hermitage’s Casey just shy of Irish Close title HERMITAGE Golf Club’s Ciara Casey finished in runners-up spot at the 2017 Irish Women’s Close Championship at Mullingar golf club last Sunday, eventually falling at the hands of Lisburn’s Paula Grant.

After four days and 78 participants, Casey fought her way through the field to reach the final four where she took on 2010 Irish Close Champion and this year’s Leinster women’s team captain Mary Dowling (New Ross).

Dowling won the ninth hole with a par to level the match in the first of the semi-finals.

Dowling proceeded to win the 10th and by the 13th had a two-hole advantage with five holes to play. Casey rallied, however, winning the next three holes to head to the 17th 1 up.

Casey closed out the match on the 17th green, 2&1.

It set up that final date with Grant. The first two holes were halved and, after a small error from Grant on the third, Casey went one ahead. A superb shot from Grant on the 176 yard par three 5th to within concession distance levelled the match once more.

The pair traded holes over and back, making the turn still level. It looked as though Casey was determined to win when she won the 10th and 11th to go two up.

It was then that Grant showed her experience by birdying the 12th and 13th to level the match and a birdie on the par four 17th would be enough for her to be crowned 2017 Irish Women’s Close Championship for the second time in her career.

“I’m absolutely chuffed, I can’t believe it really, it hasn’t really sunk in yet but it feels good!” Grant said of the win when asked did it feel different to her previous Irish Close win in 2013 in which she beat Lisa Maguire (Slieve Russell) on the 19th in Ballybunion.

“I felt more expectation this time but I felt a bit more in control as well, I just felt like I was a better golfer this time around! It feels different but still feels as good!”

MGL captain Rachael Kelly celebrates with her teammates after winning the Gaynor Cup Under-16 final. Picture: David Maher/Sportsfile

Gaynor Cup glory for MGL sport@dublingazette.com

THREE Peamount United players were included in the Metropolitan Girls League Under-16 squad who lifted the Gaynor Cup after a 1-0 win over Galway and District League at the University of Limerick last weekend.

Aoife Brophy, Doireann Fahey and Leah Doyle all started the final as Alannah McEvoy secured the win from the penalty spot during the first half. Lucan United also had five players in the squad in Ann Marie Byrne, Nicole Smyth, Jessica Hennessey, Zara Lawless and Aoife Han-

ley.

The opening period of the game was a scrappy affair with both sides giving away cheap possession a number of times.

Isabel Atkinson had a half chance after six minutes when MGL broke quickly up the pitch and found the forward wide on the left. Atkinson knocked it past her marker and made her way into the box but an excellent tackle from a covering defender prevented her from getting a shot away.

Sinead Donovan then hit a shot from the edge of the box that initially looked like it may go

RACE ACROSS AMERICA Lucan CRC finish fourth in gruelling conditions LUCAN Cyvling Road Club cyclists Declan

Brassil and Graham Macken just finished outside the podium on the gruelling Race Across America (RAAM) by just 21 minutes.

The duo reached the finish of the 4940-kilometre race in a time of eight days, 15 hours and 22 minutes to finish fourth.

The race started in Oceanside, California on the Pacific Coast, took the riders across the Mohave Desert, the Rockies, the Great Plains, and the Appalachians, before finishing on the Atlantic Coast at Annapolis, Maryland.

over the head of Rachael Kelly and into the back of the MGL net, but it actually drifted harmlessly over the bar.

Fahey then had a great chance to give MGL the lead from a corner.

Atkinson swung the ball in and when the Galway defender missed it, it fell to Fahey two yards from goal. The ball hit the midfielder in the chest and rolled towards the keeper. However, the net-minder then somehow managed to spill the ball back into the path of Fahey, whose follow up was blocked by a couple of players and eventually cleared.

MGL did take the lead just minutes later, however, when the referee seemed to indicate a Galway player had handled the ball from a free kick into the box, and pointed to the spot.

McEvoy stepped up and coolly slotted the ball past the keeper’s dive and into her bottom lefthand corner.

Galway had a great chance to equalise at the start of the second half when a free kick into the box fell at the feet of one of their players. Her first touch let her down, however, and the ball was cleared.

Galway were better

in the second half but they couldn’t find a way past a stubborn defence and MGL were crowned champions.

Peamount and Lucan also both had a player in the Under-12 MGL squad who won their Gaynor Cup. Pea Emily McCann and Lucan’s Amy Green both played, with the latter scoring the equaliser in a 1-1 draw before MGL went on to win on penalties.

As for the MGL Under14 side, Aoife O’Leary, Holly Rutherford and Maria Cassidy represented Lucan as the side finished third after a 1-0 win over Inishowen League.

29 June 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

CELTIC CHALLENGE Lucan’s McNulty in final run with Plunkett side

CLUB NOTICEBOARD LUCAN SARSFIELDS

LUCAN’S Anthony McNulty, left, attempts

to put Down’s Ronan Costelloe under pressure along with Michael Conroy.

He was lining out for the Dublin Plunkett representative team during the Bank of Ireland Celtic Challenge Corn William Robinson Final match between Down and Dublin Plunkett at Netwatch Cullen Park in Carlow. Down won the final 3-11 to 2-11.

CALLING on all members for a big push

ahead; their latest success coming

on selling the car draw tickets. Please

at the expense of the Garda in a cup

return sold tickets to the club ASAP.

encounter.

Last week, there was no winner of the

The annual family fun day, originally

€5,800 lotto and the numbers were 3, 5,

scheduled for Saturday, July 1, has now

16 and 19. This week’s €6,200 draw will be

been moved to later in the summer.

managed by Team Seamus Clandillon and is sponsored by Lucan Village Pharmacy.

Picture: Seb Daly/Sportsfile

HURLING: LUCAN LOSE GROUND IN PROMOTION CHASE

Bingo continues on Wednesdays at 8pm in the club bar.

Tickets can be purchased online, at the

The club shop closes on July 1 for its

club, in Carey’s Newsagents or in Vesey

summer break. Items can still be pur-

Arms or Kenny’s Bar.

chased online or in the O’Neill’s shop on

The senior hurlers missed a last-min-

the Long Mile Road.

ute penalty in their latest league game

Lucan District Credit Union Academy

against Oliver Plunkett’s only to lose by

had their final session along with a suite

two points. Next up is a game away to

of awards on Saturday last. This was

Raheny on July 8 at 6.30pm in St Anne’s

also the first day the Healthy Club initia-

Park.

tive was on hand with lots of fruit, cour-

The ladies football are powering

tesy Centra Griffeen.

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN WELL done to our senior camogie team

all the girls who are now heading into

last Thursday evening on their excellent

their summer break. Enjoy the break

win over Naomh Fionnbarra in Glenaulin.

and to the girls and the mentors, well

The senior hurlers were unlucky on

Next Saturday, July 1 is St Patrick’s

against Faughs. The U-10s had two super

GAA club’s family fun day from 2-5pm,

wins away against Olafs. The managers

run in conjunction with the Palmerstown

were delighted with their performance.

Festival.

Well done lads.

U-13 camogie had a great win on Friday in Glenaulin, ending their matches for the summer break on a well-deserved high.

Congratulations to the girls and their mentors.

An understrength Lucan Sarsfields’ senior hurlers drop back to sixth in the AFL Division 2 table.

done.

Saturday evening when they came up

The U-8 girls had a busy weekend with

Our Cul camp is from July 10 to 14 and the club camp from July 17 to 21.

Lotto numbers this week were as follows: 9, 10, 12 and 18.

There was no winner. The draw takes place every Sunday in Palmerstown House at 10pm. Next week’s jackpot is

Sars comeback falls just shy of Plunkett’s

GARDA/WESTMANSTOWN

AHL DIVISION TWO Lucan Sarsfields St Oliver Plunkett’s/ER  sport@dublingazette.com

0-12 1-11

LUCAN Sarfields’ senior hurlers fell in a key AHL Division 2 tie to unbeaten St Oliver Plunkett’s/ Eoghan Ruadh to see them slip to sixth place in the division and with ground to make up in the promotion race.

They took the field depleted owing to county unavailability and the usual summer departures which left them shy come important faces.

They were second best in the first half and Plun-

kett’s were well worth their half time lead of 1-8 to 0-4. Lucan’s first half scores all came from David Quinn who was unfortunate to have to depart injured after just 25 minutes having already notched four points.

Lucan started brighter in the second half and narrowed the gap with two frees from Ciaran Dowling. With 15 minutes to go, Plunkett’s still led by six and looked set for a comfortable win.

However, Lucan left their best hurling to the end and dominated the closing exchanges and could easily have

snatched an unlikely win.

The Plunkett’s goalkeeper was the hero though as he saved two penalties and a couple of other good goal chances – with Dowling notching a half-dozen points – to keep Lucan at bay and Plunkett’s held on to win by two.

Elsewhere, Lucan’s Junior A side drew 0-19 each with Erin’s Isle in their championship group game. This was a very even contest with little to separate the teams throughout.

Isle’s started the better and lead for most of the first half but Lucan stayed in touch through Tommy

Somers frees.

Isles led 0-11 to 0-10 at half time and stretched that to a four-point lead midway through the second half.

However, Lucan fought back and eventually levelled through a Somers free. Another free had Lucan one up well into added time but Isles got the final chance and levelled for a deserved draw.

Brendan McGarry, Rob Ward and Tadhg Clandillon were prominent in a solid Lucan defence while upfront Tommy Somers lead the way with his accuracy from placed balls.

a trip to Fort Lucan which went great and then had their blitz on Sunday with great improvement all round shown by

PRIDE of place this week to our U-14 girls’

€1,800 Tickets available at SuperValu, Manor Hair Studios and Palmerstown House.

Mearnog on Wednesday, July 5.

Feile squad who represented Dublin

Juvenile activity winding down for

at the National Feile Division 4 finals in

the holidays but the U14 boys had big

Monaghan. The girls who were gener-

win over O’Dwyers, Balbriggan by 6-13

ously hosted by Tyholland GAA Club per-

to 0-6, the U-11 boys beat St Vincent’s

formed with great distinction but bowed

and the U-9 girls put on great displays

out at the quarter final stage to a very

against Garristown and Erin go Bragh.

good team.

Don’t forget we have two great camps

Well done to the players, coaches and

coming up with Kellogg’s Cul Camp from

parents who made the weekend possible

July 10-14 from 10am to 2.30pm and the

and a big thank you to Tyholland for being

club summer camp is from August 21-25

superb hosts.

from 10am to 2.30pm. Contact GPO

Ladies lost to Lucan Sarsfields away in a cup match last week and our minors

Declan Jennings at 085 8006101 or check the club website for details.

went down narrowly to Cuala on by 3-12

Thanks to all who took part in the

to 1-15. Congratulations to Peter McNa-

recent club survey on Surveymonkey. It

mara on being selected for the Dublin

is important to hear the views of all club

U-17 squad.

members and to get your opinion on

Busy week coming up for our adult

the various issues discussed. The club

teams with lots of activity on the playing

executive will consider carefully all the

fields. On Saturday evening, the action

points raised.

is away at St Sylvester’s in Broomfield

Race night on Friday, July 7; the club

starting at 6.30pm. The juniors are away

Family Day is on Saturday, September 9

to St Peregrine’s on Sunday at 11am. The

and the Belfast tournament on October

next fixture for minors is away to Naomh

20-22.

GAZETTESPORT

ALL OF YOUR LUCAN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

METRO GOLD: Peamount and Lucan United stars shine for MGL with a series of Gaynor Cup silverware P30

JUNE 29 - JULY 5, 2017

COOL HAND LUKE KEELER: Ballyfermot man shows class to win Irish senior belt P28

Saints bouncing back Saint Francis are looking to get back up and running for the 2017/18 season in the Leinster Senior League

Famous Baldonnel club set to retake their place back in the Leinster Senior League ranks having withdrawn their adult team last season

 JAMES HENDICOTT

sport@dublingazette.com

ST FRANCIS’ return to Leinster Senior League is powering ahead, according to reports, after the former League of Ireland club were forced to pull out of the LSL last season as they couldn’t field a side in the Senior Sunday Division 1A. The club have appointed Kevin Smith Junior as adult manager, according to the Junior Soccer Portal, as well as appointing a committee to help rebuild the adult sides from scratch.

Dropping out of the third tier of Leinster football was a real low point for the team that played League of Ireland football between

1996 and 2001, with the club left with no adult team at all for the season. The fall from grace is a far cry from the powerhouse side of the 90s and turn of the century, a club that remain the only amateur side the reach the FAI Senior Cup Final since the 50s.

The team have been welcomed back by the LSL for next term, though it’s unclear at the moment which division they will be playing in when the action gets back underway come autumn. They are expected to play at junior level, as opposed to intermediate.

Last year’s absence is likely to mean starting from near the bottom, particularly with the influx of clubs this summer, but the presence of adult football at John Hyland Park will cer-

tainly be the main concern to start out with.

Following a dispute in Dublin’s other major amateur soccer competition, the AUL, eight sides have been allowed to move to the Leinster Senior League following a vocal protest against the league’s organisers.

This has proven the more appealing option for top AUL sides in recent years, as it holds the option of promotion to intermediate football, something that the AUL doesn’t offer.

A very real consequence, of course, is the continued weakening of the AUL as a result.

The eight sides moving across means the LSL will be growing substantially next time around, however, and with no announcements made on the placement of the eight of St Joseph’s, club

congestion could be an issue.

New clubs crossing from AUL in recent years have typically been placed in major (junior) divisions, with intermediate goals often fulfilled in the coming seasons, as shown by the likes of Liffey Wanderers (who have taken both the FAI Intermediate and Junior Cups in recent years) and - a little less recently - top level LSL sides like Killester, Cherry Orchard and Tolka Rovers.

When St Joseph’s return, though, it will be with the backing of one of the best youth sections in the country, and a far more substantial reputation and local following than the clubs around them. If they get things right, an adult section could easily flourish again.