Lucan

Gazette LUCAN

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February 16-22, 2017

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Twisted thugs post death WIN threat aimed at family pet A pair of tickets to the Irish Motorbike & Scooter Show at the RDS SEE P13

 SYLVIA POWNALL

The chilling letter is with gardai

GARDAI in West Dublin are investigating after a chilling letter threatening to torture a family pet to death was posted through a letterbox.

The dog’s shocked owner was

horrified to receive the typed note warning if it was left out barking at night, it would be taken away “and killed painfully and slowly”.

The author, or authors, also warned that “a brick will be put through your front door” and

signed it: “From all your neighbours in Cherrywood Park.”

The distraught owner said her dog, a Jack Russell, is not barking excessively or causing a nuisance.

She added: “I’m very worried for my dog. I have him six years.

I’m extremely upset and I feel like

I’m living under threat.”

Clondalkin Animal Aid, which posted the note on social media, condemned the action, adding: “I sincerely hope there’s no one planning to carry out this ridiculous threat.”

Continued on Page 2

2 LUCAN GAZETTE 16 February 2017

PLANNING | MAJOR SETBACK FOR SHOPPING CENTRE’S NEW OWNERS

€150m extension for Liffey Valley is blocked  SYLVIA POWNALL

PLANS for a €150 million extension to Liffey Valley shopping centre have been refused after it was ruled it would worsen traffic congestion on the M50.

An Bord Pleanala last week overturned South Dublin County Council’s decision to grant permission for the project which would have increased the centre’s size by 50 per cent.

Up to 450 full and parttime jobs would have been created upon completion, bringing the total number employed at the centre to more than 2,500.

The ambitious plans provided for Ireland’s first 2,500-seat Olympic sized indoor ice arena and

included an impressive new atrium entrance and pedestrian plaza.

The ice rink formed part of a mixed leisure, entertainment, commercial and 22,000sqm retail extension with a capacity for 60 extra stores.

Planners ruled the proposal would cause “serious traffic congestion” in the area and impact negatively on the safety and operation of the M50 and N4 access routes.

An Taisce and the Moriarty Group, which operates three SuperValu supermarkets at Balbriggan, Skerries and Palmerstown appealed SDCC’s decision to give it the goahead.

In its appeal An Taisce’s

heritage officer Ian Lumley said: “This is a car-based retail development adding significantly to an already problematic car-dependant location.”

It’s unclear if the centre’s new owners, German pensions group BVK, will lodge a fresh application.

The Irish arm of international property giant Hines, which manages the centre, said it was disappointed with An Bord Pleanala’s decision, and would “reflect” before planning the next stage of development.

The group completed its acquisition of the 18-yearold centre and seven hectares of adjacent land for a rumoured €630million last December.

FASTNews

Celbridge to finally get airport shuttle service.. but there’s a catch that’ll have some Hopping mad

GARDAI PROBE DEATH THREAT TO FAMILY PET Continued from Page 1

The letter, which was stamped and delivered by post via the sorting office in Portlaoise, has been handed in to gardai in Clondalkin.

Officers are examining the handwritten address on the envelope in the hope that it might help them track down the culprit.

The distraught owner broke down on radio and told how she is now terrified to let her dog out of her sight.

She told 98FM’s Dublin Talks: “I can’t believe somebody would send that letter. Why haven’t they come over and knocked on the door and asked us to do something about the dog?

“Neighbours have told me they are utterly sick that somebody would say something like that on their behalf.”

The letter reads: “This is from all your angry neighbours!!!

“Stop letting the dog out the front in the night time until all hours of the morning to bark nonstop.

“This is a warning if the dog continues to bark a brick will be put through your front door and the dog will be taking [sic] away and killed painfully and slowly!!!

“We warned if the dog is out after the 09/02/17 and is barking the above will happen.

“From all your neighbours in Cherrywood Park.”

One comment on Facebook said: “I live here and I’m disgusted to think the sicko who sent this even lives near me ... This is a wacko who has serious issues to even make threats like that ... I hope the guards catch their ass.”

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

CELBRIDGE looks jet-set to finally have its own airport shuttle run – but it’s likely that it will only be a feeder bus that will link up with an existing service.

After first pointing out how hard – and costly – it can be to get to the north Dublin hub from the Kildare town, Cllr Ide Cussen (SF) announced this week that the town would be getting its own Airport Hopper service.

“It can be expensive, time consuming and difficult to get yourself to the Airport on time if you live in Celbridge,” she said.

“Following representations to Airport Hopper I delighted to be able to confirm that plans are underway to ensure that Celbridge has an Airport Hopper Service shortly.

“Traffic congestion in Celbridge is the main reason why a direct link may not be the solution.”

It’s expected the new Airport Hopper feeder bus will link the Kildare town to an existing service.

Generous local Muslim group presents gifts to homeless THE Lucan-based Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association have teamed up with Merchant Quay to present 30 gifts to the homeless.

As part of their charitable works throughout the year, the generous group raised funds to buy thermal undergarments, socks and wash bags for the homeless clients attending the Homeless shelter.

The association’s president, Dr Mamoon Rashid, said: “As part of our faith we are encouraged to carry out charitable deeds that benefit the most deprived in our society.

“Throughout the year we run campaigns that help raise funds and help out the community in whichever way we can.

“Last September, we raised €10,000 for Cancer Research Ireland in our charity walk.

“This effort to help the homeless is part of our commitment to help whichever way we can in the society.”

16 February 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 3

 ALISON O’HANLON

Bertie helped Malahide Allotments break the world record for tree planting.

PIctures: ALISON O’HANLON

FORMER Taoiseach Bertie Ahern wouldn’t have looked out of place at the Ploughing Championships as he mucked in to give a very worthy cause a dig-out at the weekend.

The Ex Fianna Fail leader and famous Dub was true to his word, turning up as promised and braving some of the worst weather we’ve seen this year to do his bit for a charity challenge in aid of the Epilepsy Care Foundation.

The Malahide Allotments had aimed to plant a world-record 500 trees in one day, but despite the dirty weather managed a staggering 687 – all by lunchtime!

Fair play to all who gave it a right good welly on the day!

Architectural render presenting the proposed College Green Civic Plaza Malahide Allotments members Brian Geraghty and Bertie brave the cold for a good cause

4 LUCAN GAZETTE 16 February 2017

Westside Performing Arts join forces with Lions Club to raise €4.5k for homeless

STUDENTS from Westside Performing Ar ts joined Lucan Lions Club president Ray Barnes to present a cheque for a whopping €4,500 to Gary Grace from The Peter McVerry Trust.

The cash was raised just before Christmas, when more than 100 students and

staff from the Lucan-based stage school hosted what has become their annual Sponsored Sleepover event in Lucan’s Church of Ireland Parish Centre.

The Peter McVerry Trust aims to reduce homelessness and the harm caused by drugs and social disadvantage.

McGregor’s Q&A at Red Cow KO-ed

 AENGUS O’HANLON

MMA fans hoping to meet octagon legend Conor McGregor suffered a knock-out blow this week when it was announced that the longtime Lucan resident’s planned appearance at the newly revamped Red Cow is off.

A statement released earlier this week on behalf of the Red Cow Moran Hotel & Industry Entertainment revealed that the event – which was meant to take place tomorrow – had been cancelled “due to circumstances beyond their control.

They explained: “An evening at the Red Cow Moran Hotel with special guest Conor McGregor has been cancelled until further notice.

“The Red Cow Moran Hotel in association with Industry Entertainment regret to announce that the evening event with Conor McGregor scheduled

for Friday 17th February has been cancelled due to circumstances beyond their control.

“An unavoidable schedule change will see Conor McGregor in Las Vegas at the time of the event.

“All ticket holders who purchased tickets via TicketStop.ie will be automatically refunded, if you purchased a ticket or booked a table for the event through the Red Cow Moran Hotel please contact the team on 01-4593650 or via email redcowinn@moranhotels.com who will manage your refund directly.

“The Red Cow Moran Hotel in association with Industry Entertainment would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused and hope that a new date for this special evening will be set in the not too distant future.”

Contact redcowsales@moranhotels. com or visit www.redcowmoranhotel. com/conor-mcgregor for more info.

FASTNews Kickstart your love for footie at Lucan Utd LUCAN United are relaunching the Late Starters Academy for kids aged 8-12 years who came to football late or gave up the game but now want to try again.

The academy costs €160 for the year and can be paid in full or in six monthly instalments Anyone whose child would like to join can register them for the first week – which is free to ensure your child enjoys the experience and would like to continue – by messaging Lucan Utd’s Facebook page with just the child’s name and the year they were born.

The Academy kicks off this Saturday (February 18), but if you can’t make it, don’t worry as you can register any week.

Plans lodged with council for nursing home PLANS for the development of a 92-bed, three-storey nursing home in Clondalkin have been lodged with South Dublin County Council.

Proposals put forward by GN Lexington Property Ltd include the demolition of a boarded-up house at the site adjacent to the library at the junction of Monastery Road and Monstery Park.

Permission is also sought for a new vehicular entrance from Monastery Park, the widening of the existing entrance to Monastery Road, a landscaped communal open space at ground level, roof terraces and 29 car parking spaces.

Planners are expected to make a decision on the application by March 8.

16 February 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 5

Don’t give in to eight  AENGUS O’HANLON

A WORRYING eight per cent of Irish homeowners say they’d take on a burglar themseves a bid to restrain them until gardai arrive, a new AA Ireland poll has revealed.

An AA Home Insurance survey of just under 7,000 homeowners found that the first action for 7.83% foolhardy respondents would be to try and subdue the intruder till cops arrive.

However, a significant gender gap was recorded in the findings – with just 1.91% of women surveyed prepared to get physically involved in the

HOMEOWNERS WARNED AGAINST TACKLING BURGLAR THEMSELVES AT POLL REVEALS 8% WOULD HAVE A GO

event of a hypothetical burglary, compared with 13.28% of men.

Almost four in 10 homeowners said they’d hide and make contact with the gardai in the event of a burglary, while younger homeowners were slightly more likely than their older counterparts to tackle the intruder, with 9.19% of those aged under 45 stating they’d attempt to physically restrain the intruder – a figure that fell

Another 40 new homes at Alderlie up for grabs

to 5.93% among those aged over 56.

AA Director of Consumer Affairs Conor Faughnan said of the findings: “When it comes to protecting your home and family the urge to confront an intruder is a very understandable human response.”

He continued: “People get justifiably angry and scared. But it’s a bad idea.

You can’t know the mental state of an intruder who might even be armed.

FORTY more houses in the Alderlie development in Adamstown went on sale at the weekend.

Alderlie was the most searched for new-home development on the internet in 2016 following its launch in October – less than a week after the introduction of the Help-to-Buy scheme in that month’s Budget. Between October and December, 76 units were snapped up in record time.

The latest 40 Alderlie houses are priced at the same as they were in October – €270,000 for a three bed, or €345,000 for a four-bed house. Photos: Peter Moloney

“Garda advice is that you should secure yourself as best you can and call for help.”

Meanwhile, over a third of respondents stated they would hide and contact Gardaí instead of becoming physically involved.

37.63% of those surveyed stated that their first course of action would be to find a safe room in the house before making contact with the Gardaí.

Meanwhile, a further 32.20% stated they would yell or make noise in an attempt to scare the intruder out of their home before alerting the Gardaí.

Mr Faughnan said: “Material goods and possessions don’t mean anything, they can be replaced.

“People are beyond price. The first and only priority is the safety of you and your family. Let the Garda deal with the criminals.”

Finally, a further 16.93% of respondents stated that they would confront the intruder in a non-physical capacity and order them to leave the property before contacting Gardaí.

6 LUCAN GAZETTE 16 February 2017

Out and About

Paul O’Neill and Florina Conroy

Pam Laskode and Jessica Woods

Dean Richardson and John Doran

Jean Egan and her son, John

Lovely Leixlip plays host to a fun party for all valentines A

PRE-Valentine’s Day celebration at the Springfield Hotel in Leixlip last Wednesday had guests dancing the night away. The event brought clients from a variety of centres for people with intellectual disabilities together for a night of singing, dancing, eating and drinking. Groups from St Raphael’s and Dara Residential Services in Celbridge, and Stewarts Hospital in Palmerstown, were in attendance along with Genil Services in Maynooth who enjoyed the evening, especially the DJ who kept the dance floor full all night. Love was in the air at the Leixlip event, thanks to heart-shaped balloons and other lovely-dovey decorations adorning the walls of the function room.

Ali Vizig abd Lisa Foley

David Murphy

Laura O’Byrne and Niall Gillen

David Banfield

16 February 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 7

Out and About

Hilary Leo and Laura Hickey

Arch Club volunteer Paddy McNally with Ann Parkes and Natalie Case

Leixlip Arch Club secretary Valerie Haugh Theresa Flood

and Christy Burke

Simon Darragh and Laura Healy

Aidan Wniters and Gillian Moore

8 LUCAN GAZETTE 16 February 2017

RETIREMENT | GREAT NEW SPORT FOR THE OVER-55s IS GROWING LEGS IN LUCAN

Hanging up your boots?

Take up walking football

Members of the Esker Active Retirement Association get stuck in. Pictures: Marian Egan

 MARK O’BRIEN A LUCAN retirement group have embraced walking football as a way of keeping fit and active.

Members of Esker Active Retirement Association began playing walking football last March after being approached by the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) and the South Dublin County Council Sports Development Office.

Walking football has become a popular way for older people to stay fit since being devised in England six years ago.

The rules are the same as regular football, with the exceptions being that there is no running and no tackling.

The Retirement Association’s Club Secretary Marian Egan told The Gazette: “It’s a good, fun way to get some exercise.”

The group play in St Andrew’s Church Hall in Esker every Wednesday at 1.30pm and now has 80 members having started off with just five last year.

Many of the members had never played football before but have been developing their skills with the help of former Shamrock Rovers player Stephen Rice.

Thanks to Rice’s coaching, the group have greatly improved but there have been

some mishaps along the way.

Marian said: “Helen, one of our committee members saw one of the guys heading the ball and asked if we were allowed to do that.”

After being told it was allowed, Helen wanted to try this new skill out herself but forgot that she was wearing glasses.

“The opportunity arose so she heads the ball but, of course, she’s wearing glasses and she nearly broke her nose on the glasses,” Marian said, laughing.

In spite of the ‘no tackling’ rule, Marian said that she has bruised shins from several tackles and joked that, “I could do with borrowing my grandson’s shinguards.”

The occasional illegal tackle aside, the game is played in good spirits and Marian said: “We have some laugh playing it, we really do.”

She credits the fun atmosphere to the people in the group, who are always open to new experiences.

“They’re a brilliant crowd of people,” she said. “They’re willing to try anything once.”

The Esker Active Retirement Association is open to anyone from the local area who is over 55 and not in full-time employment.

FASTNews On your marks, get set for fun at Adamstown CC ADAMSTOWN Community College is hosting a fun run next month.

Participants can chose either a 5k or a 10k option depending on fitness and time.

The fun run will take place on the college campus on Sunday.

March 12th.

The race kicks off at 11am and refreshments will be available to all in the college foyer following the run.

There are prizes to be won for first male, first female and first ACC student to cross the line in both races.

Entry for the 10k run is priced €15 for adults, and €10 for students.

Or if you decide on the 5k option, it’s a steal at a fiver for both adults and students.

Register online at popupraces.ie.

New bridal shop opens in Lucan village BRIDES to be from Lucan and surroundign areas can rest easy with news that a new bridal shop just opened in the village.

The Bridal Lodge is based in Hills Industrial Estate on the Lower Lucan Road.

And it’s not just prospective brides who’ll be jumping for joy – parents with little girls and boys in second class will be happy to hear that the Bridal Lodge also have a have a special on for Communion Dresses and suits.

They are also running a competition where one lucky lady can win her own wedding gown to have and to hold – now wouldn’t that be a great way to kickstart your new life with the dress of your dreams!

16 February 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 9

Teenager to face trial over armed raid at bookies  SYLVIA POWNALL

A DUBLIN teenager is to face trial accused of taking part in an armed raid at a bookies in Clondalkin.

The boy, 17, is charged with robbery at Ladbrokes, Ninth Lock Road, Clondalkin on July 23 2016 and unlawful possession of a firearm on the same date.

He appeared at Dublin Children’s Court for a preliminary hearing to determine if his case would be heard there or go forward to the Circuit Court, which has tougher sentencing powers.

After viewing CCTV evidence and hearing a summary of the prosecution evidence, Judge John O’Connor refused

Once-popular Leixlip club now a no-go ’Zone as wrecking ball replaces mirrors A GENERATION of young people from North Kildare and West Dublin will look back with nostalgia following news that demolition has begun on the building that once housed Ozone Nightclub.

The once-popular Leixlip night spot, which to younger readers is probably better

Shopkeepers urged to avail of store-front grant scheme

known as Zinc, closed for good in the autumn of 2012 after being relaunched following a complete refurbishment back in 2009.

However, less than eight years on from the revamped club Zinc opening, the building is now being knocked down to make way for an Aldi supermarket. Pictures: Aisling Conway

SOUTH Dublin County Council has launched its shop-front grant scheme for independent retailers.

Grants of up to €8,500 are available and the local authority is committed to paying 50 per cent of the overall cost of any improvements to shops fronting public streets.

Deputy John Curran (FF) is encouraging local retailers to apply.

He said: “Grants are available for something as simple as painting your shop, replacing signage or even replacing your entire shopfront so it is a very worthwhile grant scheme for local retailers and their business and for our local villages appearance and the community.”

Closing date is March 31 and information is available at www.sdcc.ie.

jurisdiction. He held that the case was too serious and should go to the higher court.

The boy, who was accompanied to court by his mother and his barrister, was remanded on bail to appear again in March to be served with a book of evidence.

It is alleged that an adult accomplice entered the bookmakers holding a firearm. It was claimed he was with the defendant, then aged 16, who allegedly held the shop door open for him.

A sum of €77 was taken after a female employee fled into an office and the teen’s alleged accomplice took the money from the till before the pair made off.

10 GAZETTE 16 February 2017

Out and About

Jenny Buckley and Rachel Kavanagh

Kerri Nicole Blanc and Sinead Noonan. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Tripthi Rodrigues and Charlotte Doyle

Sinead Keary and Sarah Keary

Enjoying a girls’ night out in Dundrum T

o celebrate their February LOVE Box GLOSSYBOX held a Girls Night Out at Movie’s at Dundrum. Guests got to see the latest chick flick releases and each got to take home the February GLOSSYBOX. The evening was hosted by MD of Ireland & UK Rachel Kavanagh and included many well-known faces to include Jenny Buckley, Teodora Sutra, Gail Kaneswaren, to name but a few. From cult classics to innovative new launches, this February, GLOSSYBOX and La Mer have curated the ultimate skincare routine, boxed which launches on 20th February.

Lianne Traynor and Michelle Reggazoli Stone

Avila Lipsett

Stephen Kelly and Fergus Daly

Lorna Duffy

16 February 2017 GAZETTE 11

Out and About

Ellen Waters and Jonathan Crawley

Enny Buono and Jade Hanlon

Therese Ryan and Cormac Moore

Wayne Cronin and Leah Kilcullen

Sean McEvoy and Amanda Reid

January Winters. Photos : BRIAN MCEVOY

Fans out in force for John Wick sequel K Jason Brennan and Darragh Doyle

Baz Ashmawy

Helen Clinton and Niall Clinton

EANU Reeve’s fans were out in force at the Lighthouse Cinema for the Irish premiere screening of his latest film “John Wick Chapter 2”. Keanu Reeves plays the legendary hit man John Wick is forced back out of retirement by a former associate plotting to seize control of a shadowy international assassins’ guild.

Bound by a blood oath to help him, John travels to Rome where he squares off against some of the world’s deadliest killers. Spotted at the screening were Baz Ashmawy, Spin 1038’s Cormac Moore, as well as model January Russell.

12 GAZETTE 16 February 2017

GAZETTE

DUBLINBUSINESS Hoping for Irish win in Singapore ENTREPRENEURS: IRISHWOMAN JUST ONE OF THREE SHORTLISTED EU FINALISTS FOR TOP AWARD

 EMMA NOLAN

Ciara Donlon, the founder and chief executive of THEYA Healthcare, has been nominated for an entrepreneurial award that will be revealed in Singapore in April

ENTREPRENEUR Ciara Donlon – the founder and chief executive of T H E YA H e a l t h c a r e (www.theyahealthcare. com), an award-winning medical device company – has been shortlisted as a finalist for the prestigious 2017 Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards.

Ciara is the only Irish entrepreneur shortlisted for the European Award category, alongside an entrepreneur from Russia, and another from the UK. The awards are an international business

plan competition created in 2006 to identify, support and encourage projects by women entrepreneurs. The initiative aims to encourage inspirational women entrepreneurs worldwide to solve contemporar y global challenges.

THEYA Healthcare, which was formally launched by Donlon in 2015, designs and manufactures healthcare garments.

The company’s flagship post-surgery lingerie range, designed primarily for use by breast cancer patients, retails across

Ireland and the UK, and has also been launched in Europe and Canada.

THEYA Healthcare uses a unique fabric mix made from OEKO-TEX bamboo, which is ideal for post-operative products as it is anti-bacterial, thermally regulating, 59% more absorbent than cotton and extremely soft, thus helps reduce skin irritation.

T he design of the THEYA Healthcare range focuses on comfort, support, femininity, functionality and the promotion of healing.

Headquartered at

NovaUCD, the centre for new ventures and entrepreneurs at UCD, THEYA Healthcare is an Enterprise Ireland highpotential start-up client company.

Donlon said: “It’s a huge honour to have been chosen by Cartier as one of the three European finalists for such a prestigious worldwide award.

“I s et up THEYA Healthcare because I wanted to help women undergoing breast cancer treatment feel better about themselves and heal faster; for that to be acknowledged by an

organisation like Cartier means a lot. “ H o p e f u l l y, m o r e women who can benefit from our products will now have a chance to access them.”

She was shortlisted alongside fellow chief executives Marina Ross, Nanobarrier (Russia), and Lise Pape, Walk with Life (UK).

The winners of the 2017 Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards will be announced at the awards week and ceremony which will take place in Singapore from April 8 to 13.

Take key steps to help realise business goals WITH entrepreneurial spirit having an ever greater impact on Irish business, it can be tempting to plan to start your own business. However, as with any business, a focused plan with realistic, practical goals is a key part of achieving success.

Carol Brick (right), of HerMoney, has compiled some simple yet essential pointers towards being your own boss and maximising your entrepreneurial spirit.

Research and plan right Before cutting ties with your fulltime job, be sure that there is a market for the product or service you offer.

Talk with freelancers in the industry to learn more on the market and clients, and ask about their transition from fulltime to self-employed work and check on any potential pit falls.

Maintain positive business relationships with your co-workers and your boss – they could potentially become your first clients or refer others to you.

Financial backing is key Ensure you have enough capital

to cover your living expenses for the first several months you will be selfemployed. You may take a second parttime job, or get some weekend clients within your new self-employed profession, ahead of quitting your current day job. Also talk to your local enterprise board and a financial advisor.

Prepare the right set-up A reliable accountant will advise on the sole trader versus company director approach, and on the tax implications of both. Managing your own income tax and charging for VAT on your products or services is one of the sea changes of being self-employed. Get a userfriendly software system to account for your income and expenditure on a day to basis (see www.contracting365.ie).

Security Replacing key employee benefits like a pension, income protection for when you cannot work, and death in service (life cover) is important. Talk to an independent advisor about savings and investments like live cover or pensions. Also check out the different types of insurances needed.

Finally, Citizens Information also has helpful information on many practical business and financial implications; see www.citizensinformation.ie.

16 February 2017 GAZETTE 13

GAZETTE

FEATURE

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZET TE CALL 60 10 240

WIN

LOCAL

MATTERS

ONE OF THIRTY PAIRS OF TICKETS TO THE CAROLE NASH IRISH MOTORBIKE & SCOOTER SHOW IN THE RDS FROM MARCH 3-5

THE annual “The Carole Nash Irish Motorbike and Scooter Show takes place from the 3rd to the 5th of March 2017 in the RDS Dublin – and we’ve got thirty pairs of tickets worth 18 euro each - to give away to this exciting event for all the family to enjoy.

All you have to do to win a pair of tickets to join 27,000 other motorcycle and scooter aficionados at the RDS next month is visit the Dublin Gazette Facebook page and Like

and Share our Carole Nash Motorbike & Scooter Show post.

Alternatively, you can simply email your entry to competitions@dublingazette.com - please make sure to put Carole Nash Comp in the subject line, and your name and address in the main body of the email.

Hop on your bike and go to the show - you would simply be mad to miss it! Best of luck all!

George Fitzgerald’s film explores the overlooked history of Dublin’s working-class citizens. Screengrab: YouTube

Delve into the capital’s ‘real’ past with a new documentary  EMMA NOLAN

A DUBLIN man has made a documentary that shows the dark side of Dublin. In Dublin Behind the History, Finglas man George Fitzgerald examines the history of working-class people in Dublin in the 1900s.

George (51) made the 25-minute documentary last year while he was researching his latest book, The Secret life Of Ashley Brown.

His research uncovered descriptions of Dublin often overlooked by history, of rats lining the streets, workhouses and barefoot, starving children.

“Dubliners are divorced from their own history,” he told The Gazette. George said he wanted to shed light on the history of the city that was forgotten because major events in history, such as the world wars, take precedence in the history books.

“I only just touched on [such content] in my documentary, there’s so much more – it was horrific,” George said.

Mixing footage of the

city as we know it with old photographs, illustrations and readings, the film shows how Dublin went from being the “flamboyant” city of the 1700s to having the worst slums in Europe by the early 1900s.

He shows two main catalysts that set about this change; the Act of Union in 1801 and The Famine.

George says that The Famine changed the course of working-class history as it led to suburban towns such as Swords being established.

The Monto He also explores the fact that the biggest red light district in Europe at the time – the Monto – was located in Dublin.

What modern Dubliners can learn from this history is an appreciation of simplicity and embracing our neighbours and communities, according to George.

“Get out and talk to your neighbour, and stop spending so much time on social media.”

Dublin Behind the History is available to watch on YouTube.

ENJOY A FEAT OF FREE LIVE ACTION ENTERTAINMENTAT THE RDS THIS MARCH….

WE’VE got new bikes, the latest accessories, clothing, helmets, training, adventure holidays … in fact just about everything you need for you and your bike!

NEW AT THE SHOW FOR 2017: JOEY DUNLOP TRIBUTE One of the main attractions of this year’s show has to be the exclusive personal Joey Dunlop Tribute which is the first time it will be on display in southern Ireland. See his race bikes, trophies, leathers, helmets from his astonishing 31 years of racing. Celebrities such as John McGuinness, Mick Grant and Eddie Laycock are scheduled to speak over the course of the three day show.

AMD INTERNATIONAL CUSTOM BIKE SHOW It is a firm show favourite with over 50 stunning custom bikes on display that are works of art and engineering genius from all over the world. Sponsored by Deltran Battery Tender with the support of Zodiac Intl and AMD World Championship.

ACE GLOBAL STUNT STARZ COMPETITION Be ‘wowed’ by 20 top freestyle motor-

cycle stunt riders competing for the title of ‘Ace of Aces’ all day ever day of the Show. The Ace Global Star Starz Competition is sponsored by Rock Oil and R&G Racing plus supported by Ace Café London.

ACE CAFE CLASSIC & RETRO ZONE Motorcycle enthusiasts all over the planet know about The Ace Café London and its pivotal role in the cultural revolution that shaped both the music and machines for future generations.

WORLD FAMOUS PURPLE HELMETS At speeds approaching 100 miles per hour – check out this mad cap Isle of Man riders and their crazy gang show.

ROCKABILLY LIVE STAGE SHOW The Rockabilly band, Skinny Elvis, will be performing on the main stage supported by the rather fine Rockabilly Roses and Fire Show with everyone dressed by one of the cool Rusty Pistons.

GRAFTON BARBER The Grafton Barber team will be offering to groom the visitors that ‘modern’ Rockabilly look. Check out the Harley Davidson’s in the Shop - they’ll even have the bike to match your new look.

FLAT TRACK SPEEDWAY There’s lots of speed and excitement with the Off Road Flat Track Racers and

for the first time show visitors can learn to ‘flat track race’ too.

EDDIE IRVINE RACING CHALLENGE Don’t miss your chance to see how fast you are on a MotoGP Motorcycle Racing Simulator. This is free of charge to all visitors each day of the show.

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE TALKS Since this year’s show is heavy on travel and adventure - expect to hear from some very interesting people who have done some amazing things on two wheels Visit www.irishmotorbikeshow.com for more information.

BMW Motorrad have announced that it will be introducing its 2017 models to the Irish public for the first time at the Show. Among 18 BMW bikes going on display are three brand new versions of the most popular travel enduro bike in the world - the BMW GS

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DIARY

SCHOOLS: ENCOURAGING STUDENTS TO GET TO GRIPS WITH KEY SUBJECTS IN AN UPBEAT WAY

Spelling out the wonders and fun of science ... Katie Dixon helping to launch SciFest 2017. Picture: Keith Arkins

Knowledge is a fun science KATIE Dixon had her hands full as she helped to launch the tenth annual SciFest event.

All budding secondary school science students have the opportunity to demonstrate their science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) skills for the event, which gives students of all abilities the opportunity to develop research, problem-solving, critical thinking and presentation skills.

Sheila Porter, SciFest founder and chief executive said: “Over the past 10 years we have had the opportunity to experience some of the best young minds that Ireland has to offer.

“2016 was our best year ever, with more than 8,000 students participating and exhibiting their projects at local or region-

al science fairs all across the country, and we hope to build on this success in 2017 and beyond.”

Students can now showcase STEM projects at a series of one-day science fairs held locally in schools and regionally at DCU and a range of other institutions.

The winners from each regional science fair will go on to compete at a national final in November. The closing date for entries is March 10, so enter online or download a paper entry form from scifest.ie.

DRIVING INNOVATION FOR YOUNG PEOPLE THIS year, Young Social Innovators Ireland (YSI) are aiming to reach 50% of secondary schools by 2020.

Currently featuring

in 30% of secondary schools nationwide, the scheme, in partnership with Ulster Bank, has set a target of bringing its social innovation programmes to 367 secondary schools in Ireland by 2020.

Sr Stanislaus Kennedy, co-founder of YSI, said that social value “must become an integral part of innovation in Ireland to address societal challenges and build social cohesion”.

YSI sees students from schools around the country select issues they care about, explore them and collaborate to develop and implement their social innovations.

Previous YSI projects have included a successful campaign calling for the introduction of a National Missing Per-

son’s Day and the development of a water-saving device for use on showerheads in homes.

Sr Stan added: “Policies and practices that align social and economic value will ultimately lead to a fairer, more inclusive and sustainable society.

“Through YSI, education is already playing a major role in developing a culture and understanding of innovation for social good among young people and we need to build on that.”

VALENTINES DAY IS SO ... MEH – SURVEY IT SEEMS we’re not the most romantic bunch ...

Nearly 60% of Irish people say they feel that Valentine’s Day has become a cliche.

A survey by Durex has revealed that 26% of us

generally mark the occasion by going out for a classy dinner while only 22% stay in with a bottle of wine and a movie.

However, the majority of us (70%) think Valentine’s Day has become too commercial. In fact, the survey found that more than one-fifth of Irish married couples won’t celebrate the day in any way this year.

Of those couples who are choosing to opt out of Valentine’s Day, 36% say it’s because there is too much pressure around it.

A fur ther 23% of couples say they prefer to engage in spontaneous acts of romance rather than abiding by the tradition, and 18% say it is because their partner doesn’t want to embrace the day.

Rising pressure hasn’t

lowered expectations, however, as almost two thirds (58%) of people still say they would be disappointed if their partner didn’t mark the occasion.

Irish men seem to be a little more laid-back, as more than half of them wouldn’t mind if the day went unnoticed, compared to just a quarter of women.

FARMERS MARKET TRAINING FOR ALL URBAN farmers and m a r ke t s e l l e r s t a ke note – Bord Bia has just launched a farmers market training workshop.

Starting with a Dublin city centre workshop on February 20, the workshops are designed for those thinking of starting or developing sales in such a market.

Aspiring Dublin-

based food market entrepreneurs can attend the workshop at The Fumbally Stables in Dublin 8 for a half-day interactive masterclass that will provide practical solutions to the challenges most frequently faced by market sellers.

Wicklow-based food producer, farmer and successful stallholder Margaret Hoctor, from Kilmullen Farm, will deliver the workshops. Margaret, a regular at the Marley Park food market, will share her own knowledge and wide experience of how she developed the family business through this channel.

For registration and further information, see www.bordbia.ie/FarmersMarketsTraining, or email maria.stokes@bordbia.ie.

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Hop on the bus and see a real Dubs’ fare city

 ALISON O’HANLON DUBLIN Bus has been ‘doing Dublin’ bus tours across the capital since 1988 through its Dublin Sightseeing City & Coastal Tours (the green bus!).

It is Dublin’s original, authentic bus tour and this year it’s shaking things up by rebranding to DoDublin.

The drivers – who also happen to be the best tour guides in the world – are Dublin natives, Fáilte-Ireland trained and know every nook and cranny, anecdote and scéal across the streets broad and narrow of our fair city. And one thing the Gazette can confirm after taking a ride on one of the newly rebranded green buses this week – they clearly love what they do!

Priding themselves on having the ‘banter’ with Irish and international tourists alike, the 63 DoDublin drivers are a busy bunch. Between The Hop On Hop Off Tour, Coastal Tours, Ghostbus Tour and The 1916: Beyond Barricades Tour, they

travel 275,000 miles across the city and county each year.

They’re an honest lot too as one driver found a bag with €3,500 left on his bus! It was duly returned to a very relieved tourist while he was visiting Trinity College.

Visitors to the city can avail of the best value with a DoDublin Card.

At €33 for adults and €16 for children under 14 it offers unlimited travel for three days, including direct transfers to and from Dublin Airport on Airlink Express, The Hop On Hop Off Tour, and all public buses on Dublin Bus routes.

Tickets for The Hop On Hop Off Tour include free for kids (two under 14 with a fare paying adult), a free Pat Liddy Walking Tour of Dublin worth €10, free entry into The Little Museum of Dublin worth €7, and two for one meal deals and discounts at participating attractions.

Tickets can be bought at dodublin.ie, Dublin Airport and from ticket agents across Dublin City Centre.

RTE’s Jennifer Zamparelli launches Do Dublin with drivers Martin Connolly, Joe Morris and the company’s Miram Brady.

Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

THALIA HEFFERNAN | DUBLIN’S HOTTEST MODEL LAUNCHES DENIM KING DIESEL’S SPRING/SUMMER 2017 CAMPAIGN

16 February 2017 GAZETTE 17

NOW YOU’RE LOOKIN’ DIESEL: Thalia Heffernan looks amazing in her photoshoot alongside male model Savio De Chiara.

Pictures: Dara Munnis

Queen Diesel

JEANS Queen Thalia Heffernan looks a million dollars in this stylish new shoot for denim king Diesel’s Spring/Summer campaign.

The Dubliner put the disappointment of being voted off Dancing With The Stars behind her as she jetted out to sunny Spain for the one-day shoot with Italian model Savio De Chiara.

And to celebrate the launch of Diesel’s new campaign – which hits the stores THIS WEEK – we have a €100 voucher for a lucky reader to win.

All you have to do is Like and Share the Diesel post on The Dublin Gazette’s Facebook page.

Best of luck folks!

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River Island

 EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

WE THOUGHT we’d left oversized belts in the early Noughties – but we were wrong ... This new trend sees belts meet corsets to create a cinched waist silhouette, regardless of the rest of the outfit, as the waist has become the body part du jour.

Easy to wear, this trend is forgiving on most shapes and gives a bit of

curve and swerve to those who are challenged in the waist area.

What is most appealing about this trend is the creative ways we’ve see it worn thus far; over baggy jumpers and long dresses and men’s shirts – it works with any combination, from jeans and t-shirts to ball gowns.

One of these is a definite worthy investment to go with numerous outfits for the next few months.

Ana Mac is sew stylish  EMMA NOLAN

A DESIGNER from Rush has realised her lifelong dream of becoming a professional dressmaker.

Ana Mac is the brainchild of local dressmaker Anna Maguire (above right), who specialises in creating bespoke garments.

The 30-year-old is an expert at constructing garment designs of any kind, from christening gowns to bridal gowns and everything in between. She also offers garment reconstruction

services and has her own line of ready-to-wear pieces.

“I watched my mam dressmake from a very early age and this is how I picked up this passion,” Anna told The Gazette.

“She created all sorts, from debs to weddings to little christening gowns.

“I used to pick up leftover fabrics from the floor and hand-sew dresses for my Barbies and dolls.

“I loved it! Mixing fabrics, different colour threads, and redesigning four-inch skirts – my Barbies always looked great!”

As a teenager, Anna

started making things for her friends: “Simple things like furry boots for festivals, or taking in or taking up their clothes for them.”

Though she had a career in social care, Anna says that all she really wanted to do was sew so she applied for a fashion design course.

After acing the course, she began her career as a professional dressmaker, and confidently says: “I can create absolutely anything.”

To find out more about Anna’s services, see dressmaker.ie.

River Island 3-buckle waist belt €30 New Look Lace up corset belt €12

River Island Lace up corset belt €25

River Island Foldover waist belt €30

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brown and blonde.

3) CAILYN PURE LUXE

BELT &

BUCKLE BEAUTY

THIS weather is doing n o b o d y ’s s k i n a ny favours. Below are some products that are getting me through these fresh months, with everything available in pharmacies nationwide.

LIPSTICK, DARK PINK

1) IDC ULTIME DECOL-

favourite, this overnight liquid peel is suitable for even ver y sensitive skin. Great for oily skin, it tightens pores, improves skin texture and smooths fine lines.

Skin is left feeling softer and looking brighter the next morning.

LETE (€79.95) For all skin

types, this richly textured serum smooths and tightens the neck while getting rid of crease lines around the decollete.

2) EYLURE BROW PALETTE (€12.99) A kit gives

you everything you need to shade and sculpt and add definition. Available in dark brown, mid

( €19.50 ) Highly pigmented and delivers full colour coverage, also long-wearing and smudgeproof.

4) VICHY IDEALIA PEELING ( €30 ) A personal

5) DELAROM DECONGESTING HYDRATING EYE GEL (€35) Helps reduce the coloration of dark

circles, soothe the eyes and reduce signs of fatigue with instant brightness.

6 ) T H E BO DY S H O P ALMOND MILK AND HONEY BODY SCRUB (€24.95) Per-

fect for sensitive skin as it contains no colourants, mineral oil or petrolatum, this scrub is great for gently exfoliating skin.

7) GUINOT PUR CONFORT SFP15 PROTECTIVE AND SOOTHING CREAM (€58.50)

Protects the skin against environmental irritants.

8) EUCERIN AQUAPHOR SOOTHING SKIN BALM (€8)

All-in-one cream for the season, use on extremely dry, chapped, and even cracked skin.

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DUBLINLIFE

Great offers at Bagots Hutton for February  AISLING KENNEDY

BAGOTS Hutton is currently running a Neighbourhood Menu for the month of February which offers a complimentary glass of wine as part of their early menu from 5pm.

T h e N e i g h b o u rhood Menu, which runs from Monday to Thursday all night and Friday and Saturday before 7pm, features two courses for €19.50 or three courses for €22.50.

The restaurant, which is based on South William Street

recently opened a second location at 6 Ormond Quay Upper, Dublin 1 and this offer is available with their early menu in both locations.

The new Bagots Hutton venture on Ormond Quay is larger than their flagship restaurant and features a 120-seater restaurant.

It also features a cafe bar at the entrance, the fine dining area in the basement, and first floor mezzanine with main bar and stage for live entertainment.

For more see www. bagotshutton.com

A flawless balance of sweet, salty with a hint of spice

FOOD&DRINK Thai Sticky Chicken Ingredients Chicken  15g (1/2oz) packet fresh coriander  1 green chilli, seeded and chopped  2 garlic cloves, chopped  2.5cm (1in) piece root ginger, peeled and chopped  3 tbsp dark soy sauce  50g (2oz) Siucra Light Golden Brown Sugar  6 chicken thighs, trimmed  1 tsp sunflower oil Dipping Sauce  2 tsp white vinegar (rice or wine)  juice of ½ lime  2 tbsp Siucra Caster Sugar  1 red bird’s eye chilli, finely sliced To serve: Steamed Thai fragrant rice. Pomegranate seeds and sesame seeds Method  Reserve a handful of the coriander leaves for the dipping sauce, then roughly chop the remainder and put into a food processor. Add the chilli, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, Siucra Light Golden Brown Sugar and blend to a paste. Spoon all over the chicken thighs in a shallow Pyrex dish and if time allows leave to marinade for 10 minutes at room temperature. If preparing the day before, cover with clingfilm and place in the fridge.  To make the dipping sauce, put the Siucra Caster Sugar in a pan with 2 tablespoons of water and simmer for a few minutes to make a sugar syrup. Then stir in the vinegar, lime juice and chilli. Leave to cool and stir in the coriander leaves.  Preheat the oven to 190°C / 350°F / Gas mark 4. Drizzle the sunflower oil over the chicken thighs and roast for 35 minutes until cooked through and golden brown, basting occasionally to give them a nice sticky glaze.  Arrange the chicken on plates or in oriental bowls with the rice and scatter pomegranate seeds and sesame seeds on top. Put the dipping sauce in small dishes alongside to serve.

Recipe courtesy of Siucra. For more information on Siucra products along with recipes, tips and videos visit www.facebook.com/siucraireland, Instagram.com/ SiucraIreland and www.siucra.ie.

Get spoilt for choice in food heaven  AISLING KENNEDY

LOCAL MATTERS

TO PLACE AN AD CALL OUR SALES TEAM ON 60 10 240 OR EMAIL SALES@ DUBLINGAZETTE.COM

THE Dine In Dublin festival is back again this year for its ninth year and will run from Monday, February 27 to Sunday, March 5.

Organised by Dublin Town, over 70 of Dublin’s most renowned restaurants will take part in the seven-day foodie festival this year.

Restaurants including Pichet, Rustic Stone, Zaragoza, Fade St Social, Fallon & Byrne and Marco Pierre White’s will be taking part and running amazing offers on their menus for the sevenday festival.

The Gazette were lucky enough to head along to the launch of Dine In Dublin at Fire Restaurant in the Mansion House last week and sample some of the many delicious courses that will be on offer from a selection of the restaurants taking part around the city.

A specific mention has to go to San Lorenzo’s Roast Hogget with minted salsa verde, chantaney carrots and duck fast roast potatoes by Chef Temple Garner. It was a truly brave dish that was absolutely divine. There is so much choice on offer from the participating restaurants so it is well worth a visit to www.dineindublin.ie to see which offer might appeal to you.

San Lorenzo’s Roast Hogget with minted salsa verde, chantaney carrots and duck fast roast potatoes

16 February 2017 GAZETTE 21

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TRAVEL

RAMBLING AND ROAMING: SUPERB TRAILS AND SIGHTS AWAIT ACROSS THE BORDER

Slope off to Andorra for a top ski holiday TOPFLIGHT are preparing for their Copper Face Jack’s ski trip which departs on March 5 to Arinsal, Andorra where guests will include Paddy Casey and DJ Mark McCabe.

All-inclusive prices start from only €959 per person sharing. See www.topflight.ie.

Foodie heaven for all at Dine in Dublin festival DINE in Dublin Festival from February 27 to March 5 will have 70 dining experiences on offer from Pichet, Rustic Stone, Zaragoza, The Woollen Mills, Fade Street Social, Carluccios, Brother Hubbard, Saba, Fallon & Byrne and Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill.

Ryanair ready to land average fares at €30 RYANAIR says it’s on target to reduce its average fare to €30 after it reported fares down 17% to €33, with passenger numbers up 16% to 29 million for the third quarter of 2016.

St Patrick to turn 300 sites green this year TOURISM Ireland chief executive Niall Gibbons said he expected the number of sites that will go green for St Patrick’s Day to rise to 300 this year.

Predicted tourist numbers for 2017 have been revised upwards, from -1% to 3%, with the rise reflected by booking trends reported by the city’s hotels.

Northern delights Whether rambling over the Sperrins or taking to the hills and valleys across Northern Ireland, nature lovers and hikers are never far from a relaxing, welcoming destination

 SYLVIA POWNALL

IF YOU fancy a staycation embracing the great outdoors, grab your walking boots and woolly hat and discover some of Northern Ireland’s most scenic locations. With eight Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), 47 national nature reserves, 43 special areas of conservation and 10 special protection areas, it’s a rambler’s paradise.

Belfast A crisp morning is arguably the best time to walk the Lagan Towpath as the mist hovers just above Belfast’s main river.

Divis and Black Mountain rest in the heart of the Belfast Hills and provide a backdrop to the city’s skyline, offering spectacular views across Northern Ireland, Belfast Lough and as far as Donegal and the

coast of England, Scotland and the Isle of Man. Stay: The 4-star Ramada Plaza Hotel Belfast in Lagan Valley Regional

The Sperrins Spanning 40 miles and over the two counties of Tyrone and Derry, the Sperrins mountain range is the largest in Ireland and walkers can expect undulating hills covered in heather, quiet valleys, boggy uplands and a land teeming with wildlife.

Add in more than 90 sets of stone circles, the best known being Beaghmore, and numerous other intriguing, megalithic structures, and the Sperrins are most definitely a walking wonder.

Check out The Robber’s Table near Gortin. The highest point of this route provides superb views of the Bluestack and Derryveagh Mountains of

Donegal to the west and the high Sperrins to the north east.

Stay: Blessingbourne Estate offers 5-star luxury pet-friendly self-catering accommodation with premier 13k mountain bike trails

The Mourne Mountains These are the highest and most dramatic range in Northern Ireland and are criss-crossed by an unrivalled network of paths and tracks, providing enthusiastic walkers with incredible opportunities for exploration.

Northern Ireland’s highest peak, the Slieve D o n a r d , cl i m b s u p through forest to meet the famous Mourne Wall for the final steep ascent to the top.

The dramatic views of Newcastle and the sea below definitely make it

worth the 850m climb.

N e a r b y To l l y m o r e Forest Park offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the sea at Newcastle while Castlewellan Forest Park offers an array of loops through one of the most outstanding tree and shrub collections in Europe.

Stay: The 4-star Slieve Donard Resort & Spa in Newcastle.

Causeway Coast & Glens The Causeway Coast Way, especially the section from Portballintrae to Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, is among the most scenic coastal walks you can find anywhere.

Follow a stretch of breathtaking coastline between Ballintoy and Bushmills for a great 12.4 mile walk. The route includes walking on

beaches, across rocks and along clifftop paths.

Winter creates the perfect backdrop to explore the mature woodland of Glenariff Forest Park with freezing waterfalls and open, frosted moorland.

The trail first takes you down the Inver River gorge, to the edge of the Ess-na-Crub Waterfall and your path back offers spectacular views straight down the misty glen to the coast and the sea beyond.

Stay: The 4-star Causeway Hotel.

County Fermanagh Whilst Fermanagh is renowned for its lakelands, the first destination for any keen walker should be its highest summit – Cuilcagh Mountain, standing at 665m.

This area is part of the UNESCO endorsed Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark due to its unique

geology and spectacular landscapes.

A new boardwalk meanders through one of the largest expanses of blanket bog in Northern Ireland.

Crom Estate near Enniskillen offers walks amidst a tranquil landscape of islands, woodland and historic ruins.

Along the shoreline to Crom’s beautiful boathouse you can enjoy stunning views up to the 19th century castle which sits to the right of the trail dominating the landscape.

Stay: The 4-star Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges TRANSLINK run a Sperrins & Mournes Rambler bus service all year round with stops in key towns which are ideal starting points for many circular walks. For further information, see www.discovernorthernireland.com.

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FASTNews

The Nissan e-NV200 full electric van is Europe’s best-selling electric powered van.

Nissan e-NV200 is top-selling electric van THE Nissan e-NV200 topped the charts to become Europe’s best-selling electric van in 2016. The all-electric van ranked number one in 17 countries across Europe, ahead of its competitors in the category. The UK is the top market in Europe for Nissan e-NV200, followed closely by Norway and France.

The Nissan e-NV200 is an alternative transport solution for families and businesses alike as it combines the best of Nissan’s NV200 van with zero-emission technology from the world’s bestselling electric car, the Nissan LEAF. Available in both commercial van and fully trimmed Combi and Evalia passenger variants, the e-NV200 line-up offers a variety of options including a panel van, five-seat and seven-seat option and a driving range of up to 170km (106 miles) on a single charge.

New Seat Ibiza claims to be the best ever THE new Seat Ibiza is the Spanish brand’s most important model and for 2017 comes with new styling while preserving the same sporty spirit. It does so with a fresh design that Seat claims reflects the latest Seat distinctive character by continuing with the brand’s DNA but with an edgier, sportier design. This fifth generation Seat Ibiza will make its public debut at the next Geneva Auto Show and go on sale in Ireland from July 2017.

The new Ibiza, is claimed to be a completely new model bringing a major step ahead in safety, design, performance and comfort. This advance in quality was claimed to be achieved by the use of the new Volkswagen Group MQB A0 modular platform.

This platform allows the new Seat Ibiza to be much wider by a 87mm, while it is 2mm shorter and 1mm lower than the previous model. The wheel track is 60mm wider at the front axle and 48mm at the rear axle, while the wheelbase is 95mm longer giving claims of a more comfortable car.

The new Ibiza will be on sale in Ireland in July 2017

Citroën brings presence to stylish new C3

Citroën is back in the supermini market with style and strength following the launch of the new C3 model at the start of this year. This new design gives improved driving performance as Michael Moroney found out in his test drive.

CITROËN’S fresh attack in the supermini market with the new C3 makes a strong statement from the French brand and their biggest new entrant to the market for 2017. This new C3 has grown up significantly in terms of size and road presence, making it a more distinguished looking car than before.

This new Citroën C3 has scope to add flair and style with new options available that can either tone up or down how you feel about your car choice.

What’s standard is a car that feels, looks and drives with a stronger nature than before.

I’ve had the diesel powered Flair version Citroën C3 on the road for a week to test its metal. I took across a variety of city and country driving conditions that spanned 1119km, so it was well and truly tested in Ireland’s muggy winter driving conditions.

The 1.6 litre turbo-die-

sel engine is well accomplished. It can deliver pace giving the car a lively driving feel. I was pleasantly surprised by how well the car handled with this power and torque in what is a relatively light car. The road holding was impressive and at all times I felt that I was in control.

The smooth engine performance is average for a car in this class, even though the engine size is larger than some others.

The acceleration pace at 13.8 is no rally car, while it does give the car a better pace than some of the competition.

I had expected a better fuel economy figure where the rated numbers are impressive at 28m/litre (3.6/100km or 78.5mpg).

In practice this performance was well outside my reach, both in terms of what the car’s trip and range meter returned as well as my own consumption figures. The actual

figure was close to 40% off this and that was one of shocking surprises that you only realise when at the pumps.

The fuel tank is rated at 42 litres and in theory that should give me a range of over 1,110km but I had a pit stop along the way to reaching that figure. That economy figure does not take away from the performance of the engine which meets the challenge on the open road as much as in city driving, it’s just that as you tour on the motorways and come close to the 120km/ hr limit the car edges over the magic 2000rpm figure on the engine, which is the sweet spot when it comes to bridging the gap between performance and economy.

That all means that the Citroën is a good car to drive in terms of comfort, road holding and but keep an eye to that rev counter is economy is your priority.

The new Citroën C3 brings more style and stature to the market and the Airbump feature for the Flair models is both stylish and practical.

Citroën C3 BlueHDi 75

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine 1.6 litre Engine power 75hp 0 – 100km/hr 13.8 seconds Economy 28m/litre (3.6/100km or 78.5mpg) Fuel Tank Capacity 42 litres CO2 emissions 93g/km Road Tax Band A2 €180 Main Service 15,000km/ 12 months Warranty 5 years /100,000km Entry Price €17,890

The dash has a very modern feel to it and comes with the Citroën ConnectedCAM system

For city driving I expect better performance as the engine’s start/stop system is smooth and comfortable to use. I probably just didn’t do enough city driving to maximise its true economy benefits.

The Citroën C3 looks aesthetically pleasing and the free Style Pack which

Citroën claim is worth €500 brings a distinctive Airbump and Bi-Tone roof to the car. With the C3 the Airbumps are both practical in supermarket trolley defence and is stylish in appearance.

On the inside the C3 is more modern looking than in the past. There is a

16 February 2017 GAZETTE 23

GAZETTE

MOTORING

The new Nissan Navara Trek-1° version is a limited edition and high spec version of the well-known 4x4 pick-up

GM and Honda to establish joint fuel-fuel operation

new ConnectedCAM Citroën system included on the higher specification models which uses a fully integrated camera, located behind the rear view mirror, to capture images and video that can instantly be shared on social media channels, or saved as evidence in the event of an accident.

T he 17-inch alloy wheels gives the car great road stature and there are useful features in the topend Flair specification that include automatic lights and windscreen wipers, rear parking sensors and a reversing camera. Other options that improve the driving experience include voice controlled 3D navigation, a reversing camera, keyless entry and start and blind-spot monitoring.

While this pushes up the price from the Touch specification entry model at €17,890 to €20,790 for the top of the range Flair model with all of this kit.

That €3,000 difference brings a lot of features, many of which you’ll find in the mid-range where the price jump is exactly

half that figure. Citroën is offering enticing scrappage options and low rate finance options.

The rear space is what you would expect from a supermini car, adequate as long as you’re not 6ft tall. There are two ISO-Fix units in the rear for child seats but not much room between them. The car has yet to achieve a Euro NCAP safety rating.

The boot space is good at 300 litres extending to 922 with the rear seat folded. The other plus is that there’s a space saver spare wheel included.

Ford’s Fiesta is the big competition for the Citroën C3 and the new bigger C3 is very price competitive at the entry and middle end, while the higher specification Flair model that I drove has more kit included that the equivalent Fiesta Titanium.

Citroën has a strong offering in the new C3 supported by a 5 year warranty and for me the improved driving and handling of the car was what won the day.

General Motors and Honda has announced establishment of the auto industry’s first manufacturing joint venture to mass produce an advanced hydrogen fuel cell system that will be used in future products from each company. Fuel Cell System Manufacturing will begin around 2020 and create nearly 100 new jobs. Fuel cell technology addresses many of the major challenges facing automobiles today: petroleum dependency, emissions, efficiency, range and refuelling times. Fuel cell vehicles can operate on hydrogen made from renewable sources such as wind and biomass. Water vapour is the only emission from fuel cell vehicles. Honda began delivery of its new Clarity Fuel Cell vehicle to U.S. customers in December 2016 following a spring 2016 launch in Japan. The Clarity Fuel Cell received the best driving range rating from the US Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) of any electric vehicle without a combustion engine with a range rating of 550km (366 miles) and fuel economy rating of 24km/litre (68mpg) of petrol-equivalent combined.

GM is currently demonstrating the capability of fuel cells across a range of land, sea and air applications. The company has now accumulated millions of miles of real-world driving in fuel cell vehicles.

The C3 comes with Airbump doors that don’t add a feeling of weight to car, more in terms of protection from other car opening doors and straying supermarket trolleys

Skoda announces Kodiaq SUV prices SKODA in Ireland has revealed Irish pricing and specification details for its new five and seven-seat Skoda Kodiaq SUV, due to be launched next month, with prices for the entry level Kodiaq Act 1.4 TSI petrol from €29,395 including delivery charge.

The Skoda Kodiaq will come in three trim levels (Active, Ambition and Style), with five engine and trans-

The engine gave impressively smooth acceleration but comes with a thirst

The new Skoda Kodiaq is due here in March with entry prices from €29,395 including delivery charge for the I found the road holding and handling impressive across a range of driving conditions

Kodiaq Act 1.4 TSI petrol model

mission options and fourteen different exterior colour options. There will be a seven seat option available for just €1,000 more than the standard five seat model.

That entry level Active trim level includes a host of impressive features, including 17” Ratikon Alloys, Cruise Control, Bluetooth, Climatronic air conditioning and the clever Smartlink technology for Smart Phone integration with the infotainment system.

The Skoda Kodiaq will also come with a host of connectivity features.

Smartlink+ smartphone integration system containing Apple Car Play and Google Android Auto is now available as standard. The Columbus Navigation & Infotainment system which is standard on the Style trimline also comes with an additional 4G LTE SIM card slot to enable a high speed Wi-Fi hotspot within the car (data plans sold separately) and a host of additional connected services from Skoda Connect.

GAZETTE

24 LUCAN GAZETTE 16 February 2017

DUBLINLIFE

ReelReviews

LEGO BATMAN MOVIE Wholly entertaining

EVERYBODY’S favourite superhero (in your face, Spidey) gets yet another twist via The Lego Batman Movie (Cert G, 104 mins).

An unexpected breakout star of the smash-hit Lego movie from a few years ago, Batman gets his own pretty brick-tastic plastic film, while a whole host of familiar Gotham characters, superhero and supervillains fight for screen time. It’s a batty-ful film to watch, too.

La La Land didn’t quite sweep the boards as had been predicted, but still took home a great haul of top Baftas

 SHANE DILLON RESIDENT EVIL: THE FINAL CHAPTER Promises, promises

MUCH like the undead horrors at the heart of this franchise, Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (Cert 15A, 106 mins) is the latest in the tired franchise that refuses to die. Nothing seems able to stop the zombies – or Milla Jovovich – from returning in the unstoppable series, with Milla attempting to save the world (again) despite the undead (again).

50 SHADES DARKER Grey Steele strike back

STEAMIER than drying socks on the radiator, and about as erotic as a weekend away with your in-laws, here comes 50 Shades Darker (Cert 18, 118 mins). Continuing the contrived misadventures of Grey and Steele, it’s got less romance than an old Mills and Boon book, and is even less grounded in reality than a Christmas episode of Eastenders – but fantasists may enjoy some of it.

GIVEN all the turmoil of recent months, thank heaven there’s still something cinema fans can still rely on – the Baftas, which are usually a fairly decent indicator of how the Oscars will play out soon afterwards.

The weekend’s glittering (if a little rainlashed) red carpet guests traipsing in to the Bafta 2017 awards were giving nothing much away, but all eyes were on the critics’ (and audiences’) darling on the night – La La Land.

Would it sweep the board in charming Technicolor fashion, tapdancing an i m p r e s s i ve haul of golden Baftas into a basket to take home?

BAFTAS: FAVOURITE WON PLENTY – BUT THE GLITZY CEREMONY STILL HAD SOME SURPRISES FOR VIEWERS

La-vely haul of awards for upbeat hit musical Err, no – perhaps because of all the unpredictability sweeping the world in recent months, this year’s Baftas turned out to be a little less predictable than usual.

Of course, La La Land was still the big winner on the night, claiming an impressive haul of wins (including Best Original Music, Best Cinematography, Best Director and, the best ‘Best’ of all, Best Film), in addition to a stack of other nominations and wins.

However, it didn’t quite sweep the board as decisively as had been expected, with this year’s diverse range of films claiming some well deserved wins of their own.

While Emma Stone took a well deserved Best Actress win, her La La Land co-star Ryan Gosling lost out to Casey Affleck for the Best Actor nod. Gosling’s game I’m-almost-as-goodas-Emma-see song and

dance skills were appreciated by audiences, but critics raved about Casey – brother of Ben – and his bravura turn in Manchester by the Sea. Other critically acclaimed films also raised some eyebrows by not claiming the coveted golden statue – not that there’s any shame in ‘just’ being nominated for a Bafta, of course, but there were still some surprises in store.

For example, Moonlight – widely tipped for award glory – didn’t win on the night, despite the widespread acclaim it’s received all around the world.

Indeed, some of the aw a r d n o m i n a t i o n s were themselves surprising – for example, Hugh Grant popping up for Best Supporting Actor in the amusing, eccentric Florence Foster Jenkins (which also stars Meryl Streep as the charmingly

talentless titular character – a role which saw her up for the Best Acress award), while Ken Loach came back with a powerful tale (I, Daniel Blake) to claim Outstanding British

Film.

The Best Animated Film shortlist, meanwhile, curiously omitted Makoto Shinkai’s Your Name – an anime now much more commercially successful than the world-conquering Spirited Away, some years back – to run with more predictable fare, such as Finding Dory.

Still, if there were disappointments on the night, there was one big delight thanks to an aging American gentleman that everybody was delighted to see – the inimitable Mel Brooks, scooping the prestigious Bafta Fellowship.

Wisecracks Promising not to flog his latest momento on eBay, Mel showed a flash of the irreverent charm and wisecracks that you’d expect from such a comedy legend.

He wasn’t alone with the gags – host Stephen Fry took aim at another aging American gentleman throughout the night, with President Trump providing a constant source of amusement and annoyance in

some politically charged moments.

Closer to home, and a number of Irish hopes were scattered throughout the awards, with acclaimed Irish-Ethiopian actress Ruth Negga arguably the most prominent Irish figure in this year’s Baftas, given the praise she’s enjoyed for her great performance in Loving.

Unfor tunately, she didn’t win the EE Rising Star award, losing out to Tom Holland, but has certainly proven that she’s one to watch.

It’s the broader, more general award categories which have given the Baftas their critical cachet and worth, and which usually – not always, but usually – see the Bafta wins echoed at the bigger, glitzier Oscars.

With this year’s Oscars rapidly approaching at the end of the month, expect to see plenty more about several of these films once again when February 26 rolls around, and the Oscars steal the limelight in California – worth making another song and dance about ...

16 February 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

CINEMA

To be a woman in an important role in 1960s NASA was already unusual, but to be an African-American as well made it an even greater achievement for the women at the heart of the film

HIDDEN FIGURES: A GREAT LOOK AT STRUGGLES FOR EQUAL RIGHTS

Well worth finding  ROMY CARROLL

The little-known key roles of African-American women in NASA’s early days finally gets a great film

DIRECTOR Theodore Melfi’s Hidden Figures (Cert PG, 121 mins) is a very compelling true story of how a group of exceptional women were at the forefront of launching the first American into space, and into orbit around earth, whist also believing in their highly personal quests for equal rights in early 1960s segregated America.

Katherine G Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson were just three of the 30-strong group of African-American mathematician women who had to live in a very male-dominated world in NASA whist also having to deal with

the day-to-day challenges of America’s turbulent civil rights movement.

Johnson (played by Taraji P Henson) was a “human computer” at NASA, who proved to the plethora of engineers, mathematicians and strategists at the agency that her formula was correct, making her the first woman to outdo her male associate, Paul Stafford (Jim Parsons).

We see how Paul makes her life very hard from start to finish – a day that was already hard enough having to sit at the back of the room, drinking coffee from a different coffee maker, and having to run 40 mins each day to use the “colored bathrooms” which were on the other

side of the campus.

Her daily routine finally caught up with her boss (played by Kevin Costner), who decided to do something about it.

With some sledgehammer subtlety, his character strikes a blow for Johnson, sending a clear signal that she, and every other African-American woman, should be treated with respect and equality at the busy agency.

We also see Dorothy Vaughan (played by The Help’s Octavia Spencer), always hoping that one day she would make supervisor, but it wasn’t to be as she kept getting undermined by other women, including her Caucasian boss (Kirsten Dunst).

We see how she, and other characters, were always spoken to in a demeaning way, while Vaughan and all the other African-American women just had to put up with it – in this climate, speaking back or out of line would see them swiftly out of a job.

We also follow Mary J a c k s o n ( p l ay e d b y Janelle Monae), who had a family of three to bring up but still passionately believed in her dream to become an engineer in the white, male-dominanted world.

Despite her lack of civil rights, she still believed in her dream, even though she wasn’t allowed to go to college, never mind be an engineer.

The film shows how her hard study and fighting for her right to be an engineer would prove everybody wrong, seeing her become the top of her class.

This true-life story really gives audiences an insight into how hard it was for African-American men and women of the era to fight hard for their civil rights, and to keep believing in what they could achieve.

Handsomely shot and with several likeable leads – including some great performances from the trio of women at its heart – Hidden Figures deserves to be seen by as many people as possible.

Verdict: 9/10

26 LUCAN GAZETTE 16 February 2017

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GAZETTE

28 LUCAN GAZETTE 16 February 2017

SPORT

FastSport GORDON AND BYRNE IN IRISH TEAM FOR LA: DUBLINERS Martin Gordon (stoker) and Eamonn Byrne – from Sundrive Track team – have been confirmed in the Irish team to compete in the UCI Para-cycling track world championships in Los Angeles, USA in March.

They will be making their debut in the men’s tandem, competing in the men’s B tandem sprint events.

Cycling Ireland performance coach Neill Delahaye said of their inclusion: “Martin has been on the Development Squad for the last couple of years and this is a new partnership with Eamonn.

“They are an exciting prospect. Eamonn is an experienced and accomplished sprinter and with the sprint events back on the Tokyo Paralympic programme of events we are excited to see what they can do.“ This is the first time that a World Track Championships for Para-cycling has been held in the post-Paralympic season, and this is the first competition for the Irish team.

BASEBALL: MASON KEEN TO SEE SPORT WELCOME NEW PARTICIPANTS THIS YEAR

Shankill club giving it Sox for 2017 league campaign

 JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

THE DUBLIN Black Sox have kicked off a recruitment drive, with the Shankill-based baseball team on the lookout for anyone interested in taking part in the sport, particularly ahead of the new season.

The Black Sox play out of Shanganagh Park, and are part of a littlepublicised Irish baseball league that has been in place since the late 1990s.

T here is plenty of Irish interest on the ground, as well as an abundance of players from traditional baseball hotbeds the USA, Dominican Republic and Venezuela.

Chris Mason, who plays with the Black Sox, was keen to tell GazetteSport of the inclusiveness of the spor t in Ireland, in terms of welcoming a broad array of players and when it comes to ability.

The Black Sox are preparing for their 2017 Baseball Ireland season

“There’s space on the teams [which operate at an ‘A’ and introductory ‘B’ level] for anyone who wants to play regularly,” he explains. “One of the teams we played last year had an 80-year-old playing for them, and he plays in the same position at me. He was getting some great balls, I don’t know how he did

it!”

Mason’s interest in baseball dates back to fuzzy images on NBC as a kid, though it took him a number of years to stumble across Baseball Ireland and get involved in the sport outside of watching on TV. “It’s a young sport, and doesn’t get a lot of support in Ireland,”

he tells us. “The adult league is open to anyone aged 16+, and a lot of people come in having to learn simple things.

“Throwing, for example, is something you have to learn.

“You need someone to show you how to throw properly.

“It can be a little jarring to play a new sport,

and people don’t always stick with it but a lot of people transfer in from sports like hurling and cricket. There are parallels.”

“The game is spreading in Ireland,” he continues. “We have two divisions now, North and South.

“T here are several teams in Dublin and

Belfast, and others based in Cavan, Kilkenny, Clare, Ashbourne and Greystones.

“It’s all part time and amateur, so we often play two games on one day.

“The rules are just the same as Major League b a s e b a l l , a n d we ’r e wo r k i n g w i t h D u b lin City Council to get things set up as well as possible.

“We can supply bats and gloves; the club have invested a bit in that kind of stuff and there’s always equipment to use.

“All you really need is a pair of football shoes or trainers.”

The Dublin Black Sox can be contacted via their Facebook page or, at DublinBlackSoxBaseball@gmail.com.

Those with a broader interest in baseball can get in touch with the Irish association, whose website can easily found by googling ‘Baseball Ireland’.

Clarke snatches winner as UCD keep double hopes alive  sport@dublingazette.com

Sorcha Clarke, 9, celebrates with UCD team mate Sally Campbell. Picture: Adrian Boehm

UCD and Cork Harlequins both took advantage of HermesMonkstown’s enforced inactivity - their visit to Pegasus fell victim to a frozen pitch - to shake things up at the top of the women’s EY Hockey League.

UCD are at the league’s summit for the first time this season as their unbeaten run continued with a 2-1 success over Railway Union.

The students, who along with Monkstown are the only side yet to lose this term, led

through Lena Tice’s drag-flick but Zara Delany’s pace got her in behind the UCD rearguard for an equaliser shortly after.

UCD’s winner came in stylish fashion though, a seemingly pre-planned set play off the fourth quarter restart with Katie Mullan and Emma Russell linking up to tee up Sorcha Clarke to score.

Cork Harlequins were dominant in their 3-0 success over second-from-bottom Pembroke, Karen Bateman’s magic half-volley getting them on the board after 28 minutes.

T hey did, however, miss a hatful of chances - hitting the post twice - before Kay Gaffney’s short corner bunt and a fine team goal, walked into an empty net by Yvonne O’Byrne, made it safe in the final quarter.

Loreto kept the pressure on the top three with a hardearned 2-1 victory at Ards.

The hosts made all the early running but a pair of short corner goals from Ali Meeke and Freya McDermott built a useful lead before half-time.

Lucy McKee finished Ards’

fourth corner with eight minutes to go to give them a lifeline, but Loreto held firm to take all three points.

On Sunday, UCD continued their superb season with a 7-0 win in the Irish Senior Cup semi-final to reach a showdown with Cork Harlequins.

Deirdre Duke spent the majority of the last three months out injured with a broken bone in her shoulder but returned in some style, netting a hat trick with fellow international Katie Mullan weighing in with a pair of goals too.

16 February 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

FASTSport

Ais the Bash looks to write her next episode Daly admits her “devastation” at having to retire from mixed martial arts but is now keen to develop the next generation of the sport in Ireland as one of Straight Blast Gym’s coaches

Eight Dubliners named in Irish Winter Games team THE countdown is now on as Team Ireland prepares to travel to the Special Olympics World Winter Games in just under two months, and eight local athletes are gearing up for the chance of a lifetime.

Thomas Caulfield (23) and Lorcan Byrne (35) from Ballyfermot, Niall Flynn (30) from Dun Laoghaire, Stephen Lee (23) from Navan Road, LJ Byrne (19) from Donaghmeade, Anthony Murray (46) from Balbriggan, Matthew Colgan (45) from Swords, and Laoise Kenny (16) from Monkstown are part of a 26-strong Team Ireland squad at the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2017 in Graz and Schladming, Austria in March.

Some of the Dublin athletes will be competing in floorball (Caulfield, Murray, Colgan and Byrne), a team sport similar to unihoc or ice hockey but played in a rink on a standard playing surface, whilst others are looking forward to representing Ireland in alpine skiing, namely Flynn, Lee, Byrne and Kenny.

All of the athletes are extremely excited to be representing their country in the World Games this year and have been training hard in preparation with many incorporating swimming, football, athletics, and basketball into their exercise regime to ensure they are fit and ready for the Games in March.

Commenting on the Team Ireland floorball team’s progress, head coach, Michael Lynch said: “I think they’re all training very well and I think we’ve got a great bunch together. They’re looking forward to it. We understand that we’ll be playing against countries where floorball is their main sport.

“It’s going to be a fair competition because if you get beaten in the first game, you go into a different group. I think we have a good chance of staying there anyways.”

The Special Olympics World Winter Games Austria 2017 will be the largest sports event to take place in 2017, hosting 3,000 athletes from 110 countries worldwide. Team Ireland will join almost 3,000 Special Olympics athletes from 107 countries for the Games, which are already set to be one of the sporting highlights of 2017.

 JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

AIS ‘THE BASH’ DALY is taking a pragmatic approach to her recent enforced retirement, telling GazetteSport of her plans to stay involved in MMA, both in coaching and in continuing her work in the safetyfocused side of the sport.

The Drimnagh native and former Allied Fight Series champion learnt she had suffered a mild brain aneurysm following a routine head scan before Christmas.

This forced her immediate retirement from her UFC career, right as she was nearing a full recovery from a recurring knee

injury.

Daly said she was “devastated” to be told the news, adding: “I felt I had a lot still to give.

“I knew about it for a couple of months before I went public. I didn’t want to spend my Christmas talking about it, but there’s a sense of loss.

“It’s a big part of your life just taken away. It’s a little ironic, as I’ve spent a lot of time talking about the sport’s safety.”

The safety aspect of her work is something Daly is already committed to continuing with, and, strangely, an area in which her injury might even prove an advantage.

“It’s hard telling amateurs a sport is danger-

ous, everyone thinks it won’t happen to them,” Daly admitted.

“W hen it’s coming from me now, and it has happened to me, it might be an easier message, especially when it costs money to get checked, and that cuts down on the already limited earnings.”

Ref lecting on her career, Daly talked of the difficulties weight classes presented to her, but also of her pride in her acheivements.

“It wasn’t ideal for me that the weights were 115lb and 135lbs.

“I’d be so drained training for 115lbs; my ideal weight was really 125lbs and that took

some of the fun out of it.

I damaged my body staying at that weight, and it created a few issues for me.

“It was very much ‘eat. sleep, repeat’. While I’m still training, it’s great to be out of that mindset

you’re well off because you do these things, but that’s not why I did it.”

Today, Daly is coaching at SBG g y m in Swords, and expects to start shortly in Portarlington, too.

“I teach kids on

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

‘It’s a big part of your life just taken away. I felt I had a lot still to give’ - Ais Daly

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

for a while. I’ll take some time to work out exactly what I want to do next.”

For all her successes, however, Daly admits that a career in mixedmartial arts has been difficult at times, in particularly financially. “I’d probably be financially better off if I’d never done it,” she says.

“The money you earn isn’t enough to get by on, really. People think

Wednesdays and Fridays, and on Saturday mornings,” she says.

“I think it’s important to realise not all kids are into hurling, gymnastics, soccer or camogie.

“Particularly for girls, there’s an expectation that they’ll do certain types of sport.

“MMA scares people, but Jiu Jitsu is a great, respectful outlet, and it really suits some people.”

Ais “The Bash” Daly has taken up new coaching roles with the Straight Blast Gym in

Aisling Daly, centre, with fellow SBG team members

Swords and in schools around her native Drimnagh since her enforced retirement.

Conor McGregor and Paddy Holohan

GAZETTE

30 LUCAN GAZETTE 16 February 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: DUNDALK FIRST UP FOR SHAMROCK ROVERS IN 2017 LEAGUE

Garda Egan honoured with Coiste Siamsa gong LUCAN canoeist Garda Peter Egan, stationed in Tallaght Garda Station and a member of Salmon Leap Canoe Club in Leixlip, recently won his eighth Coiste Siamsa Garda Sports Award.

He was presented with the honour at a ceremony in the Oriel Hotel Ballincollig, Cork.

Ryan won the K2 doubles class in the International Liffey Descent in September, 2016 teaming up with Denmark’s Mads Brandt Pedersen to cap a fine year.

Egan also won his 10th consecutive National K2 marathon doubles championships in 2016.

He won the National K1 marathon championships and finished 16th in the 5,000 metres event at the European Sprint Championships in Moscow in June 2016.

Other award winners on the night were 2016 Tipperary hurler and All-Ireland medal winner Padraic Maher, tandem sighted pilot cyclist Eve McCrystal, a winner of gold and silver medals at the Rio Para Olympics Games September. 2016 and Mayo footballers Colm Boyle and David Clarke were also honoured.

The awards were presented by Garda Commissioner Noirin O’Sullivan, pictured above left, with RTE’s Marty Morrissey, right, master of ceremonies for the night. Assistant commissioner Ann McMahon was also part of the presentation.

Shamrock Rovers Ronan Finn, left, and Ian Bermingham, of St Patrick’s Athletic, at the SSE Airtricity League launch. Picture: David Maher/Sportsfile

Finn ready for new chapter SSE LOI LAUNCH

 KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

RONAN Finn says he cannot wait to get back under way with Shamrock Rovers as he prepares to return to former side Dundalk for the first time in the SSE Airtricity League opener.

His winter move between the clubs was one of the most eyecatching in the division.

Finn spent two seasons at Oriel Park after leaving Rovers in 2014 – winning two titles and one FAI Cup in the process – but opted to rejoin the west Dublin side as captain.

“It’s great to be back at Shamrock Rovers,” Finn said at the launch of the new season in the Aviva Stadium. “The structure of the club seems to be different to the one I left but the expectation will always be there for the club to win league.”

Finn took some flak for making the decision to leave a side that became the first from Ireland to win a group stage game of a European competition but he is confident he has made the right choice.

“It was [a tough decision to make]. The last couple of years have been brilliant up in Dundalk and obviously well docu-

LEAGUE REVENGE Liffey Celtics beat cup final nemesis Glanmire COURTYARD Liffey Celtics got redemption for losing out in the Hula Hoops National Cup final to Ambassador UCC Glanmire, when they overcame the Cork side 72-65 in Leixlip.

They remain in second place in basketball’s women’s Super League, six points off Glanmire with four rounds of matches to go in the competition.

Celtics face stiff competition to stay in the elevated position with three sides just three points back from them.

mented with them doing so well in Europe.

“But I knew I was coming back to a club who were making great strides with the academy, and the overall aim here is to challenge for titles and win cups.

“For me coming back, it is a great honour being captain. Like I said, I enjoyed my time in Dundalk but it is a new chapter for me now.”

Finn also spoke about how great it is to see players from the domestic league get a chance in the Irish international squad but he insists they are there on merit.

“I think it is only fair. If

you look at Daryl [Horgan] and Andy [Boyle] this year.

“I don’t think anybody would begrudge their places in the squad because they were brilliant. Playing alongside them, I could see how talented they were.

“Obviously, playing in Europe gets international managers coming to look at players because you are playing on the top stage and that allows players to showcase how good they are.”

As for the new season, Finn knows that it is likely to be more competitive than ever, especially with three teams to be relegat-

ed from the top division this year in preparation for the switch to two divisions of 10 teams next season.

“I think the standard has risen over the last few years. The squads seemed to be bigger with more talent throughout each team so it is going to be hard for players to get into their own team.

“Then, the personal battles between each club are going to intense and there is a lot at stake with three going down this year.”

Shamrock Rovers will play Dundalk on Friday, February 24 in Oriel Park at 7.45pm.

16 February 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

AWARDS NIGHT

CLUB NOTICEBOARD

Hanley honoured for role with Sarsfields

LUCAN SARSFIELDS

MIKE Hanley, pictured right, was recently

agenda; 24 juvenile games played last

LastManStanding is up and running

weekend. 12 of those were football

and thanks to all who supported it. Be

league games and the remainder chal-

sure to get your entries in before 5pm

lenge games across different codes.

on Friday evening.

THANKFULLY, games are back on the

named the Lucan Sarsfields club person of the year for his efforts at the 12th Lock throughout 2016.

He was one of the big winners at the recent adult awards night along with Eddie Mescall who was inducted into the Sars Hall of Fame. Matt McCaffrey was named senior hurler and Paul Casey the senior footballer of the year.

If you are arranging a game, please do contact Alan Lacey to ensure you have a pitch allocated.

After such a long absence, the club have announced a limited number of Family Life Memberships. For

CAMOGIE: TWOMEY, RIGNEY AND BEAGAN AID PURCELL WIN

details, contact registrar Billy Egan on 0879573340 or any of the club executive.

The minor A hurling management

Se next weekend. Ada Mor libh.

The 25 card drive returns to the club on Fridays.

Lucan Sarsfields Golf Society 2017 AGM will be held in the clubhouse on Tuesday, March 7 at 9pm. All are very welcome.

The set dancing is also on Wednesday next at 8.30pm in the function room.

Bingo is also back on Wednesday evenings at 8.30pm in the club bar.

have organised a sports nutritionist to

The club shop is back open. Times

give a presentation on performance and

are Saturday from 10.30am to 12.30pm,

nutrition which will take place on Febru-

Thursday from 7pm-8.30pm.

ary 17 in the function room at 7pm.

The Lucan District Credit Union acad-

Dr Corinne Tobin specialises in this

emy is on Saturday at 9.30am for camo-

area and has worked with many inter-

gie and girls football, 10am for boys foot-

county teams in both codes, including

ball and hurling, for boys and girls born in

the Dublin football senior All-Ireland

20010, 2011 and 2012 – 12th Lock.

winning team of 2013. Dermot O’Brien

There was no winner of the €2,500

has been to a presentation she gave

lotto where the numbers were 7, 14, 18

recently and found it to be very impres-

and 24. The sponsor was Lucan Village

sive and would highly recommend it.

Pharmacy and next week’s €3,000 draw

There will be an admission of €5 to cover

will be managed by Team Shay Hurson.

her costs.

Tickets can be purchased online, at the

Best of luck to the ladies football team participating in Comortas Peile Paidi O

club, in Carey’s Newsagents or in Vesey Arms or Kenny’s Bar.

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN DIT celebrate their Purcell Cup success. Picture: Tommy Greally/Inpho

Lucan stars to fore in DIT college colours PURCELL CUP FINAL DIT 1-8 Maynooth University 1-6  sport@dublingazette.com

LUCAN Sarsfields trio Ali Twomey, Orla Beagan and Claire Rigney all started for DIT as they landed the Purcell Cup last weekend at the National Sports Campus.

The Dublin college was made to dig very deep before emerging victorious from the final at Abbotstown, prevailing 1-8 to 1-6 over Maynooth University.

The Dubliners had showcased their scor-

ing capabilities in their semi-final victory over IT Carlow when registering 3-15 but they had to rely on their fighting qualities with the silverware on the line.

Maynooth were involved in one of Saturday’s best games, but just held off Queen’s University, a late save by Niamh Doyle keeping the Belfast girls at bay.

Melissa Lyons was the key contributor for Maynooth and that was the case again in the final but she just had to give way to the magnificence of player of the match, Aoife Minogue.

Lyons opened the scoring from a free but Meath shar pshooter Megan Thynne equalised for DIT. Thynne’s county colleague Minogue gave the Dublin-based crew the vital breathing space with a goal from a free and followed up with a point from a 45.

T here were four between the sides at that juncture but Lyons had that down to the minimum as she hit the target three times in succession, making it 1-3 to 0-4 at the change of ends.

And the Kildare star wasn’t done, slotting

an equaliser soon after the resumption before smashing the sliotar to the DIT net.

Maynooth were unable to deny Minogue though and she shot some remarkable points given the horrific weather conditions, including one from wide on the sideline and another from midfield, to reel in the deficit and edge DIT in front for their first Purcell Cup win since 2010.

It lays the base for a big 2017 with Dublin starting out their national camogie league campaign against Cork on Saturday in Group 1.

THE lotto numbers for this week were

We will confirm a new date as soon its

5, 10, 14 and 23. There was no winner so

confirmed, we are still taking names so

next week, the jackpot will be €3,400.

feel free to sign up.

The draw takes place in the Palmers-

Our AGM will take place in the club-

town House every Sunday night at 10pm

house on Tuesday, February 21 at 8pm.

and tickets cost €2.

Details and nomination forms should be

Thank you to all our sellers and to all that support our lotto every week.

Tickets available from all the usual

delivered by now, if you didn’t receive one, please advise and one will be forwarded.

sellers including Moriarty’s SuperValu,

Congratulations to St Pat’s man Brian

Palmerstown House and Manor Hair

Carson who has just managed his Uni-

Studios.

versity Limerick team to their second

Due to unforeseen circumstances, we have had to postpone The Oskars.

Sigerson Cup semi-final in two years, beating DIT.

GARDA/WESTMANSTOWN LOTS of preseason activity last week

12pm start.

with both the intermediates and minors

Our minors had a good workout last

playing worthwhile challenge matches.

Sunday morning at St Catherine’s Park

First up were the Inters away to St Fin-

against Erin’s Isle winning by 2-9 to

ian’s in Newcastle last Thursday night

3-5 thanks to a last minute goal from

under lights where they gave a good

Peter McNamara. Training continues on

performance, coming out on top by 0-16

Wednesdays and Fridays.

to 0-8.

Ladies continue their preseason pro-

Thanks to St Finian’s for hosting.

gramme with training on Monday and

Training continues this week for inter-

Wednesday at 7.30pm and on Saturday

mediates and juniors on Tuesday and

morning at 9.30pm. New players both

Thursday at 7.30pm with first competi-

Garda and civilian welcome.

tive games down for next Sunday.

Lots of juvenile activity last week with

The intermediates host St Brigid’s in

our U-12 footballers playing their first

a Loving Cup tie next Sunday morning

grading at home on Saturday against

at Westmanstown; throw in at 10.30am

Naomh Mearnog. Some good football

while juniors open their season away at

played in very cold conditions and not

Ballyboughal in the Murphy Cup with a

much in it.

GAZETTESPORT

ALL OF YOUR LUCAN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

FEBRUARY 16-22, 2017

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St Pat’s man powering UL Sigerson push  JAMES HENDICOTT

sport@dublingazette.com

ST PAT’S, Palmerstown man Dr Brian Carson is looking positively towards UL’s encounter with Sigerson Cup holders UCD this Friday, feeling his side improved vastly for the latter 40 minutes of their recent quarter-final contest against DIT. UL matched their semi-final berth in 2016 with the victory over DIT, a result that saw the Limerick students overcome a shaky start to take total control of the contest over the latter stages.

“We had a poor start and we found ourselves 0-6 to 0-2 down with about 20 minutes played,” Carson explains.

“It was really windy, poor conditions,

and every time we turned over a ball in those opening minutes they took advantage.

“But we turned things around and dominated possession. We knew we had to work on our defence, as we’d conceded 4-15 to Maynooth last time around [UL scored an astonishing 3-19, with the game going to extra time], and you don’t win many games conceding those kind of points.”

That progress has been made in that department is abundantly clear: once UL took control of the quarterfinal contest, DIT scored just a single point in 40 minutes, with UL winning out in tough conditions by 0-10 to 0-7.

Carson – who worked at DIT for several years, and took on the coach-

ing role of the Sigerson Cup side two years ago - still travels back and forth to play alongside his St Pat’s team mates at weekends, despite his post as a Lecturer in Exercise Physiology on Shannonside.

“It’s different training a Sigerson side, as they all have difficult schedules; a lot of demands on their time,” Carson explains.

“We don’t do any fitness work as a team. It’s all technique, due to limited time. These guys are all serious players and it’s about creating the strongest side we can with the limited time we have available.

“There are a lot of players on the panel that I’d expect big things from in the coming years. I don’t want to

single people out, as they’re all great players, but there’s great potential,” he continues.

UCD demolished UL by a score of 4-12 to 1-9 in last year’s Sigerson Cup semi-final, and went on to win the title. The south Dublin side knocked out favourites Ulster University in the last round this year, and feature a host of big names: Jack McCaffrey, Paul Mannion, Colm Basquel and Mayo man Stephen Coen have all featured already in the 2017 tournament.

“They’ve got some great players, but so have we, including a few guys from smaller counties who are really going to make an impact” Carson tells us. “I expect we’ll be much closer than last time around.”

St Pat’s Palmerstown man Brian Carson