Swords

Gazette FINGAL

August 25-31, 2016

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Troubled waters for temporary bridge plan People in Portmarnock unhappy with council’s crossing plan while repair works carried out

 SYLVIA POWNALL A PEDESTRIAN bridge will be provided while the main access route to Portmarnock is closed for repair – but locals say it’s not enough to prevent traffic chaos.

Fingal County Council confirmed on Tuesday that a tempo-

rary footbridge would be installed between Strand Road and Station Road during the works, which are due to start on September 12.

However, Cllr Brian McDonagh (Lab) said: “While I am happy pedestrians will be catered for, I would still like to see a temporary bridge for vehicles, even one-way

traffic.”

Local businesses have warned that the bridge’s closure – needed to replace corroded steel beams and repair a vertical crack on the abutment – will deal a hammer blow to trade.

Continued on Page 2

2 FINGAL GAZETTE 25 August 2016

PORTMARNOCK | PLAN AGREED FOR WORKS FAILS TO PLEASE

Locals unhappy at temporary bridge

Continued from Page 1

Pedestrians are also less than happy with the lengthy detour to the DART station suggested by the local authority, since part of the route along Blackberry Lane is poorly lit and has no footpath.

In a statement to The Gazette earlier this week, Fingal County Council said the bridge works were prioritised after a safety inspection.

A spokesperson added: “A temporary path and bridge will be provided to the west of the bridge for the duration of the closure.

“Dublin Bus have been advised and are examining the implications on the current bus routes.”

Traffic engineers are liaising with gardai and emergency services and signage will be erected along approach routes.

FASTNews

Tell Dr Pixie (and RTE) all about your lumps and bumps  SYLVIA POWNALL

Temporary But Cllr McDonagh, who lives in Portmarnock, said: “I am asking the council to fully investigate the possibility of a temporary road bridge as well as a footbridge.

“As of yet, the council haven’t even got a costing for a full bridge.

“This will affect anyone who lives, works,

The bridge in Portmarnock which will be closed for works to traffic from September

shops, socialises or goes to school in Portmarnock, with a huge knockon effect to surrounding areas.

“The Malahide Road will come under particular pressure.”

Senator Lorraine Clifford-Lee (FF) said: “The bridge is essentially the only viable access route into Portmarnock, which has a population of 10,000 people.

“The closure of the

bridge will make it difficult for emergency services to access the village.

It is simply unacceptable for the main access road to be closed without an adequate alternative route being provided.”

On the ball for a way to help others THERE was great support for the annual Tom Cosgrove Cup held at Gannon Park, the home of Malahide Utd FC, earlier this month.

Glenn, Peter and Joan Cosgrove are pictured at the tournament organised by Glenn in memory of his late father, Tom, who passed away in 2011 from oesophageal cancer.

This year’s beneficiary was named as St Francis Hospice, and more than 80 young adults between the ages of 18 and 21 took part.

Glenn’s proud mum, Joan, told the Gazette: “This tournament has grown in numbers over the years and, as always, this one was a huge success. It’s great to see young guys willing to take part in fundraising for charity.”

LOCALS who would like to appear on RTE’s You Should Really See A Doctor are being invited to attend a pop-up clinic at Malahide Castle on September 1.

Telly GP Dr Pixie McKenna and Dr Phil Kieran (above) will host a clinic for the upcoming series offering on-the-spot consultations and health checks for participants.

The visit aims to coincide with the marching band extravaganza at the castle organised by Fingal County Council, also on Thursday, September 1, which will feature two top US college bands.

A spokesperson for the RTE show, now in its second season, said: “Dr Pixie and Dr Phil are keen to examine the symptoms and ailments that are bothering the nation.

“Whether it’s lumps, bumps, pains, aches, tingling or toilet troubles ... whatever is irritating you or your family.

“We are particularly interested in hearing in advance from people who have been avoiding the doctor, or who have researched their symptoms online but would like a real doctor’s advice.”

The crew travel the length and breadth of the country to film episodes and even set up shop at Sea Sessions music festival in Bundoran in June.

For further information or to apply, contact doctor@indiepics.ie or phone 01 7088 188.

Irish Water apologise for sewer smells near estuary IRISH Water has apologised for a strong smell of sewerage near its treatment plant close to the estuary in Swords.

Residents of Gartan Drive complained of unpleasant odours and said they were unable to open windows or dry clothes outside.

The issue was raised with Fingal

County Council, who in turn requested an update from Irish Water.

The utility company said the smell was caused by the cleaning of the treatment streams.

In a statement, it added: “In terms of the smell, if the weather is very warm or if there is a wind around, the odour can be quite strong when cleaning takes place.

“We hope to finish the cleaning treatment in a week or two. We apologise to the local residents as it is unfortunate.”

25 August 2016 FINGAL GAZETTE 3

PETS | MISSING JESS RETURNS HOME – AFTER GOING ‘WALKIES’ FOR EIGHT YEARS

Lost & hound  SYLVIA POWNALL

A DOG which strayed from its owners has returned home – EIGHT years after going missing.

Jack Russell Terrier Jess has been reunited with the family who adopted her as a pup in 2005, thanks to her microchip details.

Her shocked owner, Fiona McCrea, from Old Bawn in Tallaght, told of the family’s delight when they went to collect their miracle mutt at the pound.

She told The Gazette: “Jess was the family dog and we had her since she was a puppy until she went missing two years later. We were confident during our search that she would return, as Jess was very loyal and [micro]chipped with our contact details.

“But a year after her disappearance, all hope was gone and we were given an opportunity to

After being found and coming home following an eight-year gap, Jess (right) met the new, replacement family dog – also called Jess

adopt a six-month-old Jack Russell Terrier, also called Jess in her honour.”

Fast-forward eight years, and Fiona’s dad was shocked to get a phone call from the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Fiona said: “We could not believe it when they confirmed it was our Jess. She was returned to us as a healthy ten-

year-old dog, a little dirty and tired from wandering the streets.

“It looks like she gave up the chase with the dog warden.”

Fiona, a carer at Mission House Nursing Home, said Jess was a little shy after getting home from the pound, but has since showed signs of recognising her owners.

She said: “In the last two days, she’s beginning to come out of her shell, and being around the family a lot, I think she’s starting to remember the different tones of voice and is now responding to ‘Jess’.”

Despite the potential confusion, the family have no plans to rename the dogs – they are calling them Jess Number One and Jess Number Two.

Jess may have had a ruff time – do you know where the prodigal pup went for eight years? Call our Newsdesk at 01 60 10 240, or email news@dublingazette.com.

Tired but well, Jess is collected from the pound after being traced by her microchip

4 FINGAL GAZETTE 25 August 2016

INQUEST | CORONER’S COURT HEARS OF CYBERBULLYING INFERENCES

Mum has ‘nothing but time’ to learn why son killed himself  SYLVIA POWNALL

THE mother of a teenager who took his own life after incidents of suspected cyberbullying is still waiting for answers four years after his death.

Darren Hughes-Gibson was found hanging at the Stephenstown Industrial Estate in Balbriggan on August 23, 2012.

Last week, his family was told at a brief inquest hearing at the Coroner’s Court they may have to wait another six months for a decision on whether charges will be brought.

His family, from New Haven Bay in Balbriggan, marked the fourth anniversary of his death yesterday, Wednesday

His devastated mum, Elaine, told the hearing: “I have nothing but time.”

Elaine had reported her 17-year-old son missing after he failed to return to the nearby family home the previous night.

He was found in an abandoned building by a friend who went to look for him after finding out on Facebook that he was missing.

When gardai examined his mobile phone, they found a text message to his mother which the coroner later described as a “farewell note”.

At the inquest hearing last week, Inspector Liam Casey said the DPP is examining a garda file – but no instruction on

whether to prosecute or not has been received.

Insp Casey sought a six-month adjournment, adding: “I believe it [an adjournment] is more appropriate to ensure we have directions received.

We may or may not have a decision within the next three months.”

The file submitted to the DPP contains 2,500 pages of documents obtained jointly by Irish and US authorities from Facebook.

During the course of the investigation, gardai interviewed a number of people about messages left on Darren’s phone and on social media.

Former Dublin Coroner Dr Brian Farrell said

he was glad the information had been obtained from Facebook and apologised to Darren’s mother for the ongoing delay. She replied: “You have always been very helpful, I don’t mind about the delay ...

I have nothing but time.”

Ms Hughes claims her son had been bullied throughout his life because he was mixedrace and because he wore a hearing aid.

The information provided by Facebook includes messages that were deleted after the teenager’s death, and messages that include inferences of harassment and bullying. The inquest was adjourned until February 2, 2017.

Teenager Darren Hughes-Gibson, who took his life in 2012. Four years on, his devastated family are still waiting for answers about why the teen committed suicide, and the circumstances around it.

EDUCATION

‘Tackle the high costs forfamilies’ A FINGAL councillor has called on the Government to act on tackling school costs for hardpressed families.

Father-of-three Cllr Malachy Quinn (SF) said parents in Fingal faced “crippling costs” getting their kids ready for the new school year.

He added: “Here in Fingal, St Vincent De Paul has stated that the back to school period is the next busiest time of year for their organisation apart from Christmas.

“It is high time for this government to put an end to this annual struggle for low- and middle-income families in Fingal.”

He called on the Government to implement the joint Oireachtas report on tackling school costs first published in 2013.

25 August 2016 FINGAL GAZETTE 5

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6 FINGAL GAZETTE 25 August 2016

GazetteGALLERY

| WAIT OVER FOR LEAVING CERT STUDENTS AT AN END

Jack Maughan and Jack Hussey from Malahide Community School

Aoife Gaffney, Carla Oglesby and Abigal Roe from Malahide Community School. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

The results are in Thomas Dempsey from Swords

Francine Mougoue from Swords

Community School

Community School

T

HE long wait for the class of 2016 at Malahide, Portmarnock and Swords Community Schools came to an end as they were finally able to collect their Leaving Certificate results. The graduates were relieved and bid the school a final farewell as they now look forward to their future. Teachers at the schools were on hand to offer any advice and support and to wish students the very best for the future.

Niall McLoughlin, Sean Dowd, Niall Leahi and Steve Wallace from Portmarnock Community School

Danny Corcorn and Cian O’Daly from

Megan Jones and Orla Heffernan from Malahide

Portmarnock Community School

Community School

Eusebio Aaliyah, Salazar Ashley and Akulava Valeryia

Conor Finn and Adam Black from

from Swords Community School

Portmarnock Community School

25 August 2016 FINGAL GAZETTE 7

HERITAGE

Lots of history to dig into A BUSY calendar of events continues across Fingal to mark National Heritage Week.

As just some of the activities, digs at Swords Castle have attracted a huge number of volunteers and run until the end of the week.

A family heritage day takes place at Newbridge House and Farm in Donabate on Saturday, while the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group invite you to go whale watching at Howth Head that day.

Free guided tours continue at Ardgillan Castle and Martello Tower in Portrane will be opened to the public for guided tours this weekend.

For full details of events in Fingal, see http://www. heritageweek.ie/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/hwdublin-fingal.pdf.

MUSIC | EVEN THE MAYOR GOT INVOLVED TO HELP A COMIC SONG COME TO LIFE

Hoping for a Massive hit with Swords-shot video  SYLVIA POWNALL

A MUSIC video shot in Swords and featuring Fingal Mayor Cllr Darragh Butler (FF) is proving a huge hit online.

The single, combining the talents of playwright David Gilna and producer Trisha O’Keeffe, racked up more than 12,000 social media hits in its first week.

David, 30, from Swords, created a comedy alter ego – Johnny Massive – for the recording and told The Gazette he had a blast shooting the video.

He said: “I was back in Dublin for a play about 1916 when I got a phone

call from a woman who wanted to meet me.”

The woman was Trisha – an influential figure in the British pop scene who recorded On ‘N’ On song in 1982 under the name, Precious Little.

David decided to rewrite some of the lyrics under his alter ego – a comedy figure stuck in the 1980s – and the pair managed to rope the mayor in.

He told The Gazette: “We met Darragh [Butler] at the Swords festival and asked him to be a part of the video. He’s a massive supporter of the arts, and he came to my play, so he was happy to come on board.

“The video is full of off the wall characters, and I’m sure as he came walking down Main Street he wasn’t quite sure what he was in for. But he gave it socks – fair play to him.”

David, whose play, The Unsung Hero, is about to go on tour to London, Rome and New York, started his career dressing up in drag as Riverdance star Jean Butler.

The video for the single opens with David shaking hands with the mayor.

Swords Castle and shops along Main Street feature heavily.

Cllr Butler said: “David had a very successful theatrical event as part of the

Cllr Butler helping to make the video a reality

festival and approached me to take part, so of course I said yes.

“The whole thing was great fun! I’m always willing to help local arts groups in any way I can.”

David added: “The

video has given it a whole new lease of life. We’ve no budget, but the goal is to get to number one none-

theless.”

See the video at https:// youtu.be/El6vKXeGWV0.

8 FINGAL GAZETTE 25 August 2016

POLICING | CYCLIST SERIOUSLY HURT

MALAHIDE

Music with US college bands

Appeal follows hit and run in Baldoyle  SYLVIA POWNALL FRIENDS of a Brazilian cyclist seriously injured in a hit-and-run in Baldoyle last month have thanked the local community for their support.

Jones Justino, 26, spent weeks in hospital after he was knocked down as he cycled home from his job as a kitchen porter in Howth on Saturday, July 9. He is recovering at home, though doctors have told him he may need further back surgery in coming months.

His wife, Priscila, said the Brazilian community and friends in Dublin had rallied around them, and that the gardai and the hospital had been extremely helpful.

A black Volvo S40

Priscila and Jones Justino

– later found in Castlemoyne Estate in Balgriffin – failed to stop and a garda probe to find the driver is ongoing.

Jones was treated for leg and spine injuries and needed 12 hours of surgery at Beaumont Hospital. Doctors initially feared they would have to amputate one of his legs.

His wife said the couple – who moved to Ireland in January, having saved for three years – will probably

have to cut their stay here short because they can’t afford to stay without Jones’ wages.

A GoFundMe campaign has been set up by their pal, Darragh Price.

So far, 135 people have donated €2,947 in less than a month to help Jones’ recovery.

Bruno Ribeiro, who lives with the couple, said he was delighted at the amount of support for Jones. He said: “The Brazilian community has been amazing.”

Anyone who witnessed the collision or who can assist with the investigation is asked to contact Howth Garda Station at 01 666 4900, the Garda Confidential Telephone Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

Winning smiles for innovators PORTMARNOCK Community School students Lauren Kilbride, Colin McAndrew and Darragh Bolger pause for a selfie with their trophy after being named Young Social Innovators of the Year at Citywest Hotel.

The students won for their project, Global Citizens Mapping the Future. The Young Social Innovators of the Year won for their work aimed to inspire greater global citizenship in the area of humanitarian mapping. The Portmarnock students impressed the judges with their innovative thinking and positive approach to problem-solving to benefit many people from their work – the very ethos of the Young Social Innovators programme. More than 5,000 other students also took part in this year’s programme, underscoring the commitment of young people to help others. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography

MALAHIDE Castle and Gardens is preparing for a huge musical evening on Thursday, September 1 when marching bands from the US and Dublin will gather for a free evening of entertainment.

B o s t o n C o l l e g e ’s Screaming Eagles, and Georgia Tech’s Yellow Jackets willl play alongside a number of local bands, including the Crumlin Youth Band, Tallaght Youth Band and Dublin Fire Brigade Pipe Band.

The bands are in Dublin as part of the Aer Lingus College Football Classic 2016 taking place in the Aviva Stadium on Saturday, September 3.

This is a free event with 2,000 seats available.

These will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

25 August 2016 FINGAL GAZETTE 9

10 GAZETTE 25 August 2016

GazetteGALLERY

| SPOOKY GOINGS ON AT THE IRISH PREMIERE SCREENING OF

Kate Morgan and Kayleigh O’Sullivan

Lisa Naylor and Alan Hayden

Leah Moore and Kimberley Farrell

Michelle McKeon and Fionnula Moran. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

It’s fright night for horror fans H

ORROR fans headed to a special preview screening of Lights Out at The Light House Cinema last weekend. The super natural horror movie has been enjoying huge success in the US and is now showing in Irish cinemas. Critics say the movie makes for an unsettling, frightfilled experience that “delivers superior chills without skimping on story”.

Leanne Slevin and Robyn Fitzpatrick

Luke O’Faolain

Kumar and Gail Kaneswaran

25 August 2016 GAZETTE 11

LIGHTS OUT

Navis Binu and Ronak Modi

Hilary Johnson

Romy Carroll

Hannah Kearns and Kara Stein

GAZETTE

12 GAZETTE 25 August 2016

DUBLINBUSINESS

Furniture Kings’ celebrating 25 NEXT month, brothers Paul and David Nugent will celebrate 25 years of Kingsbury Furniture.

In 1991, the pair, who were born and raised in Tallaght, seized their opportunity and opened the business, specialising in household furniture and flooring.

Over the next 25 years Kingsbury Furniture has expanded in size and have grown from three to 15 employees. They now have a modern and stylish 9,000sq ft store on High Street in Tallaght.

During the recent crippling recession the brothers branched into full apartment and turnkey fit-outs, which led to a lot of showhouse fit-outs for builders and developers – ensuring that the business stayed afloat.

The brothers, who both still live locally and train juvenile teams with

Thomas Davis GAA Club, say good customer service and quality products are key to surviving and being successful for this long.

Paul, the older of the two, told Gazette Business: “We believe the company that builds through good customer service and quality products will stand the test of time.

“We have many customers that would have bought furniture from us in the early 90s and are still buying and accompanying their sons and daughters into our store.

“We are a family business and we try to support Irish suppliers and manufacturers as much as possible.”

Kingsbury Furniture, which also offers a full interior design service, is located in Unit 3, High Street, Tallaght – just a stone’s throw from Smyths toy store. Visit www.kingsburyfurniture.ie to find out more.

Owner of Kingsbury Furniture, Paul Nugent with his daughter, Dominique and store manager Jimmy Owens

Dublin lads sock it to dull and mundane styles THREE Dublin lads have started a “sock revolution”.

Funky Foot is a new start up that its founders say will “liberate people from a life of dull, mundane socks”.

Aengus, Eoin and John spotted room in the market for socks that defy convention and have been selling their socks in markets around Dublin for the past two months.

Now, after much stress for three web design rookies, the website, www.funkyfoot.co is now live.

Co-founder of the company Aengus Boyle told The Gazette: “We are starting a sock revolution. Out with the boring and in with the funky! Our socks are 90% cotton, 10% synthetic mix and 100% funky. That’s 200% in every sock!”

The socks are available at www.funkyfoot.co for €7.95.

To celebrate their website launch, the trio have offered a 40% discount code especially for Gazette readers.

Simply enter the code “gazette40” at the checkout.

25 August 2016 GAZETTE 13

GAZETTE

14 GAZETTE 25 August 2016

DUBLINLIFE

DIARY

Eye see a way to help launch the Sightsavers Junior Painter Awards ... JuniLisa Murray, Aya Parker, Willow O’Sullivan and Ethan Manby give a hand. Picture: Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland

Looking to a better future YOUNG budding Dublin artists are getting ready to sharpen their pencils and clean their brushes as Sightsavers Junior Painter Awards returns.

Last year, schools

from Dublin submitted hundreds of paintings and with entries now open, Sightsavers are calling on children across the county to get thinking and create a masterpiece.

Open to primar y school students of all ages across Ireland, this year’s theme – Framing The Future – is expected to inspire thousands of imaginative entries.

Sightsavers wants to frame the future as an inclusive world where children living with disabilities get to go to school, and is inviting children to let their imaginations run wild and create their very own work of art which envisions what they see when they think of the future.

Some 15 regional winners will be selected and will have the opportunity to see their work displayed at a special awards day next spring where three overall national winners will be announced.

Eve r y c h i l d t h a t enters will receive a certificate of participation in recognition of their creative efforts.

The closing date for entry is Friday, November 25 . Parents and children can get involved by speaking to their school

teacher or by visiting sightsavers.ie to request entry forms.

GO AHEAD TO THE THROWBACK PARTY FOR those heading to Electric Picnic this year, one of the stand-out events set to take place over the weekend is the Throwback Party at the Electric Ireland stage.

The first act to be announced are popsynth princesses Bananarama, who will perform floor-filling classics such as Cruel Summer, Venus and Love in the First Degree on the Saturday night.

Attendees will also be able to take time out to chill while enjoying classic movies such as Grease and Top Gun for the ultimate in nostalgic guilty pleasures.

There’s also some good news for those still

looking for tickets to the sold out event as Electric Ireland is giving away 30 weekend tickets in its annual ticket giveaway.

The tickets will be given away through a five-day Facebook Live competition from Monday, August 22, to Friday, August 26.

To be in with a chance of winning, entrants simply need to visit Electric Ireland’s Facebook page each day at 7.30pm where they can participate in a live throwback competition.

HORRIBLY GOOD SCARES AT THE RDS IRELAND’S most chilling scare-house experience, The Nightmare Realm, is bringing its reign of terror to the RDS this October.

T hrillseekers will explore the gruesome village of the damned to see

Dublin’s darkest nightmares brought to life.

The Nightmare Realm has carved out a notorious reputation for pushing the boundaries of sanity and crafting the artistry of fear, with live characters and vivid special effects to capture the depths of the imagination.

Nerves will be pushed to the limit with gruesome life-like props and characters, from the grotesque and bloodchurning to the sick and extreme, preying on the minds of fright fans and horror enthusiasts brave enough to face the RDS. The attraction, which opens its doors on September 29, will run for the full month of October.

Tickets are on sale now at thenightmarerealm.ie, with adult tickets priced at €20 and students at €17.

25 August 2016 GAZETTE 15

GAZETTE

FEATURE CULTURE NIGHT 2016: POPULAR EVENT TO RETURN

Get ready for one night to explore the city’s diverse cultural riches

 IAN BEGLEY

ON THE evening of Friday, September 16, Dublin will erupt with creativity when Ireland’s annual cultural spectacular – Culture Night – returns for its massively popular annual occurrence.

From powerful spoken word performances that will stop you in your tracks to eye-catching art in motion, Culture Night will once again be an evening that is not easily forgotten, no matter what cultural corner of the city – or indeed, country – you find yourself in.

Having grown in Dublin from 40,000 attendees to 172,000 in 11 years, Culture Night is now a countrywide movement, as the whole of the city, and country, is filled with cultural expression, exploration and appreciation on the night.

Commenting on this year’s programme for Culture Night, Ray Yeates, Dublin City Council arts officer said: “Culture Night is a very special night for children as they and their families look forward to another wonderful night of civic engagement and cultural discovery.”

As always, the celebra-

tory, exploratory event will include thousands of participants from all cultural genres, including photographers, illustrators, designers, composers, visual artists, dancers, aerialists, authors, singers and musicians.

Some of Ireland’s most exciting minds have got behind Culture Night 2016 as ambassadors, promoting their own genres, new creative industries

including guided tours of the official residence of the President of Ireland, Aras an Uachtarain, along with some new additions to the programme.

This year, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland’s iconic building at St Stephen’s Green will come to life with a spectacular 3D animated light show that will take viewers on a journey of the building’s history, from

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‘Having grown in Dublin from 40,000 attendees to 172,000 in 11 years, the whole of the city is filled with cultural expression, exploration and appreciation on Culture Night’

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and our rich history and heritage, including artist Pauline Bewick, alt-pop duo The Heathers, musician and poet Ronan O Snodaigh and author Colin Barrett.

As well as a celebration of the arts and culture, much of the city and country’s rich built and natural heritage will also be opened up for the people to see and experience.

Some of last year’s most popular venues in Dublin are returning once again,

its foundation in 1784, through the historical events of 1916, and ending with a glimpse into the future cutting-edge healthcare technology being developed by the college.

North of the Liffey, and Smithfield Square will buzz with excitement on the night with interactive events from Makeshop to fencing, with the evening to close with Firefly, a fire spectacle by Dublin Circus Project.

Exploring the cultural side of the city by foot, bike or bus will be made easy with the Culture Night Tours, which include the Urban Potato Bike tour, Revolutionary France in Dublin tour, the Dublin Bus Ghostbus tour and tours of different areas in Dublin, presented in English and international languages.

At the heart of its schedule of music, theatre and words is Culture Night’s live broadcast of RTE Radio 1’s Arena with Sean Rocks in the upper courtyard of Dublin Castle, which will also feature the RTE Concert Orchestra and special guests from music, theatre, comedy and poetry.

Cultural audiences in the capital can travel with a “cultural edge” on the night thanks to transport partners Dublin Bus and Irish Rail. Dublin Bus will provide free buses every 20 minutes around the cultural quarters, starting at Bachelor’s Walk, Aston Quay, College Green and Eden Quay, to bring visitors to and from their favourite spots.

For the full programme of events and participating venues for Culture Night 2016, see www.culturenight.ie.

John McMahon doesn’t seem convinced by Frances Matthews’s Capoeira skills, but Robyn Cassidy loved them! The trio were helping to promote upcoming Culture Night 2016, which will once again uncover many of Dublin’s historical, architectural and cultural gems for the public to see. Picture: Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland

LOVE&MARRIAGE

GAZETTE

16 GAZETTE 25 August 2016

Don’t forget favours to help thank your guests

PLANNING a wedding obviously takes a lot of thought, and every last detail must be thoroughly thrashed out. In the midst of all the planning about venues, dresses, tuxes, honeymoon and so on, don’t forget to thank your guests for sharing in your big day with the gift of wedding favours.

Picture: igstudio.ie

Wedding favours are a simple and effective way for the happy couple to show their appreciation to their guests for helping to celebrate their union.

When selecting wedding favours, one must always take three things into consideration: budget, the number of guests, and the shelf-life of the item.

If a large gathering is expected, wedding favours can be a huge drain on the budget.

However, as modern weddings are often about adding a personal touch and a sense or originality and personality to the big day, you can kill two birds with one stone by providing home-made, personallythemed wedding favours. By doing this, you can not only reduce the cost, but give your wedding an extra personal touch at the same time.

For a highly-personal wedding, why not get hitched at Dublin Zoo (above) or Westmeath’s Mount Druid (right)

LOCATIONS: ALTERNATIVE VENUES COULD BE LOTS OF FUN

Go wild and say ‘I do’ at Dublin Zoo!  IAN BEGLEY

IF YOU’RE on the prowl for an alternative wedding venue that is a hundred miles away from the type of nuptials your grandparents had, you will be pleased to know that Ireland has a huge range of unconventional wedding venues on offer.

From castles to barns, theatres, sports stadiums and Dublin Zoo, there are plenty of unique, charming and even eccentric wedding venues to suit all tastes.

If your heart is set on a Dublin city wedding, but you’re looking for a large space to celebrate, then Smock Alley Theatre might be the perfect venue for your big day.

With its exposed brick walls, ornate plasterwork ceiling, and stained-glass windows, this venue is

certainly a sight to behold.

Its oak benches and tables offer options for the en vogue, long dining experience and the large space is very versatile for a ceremony or reception.

Further afield, and if you’re considering a very intimate wedding with just your nearest and dearest friends and family, then Fanningstown Castle over in Limerick certainly has a nice ring to it.

Set close to Shannon Airport, this 12th century grand castle has been converted into an atmospheric private house perfect for a small group.

Another great alternative venue is at Mount Druid in Westmeath.

The building and its surroundings comprise a converted barn, a consecrated tin chapel, 20 traditional Mongolian yurts,

three shepherds huts, a charmingly cosy gate lodge, a three-bed schoolmaster’s house, an 1820s Georgian house, several barbecue areas, a walked garden, a summer house and three lakes!

A couple who choose to marry at Mount Druid can except a beautifully laid-back venue where red carpets and white chair covers are non-existent, and their guests can have a lovely relaxed time with an informal feel to the day.

Closer to home, and why not choose to say “I do” at the zoo? Dublin Zoo is a unique alternative to the traditional wedding venue and provides a magical backdrop for your special day.

Haughton House, a restored historical building with magnificent views of the zoo, is avail-

able seven days a week for all types of wedding ceremonies, including civil ceremonies, civil partnerships and blessings.

You can add even more magic to your wedding day by having a unique drinks reception in the zoo’s interactive learning and discovery centre, or capturing some special photo opportunities.

With weddings at Croke Park, GAA fans can marry their love of their lives with their love of the game.

Whether you are interested in a large traditional reception, a small intimate celebration or something in between, Croke Park can offer you the perfect alternative venue.

For further information on these alternative wedding venues, see www. alternativeweddings.ie and www.hitched.ie.

25 August 2016 GAZETTE 17

GAZETTE

SUPPLEMENT

A little planning goes a long way  IAN BEGLEY

NOT only is the Athlone Springs Hotel the perfect venue for a celebration of endless love, but their wedding planners are primed to assist with all aspects of the happy couple’s Big Day, from the ceremony to the entertainment.

The most important part when choosing your venue is that you feel welcome from the moment you arrive, and or course, excellent food that will

In tip-top shape for your big day  IAN BEGLEY

YOUR wedding is an event to be remembered for the rest of your life and no doubt it will be chronicled in photographs as well as on film.

For this reason among others you will want to look your best.

Whether you’re looking to drop a few pounds, tighten up your muscles or completely overhaul your physique, Educogym, Dundrum can get you there.

The Educogym system is based on a university validated study which proves that a clear goal combined with resistance based exercise and low glycemic nutrition caused a person to shape up faster than any other system in the world.

On average, the participants lost 7.5lb of fat, and gained an average 3lb of metabolism boosting muscle, In just 12 days all with just 20 minute exercise per day.

Educogym is designed to replicate

these incredible results, with each aspect of the programme finely tuned to ensure success.

Educogym Consultants work with you to help you understand your goals and then devise a programme to make sure you achieve them. Educogym specialises in low-glycemic nutrition plans

designed to detox your body from sugar to lower body fat and get in your best-ever shape.

The word educo means to lead or draw out from within.

Educogym works with you to draw out your ideal figure or physique using their carefully crafted system.

The big difference between the Educog y m resistance training and traditional aerobic exercise such as jogging is that by increasing lean muscle tissue you will increase your metabolism to burn fat and have a leaner and firmer body.

All programmes include intensive 20 minute training sessions, regular consultations, nutritional programmes with expert advice and goal setting to help you look your best on your big day.

For more information visit: www. educogym.com/ Dundrum

have your guests raving about your wedding for years to come.

“It’s all about the little things that make a big difference to your day and it is our promise that we will take care of everything so you can celebrate with your family and friends,” says wedding coordinator Nicola Nestor.

This contemporary venue hosts a welcoming lobby and drinks reception area in Cedar Cocktail Bar and the stunning Clonellan Ballroom

caters for weddings up to 300 guests.

The hotel also has its own private garden for photos and the Manhattan bridal suite is the height of luxury.

The wedding team recently launched its 2016-2017 wedding packages that starts from €45 per person.

P a c k a g e s i n cl u d e complimentar y wedding favours and you can choose from a wedding car, three-tier personalised cake, photobooth,

music on arrival, three complimentary rooms for your guests on the night of the wedding, civil ceremony package, candy cart reception, personalised monogram and lighting for your ballroom, cocktail and canape drinks reception and evening buffet “chipper style”.

If you would like to pop in and visit Nicola and the team just call 090 644 4444 or email events@athlonespringshotel.com.

LOVE&MARRIAGE

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18 GAZETTE 25 August 2016

Alluring Brilliant Bangle €89

Sparkle in style for your big day  EMMA NOLAN

SOMETHING gold, something rose, something silver, something blue – affordable jewellery brand Pandora have a wide range of pieces that are suitably elegant for bridal wear.

Whether for the bride herself or

for her bridesmaids and flower girls, the new autumn collection, which is launching in stores on September 1, contains a number of pieces that are bound to be popular amongst those with weddings on their mind.

It features silver, rose and 14k gold bracelets, earrings, necklaces and rings that would be perfect for

that special day, and for a reminder of the day that can be worn afterwards.

Both chic and classic, there is something to suit most tastes.

This stylish range is available from Pandora stores in Dundrum, Grafton Street, Liffey Valley and Henry Street.

Vintage Allure Drop Earrings €99

Alluring Brilliant Marquise €89

Vintage Allure Ring €119 Open Bangle €89

Vintage Allure Earrings €59

The write way tosay ‘I love you’ Twist of Fate Ring €129

IF YOU’RE not sure what to get a friend, family member or your significant other as a wedding gift, The Wedding Collection from Cross Pens carry a huge range of elegant writing instruments to suit all budgets that are sure to be treasured forever.

Choose from a number of Cross pens, which are perfect for signing the marriage register, for guests to sign the wedding book, or even for writing those wedding thank-you letters.

The collection is the perfect celebration of love, as each pen can be engraved with a meaningful message, making for a unique, personal memento.

For the full collection, samples of which are shown above, see www.cross.com.

Century II Chrome Ball Point Pen €65

Townsend Chrome Ball Point Pen €115

Beverly Pearlescent White Lacquer Ball-Point Pen €40

Edge Titanium Gel Ink Pen €50

25 August 2016 GAZETTE 19

55

 EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

HELEN McAlinden, one of Ireland’s best-known designers, features a number of pieces perfect for wedding guests in her newest ready to wear collection, not least for the most important guest of all – the mother (in both parties), of course.

While every Helen McAlinden

piece is distinguished by subtleties of form, fit and fabrication, her latest S/S16 collection is no different.

Constantly evolving and developing, the blueprint silhouette of her unique and sophisticated style can be worn in a variety of ways, always keeping a focus on the woman who wears them.

McAlinden said: “My designs are underpinned with the very best

fabrics, chosen for luxurious quality and durability of style. It is always my goal to create a range to suit real women’s shapes and to flatter all ages, and I feel my latest collection has achieved this.”

The Helen McAlinden S/S16 collection is now available in the South William Street store, as well as in Arnotts, and House of Fraser in Dundrum Town Centre.

Georgia bodycon dress €245

5 ress €26

The Mother

Marcela navy porcelain dress €285

h cotton d

etc Evelyn str

The most important guest at the big day

Sandy stripe dress €265

Georgia bodycon dress €245

Astrid floral dress €285

s €285 Astrid floral dres

Marion dress €2

DRESSING

GAZETTE

SUPPLEMENT

THE overall influence for this Spring/Summer collection derives from the work of American fashion designer Claire McCardell, who, throughout the 1930s, 40s and 50s became synonymous with ready-towear stylish women’s sports wear. With Helen’s recent collection, the florals for which the brand is so well known are showcased in form-flattering dresses and pencil skirts.

GAZETTE

20 GAZETTE 25 August 2016

DUBLINLIFE

 AENGUS O’HANLON

ATHLONE is a place worth invading. The Vikings, the Anglo-Normans, the Williamites, and more recently, tourists have come to the ancient town expecting much and leaving happy, sometimes not leaving at all.

And with good reason.

Sitting on the banks of the mighty Shannon, just south of beautiful Lough Ree, Athlone is an ancient and unique destination.

Unique because the town is split

in two not just by the river, but also by the map… twice.

T he western tow n, with its impressive skyline dominated by Athlone Castle and the imposing twin towers of Saint Peter

and Paul’s Church, is in County Roscommon and as such in Connacht, while the larger, eastern town is in the Leinster county of Westmeath.

So if you’re looking for a funfilled weekend away right at the very heart of Ireland, or the perfect base from which to explore the midlands, look no further.

With plenty to do and see, and no shortage of wonderful old pubs and excellent, affordable restaurants, this is a town with a lot to

We Athlone

offer. We stayed at the Radisson Blu, right on the river, with stunning views across the water to the old town.

With its friendly staff, nice pool and excellent bars and restaurant, you could say it’s a metaphor for the entire region.

Their family suites are as good as The Gazette has ever experienced.

Too often in our experience, “family rooms” can mean nothing more than a glorified dormitory, with about as much privacy for mum

and dad as you could expect in a small car.

Not here. The rooms are spacious, and a bit like the town, neatly split into two distinct parts, giving the kids a mirage of independence which includes their own beds, river views, TV and play area, while parents can pretend to be grown ups in peace in the adjoining double room.

With the kids – and us adults – immediately delighted with our welcome to Athlone, it set the tone

Sean’s Bar is listed in the

Viking Mike’s Viking longboat with the Radisson

Guinness Book of Records as

Blu in the background

the oldest bar in Europe

Musicians in Sean’s Bar

Oh baby – pampering awaits!

MUMS-TO-BE WILL ENJOY WINEPORT LODGE’S SPECIALLY TAILORED PACKAGES

25 Augist 2016 GAZETTE 21

for the weekend, and sure enough, a brilliant few days it was.

A quick dip in the hotel’s pool before a sumptuous dinner in Elements Bistro was followed by a relaxing drink at the Quayside bar and Lounge, where you can unwind on the open terrace overlooking the river.

Athlone is all about the Shannon. And there’s no better way to explore the river and nearby Lake of the Kings, than with Viking Mike on his 21 metre replica

Viking longboat. Departing from the quayside at Athlone Castle daily, Viking Ship Cruises, which sail up the Shannon and into Lough Ree or down river to the historic monastic site of Clonmacnoise, are an absolute must.

Mike and his staff know the area and its colourful past like the back of their well worn hands, and the big man and his staff’s hospitality knows no end.

You learn a lot about the history of the river and surrounding

townlands during the 75 minute cruise, and the vessel, a National History Ship dating back to 1923, is equipped with a cafe, bar and even wifi.

Back in the town, a trip to the Luan Gallery on the West side of the river will keep the culture vultures more than happy, and they should also make the quick dash across the road to take in the celebrated stained glass windows of St Peter and Paul’s.

A minute’s walk away is Ath-

GAZETTE

TRAVEL

lone Castle with its innovative the pub’s walls have indicated visitor centre, where the town’s that people have been enjoying a history, people, and many battles sup here since 900 A.D. – and it’s are explored and brought to life in even listed in the Guinness Book a series of very impressive audio- of Records as the oldest bar in visual exhibitions.

Europe, which most people agree Child-friendly multimedia dis- would also make it the oldest in plays and interactive games guide the world. spellbound visitors through the What isn’t up for debate, howevcastle; while the Great Seige of er, is the quality of the pint, or the Athlone is relived in a 360 degree wonderful, magical atmosphere climatic experience that transports that hits you as soon as you cross its door. viewers back in ------------------------------------Tourists, locals time. And, if you and stag parties like dressing up in mingle happily, historic costumes, while the back of you’re in luck! the pub stretches The more active all the way to the adventurers can riverbank. hop on their bikes Another fine and go for a spin along the Old ------------------------------------- o l d A t h l o n e Rail Train Greenboozer that simway, a scenic 42km dedicated cycle ply has to be enjoyed is Gertie path that follows the old Midland Browne’s on Custume Street, just Great Western Railway east before across the bridge back on the east snaking along the Royal Canal side of town. into Mullingar.

The pub dates back over 1,000 With lots of entry and exit points years and was once a carriage along the route, you can hop on house as well as a tavern. and off to explore the quaint little Gerties serves up some truly villages and attractions along the excellent pub grub, but if you fancy way. a break from the pubs, La Cucina After all the exploring, you’ll no is a gem of a restaurant just across doubt need a drink. the road.

And there’s no place like AthTouted as the best restaurant in lone for pubs. the midlands by TripAdvisor, this Possibly the king of them all lovely little family eatery certainly (and The Gazette is no stranger to lives up to its reputation, and like good pubs so has some authority everywhere else in Athlone, the on the matter) is Sean’s Bar. service came with a smile.

The archaeological dating on We will be back.

‘After all the exploring, you’ll no doubt need a drink.

And there’s no place like Athlone for pubs.’

Athlone’s skyline is dominated by the Church of St Peter and St Paul

 MIMI MURRAY

“BABY mooning” is a fairly new concept for pregnant women – sort of like baby showers and an American thing, I’m sure.

It’s the idea of taking some time out with your other half before your impending bundle of joy makes its noisy entrance into the world, leaving it never quite the same again.

I don’t normally go in for this type of makey-uppey concept, myself, but if it means metaphorically sitting on a lily pad and letting myself be pampered – well, I’m willing to bend my own rules.

With a four-year-old at home, and another child on the way, we decided to not venture far and plumped

for 24 hours R&R, just an hour down the road, at Wineport Lodge in Athlone.

Many hotels offer baby moon packages now, which usually consist of an overnighter or two with some delicious beauty treatments thrown in for the mum-to-be.

Wineport Lodge is located on the banks of Lough Ree, and a more stunning location you could not find.

All rooms overlook the lake and a balcony meant we could sit and capture the magical early morning goings-on, such as a lone heron diving for fish, or two swans making their majestic journey across the dark waters.

The hotel’s location so close to the shore genu-

inely makes you feel very at one with nature.

The lodge is reminiscent of those boltholes in the New England states and the restaurant, with its leather-coloured booths and high-beamed ceilings, adds to this feeling of being somewhere like Vermont.

It boasts a small spa area with an outdoor hot tub – something my husband indulged in while I went for my treatment.

I chose the all-over body massage and my excellent therapist, Aisling, really knew her stuff.

She has actually trained in massage for recovering cancer patients as well as maternity massage, so has a very good knowledge of the human body; the correct pressure to apply and

where to avoid when pregnant – something mumsto-be often worry about when indulging in something like this.

An hour later, and back to the land of the living, it was time to start thinking about dinner.

The food is really good here, with things like a mackerel pate and crab and scampi salad offering light-bite starters.

We went for both of these, as we had our hearts set on the cote de boeuf – a rib of beef cooked on the bone for two people (well, three, effectively).

This is actually enough for about four people, and came with bearnaise and cafe de paris sauce as well as some greens and fat chips. In a word: delicious.

An Eton mess was the lightest dessert we could find and we tried it purely for research purposes.

The end-of-season strawberries and homemade meringues were the perfect choice to bookend a very tasty meal.

After a good night’s sleep and a cooked breakfast we returned to Dublin with a pep in our step and a renewed sense of wellbeing – something every mum-tobe will never say no to! For more details on mum-to-be packages, see wineport.ie.

For alternative baby moon breaks check out Hayfield Manor, Co Cork. From: €499pp. Telephone: 021 484 5900 or Castle Leslie Estate, Co Monaghan.

From: €240pps Telephone: 047 88100.

With superb wasterside views of the calming Shannon, Wineport Lodge’s soothing location is married to great service and delicious dining, too

GAZETTE

22 GAZETTE 25 August 2016

DUBLINLIFE

FOOD&DRINK

BITESIZEDNEWS

A new range of health foods has just been launched at several leading retailers across Ireland

Vitality fare that could set you up for the day HEALTH food brand Vitality Foods has just launched in Ireland.

Now available in Dunnes, SuperValu, Centra, Spar, Mace and Londis, Vitality is a protein-based brand that is described as “food for active living”.

Vitality is introducing a range of three products – oats, pancakes and protein bars – with a variety of different flavours, from cookies and cream, peanut butter crunch to honey and almond.

Speaking at the launch of Vitality Foods, fitness model Maeve Madden said: “Protein is such an important part of my daily diet and routine and the Vitality Food range is so delicious and easy to prepare.

“My favourite product from the range is definitely the pancakes, which are the perfect breakfast to set you up for an active day.”

For recipes, workouts and wellness innovation, follow @Vitality_Foods on Instagram.

Coastal villages make it to national foodie list DUBLINERS already know to head to the sea for some of the best fare in the city – and the terrific cuisine found at eateries in Howth, Skerries and Malahide have seen the villages shortlisted for the best foodie destinations in Ireland. The three villages are in the top ten places selected by the Restaurants Association of Ireland for its Foodie Destinations initiative. The winning town or destination will be named on September 29.

Brazilian-style

Spring Green Spiralised

chicken salad

Courgette Salad

Serving up summer THE summer has been anything but sizzling, but this delicious Brazilianstyle chicken salad, from M&S, which serves four, will be a Rio-l hit when you bring it out.

Inspired by salpicao, the classic Brazilian street food, it is often served with the chips mixed in, but you can serve them on the side if you prefer.

Ingredients l 2 tsp olive oil l 2 tsp smoked paprika l 2 medium potatoes (about 700g) l 1 green apple l 1.5 limes l 400g cooked chicken l 50g raisins (optional) l 4 tbsp mayonnaise

l l

25g coriander 4 white seeded rolls

Preparation l Peel and cut all the potatoes into thin strips. Shred the cooked chicken and finely chop the coriander. l Heat the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. l Mix the oil with 1 tsp of smoked paprika, season with salt and pepper, then toss with the chips. l Spread out on a large baking sheet and cook for 30 minutes. Allow to cool slightly. l Meanwhile, quarter, core and slice the apple into thin wedges and put in a large bowl. l Squeeze the juice of half a lime, then add the

chicken and raisins.

In another bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the zest and juice of one lime, 1sp smoked paprika and the coriander. l Stir 3tsp of the dressing into the chicken salad, then add the cooked fries; gentle toss if desired. l Serve on a platter with rolls and the remaining dressing on the side. l

FOR another tasty treat to feed four, we turn again to M&S, and their spirit of summer-inspired Spring G r e e n S p i ra l i s e d Courgette Salad. This light, fresh dish is easy to prepare, and is perfect fare to serve as summer drifts towards its end.

Ingredients l 120g fresh spinach leaves l 50g pine nut l 1 garlic clove l 125ml extra virgin olive oil l 50g fresh Parmesan l 1 lemon l 1 pinch salt and pepper l 250g courgette spaghetti l 150g frozen petits pois l 25g mint leaves l 1 large handful rocket Preparation l Mince the garlic cloves; grate the fresh Parmesan; chop the mint leaves. l To make the pesto, place the spinach, garlic and pine nuts in a food processor, and blitz to a

coarse puree.

Transfer to a bowl, and add the olive oil and parmesan. Mix well. l Squeeze in lemon juice, to taste. l Season with salt and pepper – it will keep in the fridge for 2-3 days. l Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil. Add the peas, and cook for 2-3 mins. l Drain, and refresh under cold water. Set aside to cool completely. l In a large bowl, combine the courgette, peas, mint and 5 tablespoons of pesto. l Stir through the rocket last. Then squeeze some lemon over the salad, and serve. l

25 August 2016 GAZETTE 23

GAZETTE

24 FINGAL GAZETTE 25 August 2016

DUBLINLIFE

ReelReviews

LIGHTS OUT

A bright idea for a film DIRECTOR James Wan takes the premise of a short film and gives it a decent treatment with Lights Out (Cert 15A, 81 mins). A young boy is being haunted by a dangerous and very real being who lives in the dark – however, she has direct ties to his family, some of whom know exactly who ‘Diana’ is ... Wan’s skill at directing horror come to the fore, with an interesting premise presented with skill.

NINE LIVES

An utter catastrophe KEVIN Spacey and Christopher Walken take the money and run – after first mugging their way through Nine Lives (Cert PG, 87 mins), widely slated as possibly the worst film of 2016. A billionaire workaholic learns lessons about life, family and love after ... he’s turned into a cat. Yes, a cat. There’s very little a-miaow-sing about this pretty dreadful film, which is cat indeed.

SUICIDE SQUAD

Mission incomprehensible WITH one of its main stars complaining about the film and how he was largely edited out of it, Suicide Squad (Cert 15A, 123 mins) has had a bumpy reception to say the least. A group of supervillains are sent on a near impossible mission – to keep audiences and fanboys happy. However, the film fails at this, with its muddled editing and plot hurting it throughout.

CINEMA

THE PURGE - ELECTION YEAR: POLITICAL OVERTONE IS NEW FOR THE FRANCHISE

A riotous but ultimately unsatisfying riff on violent tendencies

LIKE any dystopian action-horror worth its salt, The Purge: Election Year (Cert 16, 109 mins) is loaded with outthere violence, cringey dialogue and scenerychewing bad guys; it’s at its best when it sticks to this formula.

Unfortunately, hackneyed attempts at political discourse bring Election Year down.

2013’s The Purge laid the groundwork for an interesting vision of the future, attractive in the simplicity of its dystopian premise: an America where crime rates have dropped to an all-time low thanks to the annual 12-hour “Purge”, during which all criminal activity – including murder – is legal.

Unfortunately, The Purge failed to deliver, missing a delightfully twisted world-building opportunity by restricting the action to a single location and opting for a slow, cliched housesiege premise.

Its sequel, The Purge: Anarchy, rightly took the action into the

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

streets and was all the better for it.

With this, the third entr y in the series, writer/director James DeMonaco attempts to expand on the universe he created, implementing issues of class, race and religion that had been lightly touched on before.

His attempts to “smarten up” the series, however, are ill-suited to the over-the-top action and offbeat premise.

Elizabeth Mitchell plays Charlie Roan, a US senator who survived the Purge as a young girl. Now a presidential candidate, Roan works to abolish the yearly tradition that killed the rest of her family.

Shortly before commencement on the night of the Purge, Roan narrowly escapes an assas-

sination attempt. With the help of her head of security, Leo Barnes (Frank Grillo), she tries to make it through the 12 hours on the streets of Washington DC. The Purge: Anarchy knew exactly what it needed to be, learning from the mistakes of the previous entry and working from a dystopian-action template that brought to mind films such as 1987’s The Running Man. While Election Year is cut from a similar cloth, D e Mo n a c o t r i e s t o inject new life by structuring it as a kind of paranoid thriller, and riffing on the current political climate in the US. Consequently, Election Year is riddled with clunky, half-baked attempts at racial discourse that jar terribly with the rest of the film.

Election Year, then, is at its best when its keeps it simple. The expansive world-building on display here is a welcome development for the series; of note is a look inside the annual Purge

In an America where the annual Purge makes every crime – including murder – legal for 12 hours, an anti-Purge senator and her dwindling team must use their wits to survive the chaos when they’re caught up in the mayhem

midnight mass, where church and state have become near-indistinguishable from one another.

Other nice touches include an appearance from a “Purge victim removal and disposal” truck, a look at the murder-tourism industry, and a glimpse inside the world of Purge-related business insurance – trivial but humorous details that add to our understanding of this

darkly-eccentric, future America.

Like its predecessor, Election Year is peppered with imaginative set pieces and surreal, striking images: the steps of the Lincoln Memorial littered with bodies, an enormous guillotine dispatching victims down an alleyway.

DeMonaco has an eye for the kind of ghastly twists on modern America that make a dysto-

pian horror work.

In the end, The Purge: Election Year falls victim to its own ambition. There’s a wickedly enjoyable film here – unfortunately, it’s buried beneath a little too much posturing and displaced discourse.

Fans of the series will delight in Election Year’s finer points; it may prove a little tasteless, however, for certain audiences.

Verdict: 6/10

25 August 2016 FINGAL GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

GAMING WEEBYTES

West is best for zombies WHAT do lots of gamers love even more than catching Pokemon or matching three things? Zombies. Yes, zombies.

Good news, then, as one of the silliest and most enjoyable zombie survival games – Dead Rising – will soon be rereleased.

Proving that you just can’t keep a good game dead, Capcom have dug up the seminal 2006 game (and its bigger, but duller sequels) for the HD remaster and rerelease treatment.

Once again, Frank West – a lovable schlub and photojournalist – will be free to roam a shopping mall during the zombie apocalpyse, saving oddball survivors, trying to get the story of his career, popping traffic cones over zombies’ heads, and even changing into a nice dress if he wants (all the better to run in more comfort, I suppose.)

While HD rereleases and ‘upscaled’ versions of old games can be very hit and miss, Dead Rising’s lighthearted gameplay make it a very welcome rerelease.

The series returns as digital downloads on September 13, giving PC, XBO and PS4 users the chance to face the zombie hordes with a camera in one hand, a homemade weapon in the other, and tongue firmly in cheek ...

At times, Abzu’s waters teem with life, with dizzying amounts of fish whirling, darting, dashing and drifting around – animation that must be seen to be appreciated

ABZU: WATER EXCELLENT GAME

DIVE IN TO A SEA OF REAL WONDER  SHANE DILLON

Tech Editor

LAST week we took to the sea of stars above to go exploring, but this week is a wet one – and so it’s the actual sea, and the world below the waves, that’s firmly in our sights.

Let’s dive straight in to the review...

Abzu (PC, PS4, c. €15, Cert 7+,) is a somewhat slight game – with a budget price to match – that gamers will easily drift through in just two or three hours, and yet is easy to recommend.

Whether you grew up

with a goldfish or your experience with sea life amounts to eating fish fingers, there’s something charming about the life aquatic presented in Abzu that will bring out your inner Cousteau.

With a hazily defined story you may or may not glean as you travel, you take The Diver through a series of environments to the game’s finale, occasionally completing very mild tasks, and restoring life to some dead zones as you swim along.

A b z u ’s g e n e r a l l y vibrant world has been stylishly designed and

presented, with cel-shaded artwork comprising most of the game’s assets.

However, the attention to detail that’s gone into capturing the movements, and essence, of all the creatures in the game is marvellous – and the sight of huge numbers of fish and other sea creatures all floating about remains impressive and relaxing throughout.

Throw in a subtle, occasionally powerful score by award-winning composer Austin Wintory, and Abzu’s journey, not the destination, is well worth undertaking.

From the mysterious depths of the ocean to sun-dappled shallows, Abzu’s waters all have a striking visual identity, with levels that teem with life. Screengrabs: Shane Dillon

26 FINGAL GAZETTE 25 August 2016

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SPORT Ailbhe on her Para Road to Rio

FastSport SWIMMING: CASTLEKNOCK’S KELLY ALL SET TO MAKE A BIG SPLASH LAST EIGHT FOR ROVERS AND PAT’S: ST PAT’s Athletic and Shamrock Rovers will continue to carry the Dublin flag in the FAI Senior Cup following their respective wins in the third round.

For Pat’s, goals from Conan Byrne and Christy Fagan at Richmond Park saw them defeat Limerick 2-0.

Pat’s took the lead on 42 minutes when Byrne controlled a diagonal ball across the park. He darted in from the right before firing low into the bottom left corner, with his strike taking a deflection off a Limerick foot.

Fagan got the second on 77 minutes when he headed home from close range after Sean Hoare had headed Mark Timlin’s corner back into area.

Rovers swept to a 5-0 win over Athlone Town. A ruthless second half performance cast aside their First Division hosts as five goals put the cup specialists into the last eight hat with Gary McCabe, Sean Boyd, Brandon Miele, Simon Madden and James Doona scoring.

 JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

CASTLEKNOCK native Ailbhe Kelly has pointed to long-term coach Dave Malone and the rest of the team at the NAC Swimming Club as the key personnel in her drive towards Rio, as she prepares to compete in three different event at

the Paralympic games.

Describing the road to Rio as a four-year endeavour that has become “more and more of a reality” over recent months, Kelly told GazetteSport of how her mother overheard Malone on the radio, and how his expertise fits perfectly with her Olympic drive.

“I’d just finished lessons as an 11-year-old. I started swimming at the age of five, and I really loved it,” she explains.

“The instructor suggested I find a club and try swimming competitively.

Around the same time, my mum heard Dave Malone talking about Paralympic swimming coaching on the radio.

“He’s just around the corner from me at the National Aquatic Centre.

A key thing for Paralympic swimming is having a coach who understands the specific training needs and I’m very lucky to have that, and the facilities, just around the corner. I train six days a week, so I probably spend as much time at the NAC as I do at home.”

Ailbhe Kelly in action at the European Championships. Picture: Carlos Rodrigues/Sportsfile

Kelly is set to compete in three events in the S8 swimming category, having qualified for the 100 metre backstroke and 400 metre freestyle events in Rio at the 2015 World Championships in Glasgow, and added the 100 metre freestyle at the Europeans earlier this year.

She has identified the backstroke as her strongest stroke, and is hoping to achieve personal bests across her events in Rio, believing that these would give her a good chance of reaching some finals.

“My focus is really on

my own performance; I think, for a lot of athletes, the first Olympics is really about having the experience and learning from it. I’ve been to the World and European Championships but I’ve heard that the Paralympics is a completely different experience, so I’m just so, so excited. It’s crazy to think it’s just a few days away after all this time, and I’m more determined and training harder than ever.”

Kelly will travel to the Irish team’s Brazilian holding camp in Uberlandia ahead of the Olympics this week,

spending 10 days adapting to the change in timezone and temperature before travelling on to the Olympic village in Rio in early September.

“I have no co-ordination,” she jokes, talking about her family’s sporting connections with Castleknock GAA. “But I think it’s just part of the family, we’re all very into sport. Both my brothers play with the club.

“For me, swimming was a better fit. Rio will be fantastic, but I’m definitely looking ahead to bigger things in Tokyo in 2020, too.”

Collins stuns the chasers on cycle of 70.3 Ironman  sport@dublingazette.com

America’s Ben Collins celebrates his Dublin Ironman 70.3 success. Picture: Ryan Byrne/Inpho

BENJAMIN Collins proved a surprise package in Dublin at the recent 70.3 Ironman event held in the city.

The American exited the water in third place, only three seconds behind the fastest swimmer Mark Threlfall and Harry Wiltshire, but while spectators awaited a British race to come, Collins stormed away on the bike.

He obviously knew about the running strengths of some of the top contenders and he nailed a huge, early gap to get out on the

run with a bigger advantage.

Through 50 kilometres, Collins already had opened up a gap of more than eight minutes. Starting into the final half marathon, he was 11 minutes ahead of the chase group.

Wiltshire entered T2 together with Fraser Cartmell, Threlfall, and Paul Reitmayr (from Austria) but he started to drop the two men only minutes later.

Wiltshire downsized the gap to the front continuously but he was starting into the run too far behind to even think about catching up with Collins again.

Wiltshire had the best run split and no issues to secure second place in front of Reitmayr.

Susie Cheetham defended her title at the Ironman 70.3 Dublin in a sensational way. The 30-yearold 2016 African Championship runner-up raced well from start to finish to celebrate a great success.

When Cheetham came out of the water at Scotsman’s Bay in 27 minutes, she was 47 seconds ahead of Spain’s Saleta Castro and 2.31 in front of her compatriot Natalie Seymour and already in her own zone.

Cheetham embarked on a very solid solo ride, breaking away from the rest of the field. When she got off the bike, she was in the middle of the men’s pro field with Seymour already five minutes down. Hungarian Anna Halasz, in third place, was already eight minutes away from the lead in T2.

At this point, it wasn’t really a question anymore whether Cheetham could run this race home. Although Seymour was working hard to reduce the gap on the run, the defending champ never allowed the runner-up to get closer than four minutes.

25 August 2016 FINGAL GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

Brill motivation Usher’s in independent ambition

FASTSport

Dundrum native Carol wins big at blind golf events in the UK and Austria as she continues to campaign for an improved situation for those suffering from Usher Syndrome in Ireland  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

A POWERHOUSE of social activism, blind golfer Carol Brill is once again knocking down doors after a period of illness, and backing winning tournaments.

Brill recently travelled to blind open events in the UK and Austria, and came out on top in Austria as she won the B2 [extremely limited sight] categor y of a mixed-gender contest. In the UK tournament, Brill was part of the victorious group in the team event.

The Austrian win was particularly impressive, given Brill played directly off the back of a trip to a funeral in America, playing on a few hours’ sleep after a 30-hour

flight. Her improvement on the second – less tired – day was an astonishing 27 shots.

The Dundrum native sees her golf as a way of living – a sport she can participate in despite suffering from a debilitating, rare and progressive condition called Usher Syndrome, which causes her hearing and sight to deteriorate progressively over time.

Brill’s vision is currently limited to a small slot directly in front of her, and will continue to fade until she is completely blind.

“It’s about living differently,” Brill told GazetteSport of her golf.

“I’m very dependent on someone to guide me for golf, so it’s a new kind of independence

– it requires someone to spend six hours with me. But I can’t let Usher Syndrome take my desire to play.”

Brill has previously been heavily involved in campaigns to recognise blind-deafness as a unique condition, something the Irish government has failed to do to date, making them the only EU government not to have done so.

“HSE guidelines were released early summer on how to deal with deaf blindness, and they consist of ten bullet points.

“I don’t particularly like the idea of ‘deaf blind’ as a term, really, as there are more than 70 different types of deaf blindness and it’s too simplistic,” Brill explains.

Carol Brill is flying high on the blind golf circuit and making an impact off the course

“Unfortunately, we had a new government and things have really slowed up with the summer break. Things seem to be at a standstill, which is a shame after my previous lobbying [Brill spoke in the Oireachtas about her condition last year], but we move on.”

In a typically inspiring and outspoken way, for

is still in the early stages.

“The record for a round of fourball is 13 minutes, and was set on a course here in Ireland, but there isn’t a specific women’s record.

“If I can get four women per hole, and sponsor each player, then look for corporate sponsorship for the holes, too, I think it’s realistic to raise €100,000

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

‘It’s about living differently but I can’t let Usher Syndrome take my desire to play’ - Carol Brill

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Brill moving on means simply driving in a slightly different direction, in which she hopes to mix the golf and fundraising into future Usher ’s Syndrome research.

After visiting Disneyland in Florida – the end result of a campaign to be able to see the theme park with her daughter before her sight deterioration takes hold too strongly – Brill will now be campaigning to raise money for a new drug trial that will be headed up by the son of a close friend of hers.

Tests on a form of female viagra have shown significant sight benefits and Brill hopes it might prevent more people from suffering with her syndrome in the future.

“My plan is to play the fastest ladies round of fourball golf,” Brill said, admitting that the idea

for the research.

“I also have some surplus money from the Seeing Disney campaign that I have to allocate. I haven’t decided how to use that yet, but it has to be in keeping with the reasons it was raised, so this might make sense. I need to talk to the Guinness Book of Records people, but we’ll see how it works out.”

What’s certain is that Brill is abuzz with ideas, and determined to be a demonstration of how to live with a condition like Usher’s Syndrome.

Having changed sports – she was originally a tennis player – adapted her lifestyle and made a point of being powerfully independent, her campaigning feels like something she does for someone else.

There’s no telling what might come next.

Egan eases Rio pain with Sella Descent victory JENNY Egan has won gold in the prestigious International Sella Descent in Spain, beating 1,100 competitors in the process.

Egan, from the Salmon Leap Canoe Club in Leixlip, missed out on qualifying for the Rio Olympics by just a single place, but was a member of a large Irish team who competed in the 80th International Sella Descent in Asturias.

The race is similar to the Liffey Descent and is part of the International Canoe Federation’s Classic Series which consists of eight down river races across Europe, South Africa and China.

Egan, who won senior K1 5,000m Canoe Sprint World Cup gold and silver medals earlier this summer in Portugal and Czech Republic respectively, completed the 20 kilometre course in under one hour and 30 minutes.

She held off a strong international field to win by over two minutes ahead of second place Kristina Bedec of Serbia and third place Spaniard Sheila Saez Barrios.

Speaking after the race, Egan said: “I am delighted to win the famous International Sella Descent and it was extra special for me as it was my first time to compete in this race.

“Going into this race I knew there was a very strong field of competitors with the Serbian Bedec being a World Marathon Championship bronze medallist from 2015 and Great Britain’s [Lizzie] Broughton, who won a Silver medal at the World Marathon Championships in 2014.”

In the Under-23 men’s K1, Sean McCarthy of Salmon Leap won a silver medal, with Ronan Foley from Kilcullen Canoe Club winning a bronze medal in the junior men’s K1. Liam McCarthy also won a medal, when he finished second in the over-50 men’s K1 category to take silver.

GAZETTE

30 FINGAL GAZETTE 25 August 2016

SPORT

FASTSport

GOLF: ROGANSTOWN TEENAGER WINS UK AND IRELAND COMPETITION

Holywell badminton go from strength to strength HOLYWELL Badminton Club is looking to continue his growth since forming in November 2014 when Norma McIntyre of Badminton Ireland and Joe Byrne of Leinster Branch joined forces to bring the sport to this area of Swords.

The club originally started as a pay-as-you-go with people dropping in each week to try out badminton or get their eye back in after a couple of years’ absence.

With keen interest being shown by players, Holywell subsequently become part of the extended badminton family and become an official club with the help of Badminton Ireland and Leinster Branch.

Located at Holywell Community Centre, Swords, County Dublin, the club membership is made up of experienced players and players who are new to playing Badminton. The club takes place on Wednesday evenings from 8-10pm and, for the new season, a second night will be added to allow members to further opportunity to come and enjoy the sport and social aspects of the club.

In their first year, the members of Holywell achieved a number of highlights, including winning the Dublin and District Ladies League Division 10, Dublin and District Ladies Division 10 Cup winners and runners-up, Dublin and District Men’s Division 8 Cup semi-finalists and Dublin and District Division 10 mixed semis.

In addition, club representatives have been successful in a number of graded tournaments organised by Leinster Badminton. Holywell Badminton was nominated for New Club of the Year at the Badminton Ireland Awards, which was a huge achievement for such a new club.

Holywell are currently holding a Teicnic coaching course in conjunction with Badminton Ireland, where players can learn how to play or improve their Badminton techniques and earn their “White” Teicnic grading. The programme has proven to be popular with beginners and back to badminton players.

For more information, check out their Facebook page “holywell badminton club-swords”, their website “http://holywellbc.wixsite.com/ home/”, or contact them by email to holywellbc@gmail.com. Holywell will be hosting an open night on Wednesday, September 7 in Holywell Community Centre from 8pm to 10pm.

Kyle Honer with the American Golf Junior Championship title

Honer’s Sky high victory sport@dublingazette.com

SWORDS junior golfer Kyle Honer has secured victory in the American Golf Junior Championships, taking the overall UK and Ireland title with victory in the best net category after a fantastic round of Net 61.

Honer, who lives in Swords and is a memb e r o f R o g a n s t ow n Golf Club, played the round of his life at the home of golfing giant PING, Gainsborough Golf Club, to secure the American Golf title in front of Sky Sports’ cameras.

Honer, 14, is a pupil

at Portmarnock Community School and has made incredible recent progress in his golf. He was one to watch last year when he qualified for the final of the American Golf Junior Championship as a Star of the Future with a handicap of 36.

He returned to qualification in 2016 where he finished second in the event held at his home club, securing qualification for the final for the second year running.

Now playing off 22, he played fantastic golf throughout the final, keeping his cool in

PREMIER CHALLENGE Rivervalley endure tough start in AUL’s top tier RIVERVALLEY Rangers’ life in the AUL Pre-

mier A got off to a tricky start as they fell 3-1 to Eastwall Bessborough on Friday evening before falling by the same margin on Tuesday evening to Hardwicke.

The club were promoted as Premier B champions but have found margins fine in the top tier to date. They were two down before Tom Cooney got one back only for Hardwicke were awarded a late penalty to seal the game.

front of cameras, taking the 2016 overall title by three shots from Yorkshire junior Dylan Shaw-Radford.

This comes just three days after Honer had won the Munster Championship, topping off an incredible week for the youngster.

After his resounding victory, he said: “The American Golf Junior Championship has been really good fun and a great experience. From the qualifier to the final it was well organised they really made us feel like professionals.

“I won the Munster Championship a couple

of days before so I was quite confident but I didn’t expect to win the American Golf Championship as it’s the biggest competition I’ve ever played in.

“On the plane, home the pilot announced that I’d won and the whole plane gave me a round of applause which was pretty cool.”

Swords success didn’t stop at Kyle though, as Roganstown Golf Club member and Gaelscoil Bhrian Boroimhe pupil Sean Keeling picked up the PING Star of the Future award.

Competing against other qualifiers who

had made the final by displaying the spirit and character of the game of golf, Keeling shot a fantastic round of 40 to take the prestigious honour.

The Junior Championship is a vital part of American Golf’s drive to get more people out playing golf more often.

2017 will see a series of free events aimed at encouraging juniors and families to pick up a club when American Golf introduces its Family Cup, Pitch & Putt Championship and Adventure Golf Championship alongside the Junior Championship.

25 August 2016 FINGAL GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

SPECIAL GUESTS

Ravens flying high after Aer Lingus competition

CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS

FINGAL Ravens U-14 manager Mick Foley

introduces surprise guests, Dublin senior footballers, from right, Cormac Costello, Denis Bastick and John Small, who joined Ravens for a special training session organised by Aer Lingus.

Ravens were given the opportunity to train with their heroes after being selected as the winner of an Aer Lingus staff competition. Picture: Cody Glenn/Sportsfile

CUL Camp 2016: We had a week of mixed

take place from 9.45am in the club hall

weather, starting with sun cream and

– new members are most welcome.

ending with rain jackets.

All-in-all, it was a very successful week, with record numbers. A big

facilities will be closed to members.

thank you to the team of coaches and

Congratulations to our members on

helpers Nicola and Wayne put togeth-

their successful Leaving Cert results

er to mastermind a very successful

last Wednesday.

week.

FOOTBALL: HARPS RECORD CRUCIAL WIN FOR TITLE

For the next three Wednesday evenings the gym and dressing rooms

The U-15 girls squad will hold a Nov-

Good luck to Paul on Sunday and

elty Mock Wedding in the club on Sat-

our quintuplet of ladies (Sinead, Emer,

urday, September 10 at 7.30pm. Tick-

Fiona, Muireann and Emma) on Satur-

ets for the event can be bought at the

day as they all represent the club in

club for at €20 each.

All-Ireland semi-finals with Dublin.

Juvenile members - Last Chance: We

Our adult footballers beat Clanna

want to see photos from your holidays

Gael Fontenoy on Saturday evening

in your Fingallians gear. Get adults to

to stay in touch at the top of division

send pictures to fingallians@gmail.

3. Their next fixture is at home in the

com and we’ll get them published on

league on Saturday, Septmeber 3 at

our Facebook page.

6pm v Naomh Fionnbarra. Both clubs are in joint third position.

The resumption of the academy for four-to seven-year-old girls and boys for the new season is Saturday, September 10 at 10am. Registration will

Remember, bonus points for a wellknown tourist attraction in the background from any part of Ireland or the world.

The club is looking for any broken/ discarded hurls for a project.

ST FINIAN’S

Skerries Harps captain Collie Clinton receives the AFL Division 10 trophy.

Woods kicks Skerries to Division 10 triumph

AFL DIVISION 10 Skerries Harps 3-11 Whitehall Colmcilles 2-3  sport@dublingazette.com

SKERRIES Harps captain Collie Clinton had the honour of raising the AFL 10 football trophy for the club’s Junior 2 football team on Sunday.

Harps produced a strong performance in a must win game against a Whitehall team looking to preserve their playoff position with a winning score line of 3-11 to 2-3.

A blistering move

by Skerries saw Ruairi Woods smash the back of the net in the open-

ing play of the match.

Although W hitehall would strike back from a rebounded shot the tone had been set.

Harps attacked with pace and purpose for the remainder of the first half with further goals from Woods and David Kelly whose radar was locked on with some impressive point taking helping the Harps to a nine-point lead at half time.

The second half saw the value of experience.

Led by Hugh Keenan the Harps defence stood up to the expected early pressure. Paul Doherty

moved between full forward and midfield to keep Skerries on the front foot with some quality kick passing to help keep the scoreboard ticking over.

Helped by a strong bench Skerries kept their opponents at arms length to see the game out and start a night of great celebration. Woods ended the tie with 2-2 while Kelly landed 1-4 with further contribution from Alan Cullinan, Shane Hogan and Mick Burns.

The result saw Harps stay clear of chasers Clann Mhuire who were

awarded a walkover against Croi Ro Naofa in their last match of the season, meaning Skerries needed the win from their tie to get over the line.

Elsewhere, Skerries run of victories – 11 in total – came to an end last weekend as Round Towe r p r o d u c e d a superb performance to win 3-10 to 1-13.

A win would have sealed the title and promotion and Skerries led 0-7 to 1-2 at the break but a goal from Liam Galvin turned the tide before Mick Hallows sealed the result.

THE second summer club camp which

for two stand tickets for the All-Ire-

was a huge success camp took place

land football final on Sunday, Septem-

last week and the numbers taking

ber 18.

part increased as the week went on.

The draw for the hurling final tickets

A special word of thanks to all of the

will take place on September 1 and for

coaches and volunteers who assisted

the football on September 17.

in its smooth running.

Hard luck to the AFL Division 8 football team who were defeated by Na Gaeil Oga on Sunday.

Raffle tickets are €5 each and are available from the clubhouse office, mentors or any committee member.

The club is also holding a pre All-Ire-

The club is holding a raffle for two

land race night on Saturday, Septem-

stand tickets for the All-Ireland hurl-

ber 17 in Peacocks starting at 8.30pm.

ing final on Sunday, September 4 and

Horses are €20 each.

FINGAL RAVENS TICKETS for the Dublin v Kerry game

weeks so plenty of time to clear out

will be available for collection in Ket-

your unwanted items and help your

tle’s bar on Friday, August 26 from

club.

8-9pm. All tickets ordered must be collected and paid for on the night.

The lotto numbers were 5, 12, 21 and 31. There was no winner; €20 each to

Congratulations to our U-14s who

Ian Donnelly, Eileen McAroo and Ian

were nominated by Tony Byrne and

Kavanagh. Next week’s jackpot is

were picked for a training session with

€17,000.

players from our Dublin team.

Many thanks to Aer Lingus who

When current jackpot is won, the new jackpot will start at €6,083.

sponsored this memorable event.

Our U-14s and 16s play at home on

Check out our Facebook page for more

Tuesday and our Division 6 play Oliver

details.

Plunkett’s on Wednesday.

Our summer camp was a great

Wishing a speedy recovery to Dami-

success. Many thanks to Barry, the

en Flanagan recovering from surgery.

coaches and all involved.

Good wishes to Helen Clinton who is

Club gear is available from Ann Fox on 086 177102.

presently in hospital.

Congratulations to David and Bar-

Cash for Clothes: Clear out your

bara Gleeson on the birth of baby son

presses, drawers, wardrobes etc.

Hyland and Peter and Maz Tormey on

Drop off or collection can be arranged.

the birth of son Senan. Sympathy to

This will be running for the next few

the extended family of Barney Murray.

GAZETTESPORT ALL OF YOUR FINGAL SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

SKY IS THE LIMIT: Teenage-star Honer produces star performances in front of television crew P30

AUGUST 25-31, 2016

BRILL’S BLIND AMBITION: Dundrum golfer’s incredible Usher Syndrome work P29

Catherine Walsh, from Swords, left, and pilot Francine Meehan, will compete in the Paralympic triathlon. Picture: Brian Lawless/Sportsfile

Swords Paralympians Trio of local stars looking to make waves in Rio as part of Team Ireland as Walsh, Streimikyte and McKee reach the pinnacle of their sports

 KARL GRAHAM

sport@dublingazette.com

CATHERINE Walsh, Greta Streimikyte and Carl McKee are among the Swords-based Irish athletes representing the town when the Paralympic Games kick-off in Rio on September 7.

McKee will be the first of the two out when he takes to the field as part of the men’s Cerebral Palsy football team to take on Ukraine on day one of the Games. They are part of a group that also contains Brazil and Great Britain.

The 18-year-old has six caps for his country and was part of the Irish squad who finished sixth at the 2015 Cerebral Palsy Football World Championships, ensuring their participation at the Paralympics.

Left-back McKee is the youngest member of the team and plays his club football with Swords Manor.

Streimikyte, who turned 21 this week, will take to the track in the T13 1500m final on day three of the Games.

Originally from Lithuania, she became an Irish national last December after relocating with her family to Swords five years ago.

The Clonliffe Harriers athlete suffers from a condition called retinopathy, which was caused by an incubator after she was born prematurely.

She has some vision in her left eye and her condition will neither improve nor worsen.

Moving to Ireland was not initially on the cards for Streimikyte until her father came here first to work.

“My dad came here to work initially for a year but he started to settle in and love the country.

Then when he heard about the good education opportunities here, especially for me as a visually-impaired person, he saw it as a good opportunity for the family to come over and see how it goes.”

Her run in the AAI Games at Morton Stadium lowered her 1,500m personal best time by six seconds to just under 4.51 minutes – placing her in the top two in the world in her classification.

That time was enough to see her represent Ireland at the Paralympic European Championships in Grosseto, Italy. There, the T13 athlete made the podium on her championship debut when she secured bronze.

Streimikyte finished in a fantastic time of 4.54.25 behind Russia’s Elena Pautova in first, and Spain’s Izaskum in second.

For Catherine Walsh, it will be another chapter in an incredible Paralympic career as she takes part in the triathlon on the first weekend of the competition.

A veteran of five Paralympic Games, she medalled in 1992 in Barcelona in pentathlon before switching to cycling in which she won both a silver and a bronze in London in 2012.

She switches to triathlon and will work, once again, with her guide Fran Meehan who was with her for her London medals.

Since switching to triathlon, she has claimed bronze at the Edmonton World Paratriathlon in September 2015.