The struggles of keeping Castlebar underage GAA teams going is recalled

5OTH ANNIVERSARY OF CASTLEBAR MITCHELS' BORD NA NÓG

Tom Kenny, a former chairman of Castlebar Mitchels Bord na nÓg, has recalled the challenges that faced the club over the years in raising finance to run all of the teams involved.

He elaborated: “It always required a great effort in that regard because a lot of money was needed to buy gear and pay for buses and so on.

“I am sure things have not changed and particularly so today with the price of fuel going through the roof.

“It was always a struggle to keep the financial books balanced and I remember one particular bill we received that, let us say, demanded urgent attention.

“So I came up with this idea to raffle a bullock and we went here, there and everywhere raffling tickets.

“In the end we raised over £3,000, which paid off our bill and left us with a bit in reserve. You always had to be coming up with new ideas to keep the club going.

“I was fortunate to have so many people involved during my 16 years with the club, both as an official and coach.

“I can’t remember them all, but people like Cathal Reynolds, John Mullahy, Donie Murphy, Bro. Francis immediately spring to mind.

“We had good days and bad days, but we always gave our best to the club and helped to bring many fine players up through the ranks.

“They included players in the calibre of Michael Mullahy, Michael Killeen, Ollie Roach and my own son, Ray.”

Outside of his GAA commitments, Tom did a lot of fundraising work for special needs and helping those with disabilities to achieve their potential in sport.

“I wholeheartedly congratulate Castlebar Mitchels Bord na nÓg on their 50th anniversary and wish them every success in the decades ahead. Everybody involved is a credit to the town,” added Tom.