From early on Saturday morning Pairc Sheamuis Stiopháin was abuzz with activity in preparation for the Walton family sponsored Billy Walton Memorial tournament as a lead in to the official opening of the impressive second phase development at the dressing room complex.
The four team mix of senior and Junior hurlers fought out a fun filled yet competitive blitz competition with the Allen Larkin led Larchfield team outscoring Stephen Manogue’s Kells Road side 4-05 to 1-12 in an entertaining blitz final.
At the presentation Tommy Walton thanked the club for its cooperation with the organising of the day’s events and the players for turning out in large numbers for the tournament in memory of the late club star forward Billy Walton. The medal for the Best Young Player went to Noah Manogue and the Player of the Tournament was awarded to Sam McEvoy.
The senior camogie squad, minus the intercounty players but with their team selectors also contributed to the occasion with a 7 a-side blitz. Meanwhile on pitch 1 the next generation of camogie players, the nursery group of U-5’s and U 6’s were beavering away learning the skills of the game under their supportive coaches.
After the tournament presentations MC Richie Manogue welcomed the invited guests and the sizable attendance of members and supporters to the official opening ceremony. As the Project Manager himself, Richie thanked his fellow Development Committee members for their cooperation,and the Finance Committee for their fundraising efforts to help finance the €450,000 cost of the impressive new meeting room, ladies and gents toilets, physio room, kitchen and shop project.
When inviting Club President, Liam Tyrrell to unveil the plaque to mark the occasion Richie fittingly remarked that Liam deserved the honour having chalked up an unbroken 60 years of service to the club. Liam thanked the club for the honour and went on to acknowledge the contribution the late Billy Walton made in offering the club the vital road safety “line of sight” requirement to get the original planning permission over the line.
Liam also acknowledged Richie’s commitment to the project and the quality of the work of builder and club member Noel Morrissey which was obvious for all to see.
To conclude the day’s events St. Patrick’s Adm, Fr. Kieran O’Shea was invited to bless the building after which tea/coffee and tasty goodies were served to all in attendance. Congratulations to all involved on a hugely enjoyable and successful occasion.
