OHN TARRANT
NOSTALGIA reigned in Carriganima for a glorious throwback to the Clondrohid Carnival and a reunion of players, mentors and supporters from a successful football tournament.
The carnival helped put Clondrohid on the map thanks to terrific planning, hard work and generous support from its commencement in 1958. At the time, there was no GAA club in Clondrohid but interest developed from the organizing of a seven aside football tournament.
Organising spokesperson Paddy Corkery said the carnival and games remain much spoken about and the reunion allowed the opportunity for all involved to convene and share stories.
“It was an evening of nostalgia and reminiscences. The occasion was the re-union of the four local Junior football teams that played in the Clondrohid Carnival tournament of 50 years ago, from 1967 and 1968, involving Aubane, Ballydaly, Clondrohid and Slanan Rovers”, he said. “Over 30 players from those golden years attended in the campany of a large number of supporters and guests.
“Some great games were recalled, lots of stories were told, many photos were taken and a great night was enjoyed”, said Paddy.
He related that in 1958 a local team from Carriganima were unlucky to lose out in the semi-final; those players later played with Kilnamartyra or Aghinagh.
“In 1967, Clondrohid fielded a Junior B team for the first time and a second tournament for that grade was added to the carnival programme with four participating teams. Ballydaly emerged successful in 1967, defeating Clondrohid and Aubane.
“Clondrohid were much improved in 1968, when they also fielded an Under 21 side in the championship. In the Carnival tournament they defeated Slanan Rovers and Aubane in the final, after a replay held over to Sunday, November 10 to determine the outcome”, said Paddy,
Thrilled organizers complimented all involved in the night to remember for individuals and their families. Thanks were extended to Mort Kelleher and his family for their music, to Dan Joe Kelleher, who recorded the proceedings, and to the hosts at the Carriganima pub for their hospitality.