SPECIAL DAY FOR BEAUFORT GAA

CLUBHOUSE NAMED IN HONOUR OF FORMER CLUB STALWART

BEAUFORT GAA club celebrated the memory of one of its proudest sons on Sunday last as the late Michael Moriarty – a stalwart of the club – was honoured before a large gathering of club members, guests and family. The impressive extension to Beaufort GAA Clubhouse was officially opened in honour of Michael and although the event was a poignant one, it was equally a celebration of Michael’s contribution, love and dedication to the club.

Club member and County Board Delegate, Colm Kelly, got the ceremony under way, welcoming the large gathering of people as he spoke fondly of a dear friend. “Michael passed away in September 2003 but his memory will not be forgotten,” he said.

He added that among Michael’s many attributes was the financial contribution and wealth of knowledge he brought to the club – along with his never ending ability get jobs done, all of which were invaluable in developing the club.

Born in December 1926, Michael was a loyal club member and later took up the position of President of Beaufort GAA Club. Michael’s most significant contribution to the club and the parish came in the mid-1980s when the club grounds were purchased and the original club house was developed.

Parish Priest, Fr Fergal Ryan blessed the extension, praying that all who used it would find the enrichment of companionship and healthy recreation to refresh the body and mind.

Club Chairman, Frank Coffey welcomed Michael’s wife, Margaret, and the Moriarty family as well as County Board members Diarmuid O’Shea and Peter Twiss. Frank spoke of his memories of Michael, referencing one of his many philosophies which was always to ‘ leave something after us that was worth leaving’.

A warm welcome was extended to former minister John O’Donoghue who gave huge support with the planning and grant applications for the project at the time, and to Ger Galvin who was development officer of the County Board.

“Everyone can agree that Michael achieved his vision for our club based on his dedication and love for it. The dedication of this clubhouse to Michael ensures that future generation will know of him and know of his huge generosity to both the club and local community,” added Frank.

Margaret then unveiled the plaque dedicated to her late husband, while son Denis Pio spoke warmly of his father and the love he had for Beaufort GAA and his community.

Also speaking on the day was Tourism & Sport Minister Brendan Griffin. And it was a double celebration as, straight after the formalities, Beaufort saw off the challenge of Laune Rangers to clinch a place in the Mid Kerry Final.

Photos by Michelle Cooper Galvin Margaret Moriarty who unveiled a plaque in memory of the late Michael Moriarty at the dedication of the new extension to Beaufort GAA Clubhouse in his name with the Mary Ann, Deirdre, Denis Pio Moriarty, Frank Coffey Club Chairman, former Minster for...

Margaret Moriarty (fourth from left) who unveiled a plaque in memory of the late Michael Moriarty at the dedication of the new extension to Beaufort GAA Clubhouse in his name, with Mary Ann, Deirdre and Denis Pio Moriarty and family members at Beaufort...