Stars glitter on black tie night for special athletes
THE traditional glitz and glamour that is the annual Kerry Stars Black Tie Ball is always a popular event in the calendar year for Kerry’s Special Olympics athletes, their families and friends, as they get together to enjoy an occasion dedicated to the Kerry Stars Club.
The Great Southern Hotel was the setting on Saturday night and this year’s guest speaker was none other than Kerry legend Aidan O’Mahony who spoke about the importance of inclusion for people with special needs and the important role sport plays in fulfilling this key aspect within society.
Upwards of 150 people enjoyed the ball and a look back on 2017 as 25 athletes were led into the hall by Aidan O’Mahony where they received a standing ovation from the crowd.
It was also a memorable evening for Kerry Stars athlete Emma Doolan who co-hosted the event along with Radio Kerry’s Brendan Fuller. After the official ceremonies were over with, a special presentation was made to Aidan by Kerry Stars club member, and nephew of Aidan’s, Oisín O’Mahony. The band ‘Ark Lights’ supplied the music on the night.
“It’s a great evening that recognises the athletes and their families. It’s the twelfth year staging the event and it gives athletes a wonderful occasion in which to dress up and enjoy themselves. It’s really their event and they thoroughly enjoy it,” said Tom Tobin, Vice- Chairman of Kerry Stars.
The club currently has 100 athletes competing in athletics, soccer, swimming and golf, while plans are afoot in 2018 to introduce basketball to the list of sports. These events are augmented by the huge team of coaches and volunteers who give freely of their time.
“The club just wouldn’t survive without their input and it’s down to their work that our athletes are able to enjoy the range of sports on offer. I wish to thank all the people who support us, and to Aidan for kindly giving us his time. Brendan Fuller was also fantastic and we thank him for his work,” Tom added.