The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Weekend downpour fails to dampen the spirit of Glenbeigh
INCLEMENT weather claimed Saturday’s card at the Glenbeigh racing festival but ultimately failed to dampen the overall success of the weekend. This year’s event was a particularly historic one as it marked twenty years since the festivals revival.
There was fun for all the family on Friday as fancy dress and an interactive workshop with Fun Dance Ireland was enjoyed by all. Later in the evening, Glenbeigh native, Saoirse Roche was crowned festival queen at the Red Fox Inn and was understandably thrilled with her success, “I was delighted to have represented and won for Paedar and Mary of Ashes Bar” She said, before adding “It was a great weekend overall, despite the awful weather”. Prior to the announcement of the winner, the chain of office was bestowed upon 2016 President, Tony Hayes. Live music from The Real Deal was followed by DJ Johnny Cee, insuring the festivities kept rolling into the small hours of the morning.
While Saturday’s racing fell victim to the weather, live music was enjoyed in the village, with organisers determined to make the weekend a success. Following the cancellation of Saturday’s racing, an extended 12 race card was run on Sunday – one of the highlights being the two mile, Glenbeigh Invitational. The talented Shane Crosse secured his biggest career win to date – steering, On the Edge to victory having finished third in the 2015 running of the race. A winner at Last month’s Dingle races, the Alex Hamilton owned bay was forced to fend off the challenge of Forgive and Forget in the closing stages.
There was a pulsating conclusion to the Glenbeigh Derby, which was eventually won by Call the Guards, the mount of Mikey Sheehy. Sheehy was forced to get low in the saddle in the run up to the line in order to keep his charge ahead of gallant duo, Squeeze Your Knees and Ballybrown Boy.