Ruby anniversary of Munster hurling glory for Causeway Comprehensive this May

IT’S four decades since North Kerry’s hurling enclave celebrated one of its brightest years. In 1977, the senior team at Causeway Comprehensive followed victory in the Munster B Colleges with glory in the All-Ireland equivalent, under the stewardship of the legendary Gerald Whyte and selectors John Leahy and John Michael Brick.

“It is hard to believe that May 1 2017 will be the 40th anniversary of the All Ireland win – where did the years go?,” Councillor John Lucid asked.

Mr Lucid is among a nine-man panel organising a re-union to commemorate the storied wins. The committee consists of 1977 players Anthony Carroll, Tom O’Sullivan, John White and Mike Hussey, Sean Flaherty, Mike Burke and Tommy O’Mahony, as well as Principal John O’Regan.

On May 6, the panel, family, and friends will celebrate. A nine-hole golf scramble will tee-off at 12pm at Ballyheigue Castle, before a meet-up at McHale’s from 6pm, followed by a meal, a presentation to the local heroes, and entertainment.

Comprised of young hurlers from Causeway, Ballyduff, Ballyheigue, Kilmoyley, and Lixnaw, the north Kerry school started its Munster campaign with a three-point win over Charleville CBS, who possessed six inter-county minors.

Thereafter, they bettered Midleton CBS, Ennis CBS, Roscommon CBS and Saint Joseph’s Fairview to secure provincial and national honours.

“Thankfully, all the players are still with us,” Cllr Lucid said. “We’ll even have a few over from America for what will be a terrific day.”

Michael Burke, Tommy O’Mahony, Anthony Carroll, Mike Hussey, John O’Regan, Sean Flaherty, John Lucid and John White.