Kerry clubs show their worth at the racecourse

THE Kerry clubs sphere was on full show at Ross Road’s Killarney Racecourse on Sunday, with well over 800 people calling in for the second-annual Killarney Lions Club-organised Kerry Clubs Fair.

Of that 800, 140 were keeping an eye over club stands, with 56 clubs and organisations represented on the day.

Just about everything from volunteerism to hobbies to sports and more besides was on show, and the positive feedback matched the atmosphere at the course, Ronan Doyle of Killarney Lions Club explained.

“I think the extended variety of what was on offer was one of the big things,” Ronan told The Kerryman. “There were groups such as the Irish Cancer Society and Irish Kidney Association, for example, in terms of volunteering. But you also would have had people signing up for hobbies and sports, between Toastmasters, camera clubs, and cycling, for instance.

“One thing we noticed was that many people were returning to Kerry, and it was a onestop shop for people looking to re-engage with their communities.

“It was a great showcase of the Kerry club sphere, and the feedback we got from clubs was that it was of great value, a chance for them to let people know what they’re about and attract new members. There was a positive, enjoyable atmosphere, and I think that comes from having so many likeminded people in one room.”

And big events don’t come together without good support – and there was plenty of that, Ronan said.

“I’d like to thank all the Lions Club members who helped put it together, as well as Chapter 23 Credit Union for their support.

“Thanks, as well, to all the people who came out and supported us. There’s often a lot going on on Sundays, so we really appreciate people visiting in such big numbers.”

Photo by Michelle Cooper Galvin. Peggy Barrett, Mai Bergin, Maire O’Sullivan and Finola Spillane representing Fossa, Killarney, Crusaders and Euro Bridge Clubs.

All photos by Michelle Cooper Galvin. Tony Dunne, Pat Sheehan, Donie Moynihan and Mary B Teahan at the BNI Business Network International stand.

Photo by Michelle Cooper Galvin. Paddy O’Sullivan and John Dwyer with one of the many minute books, dating back to the 1930s, at the Killarney Pioneer stand.

Photo by Michelle Cooper Galvin. Tom O’Leary with Donncha and Liam Murphy at the Killarney Rugby Club stand.

Chairman Chapter 23 Credit Union John Long (centre) presenting the Kerry Clubs Fair sponsorship cheque to President Killarney Lions Club John Fuller and (left) Ronan Doyle Killarney Lions Club.

Photo by Michelle Cooper Galvin. Maureen Brosnan, Colette Dalton and Violet Hayes at the Irish Countrywomen’s Association stand.